Everyone knows that clothes make the man. From the executive



suits that litter Wall Street like the remnants of a ticker-tape

parade to the coveralls and work boots worn by construction

workers and mechanics, clothes tell the story of who we are and

where we're going. Even when the workday is done, what we

choose to wear on our own time is still a reflection of our

personalities. From the sweat-suit to the wet-suit, our clothes

are meant to be not only functional, but forthcoming as well.

Clothes tell others what we like, and often, how we spend our

time. Sports franchise logos are constantly on display on Main

Street America. T-shirts with well known television, film and

music icons can be seen almost anywhere. Clothes have

something to say, and people are beginning to realize that the

responsibility of being a walking billboard requires us to choose

wisely.

Now, more than ever, politics are entering the realm of fashion.

Blatantly political phrases and slogans are becoming more

prevalent on the backs of the public than the bumpers of

cars. There are even items of clothing that advertise specific

candidates or political parties and were actually purchased

by someone, somewhere (not obtained as a door prize at a

party fundraiser). But what options exist for those who like

a little subtlety with their agenda? Enter the merger of

socially conscious art and clothing. Less politically charged

and infinitely more fashionable, boutique clothiers have

created garments that are the realization of the finite

balance between the message and the medium. Using art

as the instrument of exchange and clothing as the canvas,

these pioneers of significancy are providing people with a

method of expressing themselves both in figure and in

fact. What better way for entrepreneurs to meet the

demands of a public that is focused on reflecting a belief

in both style and substance.

Article written by Kingston Amadan.