Written by Shardia O’Connor, Cultural Consultant
Shardia O'Connor is a mental well-being advocate and cultural consultant. She is best known for her hosting and writing skills, as well as her sense of "fashion." Shardia is the founder of her online media platform, Shades of Reality, and the owner of Thawadar Boutique LTD.
Thawadar Boutique transcends mere fashion; it embodies a transformative journey fuelled by a passion for elegance and artistry. Inspired by the rich cultural tapestry of the Middle East, I have crafted a premier haven where timeless sophistication unites with contemporary luxury, inviting every woman to embrace her unique grace and confidence.
Each piece in my collection reflects an unwavering commitment to excellence. From the elegant drape of an evening gown to the intricate details of a kaftan dress, my heart is woven into every design. I choose luxurious fabrics that combine comfort with style and work closely with talented artisans who share my dedication to superior artisanry. Each stitch narrates a story, honouring a legacy of artistry worthy of preservation and celebration.
Fashion serves as a powerful medium of self-expression, empowering every woman who wears Thawadar Boutique to feel regal, confident, and truly exceptional. Whether for a grand occasion, a cherished celebration, or to elevate everyday moments, my creations are designed to inspire a sense of extraordinary elegance.
Thawadar Boutique stands as a tribute to tradition while embracing the vibrancy of modern life. It reflects a commitment to honouring strength and femininity, emphasizing that true elegance is ageless.
When you wear Thawadar Boutique, you embrace not just a garment, but a narrative, a legacy, and a piece of my heart. Step into a world defined by grace, beauty, and enduring allure, thoughtfully crafted for you.
Identity plays a significant role in fashion and culture because it’s a way for individuals to express who they are, their beliefs, and where they come from. Fashion often reflects cultural history, social values, and personal experiences, helping people connect with their heritage and define their place in society.
In fashion, identity influences design choices, trends, and the way clothing is worn. For example, cultural symbols, traditional garments, or modern adaptations of these elements can create a sense of belonging or empowerment. Fashion also serves as a form of resistance or solidarity for marginalised groups, using clothing to challenge norms and push boundaries.
On a broader cultural level, fashion shapes how societies perceive individuals and how individuals navigate their identity within those societies. Clothing choices can communicate status, profession, and personal identity, making fashion a powerful tool for cultural expression and self-definition.
This brand is important to me and very close to my heart as I come from a sub-culture that promotes the sexualisation of women through clothing and entertainment, and I’ve always fought against the narratives that are played out in the media. Fashion and how we dress have long been a heated discussion amongst feminists. I do not consider myself to be a modern-day feminist. I don’t find wearing next to nothing empowering. I find it vulnerable and dangerous. As someone who has worked in the mental health sector, I know that these issues have a major effect on the development of young women. Studies have suggested that females who dress this way are seen as less competent, intelligent, determined, and capable. Furthermore, they also suggest that the “sexualised” girl is responsible for her clothing and is rated low in self-respect and morality (Graff, Murnen, and Smolak, 2012).
In recent years, the sexualisation of young girls, particularly preteens, has been a prominent topic in the media and public discourse. The sexualised performances and appearances of female celebrities have often been linked to girls being pushed into early sexuality due to the influence of these role models. However, despite these concerns, there is limited understanding of how pre-teen girls interpret and relate to sexualised media in terms of their own identity and their views on others (Jackson and Vares, 2015).
Read more from Shardia O’Connor
Shardia O’Connor, Cultural Consultant
Shardia O'Connor is an expert in her field of mental well-being. Her passion for creative expression was influenced by her early childhood. Born and raised in Birmingham, West Midlands, and coming from a disadvantaged background, Shardia's early life experiences built her character by teaching her empathy and compassion, which led her to a career in the social sciences. She is an award-winning columnist and the founder and host of her online media platform, Shades of Reality. Shardia is on a global mission to empower, encourage, and educate the masses!
Reference:
Graff, K, Murnen, S, K, Smolak, (2012) Too sexualised to be taken seriously? Perceptions of a girl in childlike versus sexualised clothing.
Jackson, S and Vares, T., (2015) Too many bad role models for us girls: Girls, female pop celebrities and sexualisation.
