Fashion is the prevailing style of dress, etiquette and socializing in a particular period or group. It may also refer to an individual’s conformance to a prevailing standard of taste or behavior, such as the recent vogue for wearing leather shoes.

A trend in fashion is typically associated with the influence of societal changes, but it can also be initiated by the fashion industry itself. For example, a shift in political climate may encourage designers to use fashion as a means of promoting certain social values or agendas.

The word fashion derives from Old French faceon, fazon and facon, which translates as “fashion, form, make,” originating in Latin factio (the verb “make”). It travelled to Anglo-Norman as fechoun and then to Middle English as facioun.

Despite the fact that many people think of high fashion as something for rich people, it is important to understand that most clothes are made in fashion. In fact, the term “knock-off” is commonly used to describe a low-cost, mass-produced copy of a fashionable garment.

One of the best ways to improve your style is to add a bit of contrast to your wardrobe. Try a pair of dark pants or a skirt with a colorful belt or necklace.

Clothes are an investment and need to have breathing room, so it’s important to keep them in good condition. You don’t want to wear a ratty belt or have your favorite jacket stuck on the back of your closet!