Demode: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• 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.

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• Globalization has also broadened what is considered fashionable or out of date across different cultures.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.