fashion
/ˈfæʃən/
When referring to style, it carries a sense of transience and social signaling. It is not just about clothes, but about the 'current' standard of prestige or acceptance. It differs from 'style' in that fashion is often collective and time-bound, whereas style is more individual and enduring. In the context of manner, it describes the quality or characteristic of an action. It is typically more formal than using the word 'way,' often appearing in professional or descriptive narratives to highlight a specific approach (e.g., "in a timely fashion"). As a verb, it suggests a hands-on, creative process of shaping raw materials. It implies ingenuity and craftsmanship, often used when something is made from available resources rather than mass-produced.
Uncountable when discussing the general industry of style and trends ('She works in fashion'). Countable when referring to a specific trend or the way something is done ('The latest fashion for hair' or 'in a timely fashion').
💬Casual Conversation
Ugh, cargo pants are back in fashion? I thought we left that in the 90s.
It's giving 'dad core' now. You're just old.
Meanings
Collocations & Compounds
fashion industry
The business of designing, manufacturing, and selling clothes and accessories.
She dreams of working in the fashion industry.
fashion week
A series of fashion shows held in a particular city, usually twice a year, to display new collections.
Paris Fashion Week is one of the most important events in the industry.
fashion designer
A person who designs clothes and accessories.
The young fashion designer presented her first collection.
fashion magazine
A publication that focuses on clothing, style, and trends.
She reads every fashion magazine she can find.
fashion show
An event at which models display clothing.
The fashion show was held in a spectacular venue.
Idioms & Sayings
in fashion
Currently popular or stylish.
Long skirts are back in fashion this season.
out of fashion
No longer popular or stylish.
Bell-bottom trousers went out of fashion in the late 1970s.
after a fashion
In a way, but not perfectly or completely; somewhat.
He managed to fix the car, after a fashion.
in a fashion
In a particular way, especially a slightly unusual or limited one.
She decorated the room in a rather minimalist fashion.
make a fashion statement
To wear something that is noticeable and makes a strong impression about your style.
Her bright red coat was clearly intended to make a fashion statement.
Etymology
The word 'fashion' comes from the Old French word 'façon', meaning 'manner, appearance, way'. This, in turn, derives from the Latin word 'factio', meaning 'a making, doing, formation'. It entered Middle English in the late 14th century, initially referring to the manner in which something is made or done. Its sense of 'prevailing style or custom', particularly in clothing and appearance, developed in the 15th century and became dominant by the 16th century.