Inspired by The Rotund (the post is short and sweet, go read it!):

Can you identify what purpose clothing serves?

I can pick out a few, ranging from the positive to the potentially problematic:

• It keeps your body temperature well-regulated (whether warm or cold).
• It protects your skin from physical harm — scrapes/scratches, sunburn, contact with harmful substances…
• It prevents body discomfort. (Think bras, cups, braces/girdles for people with back problems, good supportive shoes, bottom wear that prevents ‘chub rub’ and so on.)
• It makes you feel good about your appearance.
• It sends a message to the people who see you wearing it.
• It identifies you as part of a group. (country music fans, Threadless frequenters, goth/nonconformist, high class professional, whatever.)
• It indicates level of formality. Clothes you wear to paint your house in, vs. clothes you wear to a job interview.
• It bestows a certain status. (GOB’s $3000 suit, COME ON!)
• It flatters and draws attention parts of your body you feel are attractive.
• It is aesthetically pleasing to you on its own. (The color or pattern, etc.)
• It is aesthetically pleasing to you when it is on you (not the “ideal” model). (The style, cut, shape, the color/pattern against your skin/hair/eyes, makeup, hairstyles, etc.)
• It gives you an outlet for your creativity. (You can combine different articles of clothing different ways, along with jewelry, headwear, eyewear, footwear…)
• It allows you to experiment in being a different person. (Trying on different styles, wearing costumes, etc.)

What would you add to this list?

When you are struggling with yourself, whether it’s your senior prom dress, or trying to wear a certain kind of clothing that isn’t comfortable for you, or whatever — try to think about this. What is my clothing SUPPOSED to do for me? It’s certainly not supposed to make me feel bad about myself, or to make me uncomfortable. With that in mind, why should I be wasting my time on this article of clothing, when I could be enjoying what I wear?

Leave your ideas on the subject in comments.