Dress holds different meanings and values in various cultures.
In non-Western nations, national dress signifies a person's identity, social
status, and caste. However, the influence of Westernization has caused some
non-European nationals to feel ashamed of their own costume. The mixture of
Western and non-Western styles is considered deplorable, and it no longer serves
as a sure guide to nationality. Nevertheless, non-European dress can indicate
religion, such as the special robe of Muslims who have made the pilgrimage to
Mecca. Turbans also hold different meanings.
On the other hand, Westerners view clothes differently. Clothes have no
significance regarding religion, but differences in style may indicate
nationality. Income-level is a noticeable factor as well, where good clothes
cost money, and well-dressed people have increased due to the leveling up of
incomes in the West. However, the shrewd observer can differentiate good taste,
fashion, and conservatism. Clean and well-pressed clothes give a favorable
impression of the wearer's character and indicate a tidy mind, as well as
respect for others. Poverty is no disgrace, but dirt is.
In social occasions, bad manners can be attributed to those who deliberately
wear the wrong dress. Over-dressing shows more consideration for the host or
hostess than assuming informality on the least pretext. Nevertheless, to the
Easterner, Western dress in its monotony gives little indication of status or
character. Conversely, the Westerner faces deceptions and pitfalls in dress as
much can be detected by observation, making it challenging to determine a
person's character accurately.
In conclusion, dress holds different meanings and values in various cultures,
indicating identity, status, religion, and character. However, it also has
limitations, making it difficult to determine a person's true character
accurately. Therefore, dress can only indicate so much, and it is important to
remember that the real essentials of character are not revealed by dress. |