Fashion is a general term for any kind of style that is followed at a particular time, especially in clothing, footwear, and accessories. In some ways, fashion is an extension of culture, and in others it is a way to make oneself stand out and be noticed by other people. Some styles are more popular than others, but they all tend to change over time.
A big part of the fashion industry involves establishing and spreading new trends. These trends can be passed down from higher classes (like royalty or celebrities), be a result of a new discovery, or come from within a group of people. In addition, it is common for a person to follow the trend of other people they like or respect.
The media has a huge impact on fashion, and magazines are particularly influential. They started by featuring detailed illustrations and by offering critique and guidelines on what is in style or not, as well as covering celebrity news and events. Nowadays, bloggers and social media channels also provide advice on what to wear and how to dress, and they are a great source of inspiration for people who want to follow the latest trends.
Some people criticize the speed at which fashion changes, arguing that it is detrimental to the environment and encourages excessive consumerism. Others enjoy the diversity and variety that changing fashions offer, seeing it as a way to express individuality and creativity.