Identifier

etd-07052016-102537

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Textiles, Apparel and Merchandising Design

Document Type

Dissertation

Abstract

The purpose of the research was to understand women’s motivations for wearing inconspicuous fan dress (IFD) within various settings and social contexts, and to explore how IFD contributes to fans’ social and personal identities and personal distinctiveness. Prior to this research, there was one study conducted on fan dress (Shipley, 2010). Previous researchers studied fan cultures using the concept of brand community, but did so within limited social contexts (Kozinets, 2001; Muniz & O’Guinn, 2001; Schau, Muniz, & Arnould, 2009; Shipley, 2010; Thompson, 2009). Other researchers focused on costume relating to fandom rather than everyday forms of fan dress (Chen 2007; Mishou, 2015; Schau et al., 2009; Taylor, 2009). A qualitative research design was selected due to the exploratory nature of this topic. Thirty-three online and in-person interviews were conducted with females who wore dress related to science fiction and fantasy films and television series. Participants wore a variety of fandoms, which included Star Wars, Marvel Comics (Avengers or Deadpool), DC Comics (Batman), and anime fandoms like Sailor Moon. The interview data were managed using NVivo qualitative analysis software and analyzed using the constant comparison method (Creswell, 2007; Reddy-Best & Pedersen, 2015). Four major themes emerged from the data in the current research. These included: (a) types of fan dress, (b) personal motivations, (c) social motivations, and (d) impression management. By comparing the results to concepts found within a pre-existing theoretical framework combining Erving Goffman’s (1959) Dramaturgy, Social Identity Theory, and the concept of brand community, it was found that for some participants, wearing forms of IFD functioned as a secret code, indicating that she was a “real” fan. It was also discovered that female fans gain distinctiveness within mainstream culture by managing impressions. At the same time gain distinctiveness within their fan cultures by taking part in “feminine competencies,” (Cherry, 2013, pp. 107-108). The results led to the development of The Taxonomy of Fan Dress, which provided a more holistic view of female fans’ dress practices and a deeper understanding of how different types of fan dress function within fan cultures.

Date

2016

Document Availability at the Time of Submission

Secure the entire work for patent and/or proprietary purposes for a period of one year. Student has submitted appropriate documentation which states: During this period the copyright owner also agrees not to exercise her/his ownership rights, including public use in works, without prior authorization from LSU. At the end of the one year period, either we or LSU may request an automatic extension for one additional year. At the end of the one year secure period (or its extension, if such is requested), the work will be released for access worldwide.

Committee Chair

Stannard, Casey

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_dissertations.3085

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