The art of fashion needs no introduction: it speaks for itself. Not only is it an established industry, its influence stretches beyond the mundane of clothes, shoes and bags. From the expected to the unexpected mediums of expression; fashion can be found amongst the Madonna’s and Lady gaga’s of music, not to mention the Thatcher’s and Clinton’s of modern day politics. An unusual quartet, don’t you think? The common denominator, their own personal takes on style!
Music may be an obvious instrument of fashion, but politics? Well… ever noticed the focus on a particular female candidate in recent presidential elections? Most of the media attention highlighted the importance of her appearance. Bringing it closer to home… take a little look at the man in charge and his predecessor, one exudes style and charisma, the other doesn’t.
Not to give it all away, the basic gist of this article is to introduce to you a minute section of a very broad subject.
Fashion like everything else has many faces. From haute couture to high street, London to Tokyo, it encompasses a variety of styles, cultures and histories, yet remains true to itself. It proceeds us nevertheless will continue to exist after us, for one reason only. Its recyclability. Whilst appearing to have evolved, its undeniable that certain trends keep making a come back in grand style.
Plates-formes chaussures. Wondering what that is? The platform heels in your closet, of course!
The re-emergence of power dressing in the 1980’s is manifested in today’s fashion in the shape of boyfriend blazers and shoulder pad dresses. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Shift dresses and psychedelic floral prints both circa 1970, leggings from the 80’s and stone washed jeans from the 90’s have all come back better than ever, and with a twist.
Let’s analyse leggings; couture and high street has given us a collaboration of prints textures and materials, giving birth to jeggings, sequin leggings, rubber leggings, PVC leggings… need i say more?
“Fashion is a form of imitation… it differentiates one time from another and one social stratum from another.” – Georg Simmel
Although written in the 50’s, Simmel’s point still resonates with us today. This monkey see, monkey do, behaviour we so unconsciously project is at the very heart of the fashion industry. Negative some may say, because it emanates patterns of conformity, however, the very notion of style itself allows fashion to have an element of individuality. While fashion may be collective, style permits your own unique experience within fashion. Fashion gives you options; your style makes your choice.
Is a fashion faux pas really a mistake? Or just the individuals take on style? Who says you can’t team up a pair of Dr. Martins with neon netted tutus? Or skinny jeans and UGG boots, for men? In this day and age, fashion has become more of a pick and mix sweets stall, the average shopper can combine designer and high street wear and achieve a flawless finish.
Lets get to the good stuff! Like many of the worlds leading cities, London’s unique take on fashion offers us as students the exciting opportunity to sample, take in and enjoy its delights and wonders.
From shopping in Harrods to browsing in Camden market, London is bursting at the seams, but perhaps taking a walk off the well-trodden path and who knows what you’ll discover. East street market, Brick lane, even in your local charity shop (if you live in Mayfair), the possibilities are endless.
So, how about it? You have the opportunity, why not take advantage and who knows? You might enjoy it. You can’t deny it, fashion affects us all, embrace it!
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