fashion, manifest of the human struggle for freedom

Fashion is a mirror of our times, simultaneously a means of self-expression and a reflection of the world we live in. It can empower individuals, challenge stagnant norms, and serve as a powerful tool for change, innovation, communication, and creativity. Understanding the intricate interplay between fashion and society is key to appreciating its enduring significance in our lives. 

Throughout history, fashionistas have struggled to establish the lifestyle we have today in the West. To get here, women had to endure savage assaults and battles and struggles that never end. The clothing reform movement of 1851 by Elizabeth Cady Stanton and her friends is just seconds before Henry James, the psychologist and Harvard lecturer, writes and lectures on clothing's impact on human behavior.

However, women of certain regions are forced to obey the traditional form of clothing, like the hijab, which looks second to slavery in human evil.

While wearing a hijab freely is a sign of faith, devotion, or worship, being forced to wear one is an insult and a daily reminder of humiliation and exploitation. Refusing to wear one in threatening situations is the ultimate act of bravery, where fashion turns into rebellion, protest, and martyrdom in defense of human dignity.

My native country, Iran, has been experiencing this conflict for over four decades, and it appears that the struggle of women has intensified recently; they have gained the respect and support of many progressive organizations advocating for a better future for humanity. The struggle of Iranian women reveals the psychology of clothing at its most intense:

• To wear the hijab freely is an act of faith, devotion, or identity.

• To be forced to wear it is a daily humiliation, exploitation, and reminder of powerlessness.

• Refusing it under threat represents the ultimate act of courage and bravery, transforming fashion into rebellion, protest, and martyrdom in the pursuit of dignity.

 In September 2022, Iranian women were outraged and motivated to remove their hijabs and burn them in the streets after a 22-year-old girl, Mahsa Amini, died at the hands of the morality police. They launch a movement that goes after the heart of the Islamic regime; should it be successful, the Middle East will change for the better, and humanity will gain. 

The incident angered Iranian women and brought them to the streets to protest the brutality of the police. Their bravery and sacrifice brought other disenchanted Iranian groups to the street, and they want regime change.
Support from all corners of the world, particularly from female politicians and women's organizations, has been forthcoming. However, more needs to be done by Western governments if the Iranian people are to succeed in their quest for freedom and a peaceful country.
Since there are more educated women than men in Iran for this generation, there will likely be a large number of women involved in politics in the coming years if their revolt succeeds in toppling the Islamic government.

Women have played a vital role in society since the beginning of time. They have been the nurturers, the caregivers, and the homemakers. Recently, however, women have been taking on new roles and responsibilities. They are becoming more involved in the workforce, starting their businesses, and becoming more politically active.
One of the most visible ways that women are asserting their independence is through fashion. In countries like Iran, where women are required to wear hijabs or headscarves, many are choosing to defy the dress code as a form of protest.

 These women are sending a strong message of self-awareness, self-authority and expressing their objections to the cost of their life. They will not be silenced or oppressed until this very basic right of theirs is restored and respected.
Fashion can be used as a tool for political change. It can be used to empower people and give them a voice. It can be used to make a statement or send a message. Fashion is a powerful tool that is changing our life and the world.

More on psychology of fashion Go here

 Colors, textures, and shapes are associated with certain moods or feelings. This phenomenon is now referred to as enclothed cognition. More of Enclothed cognition 

Fashion manifests human struggle, courage, inspiration, and glory. An art form that challenges the stagnant old traditions that are counter to liberty brings progress and democratizes society. More on women struggling to wear pants. Click Here.