Denim To Dyed Locks, 8 Surprising Fashion Items That North Koreans Can't Flaunt Due To Strict Rules

Add as a preferred source on Google

Fashion is considered to be a form of self-expression! But not when you are a North Korean. The nation has banned certain items or looks that seem normal elsewhere. The government ensures that it monitors and keeps track of what the citizens flaunt to showcase its ideological thoughts and purity.

Here's a look at some of the fashion choices prohibited in this isolated nation.

1. Denim

Denim jeans! Yes, you read that correctly! A piece of clothing that is considered a global staple is banned in North Korea. The government views it as a Western influence, especially American culture that can hamper the cultural sensibilities. Instead, citizens are encouraged to wear traditional outfits like hanbok or Chima Jeogori to celebrate the nation's values.

2. Dyed Hair

You can't sport funky hair colours as a North Korean. Reason? Dyed hair is thought to be a symbol of Westernized identity. Their government has even issued a list of appropriate hairdos for men and women that can match the nation's ideologies over dress code and conduct. Flaunting your natural hair colour is something greatly appreciated there!

3. Shorts

Yes, shorts are comfy and funky. But, North Koreans are discouraged from wearing these pants for their obvious "foreign" flair! North Korean folks are influenced to wear clothes that showcase modesty in certain ways. The longer the hemline of the pants and trousers is better!

4. Red Lipstick

There is nothing like bold red lips, right? The wearer gets a certain confidence, and edge and takes the outfit to the next level. we get it! But, North Koreans are deviated from flaunting red lipstick as it is considered too provocative. Natural, subdued lip colours are approved by the style authorities that showcase makeup as a silent element and not an attention-seeking thing!

5. Non-Creased Trousers

Non-creased trousers! Who would have thought it to be a subject of objection? North Korean regimen sees it as a reflection of self-obsession and nonconformity. The fashion dictators instead allow for creased trousers which mirror the formal and no-nonsense ideologies of North Korea as a nation!

6. Sleeveless Tops

North Korean women are not allowed to wear sleeveless tops anymore. Top wear with short, elbow-length and full sleeves are considered to be more appropriate to showcase the cultural preservation and Asian identity. Covering your arms in public is the bizarre yet new normal fashion norm over there!

7. Long Hair Beyond Waist

Long hair that reaches beyond the waist is often termed as the pinnacle of beauty. But North Korean fashion rulers see it as non-sensible. It sorts of contradicts the whole notion of "abiding by rules" over projecting "self-identity". The government shares certain prescribed hairdos and really long hair is not on their list!

8. Tees With Foreign Text

T-shirts with foreign words or quotes are the most common fashion code across the globe. But North Korean nation heads think otherwise. For them, it destroys their cultural pride and ideology. So, the citizens are mostly influenced to wear or display the Korean language as a design or print. It apparently mirrors the love for your nation!

With these mindboggling yet real fashion norms, one thing is certain, the North Korean government wish to crush individuality and promote conformity. The ban on these common fashion elements showcases the authorities' apprehension towards accepting Western influence and promoting a nation that abides by certain rules, whether the citizens agree to it or not!

Images: Instagram