Fashion Trends and Their Impacts

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Questions and Answers

What is one main negative impact of fast fashion on the environment?

The speed of manufacturing in fast fashion negatively impacts the environment.

How do modern fashion trends differ from the fashion choices of parents?

Modern fashion trends tend to be more unconventional, pushing boundaries with color and patterns compared to parents' choices.

What are two fashion do's to keep in mind when choosing an outfit?

Ensure you feel comfortable and dress appropriately for the occasion.

What three elements typically make up a brand?

A brand typically consists of a name, logo, and slogan. Signup and view all the answers

How does brand loyalty relate to an individual's financial status?

Brand loyalty often reflects financial status as exclusive brands create a specific image of success. Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of the need for brands in fashion?

The need for brands has led to an increase in fake brands in the market. Signup and view all the answers

Why is modesty considered a basic human need in clothing?

Modesty is basic because wearing clothes fulfills a fundamental social and physiological requirement. Signup and view all the answers

What is one risk associated with closely following fashion fads?

Closely following fashion fads can result in overlooking the value of classic styles. Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between better education and job opportunities?

Better education leads to better job opportunities, which typically results in higher pay. Signup and view all the answers

How has increased mobility affected fashion trends?

Increased mobility exposes people to various cultures and trends, influencing their fashion choices. Signup and view all the answers

What role do famous people play in shaping fashion trends?

Famous people significantly influence fashion as their styles are often adopted by the general public. Signup and view all the answers

What is the Trickle Down Theory in fashion?

The Trickle Down Theory suggests that fashion trends originate from top designers and gradually filter down to the general public. Signup and view all the answers

How do political factors influence fashion trends?

Political factors, such as dress codes enforced by law, can dictate what individuals are allowed to wear in certain countries. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to ensure at least 50% of your wardrobe consists of classical items?

Classical items provide a timeless appeal and versatility, allowing for easier mixing and matching with other pieces. Signup and view all the answers

What impact has technology had on the fashion industry?

Technology has led to faster production and distribution methods, allowing trends to reach consumers quickly. Signup and view all the answers

In what ways do lifestyle changes affect workplace attire?

Lifestyle changes, such as remote work and casual environments, have led to a more relaxed approach to traditional office outfits. Signup and view all the answers

What should you consider when choosing the design elements of a garment?

You should consider your body type and the garment's fit and quality. Signup and view all the answers

List two reasons why shopping alone can be beneficial.

Shopping alone allows for more rational decision-making and reduces the influence of others' opinions. Signup and view all the answers

What are the three ways fashion can be introduced, according to the fashion cycle?

Fashion can be introduced through Trickle Down Theory, Trickle Across Theory, and Bottom Up Theory. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key guideline for maintaining a balanced wardrobe regarding colors and patterns?

70-80% of the clothes should be plain in color, with 20-30% being patterned. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it advised to check the refund policy before making a clothing purchase?

Checking the refund policy ensures that you can return items that do not meet your expectations or fit properly. Signup and view all the answers

What is the principle behind the guideline 'less is more' in shopping?

The principle suggests that having fewer, quality items is more beneficial than owning a large quantity of low-quality clothing. Signup and view all the answers

How can mixing and matching garments impact your wardrobe choices?

It allows individual pieces to be more versatile and suitable for various occasions, maximizing their use. Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to be 'ruthless' during the shopping process?

Being ruthless means avoiding sentimental attachments and focusing solely on practical needs when selecting clothing. Signup and view all the answers

What are two benefits of local clothing production in South Africa?

Local clothing production creates job opportunities and generates revenue for the South African economy. Signup and view all the answers

How do imports negatively impact the South African clothing industry?

Imports negatively impact the industry by not supporting local businesses and leading to job losses in the clothing sector. Signup and view all the answers

Define brand piracy and its main forms.

Brand piracy is the unauthorized use of protected trademarks. The main forms are imitations and counterfeits. Signup and view all the answers

What are some consequences of brand piracy for original manufacturers?

Original manufacturers lose significant sales and suffer reputational damage due to brand piracy. Signup and view all the answers

Name one harmful environmental issue associated with cotton production.

Cotton production is the most pesticide-intensive crop, using 25% of the world's pesticides. Signup and view all the answers

What chemicals are used during the cotton production process, and what is their effect?

Chemicals such as herbicides and dyes are used, and they can remain in the fabric, releasing harmful substances during the garment's lifetime. Signup and view all the answers

How does brand piracy impact consumers?

Consumers lose faith in brands due to negative experiences with counterfeits and imitations. Signup and view all the answers

What role does counterfeiting play in national economies?

Counterfeiting deprives national economies of customs duties and tax revenues. Signup and view all the answers

What does the bottom-up theory in fashion refer to?

It refers to how lower income groups develop new looks that later influence current fashion trends. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the initial stage of the fashion cycle.

The initial stage involves fashion designers introducing new styles on catwalks and expensive boutiques without mass availability. Signup and view all the answers

What occurs during the 'rise' phase of the fashion cycle?

Popularity increases as more people accept and purchase the fashion, leading to larger scale production and lower prices. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the significance of the 'peak' phase in fashion.

During the peak, the fashion reaches its highest popularity with mass production, making items widely available at affordable prices. Signup and view all the answers

What happens in the 'decline' stage of the fashion cycle?

Interest wanes as people seek new styles, leading to reduced sales and marked down prices in stores. Signup and view all the answers

How does 'haute couture' differ from 'fast fashion'?

Haute couture involves exclusive, high-quality, and often unique designer pieces, while fast fashion refers to quickly designed items that mimic trends for mass production. Signup and view all the answers

What are 'fads' in relation to fashion?

Fads are clothing items that gain quick popularity and fade away just as fast, often seen among teenagers. Signup and view all the answers

Differentiate between 'style' and 'fashion'.

Style refers to the specific characteristics that distinguish one item from another, while fashion pertains to the popular trends of a given time. Signup and view all the answers

How does clothing function as a form of communication in the workplace?

Clothing communicates an individual's occupation, professionalism, and seriousness about work. Signup and view all the answers

What role does clothing play in indicating economic status and rank in society?

Clothing serves as an indication of an individual's rank, position at work, and economic status. Signup and view all the answers

In what ways does clothing provide protection for individuals?

Clothing protects individuals from various climates and includes protective gear, such as chef aprons and fire suits. Signup and view all the answers

How might clothing choices reflect one's self-concept and psychological state?

Clothing choices reflect an individual's self-concept and attitude, influencing their feelings of acceptance and individuality. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of wearing uniforms in a professional setting?

Wearing uniforms signifies discipline, unity, and professionalism within an organization. Signup and view all the answers

How can clothing choices serve as a form of rebellion or expression?

Clothing can indicate rebellion against societal norms or express individuality, such as wearing pussy hats as a political statement. Signup and view all the answers

Why is first impression important regarding clothing in a social or professional context?

First impressions are crucial as clothing provides a non-verbal message that influences perceptions of character and professionalism. Signup and view all the answers

In what ways can clothing decorate or enhance one's attractiveness?

Clothing can beautify and enhance attractiveness, serving as a symbol of status and personal expression. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Fashion Definition

Fashion is a general social phenomenon affecting society as a whole.
A specific style is considered fashion when a large group accepts it.
Fashion encompasses many things besides clothing, such as makeup, music, architecture, languages, and hairstyles.
Fashion acts as a code language of status, meaning that wearing fashionable items can elevate social standing.

Terminology

"Standing still" of fashion refers to clothing items that haven't changed over time, like academic regalia or specific religious garments.
Clothing worn before 1920 is called antique.
Clothing from 1920 to 1960 is considered vintage or "retro".
Reproduction/repro garments are copies of previous era styles.
Recently produced garments are considered modern or contemporary.

Factors Influencing Fashion Trends

Economic factors Economic conditions impact disposable incomes and clothing choices.) affect the amount of money people have to spend on clothing.
Social factors (different demographics, religions, and cultures) influence the kinds of fashions needed and accepted.
Political factors (laws, international relations) can influence fashion trends (e.g., mandatory dress codes, or political leaders' style).
Technological advancements (fabric developments, manufacturing techniques, communication technologies) affect the speed and range of fashion trends.

The Fashion Cycle

Fashion trends come and go in cycles of popularity.
Three ways fashion is introduced are trickle down, trickle across, and bottom-up theories.
The fashion cycle has distinct stages (Introduction, Rise, Peak, Decline, and Obsolescence/End).

Tricke-down theory

Fashion introduced by top world designers.
The designs are displayed in fashion shows and then trickle down to the general public.

Tricke-across theory

When a celebrity wears a specific look, it's often adopted by the masses.

Bottom-up theory

Young, lower income people develop a new look, which is then adopted by others, and becomes a current fashion trend. This often includes styles from streetwear, flat caps, hoodies, and beanies.

Fashion Cycle - Stages

Introduction: Designers introduce new fashions on runways & worn by celebrities. Not readily available in stores.
Rise: Popularity increases, more people accept the fashion and buy it, production increases, and prices decrease.
Peak: The trend reaches its highest point of popularity; mass production; affordable prices.
Decline: People get bored with the style, and fewer people wear it. Stores mark down prices for sales to eliminate stock.
Obsolescence/End: The fashion trends goes out of popularity and eventually disappears.

More Fashion Terminology

Style = characteristics that make an item unique.
Classic styles are timeless, widely appealing, & in fashion for a long time (e.g., the little black dress).
Fads come and quickly go out of fashion.
Haute couture = high fashion original designs; very expensive.
Fast fashion = quick production of trendy, affordable clothing. It can have negative environmental impacts.

Clothing for the World of Work

Modesty: is a basic human need of covering the body appropriately. Status: clothing conveys rank, position, and economic status (e.g., suits for professionals, uniforms; etc). Protection: clothing safeguards from climate or work conditions (e.g., construction gear, lab coats). Decoration: clothing enhances attractiveness and/or status.
Communication, motivation, indication of societal divisions and discipline.

Why is Ones Appearance at Work So Important?

Clothing creates a non-verbal message about oneself.
Appearance indicates a person's character & how they interact with others at work.

Socio-psychology and Clothing

Socio-psychology refers to how a person's self-concept and attitudes.
How we feel about ourselves will determine what clothes we wear and how we present ourselves.

Fashion Psychology

We dress to enhance our appearance and influence how others see us & ourselves.
Clothing choice can impact self-esteem.
Different clothing affects our emotional state.

Influence of Socio-economic Factors

Income affects clothing choices. Individuals might make compromises with purchases or budget for a higher amount of clothes to meet a standard.

Symbolic Meaning of Appearance

Appearance provides a first impression.
Clothing communicates non-verbally and potentially can break or make a first impression.

Steps in Wardrobe Planning

Needs analysis (What are your needs?)
Stock take (What do you currently have? )
Shopping list (What do you need to buy?)
Create outfits (How will you combine these items?)

Trends in Fashion

Fashion styles change frequently, evolving from trends like mini-skirts to longer ones; etc.
Styles change from conventional clothing choices (often made by parents) to more personal expression.
Trends differ greatly from parent-determined clothing to personal expression.

Ten Point Action Plan to wise shopping

Shop alone
Have an aim (what kind of clothing is wanted )
Be ruthless about what you are going to buy.
Be realistic. Buy what you need not just what you want

Eco-friendly Fashion

Clothes are created using organic raw materials (without harmful chemicals).
Natural textiles are used
Recycled textiles and upcycled textiles. Emphasis is put on maintaining the lifespan of clothing.
The production process is environmentally conscious with decreased waste.
Fairtrade conditions ensure workers are paid appropriately.

Recycled Textiles

Recycled wool, polyester, and can be turned into fibers for buttons & zips, etc.

Reuse

Vintage clothing is getting more popular.
Upcycling vintage items or fashion.

Upcycling vs. Revamping

Upcycling transforms old garments into new ones. Revamping enhances used or old clothing with new details.

What Can You Do?

Pay close attention to the labels and details from places where clothing is made, before buying something.
Shop for sustainably and support those companies with sustainability in mind.
Support local producers of clothes
Donate old clothes.
Recycle old clothes

Brand Labels

Brand labels are a common marketing tool used to suggest product quality and differentiate products.
Registration and use of names are important for maintaining brand integrity.

Piracys of branded goods/Trade marks

Brand piracy is business crime.
Imitation of labels, packaging, and presentation is common in piracy, costing billions of dollars and impacting reputation.
It is important to support companies who respect Intellectual Property/Trade Marks.

Clothing as Symbols

Clothing conveys meanings based on various factors: the situation where the clothing is wor, when the clothing is worn, how the clothing is worn, who is wearing the clothes, and past experiences and personal values..
Messages communicated by clothing can include culture, religion, marital status, occupation, emotions, personality & economic status.

First Impressions

Appearance affects initial impressions that can affect employment opportunities or first encounters with someone.

The Uniform

Uniforms are worn for identification, reasons of hygiene or job protection. Uniforms provide a standard practice.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Uniforms

Advantages of uniforms include helping ensure a standard of appearance, saving money, and helping others identify employees easily. The disadvantage can be the restrictions on choosing outfits and styles according to personal preference.

Dressing for an Interview

Dressing for an interview should reflect your personality and convey a professional image that matches the company culture.

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Description

Explore the complex world of fashion through this quiz, which covers the negative impact of fast fashion on the environment, the influence of celebrities on trends, and the importance of classical items in a wardrobe. Test your knowledge on how various factors like education and technology shape modern fashion choices.