CULTURAL APPROPRIATION VS APPRECIATION: NAVIGATING DIVERSITY IN FASHION

By Srishti Sharma

Culture embodies the soul of our world, infusing it with diversity and beauty. Ideally, culture should be embraced, respected and shared by all, fostering celebration and unity. However, numerous cultures face the challenge of society appropriating their heritage rather than appreciating it. The exploration and incorporation of diverse cultural elements have become increasingly prevalent. From runway shows to street style, designers and consumers alike draw inspiration from various cultures around the globe. As fashion continues to blur the lines between appreciation and appropriation, the conversation surrounding cultural sensitivity and respect becomes paramount.

Credit: sour moha / @sour_moha

Understanding Cultural Appropriation

Cultural appropriation refers to the act of adopting elements of a marginalized culture by members of a dominant culture without permission or understanding of the significance behind those elements. This often results in the commodification of cultural symbols, practices, or traditions for commercial gain, without acknowledging their origins or respecting their cultural context.

In the realm of fashion, examples of cultural appropriation abound. From the misrepresentation of Indigenous headdresses at music festivals to the commercialization of sacred symbols and patterns, instances of cultural insensitivity persist. Such actions not only perpetuate harmful stereotypes but also undermine the cultural significance of these elements.

Credit: Samuel Dixo / @samueldixon

The Importance of Cultural Appreciation

On the other hand, cultural appreciation involves respectfully acknowledging and celebrating the richness of diverse cultural traditions. It entails actively engaging with and understanding the history, symbolism, and significance behind the cultural elements being incorporated. Fashion has the power to serve as a platform for cultural exchange and dialogue, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation across communities.

When done thoughtfully and ethically, cultural appreciation in fashion can empower marginalized communities, promote cross-cultural collaboration, and challenge conventional beauty standards. It involves forging meaningful relationships with artisans and creators, supporting sustainable practices and amplifying diverse voices within the industry.

Navigating Diversity in Fashion

Navigating the fine line between cultural appropriation and appreciation requires a nuanced understanding of power dynamics, historical context, and social responsibility. Fashion designers and brands have a responsibility to approach cultural exchange with sensitivity and integrity, prioritizing authenticity and representation at every stage of the creative process.

Brands such as Nike and Stella Jean are examples of cultural appreciation in the fashion industry. Nike has released several sneaker collections that draw inspiration from Indigenous cultures and traditions. The Nike N7 collection features designs inspired by Native American art and motifs, with proceeds supporting programs that promote physical activity and wellness in Indigenous communities. By collaborating with Indigenous artists and incorporating their cultural heritage into its designs, Nike celebrates Indigenous culture and raises awareness of issues facing Indigenous communities. Italian-Haitian designer, Stella Jean is known for her commitment to ethical fashion and cultural diversity. She frequently collaborates with artisans from around the world, incorporating traditional craftsmanship and textiles into her collections. Through these collaborations, Jean celebrates the beauty and richness of diverse cultures while promoting sustainable practices and economic empowerment for artisans

Source: Nike Website

Here’s some tips on how you can navigate diversity in fashion:

Educate Yourself: Take the time to learn about the cultural significance of the elements you wish to incorporate into your designs. Respectfully engage with community members and experts to gain a deeper understanding of their heritage and traditions.

Collaborate Responsibly: Foster meaningful collaborations with artisans and creators from diverse backgrounds. Recognize and compensate them fairly for their contributions, ensuring that their voices are heard and respected throughout the creative process.

Promote Diversity and Inclusion: Embrace diversity in all its forms, both on and off the runway. Champion models, designers, and creatives from underrepresented communities, and actively work towards dismantling systemic barriers within the fashion industry.

Challenge Stereotypes: Avoid perpetuating stereotypes or exoticizing cultural elements for aesthetic purposes. Instead, strive to showcase the diversity and complexity of different cultures with authenticity and reverence.

Listen and Learn: Remain open to feedback and constructive criticism from members of the communities you draw inspiration from. Actively listen to their perspectives and experiences and be willing to reassess your approach when necessary.

The conversation surrounding cultural appropriation versus appreciation in fashion is multifaceted and continually evolving. By fostering a culture of respect, inclusion, and empathy, the fashion industry has the potential to become a powerful force for positive change, celebrating diversity and promoting cross-cultural understanding on a global scale. As consumers, designers, and advocates, we each have a role to play in shaping a more equitable and culturally sensitive future for fashion.

Cover Image: DIEGO SÁNCHEZ / @ediegosanchez