Clothing is what people wear on their bodies. The purposes are practical and social. Clothes protect against cold, heat, rain, and sun. They cover the body for modesty according to cultural norms. They also communicate. A uniform signals a role. A suit signals formality. A bright dress signals celebration. Every outfit says something, even when the wearer does not intend it.

Clothing has deep roots. The earliest garments were animal skins and plant fibers, wrapped, tied, or pinned. Sewing needles appear in the archaeological record around 40,000 years ago. Woven textiles followed much later, with evidence from ancient Egypt, China, and the Andes. Each culture developed its own materials and forms based on climate, resources, and tradition. Silk came from China. Wool from Europe and the Middle East. Cotton from India and the Americas.

Today, clothing is a global industry. Factories in Bangladesh, Vietnam, and China produce garments for markets worldwide. The supply chain is complex, with fabric, dyeing, cutting, and assembly often happening in different countries. The environmental footprint is large. Textile production uses water, energy, and chemicals. Fast fashion has accelerated consumption and waste. Some brands are moving toward recycled fibers and circular models. The scale of the challenge remains enormous.

Common categories

• Tops and shirts
• Trousers and skirts
• Dresses
• Outerwear
• Underwear and loungewear