How Our Clothing Defines Us

Though we don’t usually think about it this way, our clothing is actually an important part of our identity. How we dress tells others a lot about us, and this has been a trend throughout history. Think about it, back when social status and class structures were an integral part of society, your clothing told others your status. Peasants dressed a certain way, the only way they could dress within their means to afford clothing, while nobles dressed differently. Back in Ancient Japan, kimonos even told a story about who you were based on the patterns stitched within the fabric. Even your fragrance choice and accessories tell everyone a story about who you are.

As societies across the globe began to abolish class systems and people began dressing more cohesive, certain “isms” still stayed to identify you. Someone that grew up in the south has a different flare to their style than someone who grew up in California. Your clothing right there in its base form still tells others about your lifestyle. Those in California (not in every case but mostly) wear more flowy, casual, easy pieces, as the weather allows for it. While those who work out on ranches in the south and west will wear a specific type of hat because being out in the sun all day forces them to do so for protection.

In the same vain, those who grew up in the “1%” will likely wear designer pieces as a symbol of their status because they can afford it. The fashion industry tell us that we should buy these expensive pieces, so those who can afford it and are into fashion have a full wardrobe of designer pieces- which tells everyone a strong statement right there. So, even today our social status and location is at least mildly reflected in how we dress.

Different Styles Say a Lot About You

Aside from your social standing and environment, you have the ability to pick a style of clothing that tells the world about you. Do you like boho? This gives a clear message to everyone that you are free loving and like to go with the flow. Do you prefer a preppier look with polos and cardigans, well this tells the world you are put together and structured. Dressing more rustic in lose, plaid pieces tells everyone you like to play outside. While this is not always true, we are trained as a society to believe that people are a certain way based on their dress. So, while it may not be true of you, this is what you are basically telling others with your dress. So, next time you put on clothes for an event, think about the message you want to project and dress accordingly.

How We Can Control This Statement

Since we decide what we are wearing each day, naturally, we can decide what message we are sending out to the world about ourselves. There are many ways we can control this. And it’s all in the details. First, think about your overall clothing pieces you are choosing. Are they preppy? Are they boho chic? Are the put together? Are they rugged? Look at your clothing choices and really think about what they are telling others about you. Then, try to accessorize it to add to your statement. Think about it, choosing heels over sneakers says a lot right there. Jewelry choice is important, too. Pearls naturally class up a casual look without much thought. Think of every detail and look at your outfit as a whole, and then say, “Is this the message I want to project about myself”. Clothing is a perfect way to express yourself every day. Use it if you so desire!

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