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This collection of inter-disciplinary and trans-disciplinary chapters explores the historical, social, economic, political, psychological and artistic phenomenon of fashion, a powerful component of contemporary culture. Fashion lies at the very heart of persons, their sense of identity and the communities in which they live. Individuals emerge as icons of beauty and style; cities are identified as centres of fashion; the business of fashion is a billion dollar global industry, employing millions of people. This collection assesses the history and meanings of fashion; evaluates its expressions in politics, business, law, pop culture, the arts, consumer culture, and social media; determines its effect on gender, sexuality, class, race, age, nation and other sources of identity; and explores future directions and trends in the study and creation of fashion. Its contributors offer a broad range of disciplinary perspectives on fashion practice and methodology, extending from anthropology and sociology to history, art history and studies in material culture.