FASHION & CLOTHES

Questions

1. Why do some people care a lot about the way they dress?

2. Do you think fashion is more important to young people than older people?

3. How do cultural differences influence the way people dress?

4. Do you think following fashion trends is a waste of money?

5. How has social media affected people’s fashion choices?

6. Should schools or workplaces have dress codes?

7. Do you think traditional clothing will disappear in the future?

8. How important is comfort compared to style when choosing clothes?

Q1: Why do some people care a lot about the way they dress?

Band 7:
Some people care a lot about the way they dress because clothes are often seen as a reflection of personality. The way a person looks can create a first impression, so many people want to appear confident and attractive. Dressing well also helps some individuals feel more respected in society. For example, in professional settings, people may choose formal clothes to be taken seriously. Another reason is that fashion is linked to self-expression, and wearing trendy outfits makes them feel modern. In some cases, it is also about fitting into a group or social circle. Overall, people use clothes as a way to show their identity and gain acceptance.

Band 8:
The reason some people pay close attention to the way they dress is because clothing acts as a non-verbal language. People often judge others based on their appearance, and many want to make sure they send the right message. For instance, someone wearing a tailored suit may be viewed as ambitious and professional. On a deeper level, clothes can boost self-esteem, as looking good often leads to feeling good. For younger people, fashion can also be a way to gain social recognition and avoid feeling left out. Beyond that, fashion represents cultural values and personal tastes, so individuals might dress in a way that highlights their creativity or uniqueness. In modern society, where images circulate online constantly, appearance has become even more important, which explains why so many people care deeply about it.

Q2: Do you think fashion is more important to young people than older people?

Band 7:
Yes, I think fashion tends to be more important to young people. Teenagers and young adults often want to fit in with their peers, and clothes are a way to do that. They also like to follow trends because it makes them feel stylish and confident. Older people, on the other hand, usually focus more on comfort than appearance. They may not have the same pressure to impress others with clothing. Another factor is that young people are more influenced by celebrities and social media. For older generations, fashion might not be a priority in their daily lives. That’s why young people usually care about it more.

Band 8:
Fashion does seem to hold greater importance for younger people compared to older generations. For many young individuals, clothing is not just about covering the body but also about creating an identity. They often seek approval from their friends, and keeping up with trends allows them to feel accepted. In addition, the entertainment industry and social media influencers have a powerful effect on the youth, constantly shaping their sense of style. Older people, by contrast, tend to prioritize practicality and comfort. They may already feel secure in their self-image, so they are less interested in chasing trends. That being said, some older adults still enjoy dressing fashionably, but overall, fashion plays a more central role in the lifestyle of younger generations.

Q3: How do cultural differences influence the way people dress?

Band 7:
Cultural differences play a big role in fashion. In some countries, traditional clothes are worn during festivals and ceremonies, while in others, people prefer modern styles every day. For example, in many Asian countries, modest clothing is valued, but in Western countries, people may wear more casual or open styles. Religion also affects the way people dress, such as headscarves or special garments. These cultural factors show identity and respect for tradition. Even when people follow global fashion, they often mix it with local elements. So, culture always influences clothing choices.

Band 8:
The way people dress is strongly shaped by cultural values and traditions. Clothing is often a reflection of history, religion, and social norms. For instance, in the Middle East, modesty is emphasized, which influences styles such as abayas or headscarves. In contrast, Western societies usually embrace more casual or revealing outfits, highlighting individuality and freedom of choice. Even within a single country, different regions may have their own traditional costumes that symbolize heritage. Moreover, culture influences how people perceive colors, fabrics, and even accessories. While globalization has introduced Western fashion everywhere, cultural identity still plays a key role in shaping how people present themselves. In many cases, people adapt modern trends to align with their cultural values, creating a unique blend of tradition and modernity.

Q4: Do you think following fashion trends is a waste of money?

Band 7:
I think it depends on the person. For some people, spending money on fashion is a way to feel confident and happy. They see it as an investment in their image. But for others, buying new clothes every season is unnecessary and expensive. Fashion trends change quickly, so clothes can go out of style fast. Some people prefer to save money by buying timeless items that last longer. In my opinion, it’s not always a waste, but it can become one if people buy clothes only to impress others.

Band 8:
Whether following fashion trends is a waste of money really depends on perspective. On one hand, fashion can be seen as an art form and a personal expression, so spending on it may bring joy and confidence. For some individuals, especially in creative or professional industries, keeping up with trends is part of their image and can even benefit their career. On the other hand, the fashion industry thrives on constant change, which encourages people to buy things they don’t actually need. This can lead to financial waste and even environmental damage, since fast fashion produces a lot of textile waste. Personally, I believe it becomes wasteful when people follow trends blindly, but if they invest in pieces that reflect their personality and are versatile, it can be worthwhile.

Q5: How has social media affected people’s fashion choices?

Band 7:
Social media has a big influence on fashion. Many people see outfits on influencers and celebrities and want to copy them. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok show new trends very quickly, so people feel pressure to keep up. Some even buy clothes just for photos. On the positive side, social media also gives people new ideas and makes fashion more accessible. Small brands can also promote their products easily. So, overall, social media has changed the way people choose their clothes.

Band 8:
Social media has dramatically transformed the way people make fashion decisions. With platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, trends spread at an incredible speed, and millions of users are exposed to them instantly. Influencers and celebrities play a central role in shaping what people consider stylish. This has created a culture where individuals often feel the need to update their wardrobe frequently to stay relevant. At the same time, social media allows smaller fashion labels to reach global audiences, making style more diverse and inclusive. Another impact is that people use online platforms not only to buy clothes but also to showcase their personal style, turning fashion into a form of online identity. While this trend fuels consumerism, it also provides creative inspiration and opportunities for self-expression.

Q6: Should schools or workplaces have dress codes?

Band 7:
I think schools and workplaces should have some kind of dress code. In schools, uniforms can create equality among students and reduce pressure to wear expensive clothes. In workplaces, dress codes make people look professional and show respect for the environment. However, dress codes shouldn’t be too strict. People should still feel comfortable and be able to express themselves a little. A balance is needed between professionalism and freedom.

Band 8:
In my opinion, schools and workplaces benefit from having reasonable dress codes. At schools, uniforms can prevent social comparisons and reduce bullying related to fashion. They also give students a sense of belonging. In workplaces, dress codes help maintain professionalism and ensure that employees present a respectable image, especially in client-facing roles. However, overly strict rules can limit personal freedom and creativity. For example, banning certain hairstyles or accessories might be unfair. Therefore, dress codes should focus on promoting equality, safety, and professionalism without completely restricting individuality. A flexible approach ensures both respect for the institution and personal comfort.

Q7: Do you think traditional clothing will disappear in the future?

Band 7:
I don’t think traditional clothing will completely disappear. Even though most people wear modern styles every day, traditional clothes are still important for weddings, festivals, and cultural events. They represent heritage and national identity. In some countries, people are even bringing back traditional fashion in modern designs. While globalization is strong, people still value their roots. So, traditional clothing may become less common in daily life, but it will always remain for special occasions.

Band 8:
I don’t believe traditional clothing will ever fully disappear, even with globalization. Although most people wear modern, Western-style outfits in daily life, traditional garments still carry deep cultural meaning. They are often worn on festivals, weddings, or national holidays as a way of preserving heritage. In fact, many designers are blending traditional fabrics and patterns with modern styles, giving cultural clothing a contemporary twist. This shows that rather than disappearing, traditional fashion is evolving. People also feel proud of showcasing their roots, especially in multicultural societies. Therefore, while traditional clothes may not dominate everyday life, they will continue to hold symbolic and emotional value in the future.

Q8: How important is comfort compared to style when choosing clothes?

Band 7:
I think comfort is more important than style for most people. Clothes are something we wear every day, so they should feel good on the body. If something looks stylish but is uncomfortable, people may not enjoy wearing it for long. However, some people put style first, especially for special occasions. Personally, I believe the best choice is when comfort and style go together. That way, people can feel good and look good at the same time.

Band 8:
For me, comfort should always come before style, but I recognize that both are important. Clothing is part of daily life, and if it is uncomfortable, it can negatively affect mood and productivity. For example, wearing very tight or heavy clothes may look fashionable but can cause discomfort throughout the day. At the same time, people don’t want to appear careless, so they also value style. The ideal solution is to find a balance, choosing outfits that reflect personal taste while still being practical and comfortable. In fact, many modern brands are focusing on combining comfort with stylish design, which shows how important both aspects have become in fashion.