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A Couture design by Charles Fredrick Worth
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When asked the question "what is fashion" it is almost impossible to answer. Can "fashion" as a term be define? Does fashion define clothes? Style? Lifestyle? The word "fashion" as a term represents a variety of different meanings depending on how you view it. There is no defining what "fashion" is, however every human is a part of "fashion" whether it be a choice of clothes, the way you present yourself or simply your lifestyle. Everything has an elements of "fashion" therefore difficult to pinpoint and define the term.
The "Sun King" Louis XIV (1643-1715) increased and emphasised fashions importance in society. He used fashion as a tool to express power and exercise authority over others. For Louis XIV fashion was a way of distracting nobels and controlling social order. The distinctive unique style which Louis XIV portrayed asserted dominance over others. His clothes were expensive and desirable. Most countries within that era had one code in order to keep clothing inexpensive, whereas Louis’s system sent many into bankruptcy. However Louis was idolised globally for his style, he was what we would call a 'celebrity' people craved to be him. They wanted his style, clothes, lifestyle. They wanted his "fashion".
However for the "Father Of Couture" Charles Fredrick Worth (1825-1895) "fashion" had a completely different meaning. Charles was the age of the designer, originally from England who produced in Paris. The designer was widely popular during his time which allowed him to set up his own business Bobergh and Worth and evolved into the first known fashion house. Charles would create a small collection which would be released four times year in which wealthy women could purchase. This was the beginning of the couture houses know today.
