W. David Marx Knihy

Look closely at any typically "American" article of clothing these days, and you may be surprised to see a Japanese label inside. From high-end denim to oxford button-downs, Japanese designers have taken the classic American look-known as ametora, or "American traditional"-and turned it into a huge business for companies like Uniqlo, Kamakura Shirts, Evisu, and Kapital. This phenomenon is part of a long dialogue between Japanese and American fashion; in fact, many of the basic items and traditions of the modern American wardrobe are alive and well today thanks to the stewardship of Japanese consumers and fashion cognoscenti, who ritualized and preserved these American styles during periods when they were out of vogue in their native land. In Ametora, cultural historian W. David Marx traces the Japanese assimilation of American fashion over the past hundred and fifty years, showing how Japanese trendsetters and entrepreneurs mimicked, adapted, imported, and ultimately perfected American style, dramatically reshaping not only Japan's culture but also our own in the process.

This examination delves into how individuals pursue social status and its impact on our culture. Contrary to common belief, status signaling is not merely a trait of the insecure; it is a fundamental human drive that shapes our behavior, preferences, purchases, and identities. It influences what we deem "cool" and drives trends in fashion, music, food, sports, slang, travel, hairstyles, and even pet choices. W. David Marx integrates insights from history, psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, and more to unveil the complexities of status. While previous explorations have touched on how status needs influence individual behavior, this work connects individual actions to the broader cultural landscape. Marx addresses three key questions: Why do people gravitate towards arbitrary behaviors that hold significant meaning? How do unique styles and conventions develop? Why do some behaviors persist while others fade? By answering these questions, the book offers fresh perspectives on the often perplexing nature of internet culture. It appeals to business professionals, students, aspiring artists, and anyone curious about the dynamics of popularity and social influence, empowering readers to better understand and navigate their own choices in relation to societal pressures.