Your Own Unique Style

The general notion of individualism is the separation of an individual from the group, in thought and action. In America, an individual’s personal interests, style of dress, and accomplishments are very important. Americans make decisions on clothes, activities, and their general lifestyle in order to express who they uniquely are– this is what makes them individuals. They can choose to be they way they want to be and do not have to abide by the rules of a larger group, such as their family or friends. Each person has his or her own separate existence in life and in society, and is thus allowed to make choices solely based on his or her behalf. This notion or belief in the “individual self” is reflected throughout American society.

Let's look at individualism in childhood. When children are old enough to talk, they can make requests of their parents for certain games, toys and clothes. Parents allow children to dress according to their own desires even as early as 3 years old. Often times, children choose their clothes for school and go shopping for clothing with their parents before they are old enough to go to school.

In the United States, kids have many choices when it comes to buying clothes…a variety of styles, fabrics, and qualities exist. A child might prefer baggy shorts and oversized t-shirts or polo shirts with slacks. Clothing stores for both adults and children offer a variety styles from preppy to grunge, sporty to professional. Stores like the Gap, Abercrombie and Fitch and American Apparel are all stores that offer a casual, high quality style of clothing that cater to people who want their own “American style”.

Kerry – a woman with her own style

Kerry, an American woman, had gone on a few dates with Antonio, a Hispanic man. One evening, when Antonio arrived to pick up Kerry, he noticed that she was wearing a t-shirt, jeans, and a sweatshirt tied around her waist. Antonio, on the other hand, was dressed in dress slacks and a dress shirt. When Kerry was ready to go, she got her purse and headed for the front door. Then Antonio said:

Antonio: “Aren’t you going to change?”

Kerry: “This is what I’m wearing.” Kerry pointed to her outfit.

Antonio: “Don’t you think you should put on a dress? We’re going to a nice restaurant.”

Kerry: “I feel comfortable dressed this way.” “Plus, the restaurant doesn’t have a dress code. A lot of people go there with jeans on.”

Antonio: “Ok, but you don’t need to wear that sweatshirt around your waist. It doesn’t look good there. I can carry it for you.”

Kerry: “No thanks. I’m fine. This is the way I like to dress.”

Antonio: “Ok, fine. Let’s go then.”

Looking at this conversation, we see a potential for a big argument, but in the end, Antonio accepted that Kerry had her own style of dressing that she wanted to keep. As an individual, she felt it was her choice to dress the way she wanted.

There is a general acceptance of each person’s unique style of dressing in the US. For example, in some countries, dressing in bright colors such as yellow and orange are not common. In the US, however, it is not strange to see a person wearing a black t-shirt with bright yellow shorts, for instance. Yes, there are certain styles that are more popular in society and others that are not, but the tolerance for everything in between is high. If a person chooses not to follow the current fashion trends and dress according to his own desires, he might be respected for doing so. Having a unique style different from others is admired.