Effects of the modern fashion industry on traditional design in Teso sub region, a case of Kumi district.

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the effects of modern fashion dressing trends on culture in the Teso Sub-Region, particularly in the case of Kumi District. The study was guided by three objectives; identifying modern fashion trends, examining the effects of modern fashion trends on culture, and determining ways to improve the impact of contemporary fashion trends in Kumi district. The case study design involves qualitative and quantitative approaches to present the observed phenomena. The study established Organizational Casual Dress Code, Organizational Casual Formal Code, the Business casual dress code, the Business formal dress code and the Current Cultural Modern Wear among the Modern Dressing Fashion Trends in Kumi District. The research findings revealed the following positive effects; versatility, confidence, a feeling of being more relaxed, authority, credibility, and empowerment. However, the adverse impact of Modern Dressing Fashion Trends on Culture includes amongst others; Body shaming, Body exposure, lack of professionalism, and devalued dignity. The study came up with the following ways of improving the adverse effects of modern dress codes on culture; Developing a dressing policy, Drafting & implementing dressing guidelines, providing a list of banned items/dressing, establishing a baseline of exclusivity and balancing personal expression with brand representation. The study recommends that all organizations develop dressing policies and guidelines to avoid the negative impact of poor dressing. Prioritization of decency by fashion and garment makers and Organizations should allow people to make clothing of their choice as long as they are respectful, decent and acceptable to society. The study provided the following areas for further research; the impact of poor dress code amongst ladies on cultural and societal norms, the role of recycling on the growth of the fashion industry and the contribution of locally made materials to Uganda’s fashion and design industry.