By: Sahra Mohamed
As consumers, it’s important to know that our dollar is our power. When it comes to huge brands in the fashion and beauty industry, it’s up to us to carefully choose companies that align with our ethics and morals. Supermodel Iman, recently told a story during a radio interview about her experience with Phoebe Philo; fashion designer and creative director for Céline. Phoebe made controversial remarks about not wanting to use black models for her runway shows unless she’s forced to. During the interview, Iman explained there was a time that every woman would purchase Céline bags. However, after her encounter with Philo, she decided to never own a Céline bag, despite the brand’s popularity. Iman realized Philo may choose to only hire white models for her shows but Iman will always have the right to her pocketbook.
During the black lives matter protests back in June 2020, Céline was quick to post a black square on the company’s instagram page, claiming to stand in solidarity with the community. Many celebrity fashion stylists, including Jason Bolden who styled Angelina Jolie, Cynthia Erivo, Nicole Kidman and more, claimed that the company doesn’t dress black celebrities unless they have a white stylist, thus displaying performative activism.
Diet Prada – Jason Bolden’s comments
With this example in mind, in 2022, as we all know, Balenciaga released a disturbing campaign involving children, posing this question; Why do numerous celebrities continue to wear this brand?
Another questionable fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld, who was the creative director for Chanel, was celebrated at the Meta Gala last year. According to TIME Magazine, for the past few decades, Karl has been spewing hate towards plus size woman while making sexist, racist and derogatory statements. An article posted in the Hollywood reporter discusses the controversial remarks Karl made about the Me Too movement back in 2018 and disturbing remarks about immigrants. Yet, many celebrities were invited ro the Met and wore beautifully curated garments, celebrating Karl’s career.
Numerous models came out against fashion designer Alexander Wang, accusing him of sexual assault back in 2021. According to WWD publication, the company currently makes 200 million dollars annually and recently launched a huge campaign advertisment featuring iconic supermodels. In his statement, he claimed he took the time to listen to his accusers but denied their allegations
It’s up to us, as consumers, to recognize the power of our dollar and who we support.
Wonderful to read more about the history of fashion, I never knew a lot of these facts, it’s great you are bringing more awareness to this.
Great read. I l thought your insight on the fashion industry was informative and thoughtful. Thanks for letting me learn something new!