Interpreting fashion terminologies can be a challenging task, especially for individuals who are not well-versed in the industry’s technical jargon. However, understanding these terminologies is crucial to communicate effectively and appreciate the nuances of fashion. This article brings together various guidelines that can help individuals in interpreting fashion terminologies.
Understand the Context
The first step to interpreting fashion terminologies is to understand the context in which they are used. Fashion terminologies can have different meanings and interpretations depending on the context in which they are used. For instance, the term ‘couture’ has a different meaning in the context of high fashion than in everyday usage. Similarly, the term ‘runway’ has a different meaning in the context of fashion shows than in aviation. Therefore, it is essential to understand the context in which a fashion terminology is being used to interpret it correctly.
Look for Visual Cues
Fashion is an industry that is heavily reliant on visual cues. Therefore, looking for visual cues can be an effective way of interpreting fashion terminologies. For instance, if a fashion designer uses the term ‘silhouette’ to describe a garment, looking at the garment’s shape and form can provide valuable insights into what the designer means by the term. Similarly, if a fashion journalist uses the term ’embellishment’ to describe a garment, looking at the garment’s details, such as sequins, beads, or embroidery, can provide clues about the term’s meaning.
Consult Fashion Glossaries
Fashion glossaries are comprehensive fashion terms resources that can help individuals understand fashion terminologies. These glossaries provide detailed definitions of fashion terminologies and often include visual aids to help individuals visualize the terms’ meanings. Some of the most popular fashion glossaries include Vogue’s Fashion Glossary, Fashionista Fashion Dictionary, and The Business of Fashion’s Fashion Glossary.
Research Historical and Cultural Contexts
Fashion is heavily influenced by historical and cultural contexts. Therefore, researching historical and cultural contexts can help individuals understand fashion terminologies better. For instance, the term ‘kimono’ refers to a traditional Japanese garment. Understanding the historical and cultural significance of the kimono can provide valuable insights into the term’s meaning and usage in fashion.
Pay Attention to Prefixes and Suffixes
Many fashion terminologies contain prefixes and suffixes that can provide clues about their meanings. For instance, the prefix ‘mono’ means ‘one,’ and the suffix ‘chrome’ means ‘color.’ Therefore, the term ‘monochrome’ refers to a single color or shades of the same color. Similarly, the suffix ‘-ate’ is often used to denote a smaller version of something. Therefore, the term ‘jacket’ becomes ‘jacketed’ when referring to a smaller version of a jacket.
Use Online Resources
The internet is a vast resource of information on fashion terminologies. There are numerous websites, blogs, and forums dedicated to fashion that can provide valuable insights into the industry’s technical jargon. Some of the most popular online resources for interpreting fashion terminologies include Style Caster, Fashion Beans, and Refinery29.
Keep Up-to-date with Fashion Trends
Fashion is a constantly evolving industry, with new trends emerging every season. Keeping up-to-date with fashion trends can help individuals understand the industry’s technical jargon better. For instance, understanding the current trend of ‘athleisure’ can provide valuable insights into the term’s meaning and usage in fashion.
Attend Fashion Events
Attending fashion events, such as fashion shows, exhibitions, and trade shows, can provide individuals with a firsthand experience of the industry’s technical jargon. These events provide opportunities to interact with industry professionals, ask questions, and observe the usage of fashion terminologies in real-life situations. Other specialized fashion terminologies include draping, which refers to the process of shaping fabric over a dress form to create the basic structure of a garment. Garment grading is another important term that refers to the process of creating different sizes of a garment. This is done by adjusting the size of the pattern used to create the garment.
In conclusion, fashion terminology plays a crucial role in the fashion industry. From haute couture to ready-to-wear, there are many specialized terms that are used to describe the various aspects of garment design, construction, and styling. Whether you’re a designer, seamstress, or stylist, understanding the specialized language of the fashion industry is essential for success.