Fashion and Class

The book "Fashion and Class" explores how changing notions of social class correspond with key developments in the history of fashion, focusing on examples ranging from 18th-century Britain to the global fashion industry in the early 21st century. It examines the meaning and evolution of the term 'class' and investigates whether industrialization, technological change, and developments in fashion retailing have brought about a degree of 'class levelling' or intensified class antagonism. The book also explores how modern mass consumption and cheap labor revive some of the ethical issues faced in 19th-century British textile factories.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 06 February 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The relationship between changing notions of social class and key developments in the history of fashion is a complex and multifaceted one. Fashion has always been a reflection of societal values and norms, and as such, it has played a significant role in shaping and defining social class identities. Throughout history, fashion has been used to distinguish between different social groups, with those who could afford expensive clothing and accessories often being seen as having higher social status than those who could not.

In the 18th century, for example, the rise of the bourgeoisie in Britain led to a new emphasis on luxury and fashion. The upper classes adopted elaborate costumes and accessories, such as wigs, corsets, and high heels, while the working classes were largely excluded from these trends. This created a stark divide between the haves and have-nots, and fashion became a tool for reinforcing social inequality.

However, over time, fashion has also been used to challenge and subvert social class boundaries. During the French Revolution in the 1780s, for example, the working classes adopted a more casual and practical style of clothing, such as jeans and t-shirts, in contrast to the elaborate costumes of the upper classes. This shift in fashion was a symbol of the revolution's rejection of traditional social hierarchies and the rise of a new class of working-class citizens.

Similarly, in the mid-20th century, the rise of mass production and mass consumerism led to a new emphasis on affordable fashion. This trend was driven by the needs of a growing middle class, who wanted to be able to afford fashionable clothing without breaking the bank. As a result, high-street fashion brands such as H&M and Zara emerged, offering affordable clothing that was accessible to a wide range of consumers.

Despite these developments, the relationship between fashion and social class remains complex and multifaceted. While fashion has been used to reinforce social inequality, it has also been used to challenge and subvert these boundaries. The rise of fast fashion, for example, has led to concerns about the exploitation of workers in developing countries, who are often paid low wages to produce clothing for Western brands.

In conclusion, the relationship between changing notions of social class and key developments in the history of fashion is a complex and multifaceted one. Fashion has been used to distinguish between different social groups, to reinforce social inequality, and to challenge and subvert these boundaries. While fashion has the power to shape and define social class identities, it is also important to consider the ethical and social implications of these trends. As the fashion industry continues to evolve, it will be important to consider how these trends impact the lives of workers and consumers and to work towards a more sustainable and equitable fashion system.

Weight: 444g
Dimension: 235 x 150 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781847888150