The Unique Pursuit of Identity
Original Publication 28/10/20
Take a moment, and think of three aspects that you believe define your identity. It’s a challenge because a clear and functioning identity is a concept that some of us spend our lives trying to achieve, often only finding some form of acceptance when old age puts our priorities into perspective.
Identity as a concept has arguably been in play since man first developed conscious thought. Identity is an ever-changing notion, a question of “who we are” that engulfs civilisations and the people within them. Admittedly, we see this more apparent in the mould of western society, where the onus ever-present is on endorsing brands and consumerism, glamorising celebrity culture, and prioritising financial success. Through advertising, social media, and a general word of mouth consensus, we’re effectively spoon-fed varying ideologies on how we can define ourselves.
This is a topic of discussion that has enthralled me as of late, engaging me in musings that you will no doubt see conveyed in future pieces. For now, though, I wish to delve into the subject of identity through clothing.
It’s plausible to suggest that some of you noted down your choice of clothing as the signifier of your identity when I posed the query to you earlier. I would too, but I’d also like to step into the shoes of the observer for a moment (as I often like to indulge myself in). One thing I have noticed is that a person's outfit or choice of clothing may well bestow a certain sense of identity, but it doesn’t necessarily walk hand in hand with a sense of uniqueness.
I’ve been incredibly fortunate to live in three different communities in my life. In each, the function of a unique identity raised similar trends. What I’ve noted is a desire to transmit uniqueness but a tendency for people to represent a larger demographic of cultural trends and community norms, without really realising what they’re sacrificing. In the mountain town of Banff, Alberta, it was snowboard and ski culture, largely personified by Aussies. In my hometown of Folkestone, I can’t walk 5 minutes without seeing someone in a tracksuit. In Falmouth, the presence of an arts university brought with it a host of students who liked to indulge in vintage clothing and brands.
Now, I’m just one observer, and I voice my musings for the purpose of my blog. I’m also not so arrogant to suggest my musings are indisputable, or that I haven’t myself adhered to such norms from time to time. There’s also an element of crowd mentality and subconscious influence to be considered.
Myself, I like to dress smart, even if the occasion doesn’t necessarily call for it. It’s not radical by any stretch of the imagination, but it’s been met with the odd ridicule, largely because of its contrast to the given norm and, reasonably, a lack of understanding as to why I choose to dress in this way. I do it for myself, more than anyone else, and it’s dictated by my personality. I wear what I feel secure in and because I like to be different.
Whether that makes me unique is up for debate, but I guess that’s the overall gist of what I’m trying to convey with this piece. Find what makes you you, curious reader, and express that. Strive to be unique and stand out from the crowd. It’s easier said than done but a sense of identity is a sought after commodity, and nothing worth having comes easy.
