Please pardon this uncharacteristic foray into personal opinion/politics. I try to keep such things off the blog, but every now and then something comes along that really strikes me.
Apparently, Native American themes have been commandeered by fashion designers, hipsters and pop stars as they crudely sing about partying and picking people up at a bar.
I saw this image in a great Sociological Images post and loved it.
I can’t help but take issue with certain ways Native American “fashion” is used these days; reduced to a matter of style, kitsch or other representations entirely devoid of reverence for a culture we could stand to learn a few things from.
That being said, I have no trouble with someone wearing these items if he/she has a basic understanding and respect the origin. I find certain Native American symbols incredibly meaningful, and often reflect on the Native connection with the earth, all forms of life and the general gratitude with which they lived.
We are so disconnected in American culture sometimes, so skewed in our priorities, so flippant and automatic.
Please visit this post for videos and pictures. I’m aware that fashion has ALWAYS recontextualized aspects of culture, and I do welcome any diverging opinions on this particular matter.
SheWalksSoftly 
8 responses to “Native American Fashion”
I totally agree with you! This strange sampling of Native American culture is so reductive.
Perhaps all of these accessories should come with required reading. 🙂
I feel the same way about faux-Asian fashions, particularly when I see little twits running around Canal St. wearing silk collared Chinese dresses, giggling over their Bubble Pearl Tea.
And don’t even get me started on tribal or kanji tattoos…
Oh, so true. I think I know what pop star in particular you’re talking about.
I get where you’re coming from, but I don’t think this is really much of an issue. I mean, it’s understandable that we should have respect for ANY culture, but when certain trends are started it’s a bit much to ask that somebody studies up on the culture before wearing it (not that I wouldn’t like to) because it’s something we see all the time. I mean, if I had some sudden urge to wear a Native American headdress, I wouldn’t be reluctant because my ancestors killed them. I’d just think it was cute and be done with it . Then again, I’m a dumb teenager and you do make a valid point.
I’m glad you chimed in here. I was hoping for different points of view on the subject!
This is an old post that i found. But. I happen to see it as it’s not disrespect to like the “fashion” of another culture. American children these days don’t have an “Fashion Era” Like those of us who were born in the 1900’s. Which allows them to adapt to what ever style they like.
I believe that its actually more respectful to see someone running around with kimono’s and head dresses, and symbols of other cultures even if they may not know the meaning of all the clothing. they respect it enough to wear it.
Sincerely I, a wearer of all clothing styles
I agree that American’s don’t quite have an authentic fashion era (unless skinny jeans and UGGs count). I, too, wear certain things derived from other cultures that have meaning for me. Fashion has always had multiple interpretations though…meaning is relative and aesthetics can be a purpose unto themselves.