Religious and Spiritual Themes in Fashion

For centuries, spiritual symbols and themes have inspired the creation and display of art. So it comes as no surprise to Joanne Sunnarborg, owner of Desperado Couture in Bend Oregon’s Old Mill District, that many spiritual and religious symbols have become more prominent (and accepted) within the fashion world.

“Symbols of one’s spiritual beliefs have stood the test of time throughout the world and within the art community,” Sunnarborg said. “Now the fashion world is paying homage to these very symbols.”

Today, from Madison Avenue to the Old Mill District, it’s common to fInd both clothing and accessories embellished with such symbols as crosses, angel wings, rosaries, the depiction of saints, and the trendy-though-spiritual peace sign.

And while this ultimate display of wearing one’s heart on her sleeve may transcend certain styles, Sunnarborg sees it as more a tradition within the Western style of clothing.

“Because the Western lifestyle is so eclectic, it often incorporates elements of Mexican, Spanish and Native American cultures,” she said. “These cultures are steeped in spiritual and religious tradition, and that’s often depicted within their clothing and accessories.”

From jewelry, belts and hats to embellishments on jackets and blue jeans, the means for spiritual expression are many within the world of style and fashion. It’s less a trend, says Sunnarborg, than a timeless expression of the heart and mind.

“Fashions today allow people to express themselves in many different ways,” she said. “This gives people the ability to refl ect their own personal beliefs in a way that’s both attractive and artistic. Many of these symbols have meanings that are universal within specific religious circles, but often people find their own, more personal meanings through the display of these symbols.”

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