Fashion as a form of Political Expression

Neema Amani U.

 Faculty of Business and Management Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

Fashion has long been a powerful medium for political expression, serving as a visual and symbolic means of communicating ideologies, affiliations, and resistance. This paper examines the intersection of fashion and politics, highlighting how clothing has been used as a tool for activism, solidarity, and dissent. Through historical analysis and contemporary case studies, the research examines how various subcultures—such as punks, nuns, and skinheads—have used dress to make political statements. Additionally, the study delves into the semiotics of political fashion, illustrating how colors, symbols, and styles convey complex messages. The paper also considers the impact of digital media in amplifying political fashion trends, shaping public discourse, and influencing consumer behavior. Finally, the discussion extends to the future of political fashion, emphasizing its evolving role in activism, identity politics, and social movements. As fashion continues to reflect and challenge political ideologies, it remains an essential aspect of cultural discourse and societal transformation.

Keywords: Political fashion, Fashion activism, Symbolism in dress, Subcultures and politics, Semiotics of fashion, Social movements, Digital media and fashion.

CITE ON: Neema Amani U. (2025). Fashion as a form of Political Expression. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF CURRENT RESEARCH IN HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES 4(1):1-5. https://doi.org/10.59298/RIJCRHSS/2025/4115