Isn’t it amazing how ordinary people inexplicably develop amazing confidence with the mere changing of clothes? Superhero imagery has infused with almost every aspect of popular culture. The prevailing style of dress is fueled by the fascination of the superhero ideal.
Permeating our fashion industry, the power of the suit has triggered mass-market success (Keveney, 2008). The iconic costumes worn by superheroes continue to inspire issues such as identity, sexuality, and nationalism. Likewise, the garments we adorn ourselves with amplify morality, virtue, poise, speed, strength and more– it’s what the multitudes choose to embrace, or not accept. Today’s market tries to cater to these choices. (Petracca, 2007).
Consider Flash Gordon, the character that possessed superhuman speed - his suit depicted aerodynamics and velocity. Consider again, the stars and stripes ensemble worn by Wonder Woman, and how it portrays patriotism (Tuzik, 2007). Cultural acceptance can be linked with much of the garments available today. From sportswear (such as “Speedo’s”, Nike’s “Swift-Suit, etc.) to the luminous, “glow-in-the-dark” clothing, metal adorned garb, freedom wear, and leather apparel, the underling roots reflect the suits worn by Superman, Wonder Woman, The Crow, Daredevil, and Iron Man!
The key is that society accepts Superheroes and identifies with their wardrobe. Why is it the norm to “dress” for an interview? Have you heard of the saying “your appearance should reflect the job you want, not the one you have”? The formula is that these ideals and values grow out of the cultures that support them (Browne, 2005).
Instinctually, acknowledgement of the visual preempts that which exists within. With superheroes, viewers have to “flesh out” the character. The costumes portray confidence, and amplify the character’s inner strengths. Culturally, acceptance dithers with our appearance. Much like the designer “power-suit” for the classic executive, once they put it on, they are committed (to something).
Attire doesn’t actually change who you are – you can’t jump any farther, but you feel like you can! This feeds on the desire to do better, be better, and to be regarded as better, just like the superheroes. Most heroes have flaws and struggle with them. Society identifies with heroes as they are often portrayed to battle these matters within themselves, mirroring humanity.
For those having trouble trying to relate, maybe if you put on a suit…you’ll figure it out!
References:
Browne, R. B. (2005). Profiles of popular culture: A reader. Madison, WI: The University of Wisconsin Press. Formula. (pp. 115 – 117).
Keveney, B. (2008, March 18). Marvel superheroes power up. USA Today. Retrieved on June 14th, 2009 http://www.usatoday.com/life/television/news/2008-03-17-marvel-nicktoons_N.htm
Petracca, M. & Sorapure, M. (2007). Common culture: Reading and writing about American popular culture. Pearson Prentice Hall: 7, pp. 523 – 565.
Tuzik, R. (2008, January 18). Metropolitan Museum Salutes Power Of Superheroes Imagery In Fashion. Retrieved on June 12th, 2008 from http://www.huliq.com/47545/metropolitan-museum-salutes-power-superheroes-imagery-fashion
[Turnitin.com Submission: Weekly Analysis [4-1] 06-16-09 - 0%]
