Fashion is a cultural phenomenon that encompasses a wide range of clothing styles. It is generally thought to be influenced by social classes, geographical locations, and time periods. Designers seek to create clothes that are functional as well as aesthetically pleasing, and their work is often inspired by historical garments or by popular culture. The term “fashion” may also refer to a specific style that is in vogue at any given moment. People who follow fashionable trends are referred to as fashionistas.

Some designers create their own line of clothing and accessories, while others design for existing manufacturers or retailers. A high-end, designer brand of fashion clothing is usually associated with exclusivity and elegance. Other brands and styles are known for their quality, value, or other unique selling points. The United States has the most diverse and multifaceted fashion industry in the world, with a concentration of its fashion houses in New York City and Miami.

In addition to designing and promoting clothing lines, some designers work in the areas of fashion criticism and analysis. The latter involves evaluating particular garments or collections and determining their strengths and weaknesses. This can help consumers decide what items to purchase and what to avoid.

Other aspects of the fashion industry include marketing, branding, and promotion. These activities are particularly important for fast-fashion businesses, which rely on quick and frequent turnover of designs to attract customers. Some critics of fast-fashion argue that it contributes to overproduction and environmental waste, while supporters point to the ability of online media to rapidly identify and communicate emerging trends.