Paper short abstract:

This paper delves into the complex discourse surrounding the adjudication of beauty, particularly within the context of African dress culture. Drawing from philosophical inquiries and cultural studies, the paper explores the criteria and standards used to measure aesthetic merit across cultures.

Paper long abstract:

Scholarship on African dress culture reveals its deep-rooted connections to historical narratives, socio-cultural values, aesthetic sensibilities, beauty and gender dynamics. For instance, studies by scholars such as Hansen (2000) and Renne (1995) delve into the intricate meanings embedded in African clothing practices, shedding light on how they reflect broader social structures and identities. The paper seeks to engage in discussions that critically examine the multifaceted dimensions of African dress culture. It aims to explore how historical legacies continue to inform contemporary fashion practices, the ways in which socio-cultural values are embodied in clothing choices, and the evolving dynamics of gender representation within African fashion narratives. The concept of beauty and its evaluation across cultures provoke critical inquiries into aesthetic standards and cultural sensibilities. This paper delves into the complex discourse surrounding the adjudication of beauty, particularly within the context of African culture. It poses fundamental questions regarding the objectivity and universality of beauty, the imposition of standards from external cultures, and the diverse functions of dressing within different cultural contexts. By engaging with these questions, the paper seeks to challenge assumptions of aesthetic superiority and foster a more nuanced understanding of beauty across cultural boundaries. Drawing from philosophical inquiries and cultural studies, the paper explores the criteria and standards used to measure aesthetic merit across cultures. It underscores the importance of acknowledging and respecting diverse cultural perspectives in the adjudication of aesthetic merit, thereby enriching the discourse on beauty in a global context.