Structure, Strategy and Self in Cultural Peripheries: Theorizing the Periphery in the Polish and Dutch Fashion Fields

Abstract This article analyzes the creation of value in (semi-)peripheral fields, using interview (N=94) and ethnographic data creatives, models cultural intermediaries Polish Dutch fashion. Drawing on field theory center-periphery theories we show that these peripheral fields have a distinct structure— worlds —marked by dependence foreign centers for goods, standards consecration, which actors employ field-specific strategies pursuing success. Workers (semi-)periphery develop selves , marked “double consciousness”, simultaneously seeing themselves from local perspective through eyes “central” others. We theorize “peripheralness” as dimension social inequality, continuum ranging “most central” to peripheral”, spring transnational interdependencies; offer building blocks periphery connects structural conditions personal experiences. explains, among others, why peripheries are not reverse centers, also need (though much centers), semi-peripheral don’t leave hubs “make it there”.