Title: The Journey of the T-shirt: Globalisation and Everyday Fashion
Introduction:
Globalisation has had a profound impact on various aspects of our lives, including the fashion industry. This essay explores the history and evolution of the T-shirt as a product affected by globalisation. The T-shirt has become an iconic garment worn by people from all walks of life, reflecting shifts in manufacturing, trade, and cultural exchange. By examining the history of the T-shirt, we gain insights into the ongoing processes of globalisation and the interconnectedness of our everyday lives.
1) Understanding Globalisation as a historical force:
Globalisation refers to the interconnectedness of economies, trade, and cultural exchange across national boundaries. It is not a recent phenomenon but has been shaped by historical events and advancements in transportation, communication, and technology. Globalisation has facilitated the movement of goods, ideas, and cultures across the globe, spurring economic growth and cultural exchanges.
2) The Chosen Product: The T-shirt:
The T-shirt is a versatile and ubiquitous garment worn by millions of people worldwide. It is informal, comfortable, and serves as a canvas for self-expression. T-shirts have become a staple in both casual and high-fashion wardrobes, a reflection of their adaptability and popularity.
3) The History of the T-shirt:
The T-shirt's history dates back to the early 20th century when it evolved from an undergarment worn by laborers to a stand-alone clothing item. Initially, it was primarily worn as an undershirt by soldiers during World War II, offering comfort and ease of movement. However, it gained popularity beyond the military when Hollywood stars like Marlon Brando and James Dean sported them on the silver screen in the 1950s.
The mass production of affordable T-shirts began in the 1940s in the United States, propelled by advances in textile mills' efficiency and a rising demand for casual clothing. However, it was not until the latter half of the 20th century that globalisation and the associated factors truly shaped the T-shirt's history.
4) Connecting the T-shirt to Globalisation:
a) Manufacturing and Trade: Globalisation brought about significant transformations in the manufacturing and trade of T-shirts. As labour costs rose in industrialized nations, companies sought cheaper alternatives overseas. By the 1980s, manufacturing shifted to countries with lower wages, such as China, Bangladesh, and India. Global trade agreements and advances in shipping technologies facilitated the movement of T-shirt production to these countries, harnessing their vast labour pools.
b) Supply Chain and Raw Materials: Globalisation also impacted the supply chain and access to raw materials required for T-shirt production. Cotton, the primary fabric used for T-shirts, saw shifts in production as global trade networks expanded. Countries like the United States, India, and China emerged as major cotton producers, reflecting the intricate global web of agricultural resources and the supply chain.
c) Cultural Exchange: Cultural exchange is another aspect of globalisation that shaped the T-shirt's history. The spread of American popular culture across the globe through movies, music, and fashion had a substantial influence on the adoption and popularity of the T-shirt. The T-shirt became a medium for self-expression, featuring slogans, logos, and band names, representing the wearer's identity and affiliations.
d) Marketing and Advertising: Globalisation also revolutionized marketing and advertising strategies for the fashion industry. The rise of digital media and social networking platforms allowed brands to reach a global audience, enhancing the visibility and demand for T-shirts. Moreover, the concept of fast fashion emerged, propelled by globalisation, leading to the mass production of inexpensive T-shirts to meet the ever-changing fashion trends.
Conclusion:
The history of the T-shirt exemplifies how globalisation has transformed the fashion industry. Through interconnected manufacturing, trade, cultural exchange, and marketing strategies, the T-shirt has become a global symbol of comfort, individuality, and fashion. As we wear this humble garment in our daily lives, we embody the historical forces of globalisation and its profound impact on our choices, fashion preferences, and the way we participate in the global economy. The T-shirt serves as a reminder of the continuous interplay between local and global influences in shaping our everyday lives.
References:
- Hansen, K. (2015). The World in Dress: Anthropological Perspectives on Clothing,
Fashion, and Culture. London: Bloomsbury Academic.
- Kadasah, N., & Peebles, M. (2008). Global human resource management
distinctiveness: A case study of the Middle East region. Personnel Review, 37(6), 655-674.
- Mintel. (2022). Clothing Retailing - UK - January 2022. Retrieved from
https://reports.mintel.com/display/749830/
Choose one product or object that you encounter in your everyday life and discuss how its history has
been shaped by globalisation. Think of any familiar fashion, food, technology, or cultural except smartphones and coffee. and write an essay of 600 words using chicago referencing style
To help you answer this question, follow these steps.
1) Understand Globalisation as a historical force.
2) Choose a product you use every day.
3) Explore the history of your chosen product.
4) Connect your chosen product to your historical understanding of globalisation.
1 answer
1 answer