Phenotype and Fashion
Fashion in Nestor is an intricate interplay of historical reverence and modern practicality, deeply influenced by the island's temperate climate and the cultural philosophies of its people. Attire reflects a harmonious balance between masculinity and femininity, celebrating both as complementary facets of human expression. With its oceanic climate and societal emphasis on aesthetics and functionality, Nestorian fashion provides both utility and a medium for identity.
Men's Fashion
Nestorian men's clothing is defined by a rugged, utilitarian elegance that draws inspiration from the resilience and preparedness of medieval knights. Key elements include tailored tactical garments, such as cargo pants and woolen sweaters, designed to withstand the challenges of daily life while maintaining a refined appearance. Black and other dark hues dominate the color palette, symbolizing strength and stoicism.
Accessories like bandanas and simple necklaces with metallic pendants or polished stones are common, reflecting a sense of understated sophistication. Practical footwear, such as sturdy boots, complements the utilitarian style. In warmer or informal settings, barefoot traditions thrive, emphasizing a connection to nature.
Women's Fashion
Nestorian women's fashion embodies a graceful, ethereal charm, rooted in the elegance of maidens and princesses of bygone eras. Long skirts and dresses dominate, often crafted from wool or soft cotton blends, offering both warmth and fluidity of movement. High necklines and layered designs reflect modesty without sacrificing individuality. Accessories like headbands, scarves, and delicate necklaces add subtle elegance to the overall aesthetic.
Lighter colors, such as whites, creams, and pastels, are prominent, symbolizing care and comfort. In coastal regions, women often wear woolen slippers designed for outdoor use, while inland traditions embrace simpler, functional attire.
Regional and Seasonal Variations
Nestorian clothing adapts to both regional climates and seasonal changes. Coastal regions favor layered woolen garments to combat cool breezes, while inland areas, particularly Juncor, are influenced by a history of minimal clothing due to resource scarcity. Nudity—defined as minimal clothing with the crotch covered for modesty—remains a common cultural practice in Level 6 spaces here, fostering a spiritual connection with nature. During colder seasons, robe-like garments resembling bathrobes are used for warmth.
Seasonal shifts also impact fashion choices. Winter attire includes thicker woolen cloaks and layered ensembles, while summer sees lightweight cotton garments and breathable designs.
Accessories and Cultural Symbols
Accessories are an integral part of Nestorian fashion, often carrying personal or cultural significance. Soulstones, intricately crafted glass marbles, are cherished symbols of individuality. Each person typically owns a small number of soulstones throughout their life: one for display, one to wear, and one to gift during marriage. These can be incorporated into necklaces, rings, or other jewelry.
Scarves, predominantly worn by women, serve both functional and modesty purposes. In colder climates or Level 1 and 2 dress codes, scarves cover the upper chest, while at Level 3 and above, they are worn less often unless for warmth. Headbands, adorned with tribal or personal details, are worn by both genders to keep hair out of the eyes, protect the ears from cold, and block out unwanted noise.
Dress Code
The Nestorian dress code is a structured system designed to promote harmony and mutual respect in public spaces. This system comprises seven levels, ranging from highly restrictive (Level 1) to unrestricted (Level 7). The majority of public and private spaces adhere to Levels 1, 2, or 3, with Level 3 being the most prevalent. A numerical indicator at the entrance of a location informs visitors of the minimum required dress code, allowing individuals to align their attire appropriately.
Level 1 demands complete coverage of the body, including high collars and long sleeves, often required in formal or religious settings. Level 3, the default in most public spaces, mandates modest coverage of the torso, legs, and arms, permitting reasonable comfort while ensuring public decency. Levels 4 through 6 introduce looser requirements, often seen in recreational areas, beaches, or artistic spaces where self-expression is encouraged. Level 7, typically reserved for private or communal settings, permits full freedom of attire or lack thereof, reflecting Nestor’s embrace of personal liberty within specific contexts.
The dress code extends beyond clothing, serving as a cultural marker for behavior and imagery. Films, magazines, and other media prominently display the appropriate dress code level to inform audiences of their content. This approach ensures a balance between freedom of expression and the public's right to avoid exposure to content they find objectionable. In cases where individuals wish to wear attire above the designated level for cultural or personal reasons, a discretionary allowance exists. However, going more than one level above the norm is generally discouraged and may prompt requests to leave the area.
To accommodate transitions between spaces with varying dress codes, facilities often provide robes or coverings to help individuals meet Level 3 requirements without inconvenience. This practice is particularly common near beaches or artistic districts, where dress codes shift frequently.
| Dresscode in Nestor (self enforced) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Level | Description | Places |
| 1 | Very formal | Court, Funerals, Weddings |
| 2 | Formal | School |
| 3 | Normal | Most places |
| 4 | Underwear or Swimwear | Swimming pool or the beach |
| 5 | Topless | Swimming pool or the beach |
| 6 | Nudist (non-sexual) | Public nature parks / some beaches |
| 7 | No rules | Home and few public spaces |
Other Aspects
Nestorian wool is treated with a substance to make it water-resistant, but for heavy rain, jackets or cloaks are used. Women’s clothing is often soft and “fluffy,” symbolizing care, while older women transition to practical yet still soft designs. In coastal regions, women often wear woolen outdoor slippers, and men favor sturdy boots. The barefoot tradition is prevalent, with slippers used indoors to prevent spreading dirt.
Color symbolism plays a significant role, with darker tones representing strength and combat readiness, and lighter tones symbolizing care and comfort. Men with feminine inner qualities may wear lighter colors, and women in combat often don darker hues. Wool is highly valued for clothing, but the meat from wool-producing animals is rarely consumed.
Most Nestorians own only a few outfits, usually between three and ten, due to the cultural preference for quality over quantity. Clothing is crafted by tribal communities, ensuring individuality and rarity of identical outfits.