Are we what we wear?
Although sumptuary laws may no longer restrict who can wear gold or lace, the law and regulations of many societies require specific uniforms and insignia to indicate position and authority. Other communities adopt ceremonial regalia to emphasize a connection with history or a sense of occasion.
Uniforms demonstrate power and immediately identify role and rank, whether military or civil.
Examples in this exhibit show how different governments and organizations choose to distinguish and represent their authority.