What defines a 'style' of apparel?

A 'style' of apparel is primarily defined by its specific shape or type based on features. This includes the design elements, silhouettes, cuts, and overall aesthetic of the garment. These characteristics distinguish one style from another and contribute to how the garment is perceived in the context of fashion.

For instance, a garment can be classified as a dress, blouse, or jacket based on its stylistic elements, and these features determine how it fits, drapes, and looks on the body. Styles can also incorporate distinctive details like sleeves, necklines, and patterns, which further characterize them and appeal to different fashion sensibilities.

While factors such as price point, means of production, and popularity among consumers are important in the fashion industry, they do not define 'style' itself. Instead, they impact market trends and consumer behavior but do not alter the intrinsic characteristics that make a particular piece of apparel a specific style.