I couldn't figure out how to phrase this earlier because I was at work, but I wanted to add:

I did get a little touchy about wording because I have experienced being the "other". When wearing Indian clothing out in society I've been complimented on my "nice costume" (it's clothing, not a costume) and had a person harass me in a fake broken accent/speech patterns, asking for money (dear idiot, a native English speaker is going to recognize your American accent).

I know that most people who draw sartorial inspiration from a culture that they aren't familiar with are just enjoying a new and interesting style. The YLF community, in particular, is very thoughtful about the messages conveyed by clothing AND respects and enjoys the multinational experience of fashion we have here. I want to apologize if I offended earlier by not making that clear.

I, at least, was not offended, Sylvie.

Here is another one: So... I grew up in Bezerkely - i.e., Berkeley, CA, in the hippy days. A serious bubble of existence where, and when, there was a ton of "cultural bridging." I wore saris, among other things, because it was, well, within the culture to do so. Like, I had a Jewish friend with a step dad from India, and they brought them back from trips home. I also really like the pants/tunic style, and there are lots of shops around, and everybody goes in.

But OK, so I go visiting relatives in the Carribean. I pack my little tunic outfits thinking how ideal they are for down there - i.e., not thinking at all. The first thing I hear when I arrive is: Why are you wearing traditional Indian clothing? A little bit weird, like no one dresses like this anymore to boot. Like I'm doing South Asian Goth or something.

This is such an interesting thread. Some very interesting and thought-provoking ideas.

I think there is a difference between wearing something inspired by a particular cultural group and something that is a direct copy.

I think some items signify that you are part of a particular group and therefore have certain common cultural values, ideas and maybe even experiences that form "common ground" for others of that group. I have a Scottish background, and I think if I saw someone wearing our clan tartan I would think we might be related in some way.

I have to say that it really irritates me when I see people with Celtic or tribal tattoos who have no connection with those cultures and no appreciation of the symbolism. I feel that if you are going to wear something that clearly belongs to another culture you should at least make sure you have an understanding of and respect for the tradition that produced it.

I don't really have anything new to add to this discussion - I've already responded with my thoughts on this topic on the blog post - but thanks, everyone for a great read!