Activism in Fashion

In the world of activism, the clothes you wear can be the strongest form of communication for the things you do and political views. The colours you choose say something about your values, the silhouettes set the tone of your unspoken message to the world; everything you wear becomes the embodiment of your rebellion.

Activism in fashion has always been around, more than 100 years ago the Suffragettes chose to use the stereotypical look of female fashion for their own cause. The message it sent was clear: we don’t need to dress as men to have the right to vote. All members of the movement were encouraged to wear feminine dresses and include three signature colours: purple for loyalty and dignity, white for purity, and green for hope. Women displayed these colours proudly through the three-striped regalia across their chest or a subtle accessory like badges or hat ribbons. Now in 2020 the symbol to fight gender inequality in the western world is now the pink “pussyhat” which is to show a new meaning of “pussy”.

In today’s era activism is shown mainly through designers designs and there using the runway to pronounce their voice.

1. Tommy Hilfiger

Several designers, including Tommy Hilfiger, Thakoon, Prabal Gurung, Phillip Lim, Dior, and Diane von Furstenberg, included white bandanas in their shows.

According to the Business of Fashion, the white bandana is associated with the hashtag #TiedTogether and is a symbol of inclusivity and acceptance. #TiedTogether also supports the ACLU and the UN Refugee Agency.

2. Stella McCartney

Stella McCartney x The Beatles All Together Now collection was created to bring the iconic Yellow Submarine film to life and share a timeless message of peace, love and togetherness for a new generation with the collection sharing the message of "All Together Now" in different languages.

3. PYER MOSS

Herby Jean-Raymond is the owner of the fashion label Pyer Moss. Jean-Raymond has quickly become known for his social activist stands. Most notably, he is inspired by the heritage of African Americans, as well as social issues that this community faces today which he demonstrates through his design’s.

4. Dior

Maria Grazia Chiuri became the first female creative director at Dior and she has been making political statements ever since. In a collection T-shirts were screen printed with “We Should All Be Feminists” and “Dio(R)evolution”, these t-shirts were sold with proceeds going to Rihanna’s Clara Lionel Foundation, which fights against injustice, inequality & poverty and promotes access to education.

Were excited to see what the future holds for activism in fashion and how fashion designers send the messages through their collections!