Cultural Appropriation in the Fashion World

by: Alyssa del Rosario            

              Cultural appropriation is oftentimes misunderstood in the media and in the fashion world. There is a broad difference between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation. Cultural appreciation is “when elements of a culture are used while honoring the source they came from” (Fragoso). The keyword is “honoring.” On the other hand, the appropriation of one’s culture is important to understand because of its respects and values from a different country or race. More often than not, people get confused when they feel like they are influenced with one’s culture and they take it as their own. In reference to an article, “When Does Cultural Inspiration Become Appropriation in the Fashion World?” written by Jenna Sharma, she states a powerful claim where she provides and example of not appropriating different cultures: “Gucci references the early 1980’s hip hop scene and uses a renowned Harlem tailor’s designs.” Gucci claims that they are “inspired” by their styles and culture. Sharma mentions how cultural appropriation is different than cultural inspiration. The use of this practice degrades and discriminates people of that specific culture. She mentions how the misappropriation of culture can lose its cultural value once its starts to be incorporated in different styles of clothing. People feel like they are influenced with one’s culture and take it as their own. This made me realize that it is not considered an original when it was “stolen” to use as a fashion statement.
               People often misunderstand and misinterpret cultural appreciation in many different ways through fashion and clothing. The mistakes that are overlooked are Fashion Shows.  Models wearing costumes provide significance of an individual’s identity. Oftentimes, their costumes/clothing wear are deemed to be offensive and demeaning. In a video and article, “My Culture is Not a Costume,” Jessica Andrews articulates, “Once you've dehumanized someone, you can co-opt their culture with ease; their language, dress, and customs aren't worthy of the respect you reserve for your own.” It is painful when the conviction of individuals who have a place with marginalized societies are some way or another not seen as much humans. “A topic in cultural appropriation that continues to be at the top of the list is Native American headdresses and Halloween costumes” (Fragoso). The pictures below depict two different types of headdresses that are seen as an “accessory.” Based on what I learned in my American Indian History class from last semester, a headdress is typically worn by men and elders of their respective tribes. Women do not normally wear full-out headdresses. Headdresses are presumably cultural appropriation because there are established rules on who can wear them. In another article, “ VS Fashion Show 2017 Slammed for Cultural Appropriation,” written by Avery Matera, she mentions, “This year, the one in question was dubbed “Nomadic Adventure,” featuring a flurry of looks that seemed as though they had been inspired by tribal and Native American dress.” Every year, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show has a specific theme to follow, which seems that the theme is cultural appropriation. Incorporating Native American Culture as clothing is seen as a low because this displays a sense of disrespect when special and sacred symbols are incorporated. The authencity for Native American clothing lowers because of its constant use for people that do not associate with that specific culture. Consumers are more drawn to that clothing choice based on how “cute” it looks. This provides an inaccurate knowledge to the public because there is a long history as to why an Indigenous person wears them. Victoria’s Secret has a past where they seek out new ideas and inspirations for fashion shows but rather, they offend people of that culture.  Cultural appropriation not only focuses on Native American culture, but in other cultures, as well.  The incorporation of Native American culture serves as one of the prime examples where it is heavily relied on.  In order to not gentrify others based on their clothing choice, educating what cultural appropriation is about is vital. This is the smartest way to avoid mistakes when you are influenced by something to wear.  Even though everyone wants to take note of appreciation, the values and respect of one’s culture is relevant.  Cultural appropriation is important to recognize everywhere, especially in the fashion industry because this brings out diversity in many different ways.
      





                                                           




Works Cited: 

Andrews, Jessica. “Cultural Appropriation at Halloween: My Culture Is Not a Costume.” Teen Vogue, TeenVogue.com, 25 Oct. 2017, www.teenvogue.com/story/cultural-appropriation-halloween-costume-video 

Fragoso, Brianna. “Cultural Appropriation Vs. Cultural Appreciation.” The Odyssey Online, The Odyssey , 18 Apr. 2016, www.theodysseyonline.com/cultural-appropriation-vs-cultural-appreciation

Matera, Avery. “The VS Fashion Show Is Getting Slammed for Cultural Appropriation Yet Again.” Teen Vogue, TeenVogue.com, 22 Nov. 2017, www.teenvogue.com/story/vs-fashion-show-cultural-appropriation-victorias-secret

Sharma, Jeena. “When Does Cultural Inspiration Become Appropriation in the Fashion World?”      South China Morning Post, South China Morning Post, 6 Nov. 2017, www.scmp.com/magazines/style/fashion-beauty/article/2118609/when-does-cultural-inspiration-become-appropriation  


Pictures: 
www.theodysseyonline.com/cultural-appropriation-vs-cultural-appreciation