Is It Culture or Costume? The Real Talk on Cultural Appropriation in Fashion

Alright, flex fam, let’s get into it. The fashion world loves to borrow......scratch that.....steal from different cultures. One minute you’re scrolling through IG, and bam! Your favorite brand is dropping “tribal-inspired” prints with zero credit to the culture it came from. Welcome to cultural appropriation: the not-so-cute trend that keeps popping up like a bad pair of knockoff sneakers.

Appropriation happens when brands swipe cultural elements without giving credit or understanding the meaning behind them. Think Native headdresses at music festivals or high-fashion houses using sacred patterns for profit. Yikes. But there’s another side to this story—cultural appreciation. This is when designers collaborate with artisans, honor traditions, and give props where they’re due. It's not about "taking"—it's about elevating and preserving culture.

So how do we know if it’s love or theft? Ask questions. Who created it? Is this designer working with the culture, or just slapping patterns on a hoodie for clout? Understanding the difference is how we level up and make fashion more inclusive and respectful.

More Tea on the Topic

1. "Is Fashion Finally Turning the Page on Cultural Appropriation?" – Vogue explores how designers are moving towards more thoughtful and respectful collaborations with different cultures, highlighting examples of genuine appreciation.

   https://www.vogue.com/article/cultural-appropriation-appreciation-fashion-september-2023?utm_source=chatgpt.com

2. "Cultural Appropriation vs. Cultural Appreciation" – Andean Textile Arts provides insights into the definitions and distinctions between appropriation and appreciation, emphasizing the importance of respect and understanding.

   https://andeantextilearts.org/cultural-appropriation-vs-appreciation/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Connect with These Blogs (They’re on Fire 🔥)

1. [MORE THAN A FAD] If you’re into fashion that actually means something, you need to check out More Than a Fad. The post “Is This Thing On?” hits hard, blending style with social commentary and giving you a fresh perspective on how fashion connects to the bigger picture. Trust me, it’s a vibe you won’t want to miss. https://morethanafad.wixsite.com/morethanafad

2. [SYDNEY TALKS SUSTAINABLE] Sydney Talks Sustainable is a great place to start if you want to learn about making fashion more eco-friendly (she is on tiktok as well!!). The blog touches on sustainability and how we can make better choices for the planet. It’s a thoughtful read for anyone curious about conscious fashion.https://sydneytalkssustainable.wordpress.com

3. [BROOKE LATELLA'S BLOG] If you want a blog that’s raw, real, and straight from the heart, check out Brooke LaTella’s Blog. Her post “My Reason Why” gives a personal take on why fashion is more than just clothes—it’s about purpose, passion, and finding

   https://brookelatella.wixsite.com/my-site/post/my-reason-why

   
   

   

   Susquehanna Style @pintrest