Does clothing have an affect on cultural relations?

Yes

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by Freyda Tartak

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Clothing is often used as an extension of self-expression. It is a way to let others know your mood and approach to life. Since so much of the impression left on others depends on outward appearances, it is important to dress with this in mind.

People See the World In Color

Different cultures have varying ideas about colors and what is generally appropriate. For example, while much of the world views white as a symbol of purity, to Asian cultures it symbolizes death. While red is often regarded as a symbol of anger and aggression, many of Asian or Indian decent view it as a linked to joy and celebration.

Modesty Is Subjective

In Western culture, showing one's naval is a bit on the revealing side. In Indian culture, the Sari often features a crop top, revealing its fair share of skin. Everybody from young girls to great grandmothers don the garb and it is considered perfectly okay. On the other hand, revealing any amount of skin is so out of the question for others, that women are literally covered from head to toe.

Building Trust Through Fashion

Outward appearance is so important that you may be revealing the meaning of life or trying to hand over a trillion dollars but, if you aren't dressed for it, the message will be either misinterpreted or treated with a great deal of suspicion. On the other hand, considering what others view as acceptable and normal when picking out what to wear sends the message that you are a like minded individual, mean no harm, and can be trusted with their best interests.

Don't Try Too Hard

Though it is important to consider what is important to others, trying too hard is like lying. There is a big difference between showing respect for another culture by demonstrating acceptance of it, and going too far. No matter how far you go with it, you will not be able to change the slant of your eyes, the color of your skin, or generations worth of internal DNA dialog.

DNA dialog is that something special that lets you walk into a room and find the one small group out of a crowd that has the same background as you. Trying to be something you are not will work against you. Always maintain your own personal integrity. Just as others have the right to pride in their own heritage, so do you. It is just as important to celebrate your differences as embrace your commonalities.

In fact, the only way various cultures, with opposing views, can come together in unity is if they focus on what they have in common. Both have to demonstrate a respect for each other. A lot of this can be bridged through dressing appropriately. However, it is important to respect the limits of both your cultures. At the end of the meeting you will still be you, and they will still be they.

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