Friday, February 4, 2011

Fashion: Western vs. Global

As we become a global economy, do we need to have a global definition of fashion.  Or is that definition already predetermined to be the definition of western fashion.  Until recently, western cultures dominated the fashion arena.  Coming into their own, Asian countries, especially Japan, have been turning out some amazing designers (Comme de Garcon, Yoji Yamamoto).  But I don't feel as though we are incorporating the Asian style of design into our global view of fashion.  We call it global, but I really think it is just western.  Look at how many cultures have adapted to our style of dress even when they have their own unique way of dressing.  The first country that comes to mind with this is India.  India has beautiful saris but have chosen to adapt to western cultures style of dressing.

If we were to make a truly global definition of fashion, what would it be so that it could include all the varying styles of dress?...I don't know if I could come up with an all encompassing definition.