The impacts of fashion and design on the contemporary society of Uganda.

Abstract

This study examined the impacts of fashion and design to the contemporary society of Uganda. The study was guided by the following objectives. 1. To find out how to improve on sales not only to new customers but also to long term clients 2. To find out how to anticipate consumer trends so as to enter in new markets internationally and locally 3. To discover hand's on experience in fashion designing using a set of complex technologies

The study used descriptive survey design with both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data was collected using questionnaires and interview guides. It was collected from different areas such as Kampala, Mbarara and Gulu. It was analyzed using frequency counts and percentages and content analysis for data obtained from unstructured interviews.

The findings showed that fashion and design has affected the society both positively and negatively. The majority 70% claim that it has impacted negatively. This is due to the fact that it has led moral decadence through production of miniskirts and tight pants, decline culture where by culture norms are nolonger followed among the youth. Then 30% are happy and contented with the current fashion in Uganda as it gives people the status elements, symbols that help them express themselves, and communicate who they are with the help of their clothes: displaying what their likes and beliefs are, dress people, protect them from inclement weather and environmental risks.

The study conclusions were made inline with objectives of the study. The study concluded that current fashion and design has impacted the contemporary society negatively on a larger extent and positively on a smaller extent. It was found out in the study that softwares would work better to improve hand's on experience to unskilled fashion designers. Fashion designers should not only favour people in Urbana areas by producing tight and miniskirt attires but also should start producing favouring people in rural who do vigorous work therefore prefer loose attire.