Meaning: Tadao Ando, a renowned Japanese architect, expressed his thoughts on women's fashion and the freedom of expression in the 20th century in the quote, "I don't look so closely at women's fashion, but from the 20th century on, people have had the freedom to express themselves and their individualities, and fashion is one of the most fundamental ways in which they do this, men and women are equally able to express themselves." This quote reflects the evolving nature of fashion as a form of self-expression and the increasing freedom of individuals, regardless of gender, to express their unique identities through their clothing choices.

Throughout history, fashion has played a significant role in reflecting the cultural, social, and individual identities of people. In the 20th century, there was a notable shift towards greater freedom and diversity in fashion, allowing individuals to express themselves in ways that were not previously possible. This shift was influenced by various factors, including social movements, technological advancements, and changing societal norms.

The 20th century witnessed significant changes in women's fashion, marking a departure from traditional restrictive clothing norms. Women began to embrace more practical and comfortable attire, challenging the conventional gender roles and expectations that had previously dictated their clothing choices. This shift in women's fashion was closely intertwined with the broader movements for gender equality and women's liberation, as women sought to assert their independence and individuality through their clothing.

Simultaneously, men also experienced a transformation in their fashion choices, moving away from rigid and formal attire towards more casual and expressive styles. The emergence of subcultures and countercultural movements further contributed to the diversification of men's fashion, allowing men to explore a wider range of sartorial expressions and break free from traditional dress codes.

Tadao Ando's assertion that "fashion is one of the most fundamental ways in which they do this" emphasizes the profound impact of fashion as a means of self-expression. Fashion serves as a visual language through which individuals can communicate their identities, beliefs, and personalities to the world. Whether through bold, avant-garde ensembles or minimalist, understated looks, people can use fashion to convey their individuality and assert their presence in the world.

Moreover, Ando's statement underscores the idea that men and women are equally capable of expressing themselves through fashion. This notion is reflective of the ongoing efforts to break down gender stereotypes and embrace gender-neutral or unisex fashion concepts. The blurring of traditional gender boundaries in fashion has led to the creation of more inclusive and diverse sartorial options, allowing individuals to dress in ways that align with their personal sense of style rather than prescribed gender norms.

In conclusion, Tadao Ando's quote encapsulates the transformative power of fashion as a vehicle for self-expression and individuality. The freedom to express oneself through clothing has evolved significantly in the 20th century, enabling both men and women to embrace diverse styles and break free from traditional constraints. This ongoing evolution of fashion as a form of personal expression continues to shape and redefine the way individuals present themselves to the world, transcending gender boundaries and celebrating the uniqueness of each individual's sartorial voice.