For most, a piece of clothing is not something folks just throw on. Clothing has meaning. Choices reflect cultural, social, and personal identity, values, and beliefs. Clothing can be a tool for self-expression, political and social activism, and a way to distinguish oneself from others. Fashion can be used to communicate status, membership in a group, or to conform to certain norms and expectations.
In any case, consumers ascribe different meanings to clothing.
Students accepting the challenge of this discussion must:
Use APA format (formal reference page and in-text citations). In APA, each reference must have a corresponding properly formatted in-text citation.
Include the standard course cover page.
Locate and include as references at least three commercial/business references. See Content > Tools > Marketing References. No blogs, Wikipedia, Ask or Investopedia like sources. An academic journal reference is not required but may assist in framing the discussion.
Write a three-hundred-word response. Keep it simple. Use the introduction > body > conclusion format.
Be mindful of paragraph formation, grammar, and punctuation. Adhere to formal business writing guidelines.
What is symbolic consumption? Is clothing a non-verbal communicator? Select an item of clothing (wedding dress, athlete shoes, a hoodie, baseball caps, red bottoms or any item). Describe how the selected item reflects cultural, social, personal identity, values or beliefs held.
Full Answer Section
For some women, wearing Louboutins evokes a sense of empowerment and confidence, reflecting a desire for individuality and self-expression. The high heels, synonymous with glamour and sophistication, can project an image of success and femininity, echoing cultural norms that associate femininity with beauty and elegance (Woodward, 2008). Furthermore, the brand's association with celebrities and high-profile events reinforces its status as a coveted symbol of wealth and social standing.
The choice of wearing Louboutins goes beyond practical considerations; it becomes a statement of personal values and beliefs. For those seeking to project an image of success and affluence, these shoes represent a tangible symbol of their aspirations.
In conclusion, clothing, like the Louboutin heels, serves as a powerful tool for symbolic consumption, reflecting cultural, social, and personal values. It acts as a non-verbal communicator, conveying messages about identity, status, and aspiration, shaping how individuals perceive and are perceived by others.
Sample Answer
Symbolic Consumption and Clothing as Non-Verbal Communication
Symbolic consumption, as defined by Douglas and Isherwood (1979), refers to the act of using goods and services to communicate meaning and express identity. Clothing, a ubiquitous aspect of our lives, serves as a powerful non-verbal communicator, reflecting cultural, social, personal values, and beliefs.
Consider the iconic red-soled stiletto, famously known as "Louboutin" heels. This footwear transcends its functional purpose, becoming a potent symbol of luxury, femininity, and social status. The red soles, a trademark of the designer Christian Louboutin, are instantly recognizable, signifying both exclusivity and a certain level of aspirational wealth.