COMME des GARÇONS CDG Launches Social Justice Charity Capsule
COMME des GARÇONS‘ affordable CDG sub-label often issues approachable goods emblazoned with its own branding but the brand’s new selection takes things a step further, dropping slogan-laden goods in support of a good cause.
COMME des GARÇONS‘ affordable CDG sub-label often issues approachable goods emblazoned with its own branding but the brand’s new selection takes things a step further, dropping slogan-laden goods in support of a good cause. Nine new styles have launched online, with all profits benefiting Minneapolis’ Northside Achievement Zone.
Originally designed as a cheery welcome message for customers returning after the coronavirus self-isolation period lightened, COMME des GARÇONS has repurposed the garments for a more timely cause. Encompassing a host of familiar Japanese-made silhouettes and monochrome shades, the nine items utilize three types of goods to deliver the optimistic printed messages. A black coaches jacket, white tee and black tote all feature a variation of three slogans: “thinking and doing will result in the FUTURE,” “On To The Future, With Good Energy,” and “Believe in a better tomorrow.”
“This is just the first of many actions we are planning for Black Lives Matter. Epitomizing our continued commitment to furthering diversity and equality of opportunity within CDG and DSM, and to listen and learn and do better, in the struggle to obliterate the evil of racism, prejudice and discrimination from the world.” a Dover Street Market‘s site explains.
Report: Amanda T Lou
Purses For Every Occasion
This purse collection is the perfect purse for the summer/spring to add to your accessories collection.
If you love purses as much as I do listen up. A very important Italian designer has caught my attention. While looking through a magazine I came across this emerald purse sketch. This Italian designer has a brand-new collection of purses just in time for the summer. Bottega Veneta was set up in 1966 in Vicenza, Italy by business visionaries Michele Taddei and Renzo Zengiaro. The organization built up a particular cowhide weave configuration, called intrecciato, that was utilized on the outside of a significant number of its items, and turned out to be generally connected with the Bottega Veneta brand. This unique look has carried on for years for a new modern look. This modern look consists of a crossbody sack in a twofold face maxi weave. It is made a with wide twofold face Nappa strips in a symmetrical weave. The interior is indistinguishable from outside; fitted with a zipped pocket with a magnetic closure. One last thing it has an adjustable shoulder lash overlap inside the pack to convey as a grasp. It comes in hustling green, black, light orange, mortar, custard, orange, caramel and fondente. This purse collection is the perfect purse for the summer/spring to add to your accessories collection.
Photo Credits: Bottega Veneta
Report: Tykaia Rose
The Netflix Channel For Fashion
London Fashion Week 2020 is the latest fashion event to switch completely to a digital format in accordance with coronavirus safety precautions.
London Fashion Week 2020 is the latest fashion event to switch completely to a digital format in accordance with coronavirus safety precautions. While the entire industry is still adjusting to its full conversion to online spaces, London Fashion Week in particular has been radically transformed by this virtualization in more ways than one.
The British Fashion Council (BFC) has announced the premiere of a new digital platform that will serve as the venue for London Fashion Week 2020. In what BFC spokeswoman Clara Mercer is describing as “a Netflix channel for fashion”, industry heads and consumers alike will be treated to a myriad of fashion shows and panel discussions hosted by the participating designers. This online platform is the first to be created by the BFC, and the content will be free and available for all.
London Fashion Week’s online shift has resulted in other smaller changes. In place of New York’s men’s week will be London’s gender-neutral show that includes smaller women’s labels. In fact, smaller, emerging labels will dominate London Fashion Week 2020, whereas the larger brands that are typically mainstays in the annual event will be absent this year. There are multiple reasons for these alterations, the main explanation being the adherence to social distancing requirements.
Photo credits:
https://hypebeast.com/2020/6/london-fashion-week-2020-virtual-schedule
https://www.voguebusiness.com/fashion/london-fashion-week-new-digital-plan-lfw
Report: Nia Hunt
British Vogue Auctions Models' Wardrobes to Raise Money For NHS Charities Together and the NAACP
British Vogue is teaming up with luxury resale site, Hardly Ever Worn It and 23 of the world's favorite supermodels to raise money for NHS Charities Together and the NAACP.
British Vogue is teaming up with luxury resale site, Hardly Ever Worn It and 23 of the world's favorite supermodels to raise money for NHS Charities Together and the NAACP (The National Association For the Advancement of Colored People). "The Way We Wore" auction, which began on Tuesday, June 9, at 9 a.m. ET, includes one coveted fashion item from each of the models' luxury-filled wardrobes, and will be available to bid on for 72 hours.
Models supporting this great initiative include: Adut Akech, Amber Valletta, Candice Swanepoel, Ashley Graham, Bella Hadid, Christy Turlington, Gigi Hadid, Zayn Malik, Helena Christensen, Imaan Hammam, Irina Shayk, Xiao Wen Ju, Joan Smalls, Karlie Kloss, Kate Moss, Lily Aldridge, Mariacarla Boscono, Karen Elson, Paloma Elsesser, Pooja Mor, Rianne Van Rompaey, Shalom Harlow, and Stella Maxwell.
"We asked 23 of the biggest models to photograph themselves at home in pieces that were special to them, and subsequently donate to the auction," said Sarah Harris, British Vogue's deputy editor and fashion features director, in a video post on Instagram. Model Pooja Mor will be donating her Gucci bag, Lily Aldridge is giving her Prada dress, Candice Swanepoel is sending a sweet Chanel bag, and Imaan Hammam is donating her Celine earrings to support frontline healthcare workers in the UK and the NAACP in the United States.
You can view and shop all the items available in the auction on the Hardly Ever Worn It website now
Report: Amanda T Lou
Vogue of Action
Vogue of Action
When my latest issue of Vogue came in mail, I was very excited. I noticed the cover was a white background with a very dark red rose. I thought it was strange considering it wasn’t a celebrity on the cover. It had common thread written at the bottom of it. If you want to learn more about this important cause listen up. Vogue was founded by Arthur Baldwin Turnue in 1892. From 1909 the founder of Condé Nast Publications, brought Vogue in transformed it into a women’s fashion magazine focused on beauty, composure, and etiquette in the rest is history. There recent issue that just came out has took a different approach it has become a beacon of hope for designers and creators out there. Vogue has partner with The Council of Fashion Designers of America. This new partnership has now viably brought over $4 million up in easing financing through A Common Thread, it is a video arrangement that will tell stories about how designer’s and their colleagues are adapting and how their organization have been influenced by the Covid-19 pandemic. With this assistance anybody can donate to the fund to help designers. To learn more information please pick up the latest issue of June/July Vogue now.
Photo Credits: Vogue
Report: Tykaia Rose
Who's Who: Responsible Fashion Designers Edition
The intersection between what is viewed as Sustainable Fashion and Responsible Fashion has continuously been blurred with new efforts from global luxury brands to expand their green footprint on the world.
The intersection between what is viewed as Sustainable Fashion and Responsible Fashion has continuously been blurred with new efforts from global luxury brands to expand their green footprint on the world. In today’s age, we often shame designers for not doing enough to approach their creative process sustainably. Doing this, however, undercuts the efforts they are making to transition their already successful businesses into eco-friendly, successful businesses.
I began this article with Sustainable Designers in mind and had to realize that a lot still needs to be done. However, responsibly approaching your creative process should be highlighted as well. Therefore, this profile will feature the Who’s Who of Sustainable Designers, but we will also be including luxury designers and calling out their efforts at “Going Green”.
The word sustainable often has a negative light shed on it due to the thought that this clothing isn’t made of expensive materials, nor innovatively designed. Ironically, the exact opposite is true of sustainability as the definition is: A process or state that can be maintained at a certain level for as long as wanted. (dictionary.com) This clearly speaks to quality over quantity as it is in a good enough state, when made, to last for a long time.
Our current situation in the Fashion industry has us moving in a direction where resources are becoming scarce at an alarming rate. In order to survive, we will have to continuously find innovative ways to create by recycling. This is where the responsibility comes into play as we are holding ourselves accountable by acknowledging that there is a problem in our industry. We are making conscious efforts to solve this problem. We have a long way to go but I believe in the power of reciprocity and evolution.
THE DESIGNERS:
1. Ancuta Sarca
Ancuta Sarca is a Romanian designer whose brand was birthed under UK designer incubator, Fashion East. She has quickly gained international recognition through her eclectic and sustainable approach to design. Her collection was inspired by the want to recycle and make a new life for her existing garments and apparel. Sarca’s up-cycled old trainers with vintage heels have been described by i-D as ‘the shoe of the summer.’ Sarca is a passionate advocate for circular design, resisting fast fashion and proposing her reworked kitten heels as an eco-friendly alternative.
Sustainable Practices:
Use only recycled and up-cycled materials
Deconstructing existing garments
Partner with manufacturers who also recycle their materials
She has a new partnership w/ Nike where she will repurpose the textile waste from their shoes’ production process
2. Stella McCartney
Stella McCartney is a UK based, Luxury RTW/Lingerie/Swimwear/Accessories Designer who is best known for her innovative designs and sustainable practices. Her brand utilizes textile alternatives and a range of innovative technologies in their production process.
Sustainable Practices:
Partnered w/ Adidas on a sustainably focused, high-performance womenswear collection
Cruelty-free (including no real fur, leather, or PVC, re-engineered cashmere, ethically-sourced fibers like wool, organic cotton, and the use of recycled textiles)
3. Eileen Fisher
Eileen Fisher has been known as a leader of sustainability within the fashion industry. She has continuously worked to improve her ethically sustainable brand practices.
Sustainable Practices:
Organic, recycled, and sustainable garments, natural dyes
The brand is cognizant of the ecological footprint their different practices have on the environment and they are constantly monitoring and improving this aspect of the business
Do business with manufacturers who use certified dye methods, most often the bluesign standard, to ensure sustainable production
In the process of developing a water strategy for the brand in an effort to combat the global water crisis
4. Bianca Saunders
Biaunca Saunders is a UK designer who pulls inspiration from her heritage for her collections. She tends to explore how garments connect oneself to movement, culture, and each other with a focus on menswear and challenging the ideas of masculinity.
Sustainable Practices:
ISKO’s sustainable-certified denim used in collections, responsibly sourced denim,
5. Dôen
Dôen is an apparel brand rooted in sustainability and environmental consciousness. Since its launch, the brand has produced pieces that are built to last. The brand offers a wide range of high quality apparel products in both the womenswear and childrenswear.
Sustainable Practices:
Natural and organic fabrics, 100% recyclable packaging, garments that are quality crafted
Utilizing slow fashion by encouraging second-hand and consignment practices
Currently working on better solutions for poly bags; production methods that work to eliminate waste
Partnered with TheRealReal in 2019 to promote
extending the lifespan of their garments
keeping apparel waste out of landfills
making gently-used clothing
Partners with Gots Certified Fabrics and The Better Cotton Initiative
All denim styles are made locally in Los Angeles
6. J.Cavallo
Jeannine Cavallo is an American fashion designer who uses sustainable materials to create timelessly designed apparel. The brand utilizes traditional couture processes, keeping the focus on quality and craftsmanship. They source organic materials using fibers grown without the use of harmful growing agents. All of the brand’s materials are also made without animal testing, which makes them Cruelty Free.
Sustainable Practices:
Organic cotton, naturally/ethically sourced wool, peace silk, cruelty-free production (no animal testing), supports and utilizes small/local designers/makers, production methods based on craftsmanship and hand-making to slow down production and combat mass production and fast fashion
Awarded the Butterfly Mark from Positive Luxury in recognition of the brand’s sustainability efforts which indicates that the Jeannine Cavallo brand is one that can be trusted.
7. Rachel Burke
Rachel Burke is an Australian based designer and artist with an interest in creating wearable works of art made from recycled, upcycled, and salvaged materials and garments. Her work often includes the use of recycled or reused materials such as jacket shells, shoes, tinsel, etc. She focuses much of her work on craftsmanship and hand-making which further displays her focus on sustainability.
Sustainable Practices:
Burke also holds public events and workshops where she leads upcycling projects, spreading her passion and knowledge to her community
Creates one of a kind pieces in small quantities, further focusing on “slow fashion” efforts
Focus on craftsmanship and technique as opposed to cheap mass producing
8. JAHNKOY
Maria Jahnkoy is a multifaceted artist and fashion designer from Siberia, Russia. JAHNKOY is a resident of the Restoration-Art Center. She focuses her attention on restoring artisanal clothing, uniting cultures and heritages and preserving global traditions. At her SS19 NYFW show, JAHNKOY collaborated with Puma. This collaboration was an introduction into the sustainable space for brand conglomerate, Puma. Puma has also collaborated w/ Swarovski who is known to pair themselves w/ other sustainably responsible designers. JAHNKOY’s artistic design work creates conversation across material, origin and creation within our current cultural, social and economic situation.”
Sustainable Practices:
Use (and reuse) and ready-made garments
Use of cheap materials and garments, found objects and recycled materials
Combating fast fashion’s environmental damage
9. Eckhaus Latta
Photo: AnOther Magazine
Eckhaus Latta is an American fashion brand that was founded by Mike Eckhaus and Zoe Latta in 2011. From the brand’s inception, Eckhaus and Latta has strove to practice sustainability in every aspect of their design and production process by using unconventional materials and collaborating with fellow artists/designers.
Sustainable Practices:
Use of repurposed, and deadstock fabrics,
10. Patrick McDowell
Patrick McDowell is a UK fashion designer with a mission to reinvent luxury through a sustainable and conscious lens. He is known for his focus on integrating sustainability into his brand designs that evoke memories of childhood nostalgia. He only creates 1 collection per year. He has been recognized extensively for his efforts in sustainability from many important Fashion figures including the influential Anna Wintour and Rita Ora.
“To me, sustainable fashion is about creatively redesigning systems to create positive or neutral impact on people and the planet,” he explains. “For example, the biggest problem with fashion is the wholesale business model. After graduating, I made the decision not to do any wholesale at all and now I make most of my money through speaking with other people and hosting workshops. My collections act as think tanks on sustainable ideas which are open source, so anyone can find all that and share it and do what they want with it.” - Patrick McDowell
Sustainable Practices:
Slow fashion initiatives
Sustainable collaborations w/ Swarovski that include interactive pop ups to spread awareness to consumers
Use of recycled and responsibly sourced materials
Push for lower impact practices in the manufacturing and fashion industry
12 Luxury Black-Owned Fashion Businesses To Support
Now more than ever we need to protect and support our Black Owned Businesses.
For all you fashion lovers who would like to get involved with the Black Lives Movement, here is your chance. Now more than ever we need to protect and support our Black Owned Businesses. I have compiled a list of clothing brands that you should definitely take a look at. I have provided their Instagrams and websites for easy access:
Victor glemaud
Shop lovevera
Fenoel
DORSHELLE GUILLAUME LLC
Pyer Moss
Hanifa
Martine Rose
Kemi Telford
Chelsea Bravo
Mateo New York
There are countless amounts of Black-Owned Businesses; however, these are my favorite ones so far. They are a combination of colorful, fun and incredibly chic. I love everything about these brands and what they represent. I have a feeling you all will too.
*Photo credits to instagrams @Glemaud, @asata.maise, @kemitelford, @dorshelleguillaume,
Report: Anna Levitus
BLACK FASHION SCHOLARS WHOSE WORK YOU SHOULD FOLLOW
These fashion educators are impacting lives and conducting innovative research at the intersections of fashion and black studies. In times like these, we need voices like these to continue to unpack the layers existing within fashion, culture and race.
Alongside many editors, stylists and designers in the fashion industry, there are many fashion scholars who’re making positive contributions to the industry also. These researchers dedicate their time to not only teaching but advancing their studies at the intersection of fashion and race.
Eric Darnell Pritchard
Dr. Pritchard, Associate Professor of English at University of Buffalo (SUNY), is a writer, teacher, and self-proclaimed “Feminist Alchemist.” His research ranges from queerness, gender and sexuality to fashion and rhetoric. The professor is currently writing a book about Patrick Kelly.
Rikki Byrd
Rikki Byrd is currently a doctoral student at Northwestern University, in the department of African American Studies. Prior to attending Northwestern, she obtained a Masters in Fashion Studies from Parsons at The New School. Byrd’s research involves fashion, visual culture and contemporary black art. She is also the founder of The Fashion and Race Syllabus.
Kimberly Jenkins
Kimberly Jenkins, former student and Adjunct Professor at Parsons in New York City, is now an Assistant Professor at Ryerson University. Her work has been featured in countless magazines and she knows fashion history like the back of her hand. Jenkins was also afforded the opportunity to consult Gucci on their diversity and inclusion initiatives.
Jonathan M. Square
Professor Square is a historian and teacher at Harvard University in Boston, Massachusetts. His research focuses on history, fashion and visual culture within the African Diaspora. With degrees from NYU and Cornell, Dr. Square gives lectures at various institutions, on his research.
Report: Julian Randall
Up-cycling Old Clothes is a Fun, Easy, and Cheap Way to Revamp Your Closet
Like most people, I’m sure you hate throwing away your old clothes that are still in great condition simply because they don’t fit right anymore or are outdated. Lucky for you, upcycling is a simple and fun solution to your problem.
Like most people, I’m sure you hate throwing away your old clothes that are still in great condition simply because they don’t fit right anymore or are outdated. Lucky for you, upcycling is a simple and fun solution to your problem. Repurposing old clothing is a creative and sustainable opportunity to transform out-of-date clothing into unique, stylish pieces. With retail shopping being so limited during the COVID-19 pandemic, this is a great way to keep up with trends within the comfort and safety of your own home. While in quarantine, I’m sure many of us have been tasked with the question of what to do with all our newfound free time … well look no further. This extra time at home is the perfect opportunity to dig out that old t-shirt from the back of your closet and make it into something chic.
My personal favorite upcycling technique is patchwork. I love sewing cool patterned fabrics onto the pockets of my jeans or along the sleeves of my t-shirts. Another way that I love repurposing my clothes is to paint on abstract designs that are special to me. Both of these ideas are super fun ways to elevate any piece of clothing into something totally unique! I’ve even turned a pair of pants into an amazing little tank top that I wear all the time! It is such a cool feeling to wear and get compliments on clothes that you created yourself. Whether it be embroidery, patchwork, cropping, painting, or even transforming a garment into something totally new, there are endless ways to rework your old clothes. Not only is upcycling a great way to save money and pass the time during quarantine, it also contributes to sustaining a healthier environment. By reusing and reworking your old clothes instead of throwing them away, you are helping to reduce the amount of clothing that ends up in our landfills and actively paving the way for a healthier planet.
Report: Natalie Toth
Five Black Owned Small Businesses You Need To Support Right Now
There are numerous ways to be involved in the Black Lives Matter movement. Including signing petitions and making donations. Another way to be involved is by supporting black owned businesses. Amyang Fashun, Stuzo Clothing, The Bohemian Hookup, Creatively Lilly, and Customs De Samendi are five of our favorites.
There are numerous ways to support the Black Lives Matter Movement. If you don’t have a lot of extra cash right now that is completely okay, you can still make a difference by signing petitions and by using social media to advocate. Donating to the cause is another great way to be involved and donating to (verified) GoFundMe campaigns can also be very impactful. For online shopping fans, like myself, there is another great way to make an impact and that is by buying from black run businesses. A simple google search showcases many businesses selling everything from skin care products, to art and everything in between. Today I want to share five of my favorite black run businesses.
Amyang Fashun is a clothing line run by the Kanu Sisters who have roots in Sierra Leone. They sell authentic West African fashion with textiles sourced directly from Africa. The brand operates between the United States and West Africa. Their catalog boasts bright colors and vibrant patterns. Every article of clothing is specially crafted using measurements sent in from the customer. Check them out at: https://www.amyang.com/
Stuzo Clothing is a women owned Los Angeles based clothing company founded by Stoney Michelli and Uzo Ejikeme. What sets Stuzo apart from other clothing companies is that all their pieces are all gender free. Their mission is to “create a space in the fashion world where all are welcome without judgment.” Stuzo is loved by many celebrities including: Spike Lee, Tiffany Haddish, and Gina Yashere. For the entire month of June enjoy 20% off of all their collection of queer items. Shop online now: https://www.stuzoclothing.com/
The Bohemian Hookup is a metaphysical apothecary and boutique based out of Big Spring, Texas. It has been owned and run by Meaghan Monroe since 2015. Their clothing line includes printed T-shirts with quote designs as well as crocheted hats, tops, and scrunchies. However, it isn’t limited to just clothing, they have a varied catalog with everything from accessories, to bath products. Some of my personal favorites are the wire wrapped pendants, blankets and floral decor. Treat yourself to a one of a kind handmade item or give someone you love a thoughtful gift. Check out their site here: https://thebohemianhookup.myshopify.com/
Creatively Lilly is run by Kendra Lilly in Lewisville, Texas. This shop boasts vibrantly colored paintings of outdoor scenes, including: palm trees, mountains, the ocean, clouds and other breathtaking views. There are numerous different shaped paintings, canvases and even boxes and plant pots with Kendra’s trademark flashy designs. Kendra explains, “The main goal with my business is to bring happiness to as many people as possible. I truly believe everyone on this planet deserves to be happy and to have their voices heard.” Shop now at: https://www.creativelylilly.com/
Customs De Samedi run by 21 year old Stacey Samedi specializes in custom painted shoes. She is also considering adding more variety of items to her custom shop including denim or wall art as time goes on. Right now, their most popular design is white Nike AF1s with blue painted butterflies. My personal favorite is the hummingbird AF1s. Since elementary school Stacey has been an artist, so as her skills continued to grow it seemed like a natural progression to start a business selling the art that she loves. Anyone would be lucky to wear a pair of these amazing kicks, shop here: https://www.customsdesamedi.com/
Report: Rebecca Vanderkooi
Increased Focus on Fashion by Athletes Could Influence the Styles of Their Fans, and Each Other
Fans may soon wear more than the jersey of their favorite athlete, they may also try to emulate their fashion choices
Stereotypically we do not think of sports fans as a group of people who are concerned about the clothes they wear. When sports fans want to represent and emulate their favorite team and/or athlete, they do so by wearing the jersey of said athlete.
But as athletes continue to put a lot of focus into the outfits they wear when they are off the court or field, it only makes sense that the same fans who buy their jerseys would want to also emulate their fashion choices.
One of the best things about sports is that you get people from all different backgrounds and cultures, and with that comes all different tastes in fashion. An NBA player who was raised in New York City is going to dress differently than an NBA player who was raised in North Carolina, and an NBA player from Europe is going to dress completely different than any NBA player from the United States. These players could then be influencing each other’s taste in fashion, creating unique trends that originated from various styles throughout the world.
But it also means fans could be influenced by various tastes in clothing and apparel throughout the world. There aren’t many ways a young sports fan from Milwaukee would get interested in the fashion scene in Greece, but idolizing the well-dressed Giannis Antetokounmpo is certainly one way.
It wasn’t all that long ago when you would show up to the stadium and everyone in the crowd would be in suits and dresses. While that is unlikely to ever happen again, we could potentially start to see fans in the stands wearing outfits influenced by their favorite athletes.
Photos courtesy of Main Line Sportsman and Nike News
Report: Michael Rosen
Top 4 Trending Fashion Accessories
Modern fashion seems to be evolving with so much pace that some new trends tend to disappear even before people start getting used to it.
Modern fashion seems to be evolving with so much pace that some new trends tend to disappear even before people start getting used to it. Fashion tips are continually changing, and are either bringing back old fashion in new ways or pushing back the boundaries all together. Thus, it is understandable if fashion can get a little bit confusing sometimes. Fashion accessories are not being left out of the change. So, in this article, we will take a look at some of the current fashion accessory trends sweeping through the world of fashion.
1. Sunglasses with Colored Frames
There’s even more reason to protect your eyes these days as the temperature keeps rising. And the latest fashion trend is providing a more colorful way to protect your eyes, with color sunglasses frames. Color has become the order of the day since people are trying out bold and adventurous combinations. These vibrant frames will add a touch of character and personality to any outfit you choose to wear. Plus, even the prescription lenses have not been left out of this trend. Click here for a wide range of fashionable eyewear from Burberry which you can get under prescription.
2. Bucket Hats
We’ve been used to baseball caps, hats, and even umbrellas as our top choices when protecting our heads and faces from the unforgiving sun. But bucket hats seem to be the new trend now. Plus, the fact that you can try these hats with almost any kind of outfit (depending on how bold you are) has made these fashionable hats a big hit among the young folks especially. They offer a laid-back feeling with an attitude that portrays boldness. Add a pair of color sunglasses frames to your bucket hat, and you’ll easily become the center of attraction.
3. Square Toe Sandals
If you think not so much can be done about sandals, then think again. A new wave of footwear is hitting the streets, and we are not talking about tall heels or bold colors. We are talking about something comparatively simple and yet classy - square toe sandals. Most of them come with a strappy finish that adds length to the legs. The only downside about these sandals is the fact that you cannot wear them every season. But summer is here now, so why don’t you try them out while you still can.
4. Chunky Boots
Fashion is not always about creating something new. Most of the time, it is also about bringing back the old in a new way. This is exactly what chunky boots are all about. Add a pair of these boots to your square toe sandals, and you are covered for any season - whether hot or cold. Most of these chunky boots come with low heels and a rubber platform. This makes them weigh considerably less than they look. Plus, they are surprisingly very comfy and easy on the legs. They are perfect for either a walk in the park or a fun night out with your girlfriends. And if men are bold enough, there are also chunky boots for men.
Black Activism in the Fashion World
Being a black woman herself, Rihanna is all too aware of the systemic injustices that surround and impact her. Thus, using her power and influence, she has taken the initiative to aid those fighting for racial justice.
Pop culture icon and Savage X Fenty founder Rihanna wrote a heartfelt Instagram post voicing her profound sorrow at the murder of George Floyd. Rihanna also made sure to remind her audience of Ahmaud Arbery and Breonna Taylor, two other recent victims of racist police brutality. Being a black woman herself, Rihanna is all too aware of the systemic injustices that surround and impact her. Thus, using her power and influence, she has taken the initiative to aid those fighting for racial justice.
Soon after Rihanna poured her heart out to the public, Savage X Fenty’s Instagram announced the donation of the company's profits to Black Lives Matter Greater New York and Bail Project, the latter of which is currently focused on releasing imprisoned BLM protestors. Savage X Fenty concluded the Instagram post with the hashtag #PullUp, imploring customers to contribute and commit to the noble cause.
Savage X Fenty is the most prominent example of major fashion brands supporting the black community in such turbulent times. While skepticism of giant corporations’ commitment to combating oppression is understandable, mass awareness of racial injustice and financial backing from these companies are nonetheless imperative when black people’s lives and civil rights are in jeopardy. Kering, Banana Republic, and Gucci are donating to the NAACP and Campaign Zero, and ASAI has recreated Rihanna’s tie-dye dress, the price of which will be allocated towards Black Lives Matter, Solace Women Said, and The Voice of Domestic Workers.
Smaller fashion labels meaningfully contributed to black activism as well, with Susan Alexandra donating to black LGBTQ mental health services and ModCloth donating to Black Lives Matter while encouraging customers to do the same. Fashion businesses of all sizes are doing their part to enact social change, and it is truly inspiring to witness fellow human beings make efforts to protect one another.
Photo credit:
https://www.popsugar.com/fashion/fashion-brands-donating-black-lives-matter-47524266
Report: Nia Hunt
Anifa Mvuemba Has Completely Transformed Runway Culture.
Anifa Mvuemba has completely transformed runway culture. With the use of technology and virtual models, Mvuemba brought her "Pink Lable Congo" collection to life! Highlighting the beauty, delicacy, and the history of Congolese clothing, Anifa uses her clothes to celebrate her country’s history despite how painful. With the intent to rewrite the future.
During a time when we can’t physically gather, Baltimore native Anifa Mvuemba, the founder of clothing brand Hanifa has transformed runway culture. The Congolese designer has given us a glimpse of what fashion shows could possibly be following the pandemic. Using technology and innovation Mvuemba was able to share her story and showcase her collection to the public from home.
Hanifa’s mission is to highlight the beauty, delicacy, and the history of Congolese clothing. Using her clothes to celebrate her homeland’s history regardless of how painful, with the goal to rewrite its future. Mvuemba said in an interview that she felt that releasing the collection during the pandemic would appear insensitive but she has definitely taken the internet by storm. Utilizing social media, specifically Instagram live, Anifa revealed her “Pink Lable Congo” line using virtual models. In an interview with TeenVogue, Anifa said that she had been thinking of taking her fashion shows to the internet and have been working on this project for seven months.
During the launch of the collection, Anifa explains that each look in this collection meant to represent the Democratic Republic of Congo. She also wanted to use this launch to raise awareness of the illegal mining of cobalt on the land. According to CNN, it is estimated that nearly 40,000 children are working on mines making $1 to $2 a day. To bring attention to this Anifa open the fashion show with a short documentary of stories of these mine workers. This documentary highlighted the harsh conditions underage children and women face for long hours.
To learn more about this cause here's a link to the IGTV runway show.
https://www.instagram.com/tv/CAhDULhAFvG/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Report: Lauren Tucker
Face Masks Are Our New Accessory
Will face masks become a fashion item? As we are required to wear face masks while out in public, will people decide to coordinate them with what they are wearing? Manufacturers have been creating amazing face masks with designs, sayings, and overall are very stylish.
As we know the CDC has recommended that we continue to wear face masks out in public for the past several months now. This most likely will be the case for quite some time to follow.
While face masks have been an important part of personal protective equipment in hospitals and warehouses, they are becoming a part of everyday life for everyone. Whether it’s a cloth face covering or a mask with a KN95 rating, the need to have face masks is now rapidly changing.
Face masks are going to be part of our everyday attire and it is something that we must be sure we never leave the house without. Anytime you go to grocery stores, for walks or to large gatherings you must be wearing a mask.
Since face masks are a huge part of our lives and what will help us stay the most protected, you might as well find a mask you like. Some shops, small businesses and designers have decided to change the style of these face masks to make them more “stylish”.
Places like Etsy, Fashion Nova, Revolve and several online shops created face masks that have designs such as lace, camo, plaid and countless others to make it more enjoyable to wear. These masks take up a very big part of our face when we wear them, so it’s important we feel comfortable in them.
Face masks may not be looked at as a fashion accessory, but with the CDC’s guidelines we must follow, our face masks should at least be appealing to the eye.
Would you match your face mask with your outfit?
Photo Credits: Vogue & Etsy
Report: Melissa Adragna (@melissa_adragna)
Edward Enninful Talks About The Importance Of Cultivating An Anti-Racist Agenda
“My mother told me to watch myself whenever I left the house. I still feel that same sense of anxiety today when I step out of my front door. Forty years on, nothing has changed.” -Edward Enninful
Last week, Edward Enniful, the editor of British Vogue watched a video of George Floyd, the 46-year-old African-American man who died in custody after an officer from the Minneapolis Police Department knelt on his neck for eight minutes and 46 seconds. He talks about how it made him feel, he said, “First of all, I was wracked by a feeling of intense sadness at the senseless loss of life. Then I saw the video footage of Amy Cooper, the white woman who called the police on Christian Cooper, a black man walking in New York’s Central Park, when he asked her to put her dog on a leash. That made me feel enraged. In the days since, I have been unable to shake a very specific feeling that will be familiar to black people around the world: that my life is somehow disposable.”
He talks about how lucky to have a privilege in his world, he said, “But as a man of colour, and as a gay man, I could not escape the sense that it doesn’t matter what you’ve achieved, or what you’ve contributed to society, your life can still feel worthless. When I step out of my door in the morning, to take a walk or to wander alone, I am always aware of increased personal danger because of the colour of my skin. These past few days I’ve gone between rage and sadness and fear. What these racist acts reveal, among many other things, is that we have a lot more work to do. Anybody who thinks we’re there, that we have created a society where everyone is equal – well, they’re wrong. Racism is a global issue. Racism is a British issue. It is not one that is merely confined to the United States – it is everywhere, and it is systemic.”
His mother always told me to watch himself when he left the house, he said, “As a black person, you learn from a very young age that you need to have your wits about you. Children are born without prejudice, but when I started school in London, I realised that I was different. Name-calling is only the very first thing you have to deal with, and there have been worse moments. Growing up in Ladbroke Grove, I saw black people persecuted, arrested, abused – this happened all the time. My mother told me to watch myself whenever I left the house. I still feel that same sense of anxiety today when I step out of my front door. Forty years on, nothing has changed.”
Report: Amanda Lou
The Paris Haute Couture Shows Will Go Digital This July
As the COVID-19 pandemic progresses, different precautions have to be taken everyday. Some of the biggest weeks in fashion like Milan and and London fashion week have announced that they will be transitioning to online fashion shows.
As the COVID-19 pandemic progresses, different precautions have to be taken everyday. Some of the biggest weeks in fashion like Milan and and London fashion week have announced that they will be transitioning to online fashion shows. The Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode, French fashion’s governing body, has announced its plan for the menswear spring 2021 season. They will host videos from accredited couture maisons on a dedicated platform. The videos will be accompanied by additional content and roll out on a schedule, mimicking the flow of a physical Fashion Week.
The Chambre Syndicale has 16 French brand members that are legally allowed to participate in the couture week, including Chanel, Christian Dior, Jean Paul Gaultier, Maison Margiela, Schiaparelli, and Givenchy. A separate designation, correspondent member, is given to seven international labels that produce garments on a couture scale: Armani Privé, Azzedine Alaïa, Elie Saab, Fendi Couture, Valentino, Versace, and Viktor & Rolf. Although many designers are preparing for these digital fashion weeks, some have already opted out. Giorgio Armani announced that his Armani Privé collection will be shown in January. Jean Paul Gaultier, who handed over the reins of his couture business to Sacai’s Chitose Abe for the first in a series of guest-designer collections, announced that his show would also be put on hold until January. Givenchy is currently without a creative director, meaning its couture production is likely on hold, and Balenciaga, which was set to debut a couture collection under Demna Gvasalia, has also postponed its collection.
The COVID-19 pandemic keeps all of us on our toes and always thinks of creative ways to improvise. Paris’ menswear Fashion week which is July 9th-13th and Milan’s menswear Fashion week July 14th-17th will officially be digital for the first time ever.
Report: Alycia Williams
Resort Shows: The Best of the Best
With May drawing to a close, Vogue's editors commemorated the month typically filled with resort shows by reminiscing about 17 resort shows of past years that they deemed most spectacular.
With May drawing to a close, Vogue's editors commemorated the month typically filled with resort shows by reminiscing about 17 resort shows of past years that they deemed most spectacular. Since Chanel’s historic gladiator-themed show in 2007, fashion shows in exotic locales across the globe have become a spring tradition. With the myriad of culturally diverse resort shows spanning more than a decade, selecting the most exceptional ones truly speaks to the editors’ mastery of fashion history. A more daring distinction, however, is determining which shows stand out from even these elite few.
The shows with the most aesthetically pleasing dresses are Chanel Resort 2017, Gucci Resort 2019, and Valentino Resort 2016. Chanel Resort 2017 embraced its Havana setting in such a flamboyant way, with one model wearing a red-and-white striped skirt patterned with Cuban cars and a t-shirt emblazoned with the words, “Viva Coco Cuba Libre.” Gucci Resort 2019 took a more unique approach to its French setting; it took place in the ancient cemetery Promenade Des Alyscamps, and the models wore suede, bejeweled Victorian dresses while wielding bouquets of large flowers. Lastly, Valentino Resort 2016 brought Métis artist Christi Belcourt’s painting “Water Song” to life with gowns embroidered with the masterpiece’s floral designs. Further distinguishing this show from others was Valentino as one of the rare labels collaborating with an indigenous artist rather than simply appropriating native imagery.
While quarantining measures have deprived the public of 2020 resort shows, the fashion industry nonetheless honors the annual tradition and anticipates the iconic looks that 2021 will likely bring.
Photo credits:
https://www.vogue.com/slideshow/vogue-editors-favorite-resort-runway-shows
Report: Nia Hunt
Bridal Fashion's Everlasting Life
Bridal fashion is one of fashion's biggest industries that will live on forever and these designers are very much aware of that. Designers Viktor & Rolf as well as Reem Acra did an amazing job capturing these looks and creating marvelous collections.
Wedding dresses are meant to capture the bride’s personality and are a major part of their special day. With this recent pandemic, many Bridal Spring 2021 presentations of their collections were cancelled or pushed back. However, some designers have hosted virtual shows or interviews to showcase their collections.
With most events being cancelled or postponed, we know that means brides all over the world had to cancel their big day as well. Luckily the bridal industry is one of the biggest industries in the fashion world and it is not something that will ever go away.
Viktor & Rolf had a beautiful collection full of soft silhouettes, collars and 3D flowers draping down on several of them. Each and every dress represented complete elegance. Whether it was this strapless A-line gown or a collar full of flowers with a sheer finish with pretty tulle incorporated.
Another bridal spring 2021 collection was Reem Acra, who outdid herself this season. She had a magnificent display with a backdrop of pink and purple flowers. This really helped the gowns stand out and made it all that much more beautiful. These designs of the two A-line gowns are flawless. One being more delicate and vintage with the long sleeves and lace throughout. The other a simple charmer, off the shoulder with charmeuse fabric. There were no embellishments on the gown, but it is still very full of life.
While many brides had their special day taken away from them, it is so important to remain hopeful and positive. Bridal fashion will stay and be around forever as will your love.
Photo Credits: Vogue
Report: Melissa Adragna (@melissa_adragna)
Converse Gets Eco Friendly
Converse takes a more environment friendly approach via applying more resourceful manufacturing strategies.
If you're trying to find ways to live a more eco friendly life, looking at what you're wearing is a great place to start. Converse is making that more accessible for the public, releasing a new collection of sneakers that displays a line of faded, contrasted designs in Hi and Ox cuts, formulated by a combination of recycled cotton and recycled plastic bottles. Converse takes a more environment friendly approach via applying more resourceful manufacturing strategies. This isn’t unfamiliar to us, as they first released the Renew Tri-Panel Chuck 70 collection to the public last Spring. They decided to follow up with the collection and provide additional colors and styles for consumers to buy.
Converse have been around for decades and we still continue to show them love, they’re durable, laid-back, super comfy, and can match essentially anything. The Chuck 70 took inspiration from Earthy tones, in colors like branded melon, noble grey, prairie sande, and mellow rose. These sneakers are unlike any, giving off a laid-back retro kind of feel, and fabfrivated by dye free yarn.
Buying these shoes will support conserving the Earth while also wearing one of your favorite shoes. Creating a line of recycled shoes is a step in the right path and other companies should follow in their footsteps. Make sure you get your hands on a pair of these sneakers, starting May 15th on converse.com.
Report: Emily Andrews
At the rise of Covid-19 many of us first questioned the timeline of fashion week and would we see the regular calendar continue - the question weighed over many of us for months! It was refreshing to see design houses and designers across the globe take advantage of the uncertainty and plow into production mode - thus my interest in Jerri Reid New York - The Black Designer based in Brooklyn New York wow’d instagram with his latest collection paying homage to the Black Is King film which debuted earlier this year in July. I was taken aback at quick of a turn round the young designer produced and released his well crafted designs reflecting some of the films most memorable moments.