In fashion, what does 'silhouette' refer to?

The term 'silhouette' in fashion specifically refers to the outer shape or outline of a clothing style. This concept is crucial because it defines how a garment looks when it is worn, taking into account the overall shape and proportion of the piece. Silhouettes can vary widely, from fitted shapes to loose flowing lines, and play a significant role in determining the visual impact of a design.

Understanding silhouette is essential for fashion designers since it influences the way garments are perceived and how they fit different body types. The other options do not accurately reflect the meaning of silhouette; for instance, fabric patterns deal with design intricacies, color schemes pertain to aesthetic choices, and fashion history relates to trends over time, all of which are distinct from the concept of silhouette that focuses on the external form of clothing.