Fashion is a mode of individuality and self-expression in a certain context and at a certain time, of dress, shoes, jewelry, cosmetics, hairstyle, body structure, and attire. The word ‘fashion’ itself signifies a fashion show defined as what is current at the time. However, the culture and community associations which vary from one country to another also have a significant role to play in the definition of what constitute a fashion.
In North America, the largest industry is that of designer apparel, and American and European style alike. High end, expensive fashions command premium prices. Many people confuse fashion with couture, which was earlier coined by Sir Charles Le Corbusier. couture is normally lower priced, design specific garments, whereas fashion is broader and has more freedom for designers. There are many similarities between fashion and couture. Both are driven by the designers’ creativity and innovation, both are subjective and unique, both are social and communal and both affect the consumers.
The haute fashion ladder is a system that shows the influence of the designers on the price of a product. The top level is dominated by fashion designers such as Christian Dior and Gucci. At the second tier are the retailers like Hanes and Wal-mart. Fashionable items at this level are usually limited editions, such as the “New York Fashion week” collection that launches with just a few designs from a particular designer. Retailers pay top dollars for exclusive designs and label right to make a fashion statement. The top brands in the haute fashion ladder include Dior, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Givenchy, Prada, Yves Saint Laurent, Versace, Ralph Lauren and Dolce and Gabana.
High street fashion design is also influenced by fashion designers’ innovation and aesthetic sense. It uses mass-produced clothing products such as jeans, T-shirts and dresses. Some designers use this method to create an impression of a more organic and green society by producing environmentally friendly products such as organic clothing or recycled clothes for the sake of Mother Nature. High street clothing can have a huge influence on the global demand for new and up-to-date fashion.
Ready-to-wear fashion is available in more numbers and variety than ever before, with designers taking advantage of new materials and production techniques. They offer customers much more choice than they did before. Consumers are also able to purchase garments in a very short time period. This enables fashion enthusiasts to purchase garments that will suit their style and personal taste. Some customers may even choose to make their own ready-to-wear garments using old clothes or accessories from their home.
A good designer is one who can create quality garments using the best materials at an affordable price. These garments must be made to high-quality standards using every element of fashion design, quality and comfort in mind. The ideal candidate for luxury fashion design is one who understands how to create high-quality products at affordable prices. Designer garments are therefore perfect for the fashion lover who is able to afford a range of high-quality, fashionable garments.
