Fashion commentator's lowered level of pitch? (4)

I believe the answer is:

mode

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'fashion' is the definition.
('mode' can be a synonym of 'fashion')

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for mode that I've seen before include "Form or style" , "Way of operating" , "Way of operation" , "Fashion - look" , "Custom" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.

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