The Commodification of Multicultural Fashion - Good or Bad?

Multicultural fashion refers to clothing and accessories that are inspired by various cultures. It can include items such as traditional clothing, jewelry, and headwear from different parts of the world. Multicultural fashion has become increasingly popular in recent years as people have become increasingly interested in exploring and celebrating different cultures.

The growing popularity of a global perspective on fashion can be attributed to several factors. One such reason is its ability to allow individuals to express their individuality and creativity. Multicultural fashion provides a platform for showcasing a unique sense of style while also facilitating a connection with one's cultural heritage. Additionally, multicultural fashion serves as a means to explore and learn about various traditions, fostering an appreciation for the diversity that exists in our world.

Nevertheless, the commodification of multicultural fashion has faced criticism on several fronts. Opponents argue that it raises valid concerns, particularly regarding the potential appropriation of cultural traditions. Furthermore, there is a concern that multicultural fashion may contribute to the perpetuation of stereotypes about different cultures, which can be problematic.

While it is good to be aware of the potential problems associated with the commodification of multicultural fashion, it is also important to remember that fashion is a form of expressing oneself and creativity. Here are some perspectives to consider: 

Positives:

Cultural exchange and appreciation: The increase in exchange of ideas, traditions, and clothes can be facilitated by commodification. It allows people from all origins to gain understanding about diverse cultures through clothing. This could encourage respect for variety and an appreciation of other cultures.

Economic opportunities: Artists, designers, and communities involved in traditional fashion might benefit economically from the commodification of fashion. Individuals and groups may benefit financially and socially by commercializing their cultural productions.

Representation: Multicultural fashion can become recognized and appeal to a larger audience when it becomes commodified and enters the mainstream market. This exposure can help promote diversity, fight stereotypes, and increase representation in the fashion industry and society at large

In the Louis Vuitton collection on African safari, they paid tribute to African heritage and roots which showed acknowledgement. They also incorporated safari and traditional prints and designs. Source: Pinterest

Preserving cultural heritage: Commodification can act as an incentive for the preservation and can bring back artistic and cultural traditions. Communities may be inspired to carry on using and passing on their traditional skills and practices by realizing the value and demand for cultural fashion.

Cultural fusion: Lastly, commodification can result in the blend of various cultural components, producing unique and creative fashion designs. Multicultural fashion may advance the development of the industry by fusing traditional aesthetics with contemporary fashion trends.

This group used cultural inspiration from all over the globe to create their own collection. Source: New York Times

Negatives:

Cultural appropriation: Cultural appropriation is one of the main issues raised by the commodification of multicultural fashion. This happens when components or symbols from minority cultures are used without the necessary awareness, respect, or consent. By removing the historical and cultural context of customs and traditions, cultural appropriation frequently promotes stereotypes and turns them to trends.

Zara has faced a few accusations for their cultural appropriation with traditional Mexican clothing. Source: Patowl

Misrepresentation: The misrepresentation of communities can also happen with commodifying it. There is a chance of altering or changing the genuine meaning of components when they are taken out of their original cultural context and used for financial gain. This distortion may strengthen cultural misconceptions and promote prejudices, which may lead to the marginalization of specific groups.

Japanese designer, Junya Watanabe, created her collection inspired by African culture and the customs of African villages. Many people believed that there was a lack of diverse models and of authenticity.
Source: Melan Magazine

Exploitation of labor: In areas where traditional craftsmanship is common, the commercialization of multicultural fashion may also lead to labor exploitation. Because their abilities and designs are taken by larger fashion businesses, artisans from marginalized areas may occasionally experience unfair working conditions, low compensation, and little control over their own cultural products.

Loss of cultural integrity: Multicultural fashion's mass manufacturing and commercialization faces the risk of losing its cultural authenticity. The authenticity and originality of cultural characteristics may be lost when traditional clothing, symbols, and designs are altered or made simpler to accommodate popular fashion trends and consumer tastes. This might decrease multicultural fashion's impact and heritage.

Economic gap: Commodification can increase economic prospects for some people and communities, but it can also widen existing economic gaps. Larger fashion companies frequently make more money from the sale of multicultural clothing, while artisans and cultural producers from underprivileged areas may only receive minimal pay. This imbalance has the potential to reinforce power relationships and promote injustices within the fashion industry.

Louis Vuitton created a collection that took inspiration from the Maasai people of East Africa, but didn’t give any money or credit for using the print of the Maasai people which many were upset about.
Source: The Fashion Law