National dress is an integral part of a country's character, and
it is understandable that most nations wish to preserve it. However, the
question of preserving traditional dress arises when a significant group of
foreigners enters the country and brings their culture with them. Inevitably,
this leads to a shift towards Western dress, which has evolved to meet the
requirements of business, technology, and communication. The problem with this
shift is that it relegates traditional dress to the observance of national
customs, ceremonies, and religious festivals, putting it in danger of being lost
forever.
The same problem is also true for the Communist bloc, where the worker's tunic,
trousers, and flat cap have spread beyond the boundaries of Soviet Russia. This
problem does not arise with uncommitted countries, but it is further exacerbated
by the influence of the style of dress favored by young people, such as
tee-shirts, jeans, and trainers.
The main issue with the shift towards Western dress is that it is considered
better and more fashionable than traditional dress, which is not true in most
cases. Traditional dress can be easily adapted to fit modern requirements
without any loss of character. For example, a sarong is more elegant than a
blouse and skirt, and the colorful materials of traditional male dress are much
more aesthetically pleasing than a business suit. Moreover, traditional dress is
often more comfortable and hygienic, especially in equatorial climates, where it
has developed in relation to the heat and humidity.
The change from national to imported dress is also bad for local clothing
industries, which may cause unemployment. This is a good governmental reason for
supporting the continued production of local dress, as well as the other folk
industries that produce traditional artifacts such as sandals, handbags, and
household wares.
All this raises the question of whether long-term immigrants or settlers should
impose their own culture or assimilate to the local culture. The answer should
be to assimilate. Immigrants should adopt the local customs and dress,
particularly if they have received hospitality in the country. Sometimes,
immigrants claim that their racial origin, politics, or religion dictates the
forms of dress, hairstyle, etc., they should use overseas. However, assimilation
to local customs should be a duty in return for the hospitality they have
received.
Entertainment in the widest sense remains the primary objective of the Arts if
they are to survive. Whatever the intellectuals may think is good for us, the
paying public will always vote with its feet. Therefore, it is important to
preserve traditional dress and other folk industries, which are an essential
part of a country's character, while also promoting assimilation to local
customs for long-term immigrants and settlers. |