Demode Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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demode

[dəˈmoʊd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

fashion trends

To 'demode' something means to put it out of fashion or render it outdated. This term originates from French and suggests that an item or style has fallen out of favor in the current trends. Often applied to clothing, accessories, and artistic expressions, it embodies a shift away from contemporary styles. The act of demoding can also be seen as reversing or declining a particular trend's popularity.

Synonyms

discontinue, obsolete, outdate.

Examples of usage

  • The designer decided to demode last season's collections.
  • Many fashion critics believe that the trend has been demoded already.
  • Her style was once admired but has since been demoded among younger generations.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Fashion Industry

  • Fashion trends cycle every few years; what's demode today might return as chic tomorrow.
  • Vintage clothing has surged in popularity, often causing previously demode styles to be celebrated as retro.
  • Fashion shows often highlight demode looks to emphasize new trends, reminding us that everything can come back.

Cultural Shifts

  • Societal values can dictate what is considered demode, such as changing attitudes toward sustainability impacting fast fashion.
  • Technology has accelerated fashion cycles, making trends go in and out of style more quickly than before.
  • Globalization has also broadened what is considered fashionable or out of date across different cultures.

Art and Literature

  • In literature, characters often reflect demode styles, showcasing their social standing or personal struggles.
  • Artists like Andy Warhol leveraged demode concepts, using old images and styles to critique consumer culture.
  • Many works explore the idea of nostalgia, where demode items evoke fond memories or a longing for the past.

Psychology

  • People often feel a sense of anxiety when their favorite things become demode, fearing social exclusion.
  • The desire to keep up with trends can lead to compulsive consumer behavior or purchasing items that quickly go out of style.
  • Embracing demode items can be a form of self-expression, reflecting a rejection of mainstream trends.

Origin of 'demode'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from French, where 'dé' means 'to remove' and 'mode' refers to 'fashion' or 'style'.
  • It was first recorded in English in the early 20th century, reflecting shifts in fashion culture.
  • The concept has been pivotal in the fashion industry, influencing trends and consumer behavior.

The term 'demode' derives from the French word 'démodé', which literally translates to 'out of fashion' or 'outdated'. This word combines the prefix 'dé-' meaning 'removal' or 'undoing', with 'mode', which is related to fashion or style. It started being used in English in the mid-20th century as fashion became more dynamic and fast-changing. As trends rapidly evolve, certain styles quickly become viewed as passé or unfashionable. The usage of 'demode' highlights the transient nature of fashion and how what is considered stylish today may not hold the same status tomorrow. This concept is particularly relevant in the current era of social media and global connectivity, where trends can change overnight.