Ski Masks and Staches
Fashion is all about how we perceive a particular thing. It is considered stylish if people have a good image of it. However, some fashions have certain unconsidered or unwanted associations that obscure the original good image. With that in mind, this list breaks down fashions ruined by their reputation, and 10 that lead to other assumptions.
1. Red Polos
Red and blue polos were once timeless and functional garments. Now if you see one on someone paired with khakis, there's a good chance they are a retail employee or you have just put yourself in the awkward position of being asked, "Are you a Target or Best Buy employee?!" It's gotten so bad that a simple day of casual wear in the right color scheme can easily be misconstrued.
2. The Moustache
It's hard to separate this very basic facial style from the most notorious man of the 20th century. Essentially, the boxy, squared moustache reminds a lot of people of a World War II villain. It's been so stigmatized that it's almost never seen outside of strictly historical or theatrical contexts.
3. Ski Masks
The initial purpose of ski masks was to serve as functional winter clothing to protect the face from the cold weather. Later, ski masks became strongly linked with crime, particularly in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The deviant associations are the most frequent and powerful associations now, and the wearing of ski masks is often considered threatening or alarming.
4. Pillbox Hats
A pillbox hat was a highly popular fashion statement in the 20th century, favored by fashionable women as a chic and elegant accessory. It was famously worn by women such as Jacqueline Kennedy. However, after the tragic events surrounding her life, the hat is seen less and less.
5. Green Hats
In Chinese cultural context, the association with wearing a green hat has a strong negative connotation. Wearing one is associated with marital infidelity, so it’s best to be avoided unless you want to start some rumors. As a result, green hats are definitely a lesser-seen color in China.
6. Dahmer Glasses
Round glasses like those worn by Jeffrey Dahmer used to be a common style of eyewear. However, their popularity has been negatively impacted by their association with him. Their now unintended macabre connotation often comes to mind with their otherwise simple frames.
7. Striped Shirt
The red-and-white striped T-shirt and jeans combination, once a playful and casual attire, has become almost synonymous with Where's Waldo's character Waldo. Donning this ensemble, particularly with glasses, can lead to teasing based on the resemblance. The connection has subtly shifted an ordinary clothing choice into a costume-like appearance for some.
8. Che Guevara Shirts
Che Guevara T-shirts were originally considered a symbol of youthful insubordination and revolutionary expression. With time, the negative connotations of Guevara's political acts have superseded its significance. As a result, wearing the shirt is now problematic due to complex implications.
9. Fur Coats
Fur coats were considered for many years to be high-end fashion. In recent years, they have become associated with animal rights and ethical issues. This is a link which has made some people feel uneasy about wearing them.
10. Fedoras
Fedoras used to be the height of classic cool, channeling suave and ageless charm. In recent decades, they have earned an internet reputation as an unfortunate or overconfident fashion statement, which has turned the hat into something to avoid.
Now that we’ve talked about clothes with negative associations, here are 10 that lead to other assumptions, sometimes positive, sometimes negative.
1. Blazer
A blazer is a classic piece of clothing that can make an outfit look instantly polished and professional. It can also make one look competent, confident, and conscientious. Blazers are versatile and can be used for both work and casual settings.
2. Leather Jackets
A leather jacket is an instantly recognizable and iconic piece of clothing. It’s one of those wardrobe items that can make you feel automatically confident and unique. When you wear a leather jacket, people assume you are fearless, wild, and daring. These jackets are edgy and always in style, so they project a vibe of being cool and independent anywhere.
3. Sundresses
Sundresses are breezy clothing items that have a playful and happy aesthetic to them. When wearing a sundress, people may assume you are fun, easygoing, and love hot and sunny weather. Their light and summery tones give off the aura of positivity and carefree cuteness.
4. Tweed
Tweed is a woven fabric with a somewhat textured appearance and feel. Tweed clothing can cause people to presume that the wearer is conservative, cultured, and studious. Its classic pattern and construction suggest refinement and attention to detail.
5. Hipster T-shirts
Ironic hipster T-shirts typically include unique or humorous slogans, vintage-inspired graphics, or ironic pop culture references. They may be worn to convey the impression that the wearer is artistic, clever, and up-to-date with modern trends or obscure subcultures. The relaxed and bold statement style of the shirt can also give an impression of being nonconformist and carefree.
6. Stilettos
High stiletto heels are a classy type of shoe that catch the eye and give off a sophisticated vibe. When people see someone wearing them, they often assume that person is confident, fashionable, and has a good sense of style. Because of their height and sharp look, stilettos can also make someone appear bold and impactful.
7. Little Black Dress
A little black dress is often considered a wardrobe staple. For example, people may consider someone who is wearing a little black dress for a night out as confident, sociable, and festive or sophisticated. This is because the little black dress has a classic design that is considered glamorous and well put together.
8. Branded Items
Highly visible logos and labels make the general public assume that the wearer is of a higher class, or at least has money to spend. Luxury logos can broadcast status and conspicuous consumption with an eye for designer fashion. Popular brands can help an individual feel or look confident, or desire to be seen with a famous name.
Willian Justen de Vasconcellos on Unsplash
9. Ripped Jeans
Distressed jeans exude an informal, carefree, and cool vibe and are often associated with being unconventional or rebellious. When wearing ripped jeans, people are likely to perceive you as a rebel, adventurous, or someone who does not conform to traditional rules, as these types of clothing signify a more relaxed, non-traditional approach to style and fashion.
10. Nike Shoes
Nike shoes are athletic and easily recognizable. Wearing them may give people the impression that the wearer is health-conscious and values an active lifestyle.
