In this day and age, wearing Western-inspired clothing rather than traditional clothes has become a pervasive and prevalent tendency of many modern individuals. In this essay, I would explore the causes behind this development before assessing whether it has beneficial or detrimental implications on the cultural value of society.
As Western-originated clothing has become more popular after the industrial revolutions, it generally aims to subtract rather than add, meaning that it provides comfort and practicality. In contrast, traditional clothing may not be suitable for everyday activities in modern life, as it is used for special occasions and official ceremonies. For example, although “Ao Dai”, a traditional dress of Vietnam, has been cherished by many generations, its provocative cut-out and the usual sheer materials such as silk may make it challenging for normal social situations.
Other important factors that make Western clothing the go-to outfit among today’s people are globalization and the economic benefits. As the world has become more interconnected, there is an increased number of information about Western culture through media and travel. Additionally, young individuals tend to follow the fashion trends of clothing like their favorite celebrities seen in films, music videos, and advertisements. Notably, Western clothing is often mass-produced and more affordable, making it accessible to purchase items from people with different backgrounds. Conversely, traditional clothes can be more expensive and time-consuming, requiring more diverse materials, high-level employees, and significant time to produce them. These explanations have made Western-style clothes gain a significant foothold in nations around the world.
To sum up, while Western clothing offers practical benefits, it is vital to preserve traditional attire for cultural and ceremonial occasions. Moreover, people should have an encouraging blend of traditions between modern wear and traditional wear to maintain cultural heritage while embracing modernity.