Which depends on the other, fashion or politics? From the look of things, politics and fashion are dependent on each other. Politicians and fashion designers have something in common – to attract as many people as possible. Politics is all about influencing people’s mind to a particular ideology. Since ideas are not touchable and cannot be seen, politicians use what is visible to express their points. That is why you will find all politicians were the custom hoodies these days.
From the haircut to the designer suits, politicians use fashion to win the minds of their subjects. You can also find these subjects mimicking dress codes of the politicians they admire.
On the other hand, the fashion industry contributes to politics by setting the standards. Designers try very hard to come up with fashions which will make politicians outstanding. Below are four ways the fashion industry is controlling politics.
Protesting and Uprisings
The power of governments belongs to the people. Politicians are just the custodians of this power. When politicians misuse the power they are given, the mass protests and a revolt can result. Many times, the mass may opt to boycott a specific fashion especially if it is associated with a politician they do not like.
On the other hand, the fashion used by policymakers who find favor with the masses can be promoted and grown overnight.
Politicians are Icons
Politicians like to please the mass so that they can sell their agenda. To do this, they must be outstanding. Therefore, they need to put the most current attires, drive state of the art cars, and visit the most fashionable hotels. This lifestyle makes many people to be drawn to them.
Party Colors as Fashion
Political parties have different colors which make their brand outstand. The success of any political party can depend on how well it is sold to the mass. Attractive brands will attract many people despite the policy being sold. It is not unusual to see people wearing colors of their political parties during campaigns.
Fashions can Promote Cohesiveness
The easiest way to make a political point is to dress in a fashion which elicits the agenda you want to bring forward. For example, in an ethnically charged scenario, politicians use a dress code which denotes inclusivity. For instance, in places where Muslims are marginalized, wearing long dresses and covering heads can make them feel included in society. As long as the idea is good, a fashion can be used to spread togetherness in any society. For example, t-shirts with a cohesive slogan can speak more than words.
Bottom Line
Fashion and politics are interconnected. Neither can function well without the other. Fashion makes the policy makers outstanding. Politicians need to stand out of the crowd to drive their point home. Consequently, they are after the most current fashion.
On the other hand, fashions are influenced by the trends. Designers get inspiration on what to make depending on what is trending. Politics influence how people dress, the cars they drive, and where they live. It is, therefore, vital to incorporate fashion in politics to have a balanced and fruitful society.