Final answer:
Asian influences, particularly Chinese silks, and Indian cottons, shaped European dress through international trade. These materials became highly sought after in Europe, compelling the British to impose tariffs and resulting in contraband items in Spanish colonies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The exchange of these textiles was part of a larger trade network that included other luxury goods and had a significant impact on fashion and economies around the world. Due to the popularity and high quality of Asian textiles, such as Chinese silks and Indian cotton, these fabrics became coveted items in Europe. The influence was so notable that the British imposed tariffs to protect their textile industries, and Spanish colonies saw contraband Asian textiles such as the "China Poblana" dress, even when laws mandated exclusive trade with the home country. China's economy thrived by focusing on producing goods for foreign markets, with specializations in cotton and silk production. The interconnectedness of trade routes, including the Silk Roads, allowed for the spread of Asian materials and manufacturing techniques to Europe and other parts of the world, presenting a case of how historical international trade patterns have shaped the global economy and cultural exchanges.