Although I love talking about and reviewing Asian products and brands. In this increasingly global world of ours, its is hard to find things that are solely for the Asian market or for the western market. Movies, T.V shows and other forms of media have made communicating and showcasing differing cultures much more easy and accessible to the masses. Something I love because it allows me to check out other products and brands I would have otherwise not have heard about.
Sometimes something I think is normal can be viewed as strange depending on the cultures and background of the people. I have so many readers and friends who are astounded at some of the difference between our cultures which remain today and a lot of this is materialistic in some parts.
Certain fashion trends seem to be exclusive to certain people. I want to look at two fashion trends and why they are prevalent in certain cultural groups. I'm doing this to highlight the differences and to show my readers some of the still existing differences between people.
South Korea
South Korea has one of the unique groups I have noticed in Asia. They are called Ajumma. It is a word used as both a term of endearment to middles aged ladies and as something negative. The typical style of a stereotypical Ajumma is glasses, a sun visor, and a fanny pack. I noticed this style among many women of a similar age and when I was asked why locals told me of their traits and style.
Although ladies of a similar age participating in similar hobbies isn't that stage it is the style of dress which makes these women stand out amongst the population in a more noticeable way. If you ever visit South Korea be sure to find out if the word is used positively or negatively in your area as you don't want to upset some of your new friends by using the incorrect terms.
Gypsies
Although many countries have their own groups of gypsies, many Asian countries do not as being homeless is seen as a bad thing both culturally and personally. Gypsies for those who don't know is a term usually used to describe a person or group of people who maintain a nomadic lifestyle. This is usually a generational tradition in which large numbers of the same family work and travel together throughout their entire life.
Some countries with noticeable numbers of gypsy groups include Ireland and Eastern Europe. They usually have similar styles of dress, speech, and modes of transport to allow for their continued way of life. Many will also work in a similar profession to each other, thus passing down family traditions.
These are just two cultural groups which exist that have their own dress style and cultural traits outside the norm of their own wider societies. Checking out stories like this help me to see the large variations which still occur, and this allows me to get even more excited about fashion.
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