Are You Being Judged?

Vida Davidson
Mar 19, 2015
2 min read

There are many ethical issues within the fashion industry, popular topics vary from child labour to animal cruelty, but who would have ever thought that culture would stir up an issue within the fashion industry. Cultural appropriation in fashion; You would think that many cultures would appreciate their traditions and artifacts being praised on the catwalk or within our everyday casual/street style, but apparently not. Many cultures have been redeemed to be offended by people wearing and incorporating their traditional or symbolic artefacts. What do you do when it's the new trend, would you even know if it is offensive? In likeness the Native American head piece being worn by many celebrities today- are they taking the liberties or are they truly embracing beauty and following a trend. Is fashion, not an expression, art, colours, pattern, style etc., if so why is there a limit to what and how we can wear something. Must we really consider the feelings of other cultures when we are trying to express and embrace how we feel or should we be on our tip toes and think thoroughly about what we pick up in our high street store. As students we are more prone to buying what's out there, but have we ever thought to check the knowledge behind the prints that we wear or the tribal attributes and accessories that we convey. Countries, such as China, Asia, Africa and many more hold their values dear to them, as these values carry significant meanings to them that have been passed down from generations to generations, through wars, breakthroughs and bravery. Sadly we automatically think that it is okay because it's 'just' fashion, but did the design check before hand? However when you think about it would you think about the extent people would go to correct you, maybe with violence, words, or rejection. Furthermore how far is too far when it comes to fashion or is it a little too late to change a person’s judgement on what is known to be appropriate in fashion. Who knew you could be judged for inspiration.