JOURNAL ARTICLE

Touched by Fashion: On Feeling What we Wear.

  • Published In: British Journal of Aesthetics, 2025, v. 65, n. 1. P. 81 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Summa, Laura T Di 3 of 3

Abstract

This article examines the often-overlooked relationship between fashion and the sense of touch, arguing that fashion is not solely visual but fundamentally tactile and embodied. It explores how fabrics, garment construction, and the physical experience of wearing clothes contribute to identity formation and social meaning, with case studies on maternity wear and sportswear illustrating these points. The discussion integrates philosophical aesthetics—particularly body aesthetics and everyday aesthetics—to highlight how touch influences emotional responses, self-fashioning, and social interactions. The article also addresses the cultural, historical, and environmental implications of fabric choices and garment care, advocating for a mindful, tactile approach to fashion that encompasses sustainability and an aesthetics of care beyond mere appearance.

Additional Information

  • Source:British Journal of Aesthetics. 2025/01, Vol. 65, Issue 1, p81
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Social Sciences and Humanities
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:0007-0904
  • DOI:10.1093/aesthj/ayae019
  • Accession Number:182368401
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of British Journal of Aesthetics is the property of Oxford University Press / USA and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Looking to go deeper into this topic? Look for more articles on EBSCOhost.