Fashion is one of the biggest avenues for artistic expression, and in this generation, many popular aesthetics are perfectly appealing and inoffensive. However, recent high fashion has been exploring new, but controversial territories when it comes to style.
In search of novelty, designers have begun tailoring raggedy or “homeless” clothing into an expensive style. Several high-end fashion brands have promoted overly baggy and ripped clothing, reminiscent of the appearance of homeless individuals, as designer products. Though the intention may have been an artistic interpretation, it ended up being a mockery and a waste of time and money.
Brands like Balenciaga and Magnolia Pearl charge hundreds of dollars for pieces of clothing that are severely torn and washed out, giving way to the “homeless chic” aesthetic. Not only is this concept out of touch, but it is also offensive as it commercializes the struggle of those living in poverty.
Furthermore, this aesthetic is unoriginal and glorifies serious social issues by disrespectfully rebranding tattered clothing as luxury products. Homeless people wear simple and oftentimes dirty clothing due to their poverty, not as a choice. They are neglected and shunned by society because of their perceived appearance, which has ironically become desirable and trendy.
Showcasing the homeless chic aesthetic does not bring awareness to the hardships that come with homelessness. Rather, it monetizes a style that developed from pity toward homeless people.
Additionally, it is evident that fashion is no longer about the clothes themselves but rather the status of the people who wear them. Once celebrities and models began publicly displaying the homeless aesthetic, the crowd went wild, and the money rolled in. Meanwhile, homeless people’s pockets still remain empty.
Although the intentions of designers might be purely artistic, the execution of homeless fashion is a mockery of individuals in poverty. Homelessness should be brought to people’s attention to instill change and provide support for basic human resources, not to make a fashion show out of a human struggle.
