Lesson Objectives

• Define fashion

• Identify merchandise categories of fashion

• Explain difference between style and design

• Identify design elements

• Explain why fashion is important

What Is Fashion?

Existing type of clothing preferred by a large segment of the public that represents social interaction and status

Merchandise Categories

Staple items• Basic items• Purchased regularly• Usually in stock at

stores all the time• Little change in style

Fashion merchandise

• Goods popular at a certain time

• Numerous style changes

• Updates in inventory required

Style vs. Design

Style

Particular shape or type of apparel items identified by the distinct features that make it unique

Design

Particular or unique version of a style due to specific arrangement of the design elements

Establishes the appearance of the finished product

Design elements

Color (3 dimensions)

• Hue – quality of color

• Value – lightness of darkness of color

• Intensity – brightness or dullness of color

Line

• Directs eye movement

• Applied by construction details (seams and darts) and color

Design Elements (con’t)

Shape• Aka silhouette• Overall form or outline

of garment• 3 shapes:

– Straight (tubular)– Bell-shaped (bouffant)– Bustle shape (back full)

Design Elements (con’t)

Function• Intended use or

purpose of the item– Beautify– Adorn– Express– Identify– Protect

Texture• Feel and look of

material or fabric• Applied by used of

fibers, yarns and fabric construction

• Influences shape and drape of garment

What items are included in “fashion”?

• Clothing (garments)– Mens, women’s children’s

• Accessories– Shoes, purses, leather goods, jewelry,

scarves/neckwear, underwear/lingerie, eyeglasses, fragrances

• Home Furnishings– Window treatments, furniture coverings,

decorative items (lamps, pillows, wall hangings)

Why is Fashion Important?

Importance to People

• Identifies social position

• Reflects a person’s self-image

• Affects how a person interacts with others

Economic Importance

• Affects global and local economies

• $14 Billion in sales in NYC

• 1.3 million workers in 2009 producing more than $50 Billion in products

• Spurs employment in other industries– Transportation, hotels, restaurants– Reflects economic environment

Let’s Review

• What is the definition of fashion?• What are the 2 merchandise categories of

fashion?• What are the 5 elements of design?• What are the 3 dimensions of color?• What are the 3 basic shapes?• What are the 3 types of items included in

fashion?• Why is fashion important?