Abstract The essay uses many examples from the text to illustrate how clothing can be used as a marker of the strong value system in the Victorian value system. It also proves how Hardy undermines such beliefs; examples are given of traditional notions of class, identity and masculinity being questionned. The essay also uses clothing to explore the subjugation of women, morality and sexuality in the Victorian era.
From the Paper "In the Victorian era appearances were important. In order to be accepted by society, the individual needed to be seen to conform to its values. In Far From the Madding Crowd, such rules and values are evident by what is worn. Clothing, therefore, acts as another marker of society's control over the individual. The power of such control is seen to weaken, however, as the ever-prevalent modern world begins to infect the public consciousness. As the old order disintegrates, clothing becomes an effective disguise for the individual to hide behind."
Abstract Diesel is a clothing and fashion company that originated from England in the late 1980?s. The company grew quickly domestically and began exporting items to different parts of the world. Currently Diesel have offices in many major cities of the world and have created a defined company image and target market. Steve Marks from Diesel Australia described the age demographic of their target market as male's aged between 16 ? 30 and females aged 20 ? 35 and other demographic factors have changed significantly over time. The advertising campaigns featured below start in 1992 and finish with some of the more current ads. This paper will show 5 of Diesel's ads and aim to analyse 1) what is being shown in the ad 2) the message that is being pushed and 3) the consumer behaviour issues that are relevant to the ads.
From the Paper \\\"The first of the advertisements was issued in various magazines in May of 1992. The advertisement depicts two young people sitting in the foreground, surrounded by a number of old aged people who appear to be worshipping the sun. These old aged people in an enclosed concrete and metal area surrounded by sun-beds that tan artificially. The \\\\\\\'Diesel people\\\\\\\' (the two young people who wear the actual clothes) have their backs to this rather grotesque scene. The old ages people in the back of the shot all wear very similar bathers and stand like clones of one another. The Diesel people in contrast are positioned away from these other characters assuming they have personality and individuality. This contrast alone works in favour of the clothes, as it connotes that Diesel provide an effective means of proving one\\\\\\\'s individuality.\\\"
Abstract In this article, the writer notes that on a purely functional level, clothing is a basic necessity, just like food and shelter. The writer points out that very much like these commodities, clothing, can command a diverse range of prices, based upon the clothing's brand, reputation, quality and above all style. The writer discusses that Diesel and Benetton are two clothing companies that have used edgy, trend-setting advertising and brand images to draw the eyes and dollars of consumers that spend a great deal of money on fashion and follow trends. The writer questions, when examining the success of these two clothing manufacturers, how one convinces a consumer to spend in excess of a hundred dollars on a garment that might cost twenty or thirty dollars at the local mall or Wal-Mart. The writer concludes that the answer is image and that the consumer must wish to feel as if she is making a statement to the world, like she is Diesel cool, or part of the United Colors of Benetton.
Outline:
Introduction
Diesel: Company History and Brand Overview
Benetton: Company History and Brand Overview
Analysis of Advertising: Similarities or Differences?
Conclusion
From the Paper "The company was born during the heady, idealistic days of 1965. Just the bright colors of Pucci and the hip youthful styles of the latest miniskirts were making a revolution in the way people viewed fashion; Benetton opened its first store in 1969. The bright colors that characterized the line during the 1970s proved popular, and paved the way for the company's expansion in the 1980s. The first company image was more preppy and clean-cut, although always healthy, youthful, and future-focused. However, Benetton really honed its unique image in the mid-80s, with edgy, colorful ads using models from a diversity of backgrounds, countries and cultures, some of which did not even feature the clothing itself, merely the brand. Benetton featured couples of different races, persons from tribes in areas of the world that had never seen a store, much less a pair of Benetton jeans, and the ads often seemed just as intent upon raising awareness as it did upon informing the consumer what the Benetton style was all about."
Abstract This paper explains that, in the sixteenth century, clothes were a rigid and unambiguous indication of class; today, some people still relate clothing and class in this old-fashioned manner but many other people dress to try to subvert the class boundaries. The author points out that Elizabeth I introduced the Sumptuary Laws, which were highly specific and restrictive in the colors, fabrics and styles people could wear according to their status. The paper relates that designer clothes are the sumptuary laws of today because of their extortionate prices, but copies of these clothes make them available to lower classes thus reducing their value as a class designator.
From the Paper "The color of clothing has continued to be important in signifying class. Today, one of the ways we read a person's class is to label them as 'blue collar' or 'white collar'. Originally, these referred to a person's occupation: if they did work that could potentially get dirt on their clothes, for example, a builder, they would wear a blue collar. If their work did not risk their clothes getting dirty, for example, an architect, they would wear a white collar. Of course, in real life people can and do wear almost any colour to work in, but the labels of 'blue collar' and 'white collar' remain. In other words, like the sumptuary laws, the distinctions claim to be practical, but in fact only function as an ideological division. The presence of clothing to describe a person's occupation and therefore their class is symptomatic of how clothes-obsessed society is. "
Abstract "This paper analyzes the clothing brand Oshkosh B'Gosh and related products from the same company. The writer notes that the company has a good reputation, especially for its children's clothing line. Further, the writer points out that the name Oshkosh B'Gosh has a juvenile lilt that sets the brand in the minds of parents, though a more recent effort to extend the brand to adult clothing failed.
From the Paper "The brand name Oshkosh B'Gosh extends back to the start of the company in 1895, though the focus of the company has changed since that time. Founded in 1895 in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, Oshkosh B'Gosh, Inc. has grown from a small-town manufacturer of adult work wear into a global marketer of children's clothing and accessories. Best known for its rugged, men's hickory-striped bib overalls, The Company began making the pint size version in the early 1900's, so that children could dress like their fathers."
Abstract The paper shows that by analyzing the anonymous Anglo-Saxon epic, "Beowulf", one notices the trends in fashion and the similarities to today's popular clothing. The paper also shows the significance of certain fabrics and clothing in "Beowulf", as well as the fact that the detail on clothing is proof of early fashions.
From the Paper "The peasant Anglo-Saxon women typically wore "peplos" dresses, which were tubular garments clasped at the shoulder by brooches. According to an article regarding fabric in the middle ages, this dress were most likely made of woven wool. One could wear anywhere from one to three brooches to secure the garment, but two was the most common number. The pieces of wool that was used to make the dress was very long, thereby suggesting that women would fold the top over to create a blouse or cape effect to cover the girdle. As stated by Ben Levick, the way the dress was positioned on the body was a matter of personal preference and therefore varied greatly from tribe to tribe."
Abstract "Cymbeline" is one of the lesser-known comedies of William Shakespeare. but it contains all the drama, intensity, chaos. and confusion of a typical Shakespearean work. This paper examines some instances when clothing is used by the characters in the play to carry out important tasks. The paper shows that clothing has been given different terms. such as clothes, apparel. and garments in the play. and this helps in creating the right kind of setting for different incidents.
From the Paper "From the above passage it is clear that clothing was used as a tool to transform a meek dainty woman into a strong ad courageous person. It was not exactly transformation of woman into man, but a weak person into a brave one. Clothing, it appears, could change the course of Imogen's destiny-who would have otherwise been remained imprisoned in the castle. Pisanio encourages her to stop behaving like a weak pretty woman and instead force herself to act and feel as strong as a man. To this, Imogen replies that she already feels like a man. However Pisanio is not happy with this answer and tells her to change into men's clothing:?First, make yourself but like one.
Fore-thinking this, I have already fit--
'Tis in my cloak-bag--doublet, hat, hose, all
That answer to them: would you in their serving,
And with what imitation you can borrow..? (Pisanio, Act III Scene IV)"
Abstract This paper analyzes the three motifs of clothing used to help explain the ambition within the play 'Macbeth' by William Shakespeare. The symbolic use of clothing often helps provide a deeper meaning to why Macbeth seeks to gain the throne and at any cost. The paper further discusses how his ambition is not completely self reliant as his wife, Lady Macbeth, ridicules him and forces him into complying with the murder of Duncan.
From the Paper "In this drama study, the theme of ambition will be analyzed in the play Macbeth by William Shakespeare. By analyzing three motifs of clothing within this tragedy, the theme of ambition will be revealed in how Macbeth yearns for power as the King of Scotland. By observing Shakespeare's use of symbolism in clothing, one can realize the message that is being presented throughout the play that realizes the greed for power that Macbeth desires. In essence, the motif of clothing will bring forth the theme of ambition within this Macbeth by William Shakespeare."
Abstract In this article the writer studies Alice's plan for the launching of a clothing store. The writer highlights that Alice has completely failed to address the impact of competition on the overall business model of her concept. The writer notes that Alice addresses start up costs and operating expenses, as well as promotional costs associated with launching a clothing store, but she completely fails to consider how competition within the local market is going to affect not only her grand opening but also her ongoing sales.
From the Paper "Estimated (pro forma) Income Statement Assets Revenue estimates Cash 3,250 Gross Sales 156,000 Less: sales returns/allowances 2,600 Sales discounts 1,733 -4,333 Net sales 151,666 Cost of Goods Sold Beginning inventory Jan 1 43,333 Merchandise 86,666 Freight 8,666 Net purchases 95,333 Cost of good available for sale 138,666 Less: ending inventory Dec 31 -49,833 Cost of goods sold -88,833 Gross profit 62,833 Operating expenses Selling expenses Salaries 2,000 Advertising 3,900 Supplies 433 Total selling expenses 21,833 General expenses Office salaries 4,516"
Abstract This paper discusses and analyzes the expiration of the Agreement on Textile and Clothing (ATC). The paper contends that the expiration freed the trade of textile and clothing of the quotas that had previously bound it. It discusses the history of the ATC and the implications of its expiration on the textile industry. The paper particularly focuses on the implications for China of the expiration of the ATC. The paper includes original source material at the end.
From the Paper "In the final analysis, the termination of Agreement on Textile and Clothing will definitely produce a more volatile and competitive global market for textile and clothing manufacturers. The likeliest winners over the coming years will be countries whose textile and clothing industries have sharpened their competitive edge by adopting the latest technology, and which will most effectively interpret the rapidly changing trade patterns generated by the expiration of the ATC."
"Unless they immediately take steps to provide assistance to their clothing and textile industries so they can become more efficient and competitive, other textile and clothing exporting countries may only experience marginal benefits. The countries that will face the greatest challenges will be those that are unable to use up their full quotas, while countries not currently subject to restrictions on import markets will also have to prepare themselves for increased competition from countries whose exports are currently
restrained."
Abstract This paper is written by the founder of, Potente, a women's clothing store in Vancouver, Canada. The author describes her original idea for the store, her objectives and motivations in opening the store, her research on the clothing industry and challenges she faced in getting the store started. She also describes the status and success of the store one year after she decided to open it and then again two years later. The author concludes with remarks about the future of Potente.
Table of Contents:
Profile
The Beginning
One Year Later
Two Years Later
The Future of My Store
From the Paper "Though it had only been a few years, I believe I had moved from the stage of being an entrepreneurial organization that was non-bureaucratic in nature to an organization of collectivity, which was pre-bureaucratic.. Initially, though I shared management responsibilities with my sister, I was still the leader and owner and my company was still a one-man show, for the most part. I was initially the provider of the structure and control system, and my focus was on "just surviving" in the business world. My website, although attractive, was still in its baby stages."
Abstract This paper discusses the theme of sexuality as seen by Benjy, the mentally retarded Compson brother in William Faulkner's "The Sound and the Fury". Using many well chosen in-text citations, this essay discusses how Benjy understands the sexuality of his sister Caddy, what sexuality implies for him, and how he tries to free her from her sexuality.
From the Paper:
"In William Faulkner's The Sound and the Fury, characters appear to trip and stumble through time as they attempt to narrate a past that is so painful for them that they sometimes lose control of their memories in narrating them. While the episodes in the different characters? chapters seem to flow from their minds without restrictions, there are, if closely examined, correlations between the memories. While Quentin's and Jason's memory triggers can be subtle and nested in dialogue, Benjy?s, because he is mentally impaired, are much more concrete; he relies on concrete images and objects as triggers for his memories. In the earliest episodes of Benjy's narration, clothing becomes an important symbol for sexuality that then serves as a trigger for Benjy's memories involving his sister Caddy and his issues with her sexuality."?
Abstract This paper examines how the Zulu nation is the best-known sub-group of the Nguni tribe, which is one of the largest tribal groupings in South Africa and how the Zulus have a rich culture with the traditional handicrafts and the intricate designs of their beadwork being especially noteworthy. It describes the history of the Zulu beadwork and clothing as well as how the beads are made and who makes them, what they are used for and their significance and symbolic meaning in Zulu culture.
From the Paper "Beadwork is an essential part of the traditional Zulu dress for women. For example, Zulu clothing for Zulu girls is mainly made of beadwork and is usually quite revealing (most unmarried girls go topless with only necklaces and skirts made of beads). Older Zulu women wear clothes that cover their bodies. They, however, decorate their isicholo (a wide hat made of straw) with beads (ubuhlalu). Women also wear isidwaba, a pleated skirt made of cowhide and softened by hand. Younger women sometimes decorate their "isidwaba" with beads, whereas older women wear it plain. (?Culture of Zulu People.?)"
Abstract This paper compares and contrasts the scarf in Robert Fagle's translation of "The Odyssey" and the green girdle in Marie Borroff's version of "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight", in terms of how the episodes are described and dramatized, and how the authors present the two magical pieces of clothing.
Abstract By analyzing qualities of textile, we can see clearly how classes are separated by differences of fashion choice. By studying the different color schemes, such as Organic color principles and clothing styles, we can see how influential apparel can be within a society that is class based in this way.
