Who is Richard T. Ford, and why should you care? As a renowned law professor and thought leader, Ford challenges the way we think about identity and social norms. In his book Dress Codes, he dives deep into how what we wear isn’t just fashion—it’s a statement, a symbol, and sometimes, a battleground for societal power and control.
Fashion isn’t just about looking good—it’s about making a statement. In a world that celebrates individualism, what we wear sends powerful messages about who we are and what we stand for. But there’s more at play. From school uniforms to courtroom dress codes, the state often steps in to control how we present ourselves. In this video, we’ll explore the delicate balance between self-expression and the power of authority.
Fashion can seem a little silly at times—trends come and go, and what’s “in” one season feels outdated the next. But beneath the surface, fashion is deeply tied to identity. We constantly borrow styles from different cultures, eras, and even social movements, creating a blend that shapes who we are. This constant evolution mirrors the fluid nature of identity itself.
Worn by millions of Muslim women around the world, the hijab represents for many modesty and devotion, yet its meaning is often debated in political and social circles, as well as within muslim communities themselves. From personal choice to state-enforced rules, the hijab sits at the intersection of individual rights and societal norms.
Women’s dress codes have long been about more than just style—they often serve to uphold traditional values and ensure societal continuity in a patriarchal society. Clothing choices, from modest attire to feminine signals, have historically been tied to a woman’s reproductive role and place in society. But as the fight for gender equality continues, the question remains: how much of women’s fashion is about personal expression versus societal control?
These video vignettes are taken from the Persons and Family Law course taught by Professor Pascale Fournier, offered to J.D. holders as part of the National Program of Civil Law in English at the Civil Law Section of the Faculty of Law, University of Ottawa.
