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Part 1 / Basic Fashion and Business Concepts
group identity, clothes within the dress code help
group members maintain a certain discipline of
behavior. This might come from the symbolic
meaning of the clothing or the way the clothes
look or feel. For instance, a business suit
helps a person conduct herself or himself in a
businesslike way, 1-8.
Social Needs
The social reasons for wearing clothing
are modesty and status. People are socially
accepted, and sometimes admired, because of
their attire.
Modesty
Modesty is the covering of the body
according to the code of decency of a particular
culture or society. It dictates the proper way to
cover the body to eliminate embarrassment or
shame. Our standards of decency are molded by
our culture and social system. Each society has
its own accepted standards of modesty.
The standards of our society about modesty
have changed through the years. In the 1800s,
it was immodest for women to let their ankles
show. The body was almost completely covered,
even for swimming and tennis. Now, however,
many women wear miniskirts and bikini
swimsuits.
Status
A person’s status is his or her position
or rank compared to others. “Good” or “high”
status is usually associated with recognition,
prestige, and social acceptance. Clothing is
sometimes used to gain a higher rank in society,
along with social acceptance and peer approval.
Some people seek higher status with expensive
fur coats, jewelry, or garments with designer
David’s Bridal
1-7 A long white gown and a veil from a
headpiece would most likely be worn by a
bride on her wedding day.
The Fashion Association/Lands’ End
1-8 Most professional males wear a tailored
suit, a white or light-colored shirt, and a
necktie to work. It is a clearly understood
dress code at many offi ces.