The global fashion industry is a major economic driver, valued at approximately in 2023. It employs over 300 million people across its value chain, from raw material production to retail sales. The industry traditionally operates across four levels:

Fashion and the circular economy - Ellen MacArthur Foundation

Beyond commerce, fashion serves as a primary mode of and identity. Historically, clothing has been used to denote social status and cultural values. In the digital age, social media platforms like Instagram have accelerated how trends are disseminated, making high fashion more accessible yet also more fleeting. The Rise and Impact of Fast Fashion

This report provides an overview of the global fashion industry, examining its economic significance, social role, and the critical challenges it faces in the modern era.

: Design and production of garments by manufacturers and contractors. Retail : The sale of finished goods to consumers. Promotion : Advertising, fashion shows, and media. Fashion as a Social Vector

The "Fast Fashion" model—characterized by rapid production cycles and low prices—has dominated the market for the last two decades. Between 2000 and 2014, global clothing production doubled, while the average number of times a garment is worn decreased by nearly 40%.