Facere, to make, to do.

The term “fashion” has an interesting etymology that traces back through several languages and periods. The word comes from the Middle French “fashion,” which means “shape, manner, and appearance.” This, in turn, was derived from the Old French “façon,” meaning “a making, style, appearance, behavior,” and earlier from the Latin “factio,” a noun of action from “facere,” which means “to make, do.”

Originally, “fashion” referred more broadly to the act of making something or a way of doing things. Over time, its meaning evolved to focus more on the specific idea of shaping or adorning the body—hence, its association with clothing and style.

This evolution in meaning reflects a common trend in language where words gradually narrow or shift their meanings. “Fashion” now predominantly refers to prevailing styles or customs in dress, etiquette, or decoration, and it’s closely associated with the concepts of trends, design, and artistry in clothing and accessories.