Hierarchy
In Japan, dress and uniforms illustrate the visual culture of class, gender and occupation. Earlier in
history, different classes were differentiated by the elaborateness of their dress. Today, dress differentiates the status of occupations through uniforms. This includes public servants, car station attendants, school children, teachers, street cleaners, etc.
 |
| School children in middle school uniforms. |
 |
| School children in grade school uniforms. |
 |
| A Geisha in Gion. |
Still true today, more prestigious occupations wear finer clothing, alerting others to their higher status.
Geisha and courtesans wore identifying make-up and had very refined manners and mannerisms that identified them. There are still geisha today that wear the traditional clothing and makeup. They are also still skilled at entertaining and refined conversation.
 |
| Business woman in short suit and high heels. |
Modern Japanese women dress ultra feminine. Many wear short skirts and high heels. During this trip, I have even seen Japanese women wearing high heels while hiking or sightseeing at temples.
In the past, it was very important for the Japanese to be properly dressed. It was also a shame upon the clan to be unkempt. I would say that this is still true today. From the children in their neat school uniforms to the street cleaner uniforms to the ultra feminine clothes of Japanese women, cleanliness and neatness is still extremely important.
No comments:
Post a Comment