Difference Between Fashion and Clothing

Fashion StudiesFashion & Styles

Fashion and clothing are the two terms that are inseparable. However, we can say that clothing has an independent existence and it is tangible, but on the other hand, fashion does not have an independent existence and it is an intangible thing. Definitely, we can see fashion but cannot touch it, as what we touch would be either clothing or other fashion accessories, such as jewelry, footwear, handbags, etc. Likewise, based on their properties and the nature of existence, we can differentiate between these two terms.

What is Fashion?

Fashion is a creative and attractive design that is carved into clothing and on other fashion accessories. It gives a unique look to the dress and also to the person who wears it. However, it is a dynamic term, as it keeps changing. Fashion is like a season that comes, stays for a while, and then disappears. But a new fashion or design has tremendous power, as it influences almost the entire society. When a particular fashion starts trending, it means its demand is increasing and people of all classes start wearing it. It is known as a fashion trend.

What is Clothing?

Clothing is one of the varieties of fabrics that are tailored and stitched in a particular form so that a person can wear it. So, it is specifically the apparel or dress that is worn by humans for the purpose of self-protection and adornment. For example, shirts, trousers, shorts, lower, jackets, swatters, salwar, kameez, kurta, dhoti, kurta, saaris, suits, t-shirts, and many more.

What is the Difference Between Fashion and Clothing?

The following table describes the significant differences between fashion and clothing −

Fashion	Clothing
It is non-tangible, as we cannot touch it.	It is tangible, as we can touch and wear it.
We can see different designs carved on different fabrics and other accessories.	Clothing refers to the materials or fabrics on which new fashion designs are tested.
Fashion is a changeable aspect, as it changes every now and then. One fashion design can only be popular for a few months before changing with the seasons.	It is permanent in nature and substantially exists.
It provides an attractive and eye-catching look to the wearer. Because of an attractive and trendy design, people inadvertently start seeing to the wearer.	It protects the wearer from the sunlight, high temperatures, freezing temperatures, wind, dust and some other things. In addition to this, it also defines the wearer’s morality and ethics.
In terms of work and employment, fashion design includes the following areas of work − Trend research Understand the market demands Understand the likeness and dis-likeness of the people Forecast the new fashion trend or design Creating a new and unique design Making patterns Giving proper shape and design to dresses and to other related accessories and lastly Promoting and marketing the new fashion.	In terms of work and employment, clothing includes − Taylor or Pattern makers Layout and cutting technicians Machinists Quality checkers Supervisory staff Production managers Distributors and retailers.

Conclusion

So, in this stylish world, fashion and clothing are in separable terms. We cannot think of one without the other. However, for one moment, we can talk about clothing independently, but we cannot talk about fashion without clothing, as it is reflected through clothing only. We discuss fashion, want to be fashionable, and have the latest trend in fashion, but how? It is only possible through clothing. It is clothing that gives fashion its name and fame.