The social meaning of clothing and dress - Research Paper Example

Clothes are put on bodies which are sigs of Selfhood are defined as extensions of self meaning in the cultural aspect. In this case, the meaning of clothes includes different aspects namely moral, social, and aesthetic (Danesi, 2004, p.179). On the other hand the manner of dressing is based on different parameters such as gender, culture and even religion. The dress codes, for example, are considered as basic social requirements for dressing (Danesi, 2004, p.179). Based on the definition of clothes and dress then it can be considered that the manner by which people present himself or herself can either be based on personal preference or based on the rules of social institutions he or she may belong.

In this manner, the social meaning of clothing and dress should be discussed on the basis of two categories. One of the main categories in the social meaning of clothing is the personal preference of the one wearing the clothes. It had been known that clothes and dresses can be considered as one of the basic indications of a person’s character. According to Davis, as quoted in the work of Barnard (2002), clothes that people wear are considered as social statements. Although most people can be considered to choose clothes unconsciously, their personal preference always comes out (p.72). There are different factors that can take part in the choice of clothes and dresses that people wear which at the same time can present their personal preference.

One factor is fashion. It can affect the way people choose clothes for a particular season and occasion. Within each trend though, people can still choose what they feel most comfortable in. Another factor is the cultural influence, which is more on the region where a person resides. In the present and modern era where traditional costumes are less worn, differences in the manner by which people choose clothes can still be observed