Fashion & its Impact on Society & Individuals

Fashion is a virtue yet to be discovered.
by Neal R. Karski

It would be undeniably difficult to exert any sort of judgment of a person or group of people that we meet without taking into consideration his, her or their outfits. Our clothing has virtually become a part of our appearance – the way we look and present ourselves. It may complement our physical appearance or take away from it and it is up to every individual to make a decision for him or herself [of course, only if the individual cares to do so]. Although many motivational speakers say “Feel comfortable in your own skin,” the fashion trends have become the numerous different skins we put on – either because we are attracted to the trend, want to satisfy ourselves or others, or plainly because we’ve been brainwashed by the immensely-budgeted marketing and advertising campaigns. In any case, we’ve come out of the comfort zone and taken on an ideal image of the “good look”.

But fashion in itself does not come as a freebie. It’s largely dependent on the incomes of individuals and the prices of the markets of stores, boutiques, designers and big corporates. Here is an example. A person with high expenses, a median income, and a taste for high fashion faces a conflict of financial management – a person has to make a choice between fashion and obligation. On the other hand, a person with a very low income and a keen interest in fashion cannot possibly further develop that interest into a daily activity of dressing up in desired clothing and apparel. So has fashion become for the rich and the famous? Or can we rid ourselves of the financial restraints and explore fashion on its pure level of individuality and uniqueness?

No one can disregard the fact that being fashionable (whatever that may mean nowadays) brings other’s attentiveness and admiration [or critique] to the overall presence of the individual. People, especially in the United States, are drawn to appearance, as it is the major component of first impression, which overlooks the intelligence of the individual and focuses on the visual aspect more intently. But… it’s true. I’ve always told my friends that the way they dress and look will matter in a variety of environments (social, educational, occupational, etc.). And thus, they took some time to improve certain elements of their “fashions,” and progressed.

Although fashion brings artificiality, social class divergence and not-always-so-beneficial marketing schemes, it is a way for all people to express themselves – in a way that their finances permit them to. Some say “You look good, you feel good.” This statement is very subjective. Try and explore your own fashion, and see what satisfies you and those around you the most… because fashion is a virtue yet to be discovered.

God Bless.