BYUH students express how patterns can be expressions of culture, family and personal preferences
For Siaganoa Tupai, clothing patterns have been a bridge between cultures, a canvas for personal expression and a touchstone to her roots. Tupai, an alumna from Samoa who majored in anthropology and cultural sustainability, said, “I believe patterns tell a story. People use these patterns to express their status, values, and standards within their own society.”
She said as a Polynesian, symbols, motifs and designs carry historical and cultural weight for her. These patterns are then adapted and woven into modern designs, she explained. Wearing cultural patterns is a powerful connection to her Samoan heritage and is a source of pride, love and respect, Tupai said. She added these patterns must be safeguarded for future generations. According to Tupai, clothing patterns are not just fabric, but an embodiment of creativity and a way to present cultural identities to the global community.
Sister Alpha Harper, a service missionary from Canada who works at BYU–Hawaii’s Sewing Center, agreed, explaining that patterns are a recognition of who people are, where they are from and what they do.
While Harper said she does not have a cultural heritage that uses specific special or sacred patterns, she explained. “Working in the Sewing Center has helped me develop an appreciation for the many cultures and their way of identifying who they are and what they stand for by the clothes that they wear.” She explained for many cultures, there is a history behind the patterns that are intricately worked into the fabric.
Ofa Tahitua, a sophomore majoring in political science from Tonga, said the patterns from her Tongan heritage remind her of her grandmother. The patterns are more than just adornments, she said. Tahitua said they are cherished tokens of a familial bond that has spanned generations. Everyone should try wearing patterns because they can evoke memories and connect people to their cultural roots, she said. “They carry a legacy of culture, a thread that binds generations together.”
According to Kristy Brodien, a sophomore majoring in TESOL from Tahiti, patterns are a form of communication and provide her a means to respect her heritage. She said patterns allow her to pay homage to her ancestry and honor her cultural traditions.
Personal pattern preferences
Tupai said she has an affinity for floral patterns, which stems from a deep appreciation of nature’s beauty and elegance, she said. Tupai said she also finds herself drawn to trendy tie-dye patterns and is captivated by their vibrant hues.
Harper said, “I like smaller, colorful and more intricate prints than large Polynesian prints.” She said she found it really different to have so many colorful flowers and plants on clothing when she came to BYUH, but she has “come to appreciate the beauty in it.”
Brodien said some of her favorites are cultural patterns from her Tahitian heritage. “I think it represents the mixture between the Polynesian designs and the modern aspect of Tahitian clothing fashion,” she said. She explained the fusion of these designs and patterns sparked her interest in fashion.
Tahitua discussed the evolving nature of patterns in fashion. She said patterns remain relevant through a keen awareness of trends, customer preferences and cultural influences. “Fashion is a dynamic industry that continually evolves to offer fresh and exciting patterns to consumers,” she explained.
Choosing what to wear
While Tupai said she had limited exposure to the world of fashion while growing up in Samoa, her move to Hawaii ignited her interest in different styles and materials. “I buy from different online stores,” she said. “I love trying out different styles of clothing, not just Polynesian wear. I also love trying out modern patterns on clothing styles.”
Tupai said she leans toward budget-friendly options, and is fascinated by how new patterns can shape the designs of clothes. “Many people use pattern creation as an artistic outlet, weaving their stories and interests into their designs … I could see myself trying this as well,” she said.
Brodien said patterns are artistic designs that add uniqueness to clothing. “I think they make the outfits look interesting and give them a unique style. I really like patterns because they let me express myself through what I wear.” By carefully selecting designs and considering color combinations, Brodien said she crafts outfits that reflect her individuality. Her love for patterns and individuality comes from her mother, who she said is a gifted dressmaker. “[My mother] makes dresses for us using her personal creativity and Tahitian patterns,” she said.
Harper said her mother remade some of her clothing when she was young, as her family had a tight budget. She said she also often received hand-me-downs from her sisters. “I began to learn quite young what I did and didn’t like to wear, so I began to look at clothing a little differently,” she said. Harper shared her clothing choices saying, “I like to wear clothes that make me smile before I head out for the day.”