Fashion, Gender & Social Constructs Why the Female Image Had to Change.

Historically, gender is and always has been a highly influential paradigm to a diversity of various cultures as a collation of enforced societal expectation; particularly with regards to women. The representation of women which had previously been regulated as a series of biological tendencies has subjected the larger half of the population to an identity that stints their potential and has proven to cause them to significantly withdraw due to social pressure. This dissertation is a critical piece that will evaluate the role of gender within a variety of social constructs and also within fashion. By examining previous research, academic literature and discussion surrounding the topic; there are several recurring themes present, including gender within history, matriarchal societies and a number of biological factors to determine whether gender can fully be considered to be a social construct. Through this, the crucial moments within fashion which have revolutionised gender will be examined, and a further critical commentary made regarding the power of consumerism and the profit potential for companies regarding gender segregation. This exploration and analysis will relate each of these themes, topics and questions to how the female image has had to adapt throughout many generations to fulfil the needs of society and the physical and psychological influences which gender has upon society.