Fashion is meant to be expressive, bold, and boundary-pushing. It’s meant to give appreciate not appropriation.

It should challenge norms, tell stories, and reflect identity. But when it takes without context or credit, it becomes something else: exploitation.

It becomes a version of fashion that strips meaning for aesthetics, silences the origins for applause, and profits without responsibility.

Cultural appropriation isn’t just borrowing. It’s taking. 

It happens when elements of a culture are adopted, often by those in a position of power or privilege, without understanding, credit, or respect for their meaning.

It’s the difference between wearing a traditional garment to honour its roots and wearing it as an aesthetic without knowing what it represents.

It’s when the look is praised, but the people behind it are left out of the picture or, worse, judged for wearing the same thing in their everyday lives.

Appreciation, on the other hand, is rooted in respect. 

It asks questions. 

It acknowledges its origin. 

It supports and centres the people behind the practice rather than overshadowing them.

Appropriation strips.

Appreciation uplifts.

And in fashion, where style spreads fast, and stories are often left behind, that line matters more than ever.

The beauty of culture is that it can be shared, but only with care, credit, and community at the heart.

Aiko, 26, from a Japanese-British background, first experienced the feeling of being underappreciated for her traditions.

She says, “My grandmother taught me how to fold and wear a kimono properly. It wasn’t something we wore every day; it was sacred. We wore it for weddings, funerals, and the New Year. Every pattern meant something. Every layer was intentional.

“Now I see brands calling beach robes or satin dressing gowns ‘kimonos,’ and it honestly feels like the meaning is being erased. It’s not just a style, but it’s our story.”

“I’m not saying people can’t wear Japanese fashion. But there’s a difference between appreciation and turning our culture into a trend. If you love the kimono, learn about it. Support the artisans who still make them. That’s respect.”

The kimono is a traditional Japanese garment, rich in symbolism, worn to mark important life events.

Each layer, pattern, and fold carries deep cultural meaning and ancestral pride.

While Aiko’s story reflects how appropriation can feel like erasure, Xiluva, a Black South African woman living in Japan, shares a different experience rooted in learning, intention, and connection.

Xiluva, 23, says: “Two weeks ago, my friends and I visited Kyoto, and one of the highlights of our trip was getting to wear kimonos. It’s hard to put into words how that felt. 

“As a Black South African woman living and working in Japan, that moment wasn’t just about dressing up — it was about connection. We looked at ourselves in the mirror and felt beautiful, regal, and seen in a way deeper than just appearance.”

“Wearing the kimono wasn’t just about appreciation or avoiding appropriation. It was about respect, curiosity, and a sincere desire to fully understand and experience life here.”

“We felt proud in that moment, wrapped in tradition and surrounded by history. Not only of where we come from but of the bridges we’re building by being here.”

Her story reminds us that when done thoughtfully, cultural sharing can be transformative for the wearer and the culture being honoured.

So this is how to appreciate what you are wearing fully…

If you love something from another culture, it doesn’t mean you can’t wear it.

Ask yourself:

Where does this come from?

Do I understand its significance?

Am I supporting the people who created it?

Genuine appreciation means learning. It means giving credit where it’s due. 

It means buying from communities, listening to stories, and wearing culture with the intention, not just for aesthetics.

Fashion can be a bridge when it’s done right. It can honour heritage, celebrate identity, and connect us.

So wear the look with care, curiosity, and respect that turns fashion into something more meaningful than a trend.

Fashion can unite us all.

Read more fashion stories here.