Global Culture and Dress

Catalog description

Examines identity, symbol, culture and dress from a global perspective. Fashion has always reflected history and culture. Explores cultural signifiers and diversity through universal design concepts focusing on the repeating, cyclical nature of designs over the centuries. The history of humanity is that of constant migration which perpetuates the cross pollination of concepts, designs, beliefs and images from culture to culture, across historical periods, geographies and civilizations. These elements of history continue to inform trends in our evolution today. History is evaluated through the lens of fashion as beliefs and cultural significance are often embedded in dress. Using the language of aesthetic analysis, students incorporate the formal elements of critique: color and design, pattern and motif, and icon and symbol. Students examine the origins, development and diffusion of a wide range of designed objects (dress, shoes, headwear, accessories and more) from many cultures and historical periods. Students gain insight into the durability, adaptability and resonance of concepts and images that have achieved iconic status in the world of fashion and design.