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Fashion as Cultural Identity: Nealesh Dalal
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Fashion as Cultural Identity: How Designers Shape the Stories We Wear
Authored Column by Nealesh Dalal
Managing Trustee, JD Educational Trust & Founder, JD School of Design
Fashion, in my observation, has never been merely about clothes. It is a language, a symbol, and a declaration of identity. Every stitch, every silhouette, tells a story—often rooted deeply in culture, far beyond seasonal trends. Fashion as cultural identity is how societies encode their heritage into what we wear, and designers play a pivotal role in shaping that narrative.
When I examine fashion across cultures, I notice its rhythm and memory. The intricate zardozi embroidery of India, the bold graphic prints of African Ankara, the delicate kimonos of Japan—each garment carries history and meaning. Designers translate these traditions not simply as decoration, but as living narratives. I’ve observed how Sabyasachi reinterprets Indian bridal attire, blending heritage with modern elegance, or how Stella Jean fuses her Haitian-Italian roots into graphic prints that articulate identity. These creations do more than clothe they affirm identity and belonging.
In today’s globalized world, fashion also serves as a bridge between cultures. Runways have become platforms for cultural exchange. When Dior incorporated African wax prints or Valentino showcased tribal embroidery, the audience witnessed more than garments—it was a celebration of culture itself. Designers, in my view, bear the responsibility of ensuring these narratives remain authentic and respectful. Appreciation must never slip into appropriation. Designers who credit artisans and honor craft practices enrich the story; those who strip motifs of context reduce culture to a passing trend.
I have also observed how fashion empowers individuals to express identity in deeply personal and sometimes revolutionary ways. Streetwear, once rooted in urban youth culture, has evolved into a global symbol of rebellion, community, and self-expression. Gender-fluid fashion challenges traditional norms, redefining identity in the modern era. Designers such as Harris Reed and brands like Gucci are reshaping conventions, demonstrating that culture itself is fluid and adaptable.
Ultimately, my observations confirm that fashion as cultural identity is storytelling. Designers are narrators, using fabric, color, and silhouette instead of words. From the sari on international runways to Harlem street style influencing luxury fashion, culture permeates everything we wear. Fashion is not merely trend driven; it is a kaleidoscope of heritage, memory, and aspiration.
Through my years in design and education, I have come to see fashion as a medium that honors the past while envisioning the future. It allows us to carry our identity with pride, celebrate diversity, and inspire the next generation of storytellers. Every garment, in my eyes, is more than clothing it is a chapter in the ongoing story of culture.
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