I admit it. I love it. It does matter. For a long time, I could not utter those words in reference to fashion in the academic world where I work. So, the articles in the NY Times in preparation for fashion week struck a chord with me. They correspond with one of my purposes for starting this blog. One person is quoted as saying that in academia, fashion is “very much denigrated.” She goes further saying, “The academic uniform has some variations but basically is intended to make you look like you’re not paying attention to fashion, and not vain, and not interested in it, God forbid.” This has been my experience.
I have begun to acknowledge that my style is crucial to my cultural identity. And as NY Times writer, Guy Trebay, rightly observes, “Clothes are ideas.” Agreed. Thus, fashion (and this blog) provide me with ways of thinking about the world.
I thought that article was good. Not as well-written as it should be but definitely expressing good ideas that I’ve been meaning to blog about (maybe now I can be lazy and not do it?). Very worthwhile reading.
Yes, it certainly could be strengthened in some areas Wendy. But, I agree that it is worthwhile reading. And, I say blog about it anyway! I look forward to that!
great article, thanks for pointing us to it! i could relate on so many levels… i’m definitely going to have to blog about fashion as the bastard child of “culture”, as well as the many hang-ups intellectuals have when it comes to clothing.
Oooh I love that -“fashion as the bastard child of culture.” That’ll make for an interesting post budget babe!