Decoding Fashion Industry Jargon: Know Your Terms Better
Fashion industry jargon can often feel like a foreign language, filled with terms and phrases that seem to change and evolve constantly. As a fashion professional, it is crucial to keep up with the latest industry terminology in order to effectively communicate with colleagues and clients. In this article, we will delve into the world of fashion industry jargon, decoding the most commonly used terms and giving you a better understanding of the language of fashion.
The Importance of Understanding Fashion Industry Jargon
Fashion industry jargon is more than just fancy words and phrases – it is the language of the fashion world. Understanding and using this specific terminology is key to success in the industry. Whether you are a fashion student, a designer, or a marketing professional, being well-versed in fashion industry jargon shows that you are knowledgeable and in tune with the latest trends and buzzwords. It also helps you to communicate effectively with colleagues, clients, and other fashion industry players. Therefore, let’s get familiar with some of the most commonly used terms in the fashion industry.
Haute Couture
Haute couture, or “high fashion” in French, is often seen as the pinnacle of the fashion industry. It refers to the creation of exclusive, custom-made garments for high-end clients, using the most luxurious materials and meticulous craftsmanship. Haute couture pieces are often one-of-a-kind and can come with jaw-dropping price tags. This term is protected by French law, and only fashion houses who meet strict criteria set by the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture can officially be considered as haute couture houses.
Ready-to-Wear
Ready-to-wear, also known as prêt-à-porter, refers to garments that are made in standard sizes and available for purchase off the rack in stores. These pieces are more affordable and accessible compared to haute couture. Ready-to-wear collections are often presented on the runway during fashion week, and they can also be found in department stores and online retailers. They are typically produced in larger quantities and are not customized for specific clients.
Fast Fashion
Fast fashion is a term that has gained popularity in recent years, and it refers to the high-speed production of inexpensive, trend-driven clothing. Fast fashion brands are known for quickly churning out new collections inspired by the latest runway trends, often at a lower price point. However, this fast-paced approach to fashion has come under scrutiny for its negative impact on the environment and its exploitation of cheap labor in developing countries.
Capsule Collection
A capsule collection is a small, curated collection of garments that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. These collections are often more focused on quality and versatility rather than quantity. They are a popular trend among sustainable fashion brands and minimalists, as they encourage consumers to invest in a few well-made, timeless pieces rather than constantly buying new clothing items.
Lookbook
A lookbook is a collection of professionally photographed images showcasing an upcoming fashion collection or highlighting key pieces from a brand’s current line. Lookbooks are often used for marketing and promotional purposes, particularly on social media and e-commerce websites. They provide a visual representation of a brand’s aesthetic, and they can also serve as inspiration for styling and outfit ideas.
Runway
The runway, also known as the catwalk, is the platform where fashion models showcase the latest collections from designers during fashion week. This term originated from the traditional “runway” models would walk on during fashion shows. Runway shows are an important part of the fashion industry, as they set the tone for upcoming trends and can make or break a designer’s reputation.
Capsule Wardrobe
Similar to a capsule collection, a capsule wardrobe is a collection of essential, versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. A capsule wardrobe is meant to simplify one’s wardrobe, making it easier to get dressed and reducing the need to constantly buy new clothing. This concept is particularly popular among those looking to embrace a more sustainable and minimalist approach to fashion.
In Conclusion
Understanding fashion industry jargon is an important part of being a successful fashion professional. This article has highlighted just a few of the many terms used in the fashion industry, from haute couture to capsule wardrobes. Stay tuned for the evolution of these terms and the emergence of new ones as the fashion world continues to evolve and innovate.
