Fashioning Brazil: Globalization And The Representation Of Brazilian Dress In National Geographic, Elizabeth Kutesko

Fashioning Brazil offers a nuanced examination of how Brazilian dress has been represented in National Geographic and its Portuguese-language counterpart, National Geographic Brasil. Elizabeth Kutesko delves into the magazine’s portrayal of Brazilian attire, highlighting the complexities and contradictions in its depiction of indigenous and contemporary fashion. The book explores how these representations reflect broader themes of identity, colonialism, and globalisation, challenging readers to reconsider the narratives constructed through visual media.

Through a series of case studies, Kutesko traces the evolution of these portrayals, from early depictions of indigenous clothing to more recent representations of urban fashion. She critically assesses the magazine’s role in shaping perceptions of Brazil, offering insights into the interplay between media, culture, and fashion. This work serves as a compelling resource for understanding the power of visual representation in constructing national identities.

About the Author
Elizabeth Kutesko is a Lecturer in Fashion History and Theory at Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London. Her research focuses on the intersections of fashion, media, and identity, with a particular interest in how dress is represented in global publications. Kutesko’s work critically engages with the ways in which fashion narratives are constructed and disseminated, contributing to broader discussions on cultural representation and globalisation.

Publication date: 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Pages: 216
ISBN:  9781350159488