“Perfect” items and outfits to wear for a certain occasion or to a certain location are constantly being published in places that many shoppers frequently view, such as brand advertisement or magazines. To the companies, this is an incredible marketing strategy that creates a connection between two items and/or concepts that are not necessarily connected, but become connected through example or statement. It is less-than-perfect for the consumers, many of whom do not have the money required to make purchases equal to those being suggested by the industry experts. The styles and supposed “essentials” for trips and events are often difficult to style in everyday situations, preventing those in the middle and lower classes from having access to wardrobes that leave them feeling good about themselves.
Connections can often be found in articles with statements such as “a halter is the new go-to for the beach this summer” or “garden weddings will be filled with floral dresses this season;” neither statement could be proven true, yet both can be convincing if announced by a person with influence in the fashion industry. They are being paid to make the people pay, and this is an effective method. It creates an impression of importance and exclusivity for the product mentioned, but never delves into any ways to reuse the often obscure, difficult-to-style item. The industry convinces people that a different item is necessary for everything they will ever do, and sets standards and selects “appropriate” clothing accordingly.
The idea of select clothing only being appropriate in select situations needs to be changed. It is certainly not ever going to be acceptable to wear a formal dress to grocery shop, or yoga pants for a formal event, but different people feel good and can afford different clothing, and a wider variety should be considered appropriate. Limiting fashion to only those with extensive pocketbooks creates a large rift in our already divided society, and will lead to resentment if it continues. No one should be left to feel they are not worthy of looking their best or that they are inherently worth less than others because they cannot dress as well, but this is the society we live in.