From stylistic capital to stylistic inequalities

Abstract

I introduce the concept of 'stylistic capital' and explore the consequences of 'stylistic inequality', or unequal exposure to, and acquisition of, this form of capital. If style is a resource for personal development, well-being, and success, how do we ensure access to equal stylistic skills? Alternatively, that idea could be challenged on progressive grounds: Why should individuals comply with mainstream conceptions of style? Should we accept limiting style to a factor of socio-economic competition? Ultimately, why should all social groups adhere to this model? Central to these questions related to stylistic inequality is the need to ensure un-hierarchical stylistic diversity. The acceptance of stylistic diversity as it relates to subcultures, idiosyncratic tastes, or geographies may alleviate some of the challenges of stylistic inequality by decentring norms. However, sustaining stylistic diversity throws up other challenges as it requires a drastic shift in design production at a reasonable cost to ensure stylistic representation.