Blog Post 1: Lecture Reflection
When beginning this unit, I did not know what to expect, but over the past two weeks, a series of lectures has been able to educate and expand my knowledge upon my thinking on how fashion can create better lives. Fashion can be described in a way in which iteams are made. Fashion is most commonly defined as the prevailing style of dress or behaviour.
When looking into fashion within the 21st century; sustainability, diversity and social responsibilities are words which come up, time again. When referring to sustainability it is vital to remember there are many great natural resources which can be used in order to maintain an ecological balance. Diversity allows for a range of different things to be explored within our current climate as well as taking into consideration the social responsibility we have with each material or brands we purchase from.
One lecture which spoke volumes to me was the first lecture on power. This lecture was primarily focused around the idea that power within the fashion industry may not be as evenly distributed as we thought. The question of power is the central most topic within this sector and is highly relative within today’s fashion industry. There are many subtopics which may contribute to this topic such as sustainability and human rights, which are key issues that have a heavy impact on. Along with the influence of power and who may hold the title.
Power in the fashion industry can be perceived differently by each individual. However, a question which surrounds everyone involved is, “who holds the power?”. There could be a number of answers to this question; could it be the designer? the brands? the consumers? or could it be the government? Many people are eager to know the answer to this question as it can spark new ideas and challenges can be formed. However, it can be questioned whether power is balanced within the industry and whether fashion itself is used to project different forms of power and identity; through the diversity it shows.
Clothing has powerful connotations in itself and can silently spark conversations and arguments. Clothing can convey and reflect key messages in which individuals want to project outwards, making them a part of propaganda or almost a symbol. Some examples of this can include, the dress of royalty; the majority of royal dress has connotations of wealth and dignity these are reflected through the accessories and the quality in which the garments are made. Military dress also denotes power as there are constant uses of recognisable symbols. Politics, Business and Fashion throughout music also show case power.
Therefore, this power can be used in a positive light and can start new movements as well as introduce consumers to more sustainable fashion concepts; as many people look up to these idols who have the platform to communicate and spread the word. Exposure to upcycle materials or recycling fashion. Ultimately “Power in fashion boils down to economic power”.