FASHION/STYLE : Fashion vs Dignity

Very often, in our quest to be trendy, we lose our dignity, or some of the traditional essence that makes us Africans. However, this article will help shed some light on fashion. Fashion is not all about exaggerations, but just looking at your wardrobe, shoe rack and beauty habits with a critical eye and finding what works for you. When most people think about fashion, they think about parties, or weddings. And some think that fashion is only for celebrities and teenagers. For example, consider businessmen, or politicians. They can never take-off their ties or suit jackets until they are out office. The gesture is simple; it’s just to signify their diplomacy and professionalism when dealing with people. Some might see this as professionalism, while others might interpret it as arrogance and pretension. “I don’t know if particular styles portray one’s personality,” Alex Gasana says, “But what I know is that fashion can either earn someone respect, or ruin it.” Sure, the youth try to imitate showbiz celebrities, and usually fall victim to fashion. But there are also those who have successfully got it right, and they always stand out from the crowd. I think what is most striking about elegant people, especially those in politics is that; fashion helps them to enforce their positions of power as women and men. With that, we come to a new understanding of what the power of being trendy can look like and sound like. We are still uncomfortable with women of authority who refuse to move with the latest trend. They insist on embarrassing us with their old braids, pale faces and outdated outfits. They say that they are too old for such fashions, or too busy to visit salons and saunas. A modern woman doesn’t have to be enslaved by the traditional belief that a woman is supposed to wear floppy outfits. But like men, women too can be trendy and retain their womanly pride. The combination of fashion and decency is perfect. Often, trendy women are more concerned about their personalities and the messages they convey, and the way in which they are perceived. Furthermore, fashion has been used in politics as a way of showing power and respect. Sometimes, we tend to trust and admire trendy people. We also tend to feel more at ease with those who dress in an exemplary manner. Name one female politician, in Rwanda, whose appearance and political message are influential. “I think Rose Kabuye looks so trendy, graceful, powerful and respected. She balances contemporary sophistication with traditional modesty and seriousness,” Sandra Umutoni says. Ends