Specialist Field

An institution where the course is offered in 2025

Term

Definition with fashion application

Astronomy

California Institute of Technology

Flare

Used to describe the widening of a jet of material ejected from a star or other celestial object. A flare is a style or cut of clothing that flares out at the bottom, creating a wider shape . This style was popular in the 1960s and 1970s and can be seen in items such as flared jeans, skirts, and dresses.

Sheath

In Astronomy, Sheath can refer to the sheath of a comet, the envelope of gas and dust surrounding its nucleus. In fashion, a sheath dress is a fitted, straight cut dress, often nipped at the waistline with no waist seam.

Halo

Often used to describe the diffuse outer region of a galaxy or the faint glow surrounding the Sun during a total solar eclipse. The halo effect (sometimes called the halo error) is the proclivity for positive impressions of a person, company, country, brand, or product in one area to positively influence one's opinion or feelings.

Astrobiology

University of Arizona

Capsule: 

In astrobiology it refers to the sealed container used to transport and protect spacecraft or scientific instruments, and potentially, in the future, even microbial life forms, to and from other planets or celestial bodies. A capsule wardrobe is a minimalist collection of clothes that can be put together in different ways to cover a variety of outfits and occasions.

Bakery Science & Management

London South Bank University

Fold

In baking, "folding" is a gentle mixing technique used to incorporate delicate ingredients like whipped cream or egg whites into a batter. This mirrors the careful folding of delicate fabrics in fashion design.   

Proof

In baking, "proofing" refers to the process of allowing yeast to ferment and rise in dough. This can be likened to the "proofing" or testing of a fashion design, ensuring its functionality and suitability.

Glaze

In baking, a glaze is a sweet or savory coating applied to pastries or breads. This has a clear parallel to glazes used in fashion, such as those applied to ceramics or leather to enhance their appearance and durability.

Drape

While referring to the way fabric hangs or falls, "drape" can also be applied to the visual appeal of certain baked goods, such as cakes or pastries, emphasizing their graceful curves and lines.

Citrus and Horticulture Science

Sao Paulo State University

Bloom 

In citrus growth management, "bloom" refers to the flowering stage of the citrus tree. In the context of fashion, "bloom" refers to the appearance or unfolding of a fabric, particularly after it has been washed or treated . It describes the process by which a fabric softens, becomes fuller, and gains a more textured or voluminous appearance.

Cultivar

In citrus, a "cultivar" refers to a specific variety or strain of a citrus tree with unique characteristics. In fashion, a cultivar is a particular style or image that can involve careful selection and refinement of elements.

Comic Art

Minneapolis College of Art and Design

Accessories

They can symbolize status, personality traits, or even serve a functional purpose within the story.

Silhouette

The silhouette of a character, the overall shape and outline of their figure, is crucial in comics. It conveys information about their personality, power level, and even their mood. In the context of figurative drawing, fashion silhouettes refer to the overall outline shape of the clothed fashion figure . Silhouettes serve as a defining feature in a fashion sketch or illustration. Some may follow or accentuate the human form while others may obscure or deny it by introducing volume or structure.

Textiles

The depiction of different fabrics - from the rough texture of denim to the sleekness of silk - adds depth and realism to the visual storytelling.

Diving Business and Technology

James E. Lockwood Jr. School of Diving

Wetsuit

This is a direct and crucial fashion term within Diving Business and Technology. Wetsuits are specialized garments designed to provide thermal insulation and protection for divers in cold water.

Ecogastronomy

University of New Hampshire

Organic, Sustainable, and Local are commonly used in this field.

Egyptology

Brown University

Costume

Egyptologists carefully study the costumes depicted in ancient Egyptian art, including wall paintings, sculptures, and mummies. This analysis provides valuable insights into social hierarchy, religious beliefs, and daily life.

Jewelry

Ancient Egyptian jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, and amulets, is a significant area of study for Egyptologists. They analyze the materials used, the craftsmanship, and the symbolic meanings associated with different types of jewelry. Objects such as rings and necklaces that people wear as decoration, and police slang for handcuffs.

Kilt

The "shenti" was a common garment worn by men in ancient Egypt, often described as a kilt. Egyptologists study the different styles of shenti, their variations across social classes, and their symbolic meanings.

Linen

Linen was the primary fabric used in ancient Egyptian clothing. Egyptologists study the production, weaving, and use of linen in ancient Egypt, analyzing its quality, decorative techniques, and social significance.

Family Enterprise

Stetson University

Brand Identity

Just as a fashion brand cultivates a unique image and identity, family enterprises strive to establish a strong brand identity that reflects their values, history, and unique position in the market.

Legacy

In fashion, legacy refers to the enduring impact and influence of a designer or brand. Similarly, in family enterprises, preserving the family legacy and values while adapting to changing times is a crucial consideration.

Succession Planning

Similar to how a fashion house plans for the succession of creative directors, family enterprises grapple with succession planning – ensuring a smooth transition of leadership and ownership across generations.

Farrier Science

University Centre Myerscough

Example courses include Equine Anatomy and Physiology, Horseshoeing Theory, and Blacksmithing. Farrier Science majors can become a farrier or a professional in the equine and/or agricultural industries.

Fit

In farrier science, achieving a proper "fit" for a horseshoe is crucial. This directly mirrors the concept of "fit" in clothing, where the garment must be the correct size and shape for the wearer to be comfortable and functional.

Finish

The "finish" of a horseshoe refers to its final appearance and quality of workmanship. This parallels the "finish" of a garment, which includes details like stitching, hems, and overall presentation.

Form

The "form" of the hoof, its overall shape and structure, is a critical consideration for the farrier. This directly relates to the "form" of a garment, its silhouette and overall aesthetic design.

Jazz Studies

University of North Texas

Image

The image of a jazz musician is crucial to their public persona. From the zoot suits of the swing era to the more contemporary styles of modern jazz musicians, clothing choices contribute significantly to their image and stage presence.

Style

Jazz musicians, from the early days of ragtime to modern jazz, have developed distinct personal styles of playing. This "style" encompasses their phrasing, tone, and overall approach to improvisation, much like a fashion designer cultivating a signature style.

Metalsmithing/Blacksmithing

The University of Gothenburg

Forge

In blacksmithing, the forge is the furnace or fire used to heat the metal. This directly relates to the concept of forging in fashion, which refers to the creation of something new or unique.

Hammering

Blacksmiths use hammers to shape and form the metal. This directly relates to the concept of hammering out a design or idea in fashion, which involves refining and perfecting a concept through experimentation and iteration.

Texture

Blacksmithing often involves creating unique textures on the metal through hammering, forging, and other techniques. This directly relates to the importance of texture in fashion, where the feel and appearance of different fabrics play a significant role in the overall aesthetic.

Embalming and Mortuary Science

La Calavera College

Cosmetics

Embalming often involves the use of cosmetics to restore a natural appearance to the deceased. This includes the application of makeup to correct discolorations, enhance features, and create a more lifelike appearance.

Grooming

In embalming, "grooming" involves preparing the deceased for viewing by attending to their appearance. This may include washing, shaving, and styling hair, similar to personal grooming practices.

Maritime Archaeology

Flinders University

Accessories

Accessories such as buttons, buckles, and jewelry found on shipwrecks can provide important information about trade routes, cultural exchange, and the social status of individuals.

Costume

The study of clothing worn by sailors, passengers, and other individuals associated with maritime activities provides insights into social hierarchies, cultural practices, and everyday life aboard ships.

Textiles

Maritime archaeologists analyze the textiles found on shipwrecks, such as sails, ropes, clothing, and bedding. These textiles provide valuable information about the materials used, manufacturing techniques, and the social and economic conditions of the time.

Poultry Sciences

University of Saskatchewan

Feathering

In Poultry Science, "feathering" refers to the development and growth of feathers on a bird. This directly relates to the concept of feathers in the fashion industry, where they are used for various purposes like creating decorative elements in clothing or as insulation.

Puppetry for Special Effects

Sheridan College

Costuming, Textiles, Drapery, and Accessories are all important in Puppetry.

Turfgrass Science

Otago Polytechnic

Blend

In Turfgrass Science, "blend" refers to a mixture of different grass species or cultivars to create a more robust and resilient turf. This directly parallels the concept of "blending" fabrics in fashion, such as combining different types of yarn or fibers to create a unique texture and appearance.

Computer Game Programming

Beijing Film Academy

Skinning

This refers to the process of attaching a character's 3D model to its underlying skeleton. The "skin" in this context represents the character's visible surface, including clothing and accessories.

Accent Reduction and Modification

British Accent Academy

Articulation

In accent reduction, "articulation" refers to the clear and precise pronunciation of sounds. This directly parallels the way a fashion designer articulates a design, ensuring every detail, seam, and embellishment is clearly defined and executed.

Enunciation

Similar to articulation, "enunciation" emphasizes the clear and distinct pronunciation of individual sounds. This concept aligns with the importance of clear and concise communication in fashion, such as precise instructions to tailors or clear explanations of design concepts.

Projection

In accent reduction, "projection" refers to the clear and confident delivery of speech. This can be likened to the "projection" of a fashion brand or a designer's vision, effectively communicating their unique aesthetic and style to the world.

Style

In accent reduction, "style" refers to an individual's unique way of speaking, encompassing their pronunciation, intonation, and rhythm. This directly parallels the concept of personal style in fashion, which reflects an individual's unique taste and preferences.