Fashions Gatekeepers and the Diversity Battle
Will it ever end?
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Image via Shades of Blackness.
The fashion industry has long been plagued by concerns and worries of all magnitudes, from those inside and outside of its walls. Very few truly know what goes on inside fashions glossy realm, and even fewer are prepared to speak up against the archaic ways of the fashion industry. Buts its 2020, and we’re in the midst of a societal shift. With past and present diversity issues of the fashion industry becoming more magnified and scrutinised in light of recent events, as well as the insidious practices that have taken place for years, after decades of wrongdoings and misconduct we may be finally starting to see change.Â
The world of fashion is a complicated place. With fashion I’ve always been led to believe there's no right or wrong, it's an inner sanctum where your creativity can run free, everything’s subjective and everyone is equal. Sadly this couldn’t be farther from the truth. We never really know what goes on behind closed doors, but we’re starting to find out. What I do know is this; courageous individuals who work in fashion are taking a stand and speaking up about the ways they’ve been mistreated, causing us fashion lovers (and consumers) to question the values and practices of brands and individuals we once held on a pedestal.Â
In light of everything that's gone on this year, what I’m pleased to see is people coming together to champion issues of diversity and inclusion across the board, in hopes of changing fashion for the better. Initiatives such as Black in Fashion Council founded by Lindsay Peoples Wagner & Sandrine Charles, the 15 Percent Pledge founded by Aurora James, and Black In Corporate founded by Candace Marie, are just a few of the ways people of colour working in fashion are finding their purpose and fighting for a cause bigger than themselves. They want to see lasting change, and more of an equal fashion landscape. And the world needs it.
These new attitudes are threatening the power of fashions gatekeepers, and challenging the perspectives held by the fashion industry elite now society has been reawakened to the glaring unfairness that takes place. How can an industry rife with problems and inequality move forward in what’ll turn out to be a very new looking world? I don’t have all of the answers, I'm not sure anyone does. As the public mindset and attitudes towards fashion are shifting, it’s clear to see that the darker parts of the industry are in need of a revolution. It's not all sleek double page spreads and runway shows in Paris or Milan, fashion needs to find its purpose again.Â
Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram and Twitter to see more of what I’m up to, and I’ll see you same time same place next week!Â
Catch you soon,
J’Nae
WHAT I’VE BEEN READING:
- If the news is driving you mad, and you’re struggling to unplug and unwind, this article by The Good Trade suggests 7 screen-free hobbies to exercise your creativity.Â
WHAT I’VE BEEN WATCHING:
- I don’t know about you, but I find the sound of David Attenborough's voice incredibly soothing, and for that reason I can watch hours and hours of Blue Planet without ever needing to take a break.
WHAT I’VE BEEN LISTENING TO:
- In Good Company is a podcast for working women, hosted by Women Who founder Otegha Uwagba. Full of interviews with successful women, practical advice, and a ton of other good stuff, this is essential listening for working women.
WHAT’S CAUGHT MY EYE:
- If ever there was light at the end of the tunnel that is the horror show 2020 has become, the moment Kamala Harris was elected as Vice-President Elect of the United States was it. The first female VP, the first Black VP, and the first Asian American VP… Words cannot do this monumental moment in history justice.Â
ON MY BLOG:
- I’ve been living in my Ugg slippers for most of this year, largely due in part to spending so much time indoors. My blog post ‘Slippers, But Make Them Chic’ is a tribute to one of my favourite Christmas presents of all time.