Fashion – the word conjures up images of beautiful, slim models, walking down the ramp in clothes designed by the top names in the industry. Ideas for fashion are drawn from everywhere in life. The designer may be inspired by nature, animate or inanimate things or anything in the world. He or she is like an artist and the creations are magnificent, pompous, aesthetic, and in some case, borders on the bizarre. This is where the designer showcases his or her talent which ultimately results in the success of the designer label. Haute Couture can be as visionary as any art form. No wonder then, that it is a trillion-dollar industry giving employment to many. It is, indeed, interesting and eye catching to watch these shows, but, practically not an ideal option for use every day. This is where street fashion comes up.
Paris has long been the capital of the fashion industry – the reason being fashion was affordable only to the rich and King Louis XIV, guided by his interest in luxury, moved several artistic industries to his country for the sake of the economy. One of these industries would be textiles, which came under the control of the French court, which made it an epicenter of style and commerce. Hence, fashion was not within the reach of the common man.
Who doesn’t want to be well dressed and appreciated? In a way, being well dressed gives a person a boost of confidence to face the world. If confidence is the key to success, then all the more reason to be well dressed. The type of dressing depends upon the place, time and age that we live in. As I live in Atlanta in America, the type of fashion is very different from what I was used to, while I lived in the UK and India.
I love the way people in America dress. Having said that, fashion varies greatly from north to south, east to west in the United States. One thing which is common is the casual look. It is a look and a fashion statement which has been developed to a high level. Even gym clothes are matched and coordinated. Accessories play a pivotal role. Why do Americans dress casually? It defines them. It also defines freedom. It is practical and comfortable to dress casually There are no class distinctions and blurs the lines between the rich and the poor. When it comes to dressing up, there are plenty of big names. America is a consumer’s paradise, with so many products flooding the market. Periodic sales are very tempting and easy on the pocket. Shopping is an extremely pleasant experience. The change in seasons gives rise to change in texture and color of the clothes. The summer strappy sandals are replaced with heavy knee length boots in winter. So also, the airy cotton dresses, tops and shorts are replaced with thick, chunky sweaters and scarves. Each season is welcomed and clothes are matched to suit the season and mood. The pleasing outcome of thoughtful casual dressing is applaudable. Casual dressing is Made in America! Try it – it feels good!
Asha P Rao .