In our modern society, it is evident that nothing is equal. Whether it is gender, race, or ethnicity, there is a prevalent inequity that creates a divide between people. This is especially true when discussing class.
When a person in a lower socioeconomic situation decides to dress simply, they are immediately criticized and condemned for it. In wearing a baggy t-shirt with basketball shorts and boots while walking down the street, words such as “trashy” and “poor” are thrown around to describe them. Suddenly, they are the scum of the earth and are of a lower value.
However, when a person of a higher socioeconomic situation decides to dress the same way, they are rather showered with praise and recognition. If they walked down the street wearing the same thing, they are suddenly “innovative” and “daring”.
Consider Adam Sandler, for example. I know this is an old example, but it is the best example of how we treat people based on what they wear, based on their socioeconomic situation. If he wears an oversized shirt with ripped jeans, everyone would love it. However, if he was not rich and famous, then people would regard him in a different light, words like “trashy” and “poor” soon to follow.
What does this demonstrate if not the inequity that constantly plagues our world? And sadly, fashion is not immune to such oppressive forces. Sometimes, I think the cavemen had it all figured out. Whether one wore the skin of a deer, tiger, or zebra, clothing was simply that: Clothing. And not a device used to discriminate against people.
