Fashion as one of the components of life Essay Example

employment - whether or not we get hired, promoted, respected, and paid fairly. Many critics argue that clothing has the potential to change societal views on sex, gender roles,
and the contributions made by both men and women. As theorist Finkelsten points out; "in our daily lives, people interpret our outward appearance as indications of our personal traits,
sexual preferences, financial achievements,
and educational attainments".

The concept of 'Identity' was greatly influenced by psychologist Erik Erikson in the 1950s. According to Erikson, identity can be seen as either a social category with specific rules and distinctive attributes or as socially significant features that an individual takes pride in and considers unchangeable. Identity can encompass both these aspects simultaneously, connecting dignity, pride, or honor to social categories. Although fashion plays a role in shaping identity, it is not the sole determining factor. Identity is also influenced by the need to conform to a particular type and market forces. For example, in the 1970s, a woman who enjoyed feminine clothing like dresses and heels may have rejected these garments to align herself with feminists and shape her identity.

According to Negrin (2008), feminists were mostly against fashion until the late 1980s, viewing it as a means of oppressing women by objectifying them for the male gaze. Giddens (1991) explores the issues of how to behave, act and define oneself in the context of late modernity. He suggests that self-identity is not fixed but rather constructed through an ongoing narrative that is adjusted in response to circumstances. In the 1980s, women started wearing men's clothing styles as a way to access workplace opportunities.

Power dressing for career women

involves wearing tailored skirt suits with prominent shoulder pads, resembling the fashion of male executives. However, these adaptations also include subtle feminine details. Sociologist Jan Felshin coined the term 'feminine apologetic' to describe how pearls or ruffles on a woman's professional attire act as disclaimers, indicating that despite their power, they are not trying to present themselves as masculine. In today's society, strong women face challenges in expressing their identity and fitting into desired societal roles without criticism. Hillary Clinton, a U.S politician and former first lady, illustrates this challenge. She has faced a double bind where she is criticized regardless of her actions. Even if she wears a "desexualized uniform" like a power trouser suit (as shown in the 2007 image below), any hint of cleavage triggers an overwhelming media reaction that overshadows her political message. As a result, Clinton has had to alter her identity and suppress her feminine side to align herself with other male figures in politics.

Hilary Clinton is a strong contender in the political arena.

Dita Von Teese effectively utilizes feminine fashion to express her identity and establish herself in society, contrasting with Clinton's challenges in a traditionally male-dominated field like politics. Von Teese is a versatile individual, engaging in various roles such as a burlesque dancer, writer, model, and the creator of her own clothing and underwear line called Von Follies in 2012. She also acts as an ambassador/spokesmodel for HIV/AIDS awareness and has been featured in renowned fashion magazines including Vanity Fair, Vogue, and Elle. Additionally, she actively supports the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) through campaigns and appearances in their advertisements.