Early in life, imho much of fashion is just necessary for attracting a desirable mate, much like plummage on a bird. Excess can be excused. Once past that stag

Early in life, imho much of fashion is just necessary for attracting a desirable mate, much like plummage on a bird. Excess can be excused. Once past that stage, fashion seems to fall into two categories - 1) the selfish need/desire to impress others of similar social class (or a class you wish to join) or 2) the genuine unselfish desire to look nice for your friends benefit in some social situation.