What Does the Word Fashion Mean

Hello Designistas, today let’s explore the etymology of the word ‘Fashion.’

The first recorded usage of the word in any recognizable form came about sometime during the 1300s.

Variants of the word popped up in various European populations, Middle English, Old French, and Latin having specific derivations of the word. It’s usage shows up in other completely different communities as well: Bengal, Burma, etc.

The reasons for that could probably be traced to the French having gone and occupied those locations and subsequently introducing parts of their culture.

The meaning of fashion has also changed with time. When it was used in Latin the word meant ‘to do,’ or, ‘to make.’ A similar variation of the word that was related meant something similar to ‘company,’ or ‘party.’ That particular variation fell out of use and the much more common interpretation of fashion as ‘to do,’ or ‘to make,’ became the ubiquitous interpretation for Middle English and Old French.

Moving towards the modern day, the interpretation of fashion has come closer to the interpretations of style or fad. The word was used to describe those individuals that stood out for their clothing and mannerisms in a social setting; “Men of Fashion.”

These meanings are used mostly interchangeably all the way up to the current day. Neither meaning has become obsolete, using it this way in casual conversation might raise eyebrows but no one would misunderstand you.

All of what I’ve covered, however, is fairly impersonal. To someone today fashion means something totally unique to them. It has become about lifestyle for people today. Being fashionable and finding a way to express yourself through fashion is something everyone strives to do.

So, for me personally? Fashion is expressing my inner world and thoughts through my clothing and designs. What I wear and make is just me making my dreams and goals visible for myself and you guys.

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