Intersectionality is the composition of various subject positions of an individual and how these subject positions can overlap and influence their lives whether it be positive or negative.
In chapter 2 of Susan Kaiser’s book, Fashion and Cultural Studies, she uses a quote from Entwistle 2000: 36 stating that, “the fact that we live in our own bodies is structured in part by our social positions.” I firmly believe that this statement is true. When looking at my intersectionality map I can clearly see which parts of my self has influenced my style. Dress and style are forms of expression, it’s the body we choose to display in front of the world, whether you are trying to conceal or reveal it. I don’t however agree that all parts of an individual’s style is composed of their intersectionality. For me, I can tell that my location and sexuality has drastically affected my clothing. I grew up in Kuwait, a conservative country where style and expression was not celebrate but mostly shamed. Moving to a city as diverse as New York and being in a fashion program has definitely allowed me to style myself in a way that I wouldn’t have in Kuwait. Whether it be oversized layered jackets or body adornments such as piercings and nail polish. This subject position I am aware of the most when I visit home because of the sudden restrictions I am placed under, and then again when I am back in New York when I feel these restrictions lifted. I personally don’t notice when my race/nationality subject positions affect my current style. Class is another subject position that I feel is distinct with every individual, I am from a middle class family so my current wardrobe consists of affordable, sustainably sourced garments that I admire and a few luxury designer pieces. I can see how this subject position can be the most eminent in majority of people due to the fact that most fashion is distinguished based on designs, designers and price points that vary between upper, middle and lower class.
- Kaiser, Susan B. Fashion and Cultural Studies. London: Bloomsbury Visual Arts, 2018.
- All images have been drawn.
