Authors:

Muhammad Fawad Noori

Assistant Professor
Department of Fashion Design
School of Art and Design

Fashion, Food & Face – A Dynamic Exploration of Identity, Culture, and Sustainability

Introduction

Fashion, Food, and Face (F3) are pillars that define lifestyle, culture, and identity, shaping the way we perceive and engage with the world. Superior University’s Research Week provided a platform for a rich panel discussion on F3, guided by moderator Zeeshan Ali Adnan. This enlightening event brought together experts who delved into how these domains are interwoven, promoting conscious and sustainable choices in an evolving global landscape.

Fashion, Food & Face – A Dynamic Exploration of Identity, Culture, and Sustainability

Key Points

1. Fashion: Beyond Clothing

 ● Expression of Identity and Culture: Aleena Qadeer shared how fashion is a vital form of self-expression, reflecting cultural heritage and identity. It goes beyond aesthetic appeal, empowering individuals and building confidence.

 

● Sustainable Fashion Choices: Emphasizing the environmental impact, Aleena discussed the growing use of eco-conscious materials like organic and recycled fabrics in fashion, highlighting how durability and ethical production minimize waste.

 

● Fashion’s Social Influence: Fashion trends impact global economies and influence social movements, including sustainability and ethical labour practices.

2. Food: Beyond Nourishment

 Cultural and Emotional Bonding: Maryum Sohaib described food as a powerful connector, building bridges across cultures and generations. It carries stories, evokes memories, and offers emotional warmth.

 

● Sustainable Eating Practices: Discussing eco-friendly food practices, Maryum highlighted the importance of seasonal and local ingredients in reducing carbon footprints and supporting responsible agriculture.

 

● Lifestyle and Health: Aligning dining habits with personal energy needs, she explained how profiling can personalize diets for holistic health and wellness.

3. Face: More Than Looks

 Identity and Emotional Reflection: Dr. Usman Sana discussed how facial expressions convey feelings and connect people. The face is a mirror of emotions, serving as a cultural and personal identifier.

 

 ● Eco-Friendly Self-Care: Sustainable beauty, according to Dr. Sana, is about embracing natural diversity and minimalistic routines, which help reduce waste and focus on eco-friendly, personalized products.

4. Photography and Cultural Preservation

 Visual Storytelling: Sami Yazdani elaborated on photography’s role as an art form that captures the essence of fashion, food, and face, preserving cultural narratives and sparking sustainable awareness.

 

 ● Encouraging Sustainable Lifestyles: Through imagery that highlights the beauty of eco-conscious choices, Sami stressed the impact of visual storytelling on inspiring responsible consumer behaviours.

5. Cultural Influences on Lifestyle Choices

 Cultural Evolution and Influence: Rabiya Saleem discussed culture as a dynamic force that shapes our choices, influencing how individuals connect with fashion, food, and face. Cultural interactions foster appreciation and help sustain traditional practices.

 

 ● Sustainability in Culture: Through utilizing local resources and maintaining traditional methods, cultural choices can support sustainability while preserving heritage and identity.

Personal Experience

Witnessing this engaging discussion during Research Week was profoundly impactful. The experts’ insights challenged me to think more deeply about how each choice we make in fashion, food, or beauty affects both our personal lives and the environment. It was a reminder of the collective responsibility we hold in crafting a sustainable future.

Conclusion

Fashion, Food, and Face are intertwined in shaping identity, culture, and sustainability. This panel at Superior University’s Research Week underscored the importance of making intentional, sustainable choices within each domain. As we embrace these elements thoughtfully, we contribute to a healthier, more connected world. Let’s continue exploring sustainable lifestyle choices, recognizing the influence of F3 on our lives and the global community.