Clothing and Self- Expression Fashion Design Mrs. Wagner

Clothing and Behavior  People sometimes wonder whether clothing affects a person’s behavior. Some say it does, and some say it doesn’t. For example, does wearing clothing that is very casual mean that less work gets done in an office? Does wearing clothing similar to that worn by gangs make a person adopt the characteristics of a gang member? Are students more studious if they wear school uniforms? Are they more respectful? Do immodest clothes affect behavior?  What do you think? After thinking about each of the situations described, what impact would you say clothing has on behavior?

 Impressions – an image that forms in the minds of others  Formed within seconds

What affect Impressions?  Appearance  Behavior - Verbal Messages – communication with words - Nonverbal Messages – communication without words – body language – eye contact, facial expressions, posture, etc.

 Are all first impressions accurate?  Risk – stereotype – simplified and standardized image of a person or group

Clothing Communicates  1. Personality - individual’s unique combination of mental, emotional & social qualities  Expressed Through: - Emotions - Self-Concept – image of self - Self-Esteem – feel about self

 2. Conformity – going along with standards, attitudes or practices followed by a group  Peer Pressure – peer groups push to conform – positive & negative  3. Individuality – total combination of characteristics that set one person apart from others  Dress Codes - Attention