Creative Design: Professional

Affecting Agency Through Restrictive Dress Codes

---

Abstract

The concept for this design investigates the contrast between the physical agency of women's and men's dress.  Historically restrictive feminine dress elements are superimposed on a masculine silhouette highlighting men's limited experience with dress codes that restrict physical agency. Equally, the limited pattern and color palette deliberately emphasizes the monochromatism of traditionally acceptable masculine aesthetic properties and the use of modest embellishments. The significance of this design signals current and important themes of equality and awareness of other perspectives including gender and identity.  By viewing the male body through the lens of women's dress and lack of physical agency, this design perpetuates conversations on dress rules, restrictive dress codes and dress' ability to define the landscape of human agency.

Keywords: Physical Agency Restrictive Dress Codes, Gender Identity, Dress Rules, Physical Agency, Restrictive Dress Codes, Masculine Aesthetic

How to Cite:

Bernardoni, J. M., (2022) “Affecting Agency Through Restrictive Dress Codes”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 78(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.13755