71666 - Sociology of Fashion

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course the student is expected to acquire the basic information on the evolution of fashion from the distinctive practice of the European bourgeois class to a medium of mass communication. The course explores the different social, cultural, economic and political meanings associated with fashion.

Course contents

The first part is dedicated to presenting the theoretical frameworks used to study the phenomenon of fashion, focusing on the transition from cultural studies to fashion studies. Within this framework, critical perspectives are explored to better understand the social dimensions of fashion—such as gender, racialization processes, and ableism—as well as the transformations of the fashion system in relation to globalization.

The second part focuses on the in-depth analysis of current, relevant topics. Particular attention will be given to critical reflection on the relationship between fashion and social inclusion, fashion and sustainability, and fashion and social media.

Readings/Bibliography

Please note that the exam bibliography is subject to change until the beginning of the course.

Readings/Bibliography

1. Segre-Reinach (2010) , La moda. Un'introduzione, Laterza: Roma-Bari

2. Calefato P. (2021), La moda e il corpo. Teorie, concetti, prospettive critiche, Carocci editore,Roma

Two additional articles or book chapters of your choice from those that will be made available online. During the course, a selection of articles or chapters will be provided for students to choose from.

Teaching methods

Lectures with the use of digital supports (slides, video and audio documents). Discussion of empirical cases based on documents and readings provided in class. Active participation and contribution to collective discussion are strongly encouraged.

Seminar activities may include the intervention of experts and professionals in the field.

Assessment methods

The final exam consists of an oral examination

For attending students: a multimedia presentation (PowerPoint, etc.) based on the required readings and the two selected texts, focusing on a topic covered during the lectures or one that was the subject of debate or presented by guest speakers.

For non-attending students: a traditional oral exam, with questions covering all the required texts listed in the bibliography, as well as the texts related to one of the two thematic topic

The student's ability to critically elaborate and argue points, as well as to connect theoretical content with the practices and case studies presented, will be positively assessed.

Attendance and active participation in class discussions will also be valued, as they represent important opportunities for engagement with the topics covered.

Students with SLD or temporary or permanent disabilities. It is necessary to contact the University office in charge [https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en] with enough time in advance: the office will propose some adjustments, which must in any case be submitted 15 days in advance to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of these in relation to the teaching objectives.

Teaching tools

PC, internet, PowerPoint, audio and video documentary material, possible contributions from external parties. All materials will be made available on the virtual platform

Office hours

See the website of Teresa Carlone