Drive By Piracy: The Crimson Veil of Fashion Theory

Fashion theory has long been a subject of fascination for those who wish to understand the intricacies of the fashion industry. As Andrew Reilly's latest book, 'Introducing Fashion Theory: From Androgyny to Zeitgeist', shows, there is much more to fashion than just aesthetics and trends. In this article, we will delve into the world of fashion theory, exploring the key concepts that drive the industry forward.

First published in 2014 as 'Key Concepts for the Fashion Industry', Reilly's book has now been revised and updated for its second edition. This new version includes additional information on the latest developments in the field, making it an essential read for anyone who wants to stay ahead of the curve.

So what is fashion theory? At its core, it is the study of how fashion relates to society, culture, and identity. Fashion is not just about clothing; it is a reflection of our values, beliefs, and attitudes towards ourselves and others. By examining the ways in which fashion is used to communicate these messages, we can gain a deeper understanding of the role that fashion plays in shaping our world.

One of the key concepts explored in Reilly's book is the idea of androgyny. This refers to the blurring of traditional gender lines, where individuals identify as neither male nor female or as both simultaneously. Androgyny has become increasingly important in modern society, with many individuals embracing their fluid sexuality and gender identity.

Another crucial concept is that of Zeitgeist, which translates to 'spirit of the times'. This refers to the cultural and social climate of a particular era, and how fashion reflects and influences this climate. By examining the Zeitgeist of different eras, we can gain insight into the values and attitudes of past societies and how these have evolved over time.

The book also explores other important concepts such as postmodernism, consumer culture, and the commodification of fashion. Postmodernism refers to the rejection of traditional notions of truth and reality, where everything is seen as relative and subjective. Consumer culture is all about the production and consumption of goods, with fashion being a key player in this arena.

The commodification of fashion refers to the way in which clothing has become a commodity, bought and sold like any other product. This has led to a culture of disposability, where garments are worn once or twice before being discarded. Reilly argues that this is unsustainable and highlights the need for a more sustainable approach to fashion production and consumption.

In conclusion, 'Introducing Fashion Theory: From Androgyny to Zeitgeist' is an essential read for anyone who wants to understand the complexities of the fashion industry. By exploring key concepts such as androgyny, Zeitgeist, postmodernism, consumer culture, and commodification, Reilly provides a comprehensive overview of the field.

As we move forward in this rapidly changing world, it is crucial that we continue to explore and challenge our assumptions about fashion and its role in society. By embracing diversity and promoting sustainability, we can create a more inclusive and environmentally friendly industry that benefits all parties involved.

References:

Reilly, A. (2014). Key Concepts for the Fashion Industry. London New York: Bloomsbury.

Reilly, A. (2020). Introducing Fashion Theory: From Androgyny to Zeitgeist. New York: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc.

Index:

* Androgyny

* Commodification of fashion

* Consumer culture

* Postmodernism

* Sustainability

* Zeitgeist

Drive by piracy crimson veil