If anything, I’ve become less fashionable after moving to Jordan, mainly because I can’t afford it anymore. But one thing surprised me (and upset me at the same time); it’s the lack of colour in clothes shops here. And I’m saying this even though I’m the classic kind of girls, who’s very black and whity (and maroony when I’m feeling festive…)
I’m sure that most of you don’t notice it, but you need to leave the country, go shopping somewhere else and then come back, and you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about. It’s sort of depressive. I remember when I first came to Jordan and my consumer behavior’s professor made sarcastic comments about Jordanians being very conservative, pointing out that it’s why we still go for dark colors while our neighbors the Syrian and Lebanese indulge in lots of bright, pretty colors. Back then, I thought to myself, yea that must be it, conservatism, but now I seriously doubt it. I mean, Ammani girls dare to wear golden and silver, potentially blinding clothes and accessories (with matching hair may I add). So why not wear normal, eyes-safe, nice colors such as green, olive-green, yellow, orange, purple, teal, turquoise…etc. why not wear different colourful fabrics instead of one colour pieces?
I’m sure we don’t lack the knowledge of what’s in, but I think that many haven’t yet developed a sense of individuality and uniqueness when it comes to clothes. Otherwise, it won’t seem like at least 75% of Amman go shopping at the same couple of shops in Mecca Mall (or Swaifeyye).I’m afraid I can’t even say that they check out the entire mall.
Does it matter? not really. It’s the least of our problems I guess. I just think it’s blog-worthy.
Here’s a fun fashion quiz from Blogthings. This is what I got:
Your Fashion Style is Classic
You like what’s stood the test of time…
Simple, well styled clothes that don’t scream trendy
You stay updated and modern, but your clothes stay in style for a while
You wouldn’t be caught in animal prints, fake fur, or super bright colors
Popularity: 33% [?]
I think this post is VERY interesting. I used to work in an upper-end American boutique and I think fashion and the wardrobe choices people make tells alot about a society.
I would definately agree with you about the sense of individuality and uniqueness not being developed amongst the ammani crowd and that’s because Amman is a fast-changing society. I actually haven’t been to jordan in about 7 years but all my friends who’ve visited this summer say amman is very different than what it was 10 years, and even 5 years ago in terms of ‘modernity’ (for lack of a better word). This doesn’t give people enough time to develop their unique style because with all the new stores, malls, and hangout spots they’re just trying to stay caught up!
Also, another things to consider is money. When finances are limited you have less freedom to be a little risky and daring with your wardrobe (such as adding color). I wear black pants every week and sometimes twice a week (noone will notice), but I wear my pink pants like once every 2 months (and everyone probably will still remember them); therefore, when I’m not working I’m probably not going to be buying a patterned shirt over a plain white button down shirt because I’m not going to get nearly as much use from it.
From what I remember, decent shopping in amman was not cheap and the salaries just don’t match plus jobs just aren’t available for everyone. I worked through most of college and I think I can safely say every one of my friends had at least one job at some point while in college. It didn’t have to do with being rich or poor because that money was our “fun money” and it gave us a sense of financial freedom. I don’t believe many people in college work in Jordan and even if your parents do have money not making your own money definately puts a limit on your spending and thus you’ll be purchasing lots of blacks and grays!
Ana wee-yaaki, ya Shaden. I’m a classic too, only in taupe and black. I don’t shop here either.
Asma had an interesting take on the situation.
The problem is not only with colors, it’s also when you are forced to wear the same style all Jordanians are wearing, when you are forced to buy something that doesn’t suit you, simple because there are other options. This really frustrates me.
ok this is unrelated to your post but I just started a blog and put in my first post, check it out!
Asma, I partially agree with you but if people are buying expensive clothes either way (I know many people who can afford it) they might as well be a little brighter. Thank you so much for your input! And congrats on your new blog!! I’ll definitely check it out
Kinzi, thanks for the comment dear.
Mais, yea you’re so right! this bothers me too. And I don’t think it’s caused by a low purchasing power of the Jordanian customer.