People typically don’t associate fashion with Christianity. However, the two have been linked over the years. They shape culture, religious expression, comment, and identity. The way a believer dresses shares a bigger tale.
Many individuals are looking for modest clothing today. In fact, the global modest apparel market is generating more revenue than ever before. Experts expect it will reach $96.8 billion this year while growing at over 5% annually. Americans alone spend over $5 billion a year on items such as the Cross Movement Black Tee and other fashion clothing. A person can share their spiritual conviction through the items they choose to put on each day.
Religious Fashion During the Early Years of Christianity
Ancient religious figures chose their apparel carefully. They looked for items that would symbolize their devotion and share their spiritual beliefs with others. Luxurious fabrics such as linen and silk were often used, and individuals would choose deep red, royal purple, and other vibrant colors to display authority and reverence.
Every day, Christians throughout the Roman Empire wore simple clothing, such as cloaks and tunics. Their dress was modest compared to that of many other civilizations of that time. However, as the Romans chose to persecute Christians more, anything that would visually identify a person’s beliefs was toned down. The fish became a popular symbol among Christians, as did the anchor, to share their beliefs subtly.
Medieval Times
During the medieval period, people often looked to religious figures in the church when deciding what was appropriate to wear. Church leaders commonly wore silk or velvet, and these pieces were heavily embroidered with rich trims. The idea was to showcase the church leaders’ devotion, well demonstrating their position and social hierarchy.
The Renaissance
Fashion and spirituality went hand in hand throughout the Renaissance. However, the relationship was not always harmonious. People would look to religious art when designing clothing, but the focus wasn’t so much on devotion. The clothing frequently symbolized a person’s power, performative piety, and patronage.
The Reformation
Martin Luther played a pivotal role in history, and his influence extended far beyond what many people realize. His reforms in the 16th century led to people dressing more modestly. Luther felt that any lavish clothing was not Christian, so he encouraged people to minimize the use of extravagant attire. He thought that lavish clothes were prideful and disrupted normal society. John Calvin shared these beliefs and enacted laws that forbade people from wearing jewelry and bright clothing. He went so far as to outlaw specific hairstyles.
Biblical Principles
Man is made in God’s image, and fashion is one way a person can celebrate God’s craftsmanship. A person can use their clothing to make visible what cannot be seen. It can be used to express spiritual truths.
The Bible states that women should wear respectable, modest attire. This clothing should show their humility rather than a desire for social status. The focus should be on internal beauty, so women should prioritize cultivating their inner beauty rather than their outward appearance. Every item a person wears should be infused with Christ’s virtues.
Faith-Based Streetwear
Faith-based streetwear is very common today. Young believers love showing off their spirituality through the clothing they wear. In fact, faith-inspired clothing has now become mainstream thanks to various independent brands.
Young people love to dress in oversized hoodies today, and many wear items that feature scripture references. Others choose to invest in a cap or a beanie that has a cross or other religious symbol with personal significance. Sustainably made t-shirts featuring religious phrases are widely available, and many people are even choosing athleisure wear that has religious slogans or symbols.
Commercializing Religion?
One question many people have regarding faith-based streetwear is whether they are commercializing religion. Some people refer to this as sacred consumerism and believe that adding theological symbols to clothing and accessories minimizes their spiritual significance. If a person wears the apparel to share God’s message rather than to make themselves look better, there is nothing wrong with doing so. They are not commercializing religion. They are sharing their faith with others.
Symbolism
Millennials who are faith-driven frequently look for clothing items that have a purpose. They want items to share favorite Bible verses while allowing them to highlight their cultural identity and personal faith. What Christian symbols are commonly used in the creation of modern apparel?
The cross has long been a symbol of Jesus Christ’s resurrection and death. People view this as a representation of salvation. When a person wears a cross close to their heart or prominently displayed on their body, they’re showing that they have an allegiance to Jesus.
The fish is another symbol commonly found on faith-inspired clothing. Some individuals, however, look for clothing with a dove. The stuff symbolizes the Holy Spirit that descended upon Jesus during the baptism of Jesus.
Bible verses commonly appear on clothing items, as well. Specific ones appear more than others and remind us of the promises God made to humans. A person can look at this affirmation when they need a bit of encouragement and use it as a conversation starter when meeting new people.
The Psychology Behind Faith-Inspired Clothing
The Journal of Psychology and Christianity shared a 2018 study with readers. This study learned that individuals who wear faith-based symbols on their clothing have a sense of spiritual belonging. When they wear these items, they feel that they are seen and protected. The clothing allows them to connect with others who share similar beliefs.
Christian fashion is important today. It allows a person to share their faith in an increasingly secular world. In 2022, 44% of young churchgoers, those under the age of 35, stated they like casual clothing that shares their spiritual beliefs.
This clothing may be used to start spiritual conversations with non-believers. It provides the wearer with an identity that is easily recognized by others. When people wear similar faith-based items, they feel a sense of unity, which increases their engagement. The fashion world is changing today, and faith-inspired clothing is playing a role in this transformation. These items encourage modesty and intentionality, and all that a person does reflects well on their creator.