A Fashion Statement as a Political Statement: Denim and Defiance
*Trigger Warning: This article contains discussions of sexual assault, sexual violence prevention, and related topics. These discussions may be distressing or triggering for some readers.
We have entered a world where political and social tensions now drive fashion and its position as a statement tool. Today, clothes are less of a representation of social status but more of an expression of ourselves, our personality, and what we stand for.
Whether you’re passionate about it or not, fashion plays a part in everyone’s lives. Choosing what to wear and putting on clothes is a part of our daily routine. No matter if it’s black fishnets, Birkenstocks, or athleisure wear, clothes are a conscious choice. Fashion is not just about trends or style; it is an art form and a platform for activism. We can communicate powerful messages and values, and make societal change through visual appearances.
I change my clothes about three times a day. My outfits can be happy or sad, sunny or rainy. It can chase after my dreams or just lay in the grass. My style evolves constantly, giving me the freedom to embody any version of myself. I can rebel against confinement and tap into my emotions. Fashion has always helped define my true self, even though I change my clothes, it doesn’t change who I am and my true values. Everyone’s style is so uniquely individual and is a personal choice that shows the world who we are and who we want to be.
We can take every day as an opportunity to express ourselves in meaningful ways. I used to get embarrassed telling people that I liked clothes; I thought it sounded materialistic and superficial. But when I discovered what liking clothes really meant to me, I realized that my love for clothes was never merely about handbags and shoes; it was always about the empowerment it brought to me and others. I use fashion to express my creative identity, reject uniformity, and promote sustainability. Through clothes, I hope to inspire others to feel confident in their capabilities and comfortable in their own bodies.
Everyone is special; everyone is stylish. The world is your runway, and it is about how you decide to walk it. Leverage fashion as power in order to effectively express your values and evoke change on social issues.
In light of April being Sexual Awareness Month, take the opportunity to wear denim with a purpose on Denim Day to show support to survivors and raise awareness.
This year, Denim Day, a sexual violence and education campaign that asks individuals to make a social statement by wearing denim, takes place on April 24th. Its history began in 1992 when an Italian woman was raped by her driving instructor, and he was sentenced to jail. After a few years, he appealed and the court overturned the conviction, stating that because her jeans were tight, she had to have helped, implying consent.
Established in 1999, Denim Day has become the longest-running sexual violence prevention education campaign. This year the theme is "Sexual Violence Ends With All of Us," emphasizing the progress that has been made and how much is still left to do. This campaign along with other movements have empowered victims and survivors, created allies, influenced legislation, educated the jury, and motivated students.
I wear denim on Denim Day to give a voice to those who were silenced and to stand in solidarity with survivors.
It is a fashion statement, a social statement, and a visible means of protest against misconceptions. It’s never too late to say something; you and your experience matter regardless of whether you speak of it or not. It is a difficult topic to discuss, and it often goes unmentioned or neglected.
There were so many things I wanted to say, but never found the words for, but through fashion and clothes, I discovered a platform that can creatively express my worldview and values in the most intimate and immediate form.
People should be able to wear whatever they want without fearing their clothing choices are a means to sexual consent. Sexual assault is happening in our community, to our friends, and by our friends. There is no excuse. Assault is assault, and I’ll believe you no matter how short the skirt or how tight the jeans are, or under any other circumstances for that matter; it is not your fault.
Sexual violence and harassment have always been about power, and the impacts are damaging physically and mentally. This is a serious issue that is important in going beyond what you already know about the five pillars of consent. We hear that consent is conscious, ongoing, verbal, revocable, and enthusiastic. We can repeat the talk verbatim, but without a conscious action in valuing these concepts of consent, they are just words you’ve memorized. What you think you already know is just a very short narrative.
Reflect and recognize that we all have power and it’s important to know how to use it and not abuse it. The first step is to acknowledge and understand; the next step is moving forward in executing these values. I encourage you to wear denim with a purpose and help give power to the powerless.
The next time you dress, consider how your choices may represent your values, beliefs, and aspirations. Allow your wardrobe to speak volumes about the world you want to create by embracing fashion as not only a personal affirmation, but a powerful political statement.
