Fashion is a form of self-expression that allows individuals to showcase their unique style and identity. However, when is the line crossed between appreciation and appropriation of different cultures? Cultural appropriation has become a relevant topic in fashion due to the increasing number of instances where marginalised cultures have been stripped of their traditions for profit.

In this blog, we will delve into the topic of cultural appropriation in fashion to help you understand where to draw the line between respecting a culture and exploiting it.

Defining Cultural Appropriation 🤔🌎

Cultural appropriation is defined as the use of elements of a culture by members of another culture without permission or acknowledgement. In the world of fashion, cultural appropriation often occurs when someone wears a traditional garment or accessory that associates with a different culture without any understanding of its cultural significance.

Cultural appropriation can take many forms in fashion, from using tribal designs and patterns to claiming spiritual and religious symbols as trendy accessories.

A blurred image depicting a person wearing cultural garments standing next to a blackboard with definition written on it

Appreciation vs Appropriation 💕💼

Appreciating a culture should not involve mocking or disrespecting the culture. While it may seem flattering to wear cultural clothing or accessories, it becomes an issue of entitlement when the person wearing it does not have a deep appreciation or understanding of the culture.

Appreciation is about understanding and respecting the culture’s history and traditions by supporting and uplifting the creators of that culture.

Additionally, cultural appreciation should involve purchasing from authentic sources to support the community versus buying a cheap knockoff from non-culturally significant sources.

An image with two boxes – one labelled appreciation and one labelled appropriation, with the word “respects identity” in the appreciation box and “lacks understanding” in the appropriation box

The Issue with Fashion Runways ♀️👗

Runways and fashion shows have been scrutinised for their cultural appropriation issues. In the past, several designers have used cultural elements from different cultures without proper acknowledgement or permission.

For example, in 2017 Victoria’s Secret used a traditional Native American headdress in their fashion show. This ultimately disrespected the cultural significance of the headdress and practices related to it.

Fashion shows should take into account the authenticity of the cultural elements used by including designers from the culture and obtaining explicit permissions.

A photo of a Native American headdress next to a photograph of a Victoria’s Secret model wearing the headdress on the runway

What Can You Do to Avoid Cultural Appropriation? 🛑🚫

To avoid cultural appropriation, individuals should establish a deep understanding and respect for a culture’s history and traditions before incorporating it into their fashion choices.

Some ways to avoid cultural appropriation include:

  • Researching the origins and significance of the cultural elements being used
  • Purchasing from authentic sources that support individuals who make these elements
  • Collaborating with individuals from the culture to create authentic work
  • Being a supporter of individuals within the culture without exploiting it for financial gain.

A picture of a person holding a book with the title “Cultural Appropriation 101” with a checklist next to it that has all of the ways to avoid cultural appropriation written on it

Conclusion 🏁💭

In conclusion, cultural appropriation in fashion is a complex topic that requires people to have a deep understanding of the cultures involved. While individuals should have a sense of freedom with their fashion choices, it should never come at the expense of disrespecting or exploiting cultural traditions.

By taking the time to understand the cultural origins of the garments and accessories you desire, it can lead to a more respectful and authentic fashion experience.

A photo of a person standing in front of a backdrop with the words “Say No to Cultural Appropriation”