Project: Diversity within Western Historic Dress
The purpose of this project is to identify diversity within the dress of Western cultures and to analyze, synthesize, and interpret the differences regarding gender, class, ethnicity, and race in a historical and cultural context. This project is designed to satisfy the multi-cultural understanding requirement for this course. In the process, students must integrate the knowledge accumulated from the course throughout the semester with independent research to write a thorough report.
• First, select a topic of dress from Western culture from the following list:
a. History of Indigo
b. Scottish Kilts and Tartans
c. Kashmir and Paisley Shawls
d. Jewish Prayer Shawls
e. Tight lacing and corset training
f. Clothing of the Seminole Indian
g. African American Hairstyles
h. Traditional clothing of Africa
i. Elsa Schiaparelli
j. Tom Ford
k. Kenzo Takada
l. John Galliano
m. Hubert de Givenchy
n. Oscar de la Renta
o. Issey Miyake
p. Willi Smith
• Second, discuss its historical background, including its evolution and significance in a historical context. [If you selected a designer, give the designer’s background, influences, how they became a designer, etc.]
• Third, analyze its visual form using design/aesthetic terms such as color, textiles, line and shape, surface design, etc. Include a few images of the topic. [If you selected a designer, either discuss the overall colors, textiles, lines, shapes, etc. they are known for throughout their collections; or you could also pick a few pieces they are known for and discuss the use of color, textile, line, shape, surface design, etc. in each.]
• Fourth, interpret its meanings in its cultural context. [If you selected a designer, what is the cultural significance of their designs? How are they different from their contemporaries? What is the appeal to their target market?]
• Fifth, analyze your topic regarding its diversity in relation to gender, class, ethnicity, and race. Focus on the inequality of the issues reflected in the topic and the changes over the time. [If you chose a designer, discuss the gender, class, ethnicity, and race they began designing for. If the brand they created still exists, discuss how that brand has transformed over time regarding its diversity. Do they now design for other genders? Do they have other brand lines that cater to different classes? Are they inclusive of ethnicity and race in their runway shows, advertising campaigns, or with brand ambassadors?]
Create a PowerPoint presentation of your findings. You should use headings and include images. Eight slides are required as a minimum and sixteen slides as a maximum, including a front cover page and references at the end. Your references must be in APA or MLA style. Websites must be cited correctly (do not just provide the link). Remember to utilize concise ideas for the ease of a presentation. Do not write long paragraphs for your bullet points.
As an optional opportunity for 10 possible extra points, you can submit a paper of your findings in a Word file on Canvas by the due date. It should be 4-7 pages (checked for grammar and spelling; double spaced; 1” margin; Times New Roman 12; excluding images). Also include in-text citations and a works cited or references page at the end.
The appropriateness and thoroughness of your discussion addressing the concepts outlined above, insights and creativity, and quality of writing will be important for your grade. If you need help or have questions, feel free to contact the
instructor.