Reclaiming Threads: My Journey of Decolonizing Femininity and Embracing Indigenous Roots
In the tapestry of my life, each thread woven represents a journey towards self-discovery and authenticity. Central to this odyssey has been the process of decolonising my understanding of femininity and reclaiming the indigenous beauty standards rooted in my West Highland culture. Unlike many societies steeped in patriarchy, the West Highlands’ unique gender dynamics offer a glimpse into a world where roles and expectations are not rigidly defined by sex. This cultural backdrop has profoundly shaped my perspective on womanhood, challenging me over the years to rethink and reshape my identity outside the mainstream norms.
A pivotal moment in this journey occurred as I stood before a mirror, draped in the standard, mass-produced garments that dominate our high streets. In that reflection, I saw not myself but a costume of conformity, a spectre of the capitalist forces that seek to commodify and homogenise our identities. I wasn’t wearing what I wanted to wear, but what was available for a body of my size. It was then that I decided to reject these mainstream fashion dictates, choosing instead to embrace the rich heritage of my ancestors. This act of defiance was not just about aesthetics but a deeper rebellion against the erasure of cultural diversity and the imposition of narrow, often patriarchal, standards of beauty.
Understanding the more egalitarian nature of my West Highland roots has been transformative. It has allowed me to appreciate a version of femininity that is fluid and strong, intertwined with the land and lore of my ancestors, and reflective of a community where power and beauty are not confined by male-dominated strictures. In the West Highlands, women have traditionally held significant roles in both family and public life, with matrilineal inheritance patterns and a respect for female wisdom and leadership. These cultural mores stand in stark contrast to the subjugation and silencing of women’s voices that has characterised much of Western history.
Reconnecting with this heritage has not only enriched my personal narrative but has also ignited a desire to share and expand this perspective with others. By crafting my own clothing, incorporating traditional motifs and methods, I aim to visibly celebrate the gender-egalitarian ethos of the West Highlands. Each stitch becomes a small act of resistance against the tides of cultural erasure, a tangible way to assert the value and validity of indigenous ways of being.
Moreover, this practice of handmaking garments allows me to disentangle my expression of femininity from the exploitative and environmentally degrading practices of the fast fashion industry. By opting out of this cycle of consumption and waste, I wish to reclaim agency over my identity and values, aligning my outward presentation with my inner convictions.
As I continue on this path of cultural reclamation, I am heartened by the stories of others who are embarking on similar journeys. Together, we are part of a growing movement to redefine beauty and womanhood on our own terms, drawing strength from the diverse traditions of our ancestors. By amplifying voices and experiences that have long been marginalised, we challenge the dominance of patriarchal and colonialist narratives.
Ultimately, my hope is that by sharing this story today, I can contribute to a broader conversation about the importance of cultural diversity and the dangers of imposing monolithic standards of gender and beauty. In a world that often seeks to erase and assimilate, asserting the value of indigenous perspectives is a radical act. As we work to dismantle the legacy of colonialism and patriarchy, we must make space for a multiplicity of ways of being and expressing ourselves.
In reclaiming the threads of my West Highland heritage, I weave a new narrative of femininity – one that is resilient, rooted, and radically authentic. It is a vision of a future where we can all celebrate the full tapestry of our identities, embracing the beautiful diversity of human experience. With each stitch, each story shared, we move closer to this more just and inclusive world.
The Unique Gender Dynamics of West Highland Culture
The West Highland culture of Scotland offers a distinctive lens through which to view gender dynamics, standing in stark contrast to the patriarchal underpinnings prevalent in much of Western history. Traditionally, this culture did not strictly adhere to the rigid patriarchal norms that characterised many other societies. Instead, it embraced a more fluid and egalitarian approach to gender roles, often blurring the lines of gendered expectations in ways that were both practical and respectful of individual capabilities.
Historically, the kinship / clan system, which was central to West Highland society, operated on principles that occasionally lent themselves to matrilineal practices. Leadership and inheritance could, in certain circumstances, pass through the female line, acknowledging women’s crucial roles in maintaining and managing familial and communal resources. Women in the West Highlands were often seen as integral to the kinship’s survival, involved in decision-making processes and, during times of conflict, acting as fierce protectors of their homes and families. This involvement was not merely by necessity but was a recognised and respected aspect of their societal roles.
Men, on the other hand, whilst often engaged in external affairs and physical confrontations, also shared in domestic and community duties, which further illustrates the non-binary nature of social roles in traditional Highland society. Such fluidity was a practical adaptation to the harsh and demanding environment in which they lived, where survival necessitated a versatile and cooperative community dynamic.
In many ways, the West Highlands’ approach to gender roles was a reflection of the rugged yet beautiful landscape that shaped their lives. The craggy mountains, misty glens, and turbulent seas demanded a resilience and adaptability from all members of society, regardless of gender. Women and men alike were expected to possess both strength and tenderness, to be capable of both hard labour and nurturing care. This duality is reflected in the Gaelic language itself, where words often have multiple, layered meanings that defy simple categorisation.
As I delve deeper into my West Highland heritage for strength during my transition, I find a rich tapestry of stories and traditions that challenge the notion of gender as a fixed binary. From the tales of warrior queens and wise crones to the everyday realities of shared labour and communal decision-making, these narratives paint a picture of a society that valued the contributions of all its members, regardless of their sex.
Reflecting on these aspects of West Highland culture has profoundly influenced my understanding of gender and femininity. It has allowed me to perceive femininity not as a set of restrictive traits or roles but as a spectrum of qualities that are valuable and respected across genders. This historical perspective challenges the conventional narrative of gender roles and highlights the richness and complexity of non-patriarchal societies. In reclaiming this heritage, I find a powerful affirmation of my identity, one that celebrates strength and softness, resilience and nurturing, as inherent to the feminine experience.
Moreover, this understanding provides a foundation for envisioning a future where gender is not a source of oppression or limitation but a fluid and multifaceted aspect of our humanity. By looking to the wisdom of our ancestors, we can find models for creating a society that values diversity, respects individual autonomy, and celebrates the full spectrum of human experience.
As I continue to explore and integrate this perspective into my life and work, I am reminded of the importance of cultural preservation and revitalisation. In a world that often seeks to erase or homogenise indigenous ways of being, reclaiming and sharing these stories becomes an act of resistance and resilience. By honouring the gender-egalitarian traditions of the West Highlands, we not only enrich our understanding of the past but also expand our possibilities for the future.
The Colonisation of Femininity and Beauty
The imposition of Western colonisation on the West Highlands not only reshaped the landscape but also deeply influenced the cultural fabric, particularly in the realm of beauty and femininity. As with many colonised regions, the indigenous beauty ideals that flourished in the West Highlands were often overshadowed by the imported standards that valorised patriarchal norms. These foreign ideals were not merely different; they were part of a larger strategy to assert control by diminishing the value of local traditions and aesthetics.
In the West Highlands, traditional adornments and styles that celebrated a more holistic and community-oriented view of beauty were gradually replaced by those that emphasised individualism and alignment with European standards. This shift was not innocuous; it was a deliberate effort to undermine the existing social structures and replace them with those that reinforced the colonial hierarchy. By altering the perception of what was considered beautiful, colonisers effectively weakened the cultural confidence and identity of the indigenous population.
One particularly striking example of this cultural erosion can be seen in the changing attitudes towards women’s hair. In pre-colonial Highland society, women’s hair was often worn loose or in intricate braids, adorned with natural elements like flowers, leaves, and shells. These styles were not merely decorative but also held deep symbolic meaning, often signifying a woman’s kinship affiliation, marital status, or role within the community. The freedom and diversity of these hairstyles were a reflection of the autonomy and individuality that Highland women possessed.
However, as colonial influences took hold, these traditional hairstyles were increasingly viewed as “wild” or “uncivilised,” and women were pressured to conform to more constrained and uniform styles that mimicked European fashions. This shift was not just about aesthetics; it was a symbolic suppression of women’s agency and a way of enforcing gender norms that were more in line with patriarchal values.
Capitalism played a significant role in cementing these new beauty standards. As the economic system was spread across Scotland, it brought with it a commercialisation of beauty, where once-diverse and culturally specific ideals were standardised to fit a more universal and marketable image. This standardisation not only homogenised beauty but also turned it into a commodity, something to be bought and sold, rather than a natural expression of cultural identity. The traditional crafts and adornments of the Highlands, rich in history and meaning, were sidelined in favour of mass-produced goods that eroded the uniqueness of local cultures.
The rise of the textile industry in the 18th and 19th centuries, for example, saw the replacement of traditional Highland dress with more “refined” and “modest” styles that were deemed appropriate for women under the new social order. The vibrant tartans and intricate embroideries that once spoke to the skill and creativity of the Highlanders were replaced by muted, factory-made fabrics that bore little connection to the land and the people who had created them.
The consequences of these changes were profound, leading to a cultural loss that has been felt for generations. The erasure of indigenous beauty practices was not just a matter of changing tastes but a fundamental disruption of the way that Highland society understood and expressed itself. It was a severing of the deep connections between identity, community, and the natural world that had sustained the Highlands for centuries.
The need for cultural revival is therefore not just about reclaiming lost beauty standards but about restoring a sense of identity and pride in a heritage that was systematically devalued. As we move forward, reconnecting with and revitalising these indigenous ideals is not only an act of recovery but also a declaration of resistance against the continuing impacts of colonial and capitalist influences on our perceptions of beauty and worth.
In my own journey of decolonising my understanding of femininity, I have found great power and inspiration in the beauty traditions of my Highland ancestors. By learning about and incorporating these practices into my life, I am not only honouring my heritage but also challenging the narrow and oppressive standards that have been imposed on women for far too long. In the future, when my hair grows out fully, each time I braid my hair in a traditional style or adorn myself with natural elements, I know that I will feel a sense of connection to the generations of strong, creative, and resilient women who came before me.
As such, reclaiming indigenous beauty ideals is about more than just personal expression; it is a way of asserting the value and validity of cultures that have been marginalised and suppressed. By celebrating the diversity and richness of these traditions, we not only enrich our own lives but also contribute to a larger movement of cultural revitalisation and resistance. In embracing the beauty of my Highland heritage, I am not only finding my own sense of empowerment but also joining in the fight to create a world where all cultures are valued and respected.
My Rebellion Through Bespoke Handmade Clothing
My decision to create my own clothing emerged not merely as a choice dictated by my sheer size and proportions, but as a necessity born from a deep desire to resist the capitalist and patriarchal influences pervasive in the fashion industry. This act of rebellion is both personal and political, serving as a tangible reclamation of my identity and heritage. By weaving the threads of my West Highland roots into each garment, I am not only crafting clothing but also reconstructing a narrative stripped away by colonisation and commercialisation.
What makes this journey even more profound and meaningful is that I am embarking on it alongside my adult autistic daughter. As we work together to design and craft these garments, we are not only strengthening our already strong bond but also creating a legacy of cultural pride and empowerment that will extend far beyond our own lifetimes. It is a powerful thing to witness my daughter embracing her heritage and using her creativity to challenge the status quo. Together, we are becoming not just makers of clothing but weavers of a new narrative, one that celebrates the resilience and beauty of our ancestral traditions.
In each piece we will create, we strive to incorporate elements that echo the egalitarian and rich cultural tapestry of the West Highlands. This includes using traditional motifs that have been passed down through generations, which carry meanings of community, resilience, and connection to the land. These symbols serve as a stark contrast to the often meaningless, trend-driven designs promoted by the mainstream fashion industry. Additionally, we will employ methods that reflect the historical craftsmanship of our ancestors, such as natural dyeing techniques and hand-sewing, which not only preserve these skills but also imbue the garments with a personal touch that mass production can never replicate.
Sustainability is another cornerstone of our approach to clothing creation. Unlike the fashion industry, which is notorious for its wasteful practices and ethical oversights, our method will emphasise minimal environmental impact. We will prioritise materials that are either locally sourced or recycled, reducing the carbon footprint associated with our creations. Furthermore, by choosing to handcraft our garments, we avoid contributing to the exploitative labour practices that are unfortunately all too common in global apparel manufacturing.
As word of our unique, heritage-inspired clothing spreads, we are finding that more and more people are drawn to the idea of a bespoke wardrobe that tells a story. What began as a personal act of rebellion may slowly growing into a sustainable business, one that allows us to share our passion with others whilst also providing a livelihood for my daughter. It is a dream come true to imagine a future where my daughter can carry on this work, creating clothing that not only makes people feel beautiful but also connects them to a rich cultural heritage.
This practice of making our own clothes is more than just a form of artistic expression; it is a statement of defiance against an industry that often overlooks ethical considerations for profit. It challenges the unsustainable pace of fast fashion and proposes a model where clothing is valued not just for its aesthetic appeal but for its ethical and cultural significance. Through this rebellion, we not only preserve and celebrate our heritage but also advocate for a more ethical and thoughtful approach to fashion that honours both people and the planet.
Moreover, by involving my daughter in this process, I am passing down not just practical skills but also a set of values and a sense of purpose. I am teaching her that her voice and her choices matter, that she has the power to shape the world around her through her creativity and her convictions. As we stitch our stories into every seam, we are not just making clothes but building a legacy of empowerment and cultural pride that will endure long after we are gone.
In a world that often feels dominated by the forces of greed and conformity, this act of creating clothing on our own terms feels like a radical reclamation of our autonomy and our identity. It is a way of asserting that we will not be defined by the narrow standards of beauty and worth imposed by others, but rather by the rich and complex tapestry of our own cultural heritage. As my daughter and I continue on this journey together, I am filled with hope and excitement for the future we are stitching into being, one garment at a time.
Empowerment and Vision for the Future
The personal transformation I envision experiencing through the act of creating my own clothes will be both liberating and empowering. This journey will not only allow me to reclaim a sense of identity and autonomy over my appearance but also serve as a platform to challenge and redefine the conventional gender roles and beauty standards that have long dominated our society. In doing so, I hope to find a profound sense of empowerment in embodying the values and traditions of my West Highland heritage, where gender roles were more fluid and less dictated by patriarchal norms.
A key aspect of this empowerment will be the emphasis on durability and longevity in the clothing my daughter and I will create. In a world dominated by fast fashion, where clothing is often treated as disposable and quickly discarded, our bespoke line will stand as an act of resistance. We will carefully select high-quality, sustainable materials and construct each garment with care and attention to detail, ensuring that they will stand the test of time. This will not only reduce the environmental impact of our clothing but also challenge the consumerist notion that fashion should be mass produced, cheap, trendy, and easily replaced.
The durability of our clothing will not just be a practical consideration but also a symbolic one. By creating garments that are meant to last, we will be making a statement about the value we place on our heritage, our craftsmanship, and our future customers. We will reject the exploitative practices of fast fashion, which not only harm the environment but also the communities that are forced to bear the brunt of its consequences. The fact that entire cities in Africa have become dumping grounds for the West’s discarded clothing is a stark reminder of the human cost of this unsustainable industry.
In contrast, our approach to fashion will prioritise the wellbeing of both people and planet. We will see our clothing not just as products but as expressions of our values and our commitment to a more just and sustainable world. By investing in the durability of our garments, we will also be investing in the resilience of our communities and the preservation of our cultural heritage.
As my daughter and I lay the groundwork for this venture, we are already starting to see the potential impact of our personal rebellion. We have begun to share our vision with others in our community, and the response has been encouraging. People are excited about the prospect of clothing that not only looks beautiful but also tells a story and stands for something greater than itself. We believe that as we continue to develop our skills and our brand, we will inspire others to question and challenge the rigid norms they encounter, just as we are doing ourselves.
Looking forward, our vision is for this movement of reclaiming and redefining beauty standards to expand, fostering a broader cultural and personal empowerment. We hope to see a world where beauty is recognised as diverse and deeply personal, free from the constraints of commercialised and colonised standards. By drawing on the unique contributions of less patriarchal societies like the West Highlands, we can offer alternative models of beauty and power that celebrate inclusivity and respect for heritage.
This vision includes not only making and wearing clothing that reflects my cultural identity but also supporting others in discovering and embracing their own. It involves building networks of like-minded individuals who share a commitment to ethical fashion, cultural preservation, and gender inclusivity. Together, we can create a sustainable, empowering future that honours our past while forging new paths forward.
Thus, the act of creating durable, heritage-inspired clothing will be about more than just personal expression; it will be about building a new paradigm for fashion, one that values craftsmanship, sustainability, and cultural diversity over the relentless pursuit of profit. By wearing our values on our sleeves, literally and figuratively, we will not only be reclaiming our own identities but also contributing to a larger movement of resistance and change. As my daughter and I prepare to stitch our stories into every garment, we do so with the hope that our small acts of rebellion will help to create a world where beauty is celebrated in all its rich and varied forms, and where the true cost of fashion is measured not just in pounds and pence but in the wellbeing of people and the planet. This journey is just beginning, but we are excited to see where it will lead us and the impact it will have on ourselves and others.
Final thoughts …
As I embark on my journey of decolonising femininity and reclaiming the indigenous beauty standards of the West Highlands, I am filled with anticipation for the transformative power of personal rebellion. This path will not only reshape my own expression of femininity but will also allow me to rediscover and honour the deeply egalitarian and culturally rich traditions of my ancestors. Through the simple yet profound act of creating my own clothes, I will challenge the commercial and patriarchal norms that have long dictated my perception of beauty and identity.
My daughter and I are just beginning to lay the groundwork for this venture, but already we can sense the potential for profound personal and cultural impact. As we research traditional motifs, source sustainable materials, and sketch out our first designs, we are filled with a sense of purpose and excitement. We know that each garment we create will not only be a functional piece of clothing but also a tangible expression of our values and our heritage.
As we move forward with this project, I encourage each reader to explore their own cultural heritage and consider how historical gender dynamics have influenced their personal identities. There is immense power in understanding and embracing the diverse beauty standards that our ancestors held, many of which have been overshadowed by modern, commercialised aesthetics.
I invite you to join me on this journey of self-discovery and cultural reclamation. Whether it’s through researching your family history, experimenting with traditional clothing styles, or simply engaging in conversations about the impact of colonialism on beauty standards, every small action contributes to a larger movement of change.
Together, let us envision a future where these diverse expressions of beauty are not just recognised but celebrated, a future where we are no longer bound by the constraints of commercialisation and patriarchal norms. By reclaiming our cultural legacies and challenging the status quo, we can forge a world that values authenticity and inclusivity in all its forms—a world where every thread of our identity is woven with respect and reverence for the past.
As my daughter and I take our first steps on this path, we do so with the knowledge that we are part of a growing community of individuals who are committed to creating a more just and equitable fashion industry. We know that the road ahead will not always be easy, but we are sustained by the conviction that our actions, however small, have the power to create ripples of change.
So let us move forward together, stitching our stories and our values into every garment we create. Let us use fashion as a tool for empowerment, a means of reclaiming our identities and celebrating the rich tapestry of human diversity. And let us never forget the power of personal rebellion to transform not only ourselves but the world around us.
This journey is just beginning, but I can already feel the threads of change weaving together, creating a new pattern for the future. I hope that you will join me in this tapestry, adding your own unique voice and vision to the collective story we are telling. Together, we can create a world where beauty is not a prescription but a celebration, where every person’s identity is valued and cherished, and where fashion is a force for good in the world.