Evolution of Fashion Trends 

Around the year 2000, the prevailing fashion trend was to accentuate the art’s intrinsic value. Creators and designers typically had very pure concepts and utilized powerful artistic language. Conversely, in 2024, numerous well-known international brands are opting for designers who are influential on the street, e.g., using trendy brands to market legacy brands. It can be observed that the current era of fashion is one dominated by pragmatism, street style, and minimalism.            

The evolution of fashion is highly associated with changes in social awareness. In addition to changes in gender roles, modern people have begun to seek a more liberated style of dress. This phenomenon reflects society’s liberation and acceptance of gender roles, which allows both men and women to freely choose their style of dress and present their personal characteristics and social statuses. Fashion is not only an external adornment but also a reflection of gender awareness and social dynamics.   

At turning points in history, fashion revolutionaries often introduce new designs that subvert traditional images, and these designs continue to influence the present. For example, Dior and Chanel responded to the need for women to enter the workforce during World War I and World War II by transforming elaborate French court styles into simpler and more practical designs that were suitable for work, thus overturning the established image of women’s fashion. From the corseted hoop skirts of the 1900s to modern women’s awareness of autonomy, fashion has long been associated with the evolution of women’s roles.   

Following World War II, new concepts were put forward that drew inspiration from men’s clothing, shattering the conventions of previous eras. Modern women placed much greater emphasis on comfort and practicality.  

The changes from 1900 to 2000 were huge. Numerous social structures and ways of thinking differed from those in earlier times. From high heels to modern sneakers, fashion reflects women’s changing roles, emphasizing self-identity and androgyny. Overall, fashion embodies contemporary trends of thinking and social status, with the evolution of clothing closely linked to changes in status.  

Two major trends can be found in the current fashion industry: pragmatism and sustainable development. Sustainable design is being advocated worldwide. This is a huge change—it is not only an expression of environmental protection but also an integrated idea or concept that is extremely crucial in the current fashion industry.    

From the rise of Louis Vuitton in 2000 (the age of luxury brand fashion design) to the modern fast fashion era, the emergence of brands such as Zara and Uniqlo reflects a transformation of the fashion industry and innovations in management methods. The key to these brands’ success can be attributed to technology management and material innovation. For example, Zara emphasized globalized production and computer control, employing a sequential management method by which fabric was produced at Location A, products were manufactured in Location B, and finished products were shipped to global outlets without passing through the headquarters. Meanwhile, Uniqlo focused on material innovation; because these innovations emerged in the East, where manufacturing bases were located, conditions were ripe for Uniqlo to create a material revolution, which was a crucial reason for its success. The emergence of Zara and Uniqlo overturned the operational and design methods of earlier successful brands such as Dior, Chanel, and Louie Vuitton, because their success lay in their management methods and material technology. Fast fashion has swept the globe and reached its peak; however, sustainability issues have followed.        

In the past, consumers typically did not purchase a lot of clothes because of price issues. However, with new technologies and different production methods, the cost of clothing has decreased, making it more affordable for consumers. This has also led to overconsumption, and consequently, the issue of sustainability has become crucial as the societal trend evolves.  

From 2000 to 2020, due to the popularization of fast fashion, attention has increasingly been paid to sustainability. Sustainable development has become a topic that cannot be ignored in the fashion industry. Although sustainability is not the primary consideration for consumers when they purchase products, designers can assist consumers in solving this problem through their designs. Designers play a vital role in material selection and design processes; therefore, they are best positioned to address sustainability and make changes. A single thought can influence the aesthetics, functionality, and environmental impact of a product, helping a brand to change the face of the Earth.    

In addition to sustainability issues, the fashion industry is also concerned with the impact of technology and AI on the design field. With the widespread adoption of numerous 3D design tools and AI technologies, designers can create clothing designs directly on a computer and communicate with the market via tools. There is no need to produce and ship numerous proofs and samples, which saves time and reduces waste. These tools are supported by a significant amount of artificial intelligence and technology applications, changing how the entire industry operates.   

The development of this technology has not only yielded more efficient production methods but also aligns with the concept of sustainable development. Therefore, the evolution of the fashion industry has not only been influenced by sustainability but also driven by technology. Sustainability and technology have complemented each other, jointly promoting the development of the industry and highlighting the importance of technology in fashion design.  

Young people who intend to enter the design field should first clarify their position: whether to pursue pure artistic creation or to integrate creativity and practicality into their designs. During the learning stage, students can express their creativity as they wish and explore various possibilities. However, after entering the workplace, they must confront the reality of the market. Artists pursue self-expression and contemporary significance; nevertheless, commercial markets have different requirements. Designers must combine their creativity with practicality and market demand, seeking an equilibrium that meets the actual needs of consumers.   

Sustainable development is an important topic that cannot be ignored in the current design field. Major international manufacturers have begun to incorporate the application of sustainable materials into product design and production processes. In contrast, Taiwanese brands have not been sufficiently proactive about this aspect. The trend of technification in the design industry has become increasingly manifest. From 3D design to smart manufacturing, various novel technologies are changing the operating model of the entire industry. For young designers, mastering these novel technologies and tools is one of the keys to future success.  

In both the Taiwanese and international fashion industry, graduates entering the workforce must possess the ability to adapt to society in addition to creativity and professional skills. In the Taiwanese market, the key to a company’s survival lies in identifying the positions of products recognized by consumers. Both high-end products and products with high cost-to-performance value have their own space in the market. Young people who wish to make a difference in the fashion field must understand market demands and be able to flexibly respond to market changes in addition to cultivating their creativity and skills. While seeking career development, they must possess a profound understanding of the characteristics of the fashion industry and make appropriate choices according to their own interests and positions.    

Young people who wish to make a difference in the field of fashion design must have a clear understanding and philosophy regarding their goals, sustainable development, and technology. While pursuing personal career development, they should continue to learn and improve their skills so they can cope with changing market demands. Only with a profound understanding of the developing trends in the industry can they stand out amidst fierce competition and realize their dreams and goals. 

Students are highly encouraged to participate in international competitions, which provide excellent opportunities for fashion design students. Taiwan’s godfather of industrial design, Jung-ya Hsieh, described his requirements for his works as follows: He hoped that when his works were displayed alongside other works in design competitions, they would not be identifiable as works from Taiwan. This was one of his methods for pursuing international standards.  

Participating in international competitions is an excellent and effective method of elevating oneself to a certain position. They help students improve their works to meet international standards and enhance their competitiveness. Although there are numerous competitions in Taiwan, participating in international competitions brings students face-to-face with outstanding works from around the world, thereby stimulating their creativity and developing their competitiveness. International competitions not only improve students’ technical skills but also broaden their horizons and allow them to understand the design trends and market demands of various cultures.  

International competitions typically have stringent assessment criteria, which help students raise their personal standards and pursue higher levels of quality and creativity. Although the prize money may not be a large sum, participating in international competitions can help students build a reputation of meeting international standards, which is highly beneficial for future career development. Participating in international competitions is a crucial method for improving students’ design skills, expanding their international perspective, and establishing an international reputation. It is a valuable experience for students who hope to achieve success in the field of fashion design.