The concept of field is important in Bourdieu's theory. These “fields” are defined as the various social and institutional platforms that people use to express their positions and compete for the distribution of different forms of capital. Each field has its own set of positions and practices, as well as its own struggles for position as people mobilize their capital to make claims within a particular social field. Entwistle and Rocamora see the fashion field as a platform where brands can showcase their designs to gain popularity. According to Bourdieu (1984) habitus refers to deeply rooted, practical and embodied pre-reflective skills and competences. It also refers to the physical embodiment of cultural capital, the deeply ingrained habits, skills, and dispositions we possess due to our life experiences. According to Entwistle and Rocamora (2006) to operate effectively in a field it is necessary to accumulate adequate capital and master the habitus of the field. The way models, journalists and celebrities present themselves physically through clothes and gestures is part of their habitus. Their clothing gives others an indication of their social status. According to Bourdieu (1996) capital refers to the knowledge, skills and connections exchanged within a field to establish one's position. According to Entwistle and Rocamora (2006: 742) fashion capital is specific to the field of fashion. Fashion capital in this context therefore includes economic, cultural, social and symbolic capital. Having economic capital gives you the opportunity to gain a front row seat where your social status is recognized. Entwistle and Rocamora suggest that …… middle of paper …… subjects purchase expensive clothes just for the sake of the designer's name since not many people would wear these clothes. According to Cline (2012: 75) it is all about the details of the garment as well as its construction. With exquisite handmade garments, one might expect them to be overpriced, however, not many will own the garment as only a few are made. This shows that clothing is still a sign of social distinction and has not lost its social significance as people are willing to spend to reaffirm their social status. Bourdieu's theory is useful for thinking about the fashion industry today as his concepts of field, habitus, and different forms of capital can be used to examine fashion and fashion trends in contemporary society. His theory can be applied to social institutions as well as to the behavioral patterns of individuals
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