Religious Symbols and Fashion: Identification, Representation and Regulation in Dress

Dear Colleagues,

Can religious symbols and clothing be solely expressions of faith, or do they inevitably carry broader societal implications? The interactions between religions and clothing are deeply intertwined, reflecting a myriad of cultural, spiritual, and social dimensions. This Special Issue delves into how these symbols serve as powerful tools of identification, cultural expression, and religious devotion, while also examining the complex regulatory frameworks that govern their display. Fashion, in this Special Issue, is considered simultaneously as the patterns of clothes and as a contemporary economic and aesthetic system of dress. Both are important for the interactions with Religions.

Key topics include:

1. Influence of Religion on Fashion

Many religions influence fashion by prescribing modest dress codes. These codes shape the design and production of clothing, encouraging the creation of garments that align with religious principles. The rise of modest fashion is the most evident issue in the interactions between Fashion and Religions. Modest fashion brands cater to Muslim women seeking stylish yet modest clothing, adhering to Islamic guidelines. Religious symbols and motifs often find their way into fashion. Crosses, the Star of David, and other religious symbols are frequently incorporated into jewelry, clothing, and accessories, blending spiritual significance with aesthetic appeal. Religious festivals and rituals often dictate specific types of clothing. During Ramadan, Muslims may choose more conservative attire, while during Diwali, Hindus often wear new, colorful clothes. These periods can influence fashion trends and retail cycles.

2. Fashion’s Impact on Religious Dress

Fashion trends can lead to the modernization of traditional religious garments. Younger generations might seek to reinterpret religious dress in ways that align with contemporary fashion, leading to hybrid styles that respect tradition while embracing modernity. Global market and cultural exchange introduce new styles and materials into religious dress. Fashion designers occasionally draw inspiration from religious attire for their collections, leading to the commercialization of sacred symbols and garments.

3. Symbolism and Identity

Clothing often serves as a marker of religious identity. The Sikh turban (dastaar) is a significant part of a Sikh's identity, representing discipline, honor, and spirituality. Many religious garments are imbued with symbolic meanings. The Christian clerical collar symbolizes a commitment to serving God and the community, while the Jewish tallit (prayer shawl) represents obedience to God’s commandments.

4. Spiritual Practice and Devotion

Religious clothing serves also as a tool for spiritual focus and discipline. The robes worn by Buddhist monks and nuns symbolize their commitment to a life of renunciation and spiritual practice. Wearing specific religious garments can be an expression of devotion and adherence to religious tenets. The Jewish kippah, worn by men during prayer and religious study, signifies reverence and the acknowledgment of a higher power. Religious clothing often serves as a visible symbol of faith. For many, these garments are not just clothing but sacred items that help them feel closer to their faith.

5. Gender Roles and Distinctions

Religious clothing often delineates gender roles. In many Christian denominations, men and women have distinct roles and attire during religious services. In Hinduism, the distinction between the dhoti for men and the sari for women reflects traditional gender roles. These distinctions can sometimes lead to debates about gender equality within religious communities. The requirement for women to cover their heads in some religions is often discussed in the context of women's rights and freedoms.

6. Cultural and Historical Context

Religious dress often reflects the cultural context in which a religion developed. For example, Buddhist monks in Southeast Asia wear saffron robes, a color traditionally associated with renunciation and simplicity in that region. Over time, religious clothing can evolve, influenced by historical changes and cultural exchanges. The Christian nun's habit, for instance, has undergone various transformations over centuries, adapting to contemporary contexts while retaining its religious significance.

Religious clothing is a powerful medium through which faith and identity are expressed. It embodies a rich tapestry of meanings, from personal piety and communal belonging to cultural heritage and social norms. Understanding the relationship between religion and clothing requires appreciating these diverse layers and the ways in which they intersect with broader societal values.

By addressing these themes, this Special Issue aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the intersection between religion and society, offering insights into how religious symbols and clothing can be both a source of personal expression and a point of social contention.

We request that, prior to submitting a manuscript, interested authors initially submit a proposed title and an abstract of 200-300 words summarizing their intended contribution. Please send it to the Guest Editor, or to the Assistant Editor of Religions. Abstracts will be reviewed by the Guest Editors for the purpose of ensuring that the manuscript fits within the scope of the Special Issue. Full manuscripts will undergo double-blind peer review.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Prof. Dr. Alberto Fabio Ambrosio
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a double-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Religions is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1800 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• fashion and religions
• symbolism of clothing
• philosophy and theology of clothing and fashion
• art, clothing, fashion, and theology
• modern adaptations and fashion
• mystical practices and rituals
• gender roles and distinctions
• personal and spiritual connection
• spiritual practice and devotion
• interreligious and interspiritual dialogue
• spirituality and contemporary culture