Threads of Identity: Fashion, Culture, and Conscious Choices

Your Wardrobe, Your Story

What does your outfit say about you? Have you ever walked into your wardrobe and wondered what made you pick these pieces of clothing? Is it because you recently came across one of your favorite social media influencers and just wanted to look exactly like them, or because you’re striving for comfort in your daily routine?

What we wear isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a tapestry based on personal choices, cultural influences, and social movements. Culture defines who we are as a community. It shapes our language, customs, and clothing - infusing every aspect of society with meaning and identity. Fashion is all about self-expression, telling your unique story to the world.  

The Styles That Shaped Us

Fashion has always mirrored the zeitgeist of its time, evolving through distinct eras that reflect societal values and shifts. 

In the 1920s, flapper dresses symbolized women’s liberation and the rejection of traditional norms, celebrating newfound freedoms. The 1930s and 40s introduced glamour through Hollywood’s influence, with tailored suits and elegant evening wear becoming the standard.

1920s flapper dresses (Sourced by Blue 17)

We then move onto the vibrant 1960s, with the hippie movement expressing a desire for peace and freedom, challenging the status quo—the 1970s celebrated disco culture with glitzy outfits and platform shoes. In comparison, during the 80s, fashion became a statement of excess and ambition, with big hair, bold colors, and power suits dominating the scene. 

Fast forward, fashion continues to blend vintage influences with modern aesthetics, reflecting a strong focus on sustainability and personal expression. Another popular movement everyone might know is the Y2K movement (which refers to the fashion trends of the early 2000s). It's characterized by bold colors, crop tops, and tech-inspired styles influenced by pop culture and the Internet. This movement has significantly impacted fashion, with many designers and brands revisiting these trends in their collections.

Fashion with a Conscience

In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards ethical and sustainable fashion with the rise of fast fashion - a movement by awareness of environmental issues and social responsibility. Fast fashion is a term that we’ve all probably heard a lot about. It's a business model that involves producing high volumes of clothing at low costs, often at the expense of the environment and workers' rights. Brands like Zara, H&M, and Shein are known for this, churning out clothes at lightning speed and allowing you to keep your style fresh without breaking the bank. You can snag the latest looks you see on TikTok or Instagram without spending a fortune. But here's the catch: the constant cycle of buying and disposing of clothing has some serious implications. 

Fast fashion is all about speed. Based on what’s trending on social media, designers rush to create similar styles that you can purchase the next day. One day, it might be oversized tees; the next, it’s about sleek fitted dresses. You’re always looking for what's new and what’s next. However, this phenomenon has raised many concerns about its impact on the planet, from pollution to exploitative labor practices. As a result, many consumers now support brands that prioritize sustainability, fair trade, and ethical production processes. 

Ultra fast fashion (Sourced by The Conversation)

Choosing thrift items, upcycled clothing, or supporting local artisans feels good and sparks creativity and joy. Thrifting is not just a trend; it’s a way to find unique pieces while reducing waste. When supporting these brands, we’re not just making a fashion statement but promoting a culture of acceptance and representation. Instead of buying the latest trend, you might find ways to remix with your existing wardrobe. Pairing a thrifted jacket with your favorite jeans might create a unique look that tells a story. Plus, seeing how you can express your style while being mindful of your choices is a fun challenge. 

Cultural Appropriation vs. Appreciation

Different cultures have distinct styles that tell the stories of tradition, history and identity. For instance, kimono designs in Japan are deeply rooted in heritage, while African prints celebrate vibrant histories and cultures. However, cultural appropriation has become a significant issue in the fashion industry. It refers to unacknowledged or inappropriate adoptions of customs, practices or ideas of a particular culture. For example, wearing a traditional garment as a costume, using sacred symbols as fashion accessories, or adopting a cultural style without understanding its significance can erase the cultural context and the rich meaning beyond it. This not only disrespects the culture being borrowed from but can also perpetuate stereotypes, leading to a lack of understanding and appreciation of its true significance.

The Keffiyeh - a traditional Palestinian national symbol in high fashion (Sourced by The Issue)

On the flip side, cultural appreciation involves respecting and acknowledging another culture’s practices and contributions. It allows for meaningful exchanges and fosters a deeper connection between cultures. When appreciating cultural influences in fashion, we should aim to honor their origins and significance. This includes engaging with the culture in a thoughtful way – learning about its history, listening to voices from that community, and supporting artisans and creators who originate from that culture. This knowledge and respect will enrich your fashion journey.

Looking ahead

As you navigate the fashion world, you must be aware that your choices matter. What you wear can be a reflection of your identity, beliefs, and the culture you engage with. While fast fashion may offer instant gratification, consider the broader implications of your buying habits. 

So, the next time you’re about to hit “Add to Cart,” think about the story behind that piece of clothing. Fashion is more than just fabric; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven from cultural threads, personal stories, and shared experiences. Embrace your style, but wear it with intention!

Bibliography 

Brydges, T. (2024, March 15). Ultra-fast fashion is a disturbing trend that is undermining efforts to make the whole industry more sustainable. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/ultra-fast-fashion-is-a-disturbing-trend-undermining-efforts-to-make-the-whole-industry-more-sustainable-224253

M, S. (2016, July 12). Flapper Dress History 1920s - Blue17 vintage clothing. Blue17 Vintage Clothing; Blue17 vintage clothing. https://www.blue17.co.uk/vintage-blog/flapper-dress-history-1920s/

Onion, A. (2018, March 6). Flappers - 1920s, Definition & Dress | HISTORY. HISTORY. https://www.history.com/topics/roaring-twenties/flappers

Skacenko, M. (2023, August 17). The History of Fashion Through The Decades - GLAM OBSERVER. GLAM OBSERVER. https://glamobserver.com/the-history-of-fashion-through-the-decades/

The. (2022, July 13). The Issue. The Issue. https://www.theissuemagazine.ca/articles/the-world-of-cultural-fashion

Yellowbrick. (2023, October). The Cultural Impact on Fashion and Style - Yellowbrick. Yellowbrick. https://www.yellowbrick.co/blog/fashion-styling/the-cultural-impact-on-fashion-and-style