fashion: art or usablility? ...plus Milan fashion show

So, one topic that many people discuss is that on the topic of whether or not fashion is art or usability. I think that the answer to this question is a mix of the two. Fashion can be, and is, interpreted in many different ways. There are those designers and buyers who consider fashion something that is a necessity, and is something that should showcase the wearer. In this case, fashion would be a form of usability, something that is practical. Then of course there are those who, when fashion is brought to mind, think of wild and crazy ideas! Fashion can be adventurous and creative, which is why I love it.



Whenever something has a pattern, or good craftmanship and details, I think of art. Art does not have to be something that is hanging on the wall or in a museum, it can be wearable too. Fashion obviously has a lot of thought and planning put into it, and that creativity and effort should be viewed as an art form.



I watched the Milan fashion shows, and there were a few basic trends throughout them. There seemed to be a focus on technology and transparency, as well as many outfits being top-heavy: or having a soft bottom and a stiffer top. Marni took a nice spin of some of the "classics", such as the pencil skirt, the twin set, and the suit. This shows the fashion world as both usable and artsy.

Another artist that caught my attention was Fendi. The designer had a cool idea of taking the transparency theme and bringing it to another level. There were some dresses that were see-through, but had a sheath or something under it in order to make it wearable. This can be seen in the picture attached, as provided by style.com.