Fashion is fun. It’s personal. And it’s a lot more important than many people give it credit for. Fashion is not just about pretty things and frivolity. It is a reflection of individuals’ beliefs and of those of society as a whole. As The Pearl Source Blog so adeptly put it, fashion is both a zeitgeist — meaning it defines the mood and spirit of society as it is today — and an impetus — meaning it doesn’t just reflect societal values but rather, it has the power to change them. Though the fashion industry as a whole has been slow to realize this, there are some designers that have been making waves in recent years for their unprecedented moves toward lasting change. Check out which designers are using their influence for the greater good.
Dolce & Gabbana
Dolce and Gabbana has long been known for its forward-thinking campaigns and attitudes, and for its luxury line of clothing and accessories that reflect both. The company was under investigation in 2005 by the Advertising Standards Authority after complaints were filed about a commercial that showed two men kissing. Its most recent Love is Love campaign, which was inspired by #TheTrevorProject, is no different. The campaign, like the project, celebrates love and all the people who need it most right now, including the LGBTQ+ community.
Nordstrom
High fashion has long been criticized for not being inclusive to women who have real bodies and, along with them, real feelings. However, given that as many as 33% of women do not fit into the industry’s standard size 0-12, consumers are finally pushing back — and the industry has no choice but to listen. Nordstrom is one of many companies that have responded appropriately.
Nordstrom has expanded its plus-size collection to include pieces from over 100 brands. Not only that, but the semi-luxury department store has integrated plus-size clothing with its core size range so that shoppers of all body types have access to the same fashions across the board.
Express
Like Nordstrom, Express has responded to cries for inclusive sizing from its fans. Through its “Express. Your Rules” campaign, the clothing company has expanded its size offerings to include everything from 00 to 18. Though it has offered plus-sizes online for some time now, the brand is finally bringing the offerings in-store, where shoppers of all sizes can feel welcome and included.
Stella McCartney
Stella McCartney is a pioneer in forward-thinking fashion, always innovating ways to bring high fashion to consumers in a way that is cruelty-free, inclusive, eco-friendly, and ethical. Her latest line of luxury fashion utilizes sustainable technology and materials such as regenerated cashmere, ethically sourced wool, organic cotton, and recycled textiles. However, her pieces never compromise in looks or feel, with the faux leather and fur looking like the real deal. Her stores also make use of LED lights, recyclable materials, and solar panels.
Katie Jones
Katie Jones is an up-and-coming high fashion designer in the UK who lives out her grandmother’s vision of creating something beautiful from nothing. She designs beautiful knit pieces from the unclaimed materials of other designers and strives to create experiences that encourage environmental and social change.
Eileen Fisher
When it comes to luxurious and sustainable apparel, Eileen Fisher deserves a mention. The designer, who has long been passionate about the circular model of production, utilizes natural dyes, organic materials, and recycled garments and textiles to create her lavish wares. She is also a huge advocate of fair wages, gender equality, and the culture of caring within communities.
The fashion industry has been slow to get the memo that consumers expect better from designer brands. However, now that they have, some brands have responded with the zeal they’ve been lacking and are winning over the favor of even the least impressionable consumers. These brands serve as inspiration for real and lasting change.
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