Fashion is much more than the different black leather jacket seasons or the clothes; it speaks to an individual's identity; indeed, it speaks to cultural and societal norms. As in most historical activities or human endeavors, there are times when changes in fashion grow with the change in political, economic, and social environments. Fashion has ranged from the luxurious gowns of the Renaissance to the minimalist designs of the 21st century; such grandeur and simplicity reflect society.

History of Fashion: Early Styles and Cultural Expression

In its earliest form, fashion can be traced back to ancient civilizations. Egypt, Greece, and Rome wore clothes as symbols of status and identity. It was an expression of the social hierarchy attached to the way that everyone wore clothes; it was an indication of the person's social standing, occupation, and even personal beliefs. "An example would be ancient Egypt, where both men and women apparel themselves into garments made of linen along with adornments signaling wealth and importance"

Time marched on, and fashion began to develop with the changing political-economic environment. As a result, very ornate and elaborate costumes were introduced during the medieval period to herald wealth and power. The higher ranks of kings and queens were dressed in rich fabrics, studded with gemms, and embroidered to signify their status.

The Industrial Revolution: Mass Production and Democratization of Fashion

In the Industrial Revolution of the 18th and 19th centuries, changes were significant within that industry. The innovations of the sewing machine and the development of mass production made clothing available not only to the celebration classes but the general public. Fashion then became democratic instead of being limited to the upper class; it was now available to a wider circle.

Fashion became part of the world through international exploration. Fabrics like silk and cotton came from the Far East due to trade route expansion; these were brought to Western markets to create more styles and designs. The Victorian era characterized modesty and formality, while some structured garments, like corsets, petticoats, and long skirts, defined a modest and elegant silhouette as well.

A Stylist Revolution During the 20th Century

Of all changes, the 20th century had some drastic changes within history and fashions. The first decades of the new century have competed with individualistic haute couturiers like Coco Chanel, Christian Dior, and Yves Saint Laurent. Coco Chanel is perhaps regarded as the woman black and leather jacket who converted the entire trend of women's fashion, making more relaxed types of clothing, more functional-created the famous little black dress-also made trousers accepted for women.

The 1960s and 1970s were marked by youth counterculture: eclectic bohemian styles deeply embraced by rebellious youth seemed to encapsulate a generation during this time. Tie-dye, bell-bottoms, and other bohemian aesthetics were associated with that age of free love, but punk counterculture had its own take on rebellion and established a DIY style-prescribing leather jackets, band t-shirts, and spiked hair rather than a new wardrobe.