Heraclitus is known to have said, “Change is the only constant in life.” Fashion seems to subscribe to this principle. Fashion is defined as a form of self-expression and personal style that reflects an individual’s personality and aesthetic preferences.
This is done through clothing, accessories and overall appearance. Fashion is dynamic and ever-evolving, as it gets influenced by creativity and innovation. Trends and styles constantly change over time.
A FLEETING BEAST
Fashion, by its very nature, is a fleeting and subjective beast. One season’s must-have item can become the next season’s discarded relic, leaving fashion enthusiasts scrambling to keep up. But is this unreliability a bug or a feature?
It is this fleeting nature that gives fashion it’s recognition as being unreliable. You can be convicted today, serve your sentence and when you come out, you find that your assets that were safely packaged have lost their value – not because they are nonfunctional but because they do not fit the latest trends.
It is the unpredictable nature of fashion that allows for creativity and innovation to thrive. Designers are constantly pushing boundaries, experimenting with new styles and reinterpreting classic looks. This keeps fashion fresh and exciting, with each new season bringing a sense of anticipation and possibility.
The fleeting nature of fashion makes it a very wide concept and for purposes of clarity I want to limit my focus to a few classical areas of fashion that emphasise the constant presence of impermanence. Let’s focus on some aspects of fashion.
‘SELF EXPRESSION DEFINES THE BEAST OF FASHION’
Clothing fashion is more than just a trend or a style; it’s a reflection of who we are and the world we live in. Personal clothing style is a powerful tool for self-expression. It allows individuals to showcase their personality and individualIty. Clothing choices can convey a message about who we are and what we stand for. It is not difficult to tell if a person is wearing a Maasai or Yoruba or Igbo or Zulu or Ashanti dress. So indeed clothing is a weapon that tells everyone who you are
PERSONALITIES
In recent years, influencers have become a driving force in the fashion industry, Personalities are influencers. That statement is true for clothing fashion as well. The presence of personalities can influence people in a wide range of ways. These individuals shape trends, promote brands and inspire their audience.
Remember Nelson Mandela. His influence goes beyond politics – he also left an indelible mark on fashion. During the latter days of his life he influenced the fashion world with what henceforth was referred to as the Madiba shirt. It had vibrant colours splattered all over a loose-fitting designed shirt that became an iconic part of Nelson Mandela’s image. This loose-fitting shirt gave a serious challenge to what it meant to wear formal clothIng. Whilst the world was used to a variation of formal suites worn by State Presidents and persons in high level position, Mandela gave a new meaning to what formal wear and made it a staple of his wardrobe. More than just a fashion statement, the Madiba shirt represented Mandela’s connection to his people. The shirt’s bold colours and patterns reflected the vibrancy and resilience of South African culture. Mandela wore it with pride on the world stage. One could also argue that this was a symbol and expression of freedom after he had been forced to wear particular clothes for 27 years. The shirt has had an enduring popularity and designers continue to draw inspiration from it. This is testimony to the belief that fashion is not just about clothes – it is also about identity and self-expression.
Personification of clothing brands can also be found in the sneaker business. In 1984, a young high flying professional basketball player in the United States of America (USA) Michael Jordan signed a deal with Nike that would change the sneaker game forever. The partnership led to the creation of the iconic Air Jordan brand, revolutionising the industry and cementing Jordan’s status as a global sports icon. He was initially hesitant, but Nike’s pitch and enthusiasm won him over. The Air Jordan brand has had a profound impact on the sneaker culture. The shoes have become a status symbol, with many people collecting and trading them. Jordan’s partnership with Nike has also inspired other athletes to sign endorsement deals, changing the way athletes market themselves. Nike targeted selling $3 million worth of sneaker the year they signet the agreement; but they raked in $126 million worth of sales on Air Jordan takkies. For this year (2025) Nike is expected to sell 20 million pairs of Air Jordan sneakers and draw in $1 billion..
Another wonder was Justin Timberlake (popularly known as JT), formerly with American pop group NSYNC, who introduced a very unconventional way of dressing. One of his most iconic style moments was his black suit and white sneaker combination, which has become a staple in modern fashion. If I remember well this happened in 2013 during the release of his popular album ’20/20 experience’ with the lead song titled ‘Mirror’. JT defied the ‘rules’ and created a look that was a forcibe bridge between formal and casual wear. The combination was unexpected, yet perfectly executed, making it a defining moment in fashion history. JT’s bold move sparked a trend, with many fans and fashion enthusiasts emulating his style. The black suit and sneakers combo has since become a versatile look, suitable for various occasions, from red-carpet events to casual outings. Today, JT’s iconic look continues to inspire fashion enthusiasts across the globe. His willingness to take risks and push boundaries has cemented his status as a style icon. Whether you’re a fan of his music or fashion, one thing is clear – JT’s black suit and sneakers are a match made in the style heaven. Justin Timberlake owned his look and was confident in it and slowly influenced even the most conventional dressers around.
CHINESE COLLAR
Allow me to confess. I enjoy wearing certain types of Chinese Collared Shirts. Known as Zhongshan shirts, these garments have evolved to modern influences while retaining their distinct cultural identity. The result is a shirt that exudes elegance and sophistication. One of the defining features of Chinese collar shirts is their stand-up collar, which adds a touch of sophistication. Made from breathable fabrics and designed with comfort in mind, these shirts remain perfect for various occasions.
PANTSULA
In the heart of South Africa’s townships, a unique and captivating fashion style emerged somewhere in the 1959s Sophiatown Jazz era. This was Pantsula fashion style. This was when young men in the townships would dress up in suits and hats to impress their peers and romantic interests.
From the start it had key elements. These included the Samson workwear suits, distinctive hats and Converse All Star shoes. Pantsula also drew inspiration from the American jazz bubble incorporating Dickies work pants and collared shirts.
Over time, this style evolved, incorporating traditional elements and bold, bright colours. Today, Pantsula fashion is a staple of South African style, with its influence extending far beyond the townships. Pantsula fashion is a dynamic blend of elegance, sophistication and vibrant culture, reflecting the energy and creativity of the communities that birthed it.
So, what defines Pantsula fashion? For starters, it’s not just a cut and paste type of clothing, the manufacturers have to pay attention to detail. Intricate designs, patterns and accessories are woven together to create a look that’s both elegant and eye-catching.
Pantsula fashion has gained international recognition, with designers and fashion enthusiasts around the world embracing its unique blend of style and culture. From runway shows to street style, Pantsula’s influence can be seen in the way people dress and express themselves. As Pantsula fashion continues to evolve and gain global recognition, it’s clear that this style is here to stay. Pantsula fashion is poised to inspire a new generation of fashion enthusiasts around the world. Who would forget some music groups that gave this unapologetic and powerful reignition in the 1990s? Groups like Trompies, Alaska and TKZee were proponents of this type of clothing.
That it is still popular today (since the 1950s) indicates the extent to which various communities and generations have been charmed by it.
TIGHT PANTS
Growing up, there was a certain trend among boys and school-age learners. Their trousers were very tight to the bottom of the trouser. A trouser would be cut with a normal cut and later they would convince adults to do the tight pant cut on the trousers using their sewing machines at home. It was hilarious watching them when they had to remove the trousers at the end of the day. It was even worse if it was a rainy day because you would see guys battling, even literally using spoons and knives to remove these trousers.
The origins of tight pants can be traced back to the 1970s, when musicians ruled the airwaves. During this era, fashion was all about excess and extravagance and tight pants were the perfect fit.
The rise of social media beyond 2000 has also played a significant role in the popularity of tight pants. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have given fashion enthusiasts a platform to showcase their style and tight pants have become a staple in many influencers’ wardrobes.
So, why do tight pants continue to be a fashion staple? For one, they are incredibly versatile. They can be dressed up or down, making them suitable for everything from a night out on the town to a casual day ut with friends. Tight pants also have a way of making the wearer feel confident and stylish. Whether you’re rocking a pair of sleek, high-waisted pants or a pair of distressed, ripped jeans, tight pants can add a level of sophistication and edge to any outfit.
But honestly, without offering any option, I do think many gentlemen are making their trousers overly tight these days.
YOU DEFINE FASHION
The unreliability of fashion can be overwhelming. With trends changing faster than ever, it’s hard to know what’s worth investing in and what’s just a passing fad. The pressure to stay current can be suffocating, leading to a sense of anxiety and burnout. The desire for novelty remains a constant.
It’s essential to develop a personal style that transcends trends. This might involve investing in timeless pieces, embracing sustainable fashion practices and prioritising comfort and confidence.
By being mindful of your consumption habits and focusing on what truly matters to you, you can create a more authentic and fulfilling relationship with fashion. Staying true to who you are may be a needed balance that each person should adopt when considering what fashion works.
In the end, the unreliability of fashion is what makes it so beautiful. It’s a reminder that nothing lasts forever and that change can be a wonderful thing. So, let’s celebrate the fleeting nature of fashion and the creativity it inspires. Let’s accommodate the beast of continuous impermanence as it will always impose itself in us. Make your choice – after all, as the saying goes, “Fashion is a way to express yourself without words”
Sai mun hadi.