Fashion is a cultural phenomenon that encompasses clothing, footwear, accessories and makeup. It also refers to the latest trends in hair-styles and attitudes. Fashion is often influenced by music, art and even politics. The most popular styles of fashion change regularly, reflected in the ever-changing looks of pop stars and celebrities. The term fashion is also used to describe a particular period in history, such as the 1920s flapper style or the 1980s goth look.

In the early days of human civilisation, clothes were used to communicate social status. In ancient Egypt, garments were adorned with intricate patterns and symbols. Later, the nobility of Europe wore elaborate dresses and jewellery, and the Renaissance brought in more structured shapes and colours.

The 20th century saw a major shift in fashion, as women’s clothing became shorter and more loose and men’s suits were replaced with soft, flowing linen garments. In the 1960s, a sense of youth rebellion and experimentation was reflected in clothes, with London emerging as a new hub of fashion. Designers like Mary Quant popularised the mini skirt and Twiggy embraced Mod clothing.

Today, fashion is a global industry with seven countries having a recognised industry: United States, France, Italy, Germany, Japan, UK and China. Many of the biggest brands and retailers have a presence in each one of these seven countries. This has allowed them to create a unique and competitive edge in the market. It has also made fashion more accessible, with designers creating and selling their collections in different parts of the world.