A fair and accurate statement of our society: fashion tends to label people. Alarming? Not really. Terms derive from our dress code, which eventually slot us into appropriate categories for easy social labeling. These categories that claim to be “just stereotypes” tend to focus on clothing attire; the punks, preps, geeks, skaters, and so forth tend to have costumes for their "role".
While most fashion is distinctive enough for social categorization, the lines tend to blur with high fashion; designers who push the envelope and strive to break the mold. When models march down the runway in military inspired clothing, what is the social label? What is the designated category, an
American beauty fighter prototype?
Weapon designs, uniforms, camouflage patterns, Eisen Hower style jackets, and the stars and stripes have all made numerous appearances on the catwalk and in fashion magazines. Despite any negative responses or controversy, the fashion industry continues to
cross dress war with fashion. The
fashion fascination with military attire proudly marches the runway, eventually flooding the department stores and busy streets.
Top designer Versace coolly described his military inspired collection as a “romantic military”. The collection featured four-pocket military jackets, star studded caps, dark eye makeup, and
ironically, peace sign jewelry. Models marched down the runway vigorously sporting the attire.
Now, don't get me wrong - I love shopping, brand names, trends, and fashion in general. I'm also very open to new styles, trends, and appearances; diversity is important. However to me,
fashion is not and should not be considered as trivial. We should pride in what we wear, not glorify in something that we may not understand or even realize.
Versace succeeds in his “romantic military” for the clothes are sexy, pretty, and appealing. Once the trend is set, you blink, and suddenly, everyone is prancing around with their very own “Lock N Load” designer t-shirt, ugg boots, or whatever the case be. The majority of high fashion blatantly supports the war industries both by making it sexy and by setting a
million dollar trend.
The result? Runway models, trend seekers, avid fashion readers and buyers wear war - with a peace sign dangling around their neck. There is no starring, jaw dropping, stereotyping, or finger pointing for the jackets look cute and for heavens sake, the peace signs are sterling silver! There is little to no reaction for it is only a "
trend", no big deal; it is just a trivial thing.
Not too long ago, I was browsing in an upscale store
TNT and happened to notice the children’s tank tops; fit for tiny tot ages one to four, maybe five. The tank tops came in an array of colors, with a diamond-studded skull and cross bones on the front. The attached price tag colorfully read “little fighter” in childish writing. How
trivial is it now?
