I had the pleasure of attending Vogue Force of Fashion 2020 in November (virtually, of course) and I’m so excited to bring you some of the amazing conversations shared between the most influential designers, models, and creative directors in the fashion industry! With everything brought to light this year, it was no surprise that topics revolving around diversity and inclusivity were at the forefront of every conversation.
The fashion industry has historically catered to white, thin models with little room for people of color in all shapes and sizes. In the last decade, the fashion industry has made strides by including runway and campaign models that more accurately reflect us — real women. However, there is still a long way to go in accepting and representing everyone. The leaders of the fashion industry have shared their thoughts and why it’s important to pioneer change.
Fashion is a collaborative process
Sarah Burton, Creative Director of Alexander Mcqueen, shares that “there’s no hierarchy of ideas. It’s a really collaborative process.” What makes the fashion industry progress and grow is the inclusion of everyone’s ideas, which is the best way to foster creativity and produce something beautiful. When we take collaboration out, we take away the stories that need to be told.
“There’s no hierarchy of ideas. It’s a really collaborative process.”
View this post on Instagram
All bodies need to be celebrated
Curvy model Tess McMillan joins the panel with Precious Lee, Paloma Elesser, and Jill Kortleve as they share their experiences breaking into the modeling industry as curvy models. Challenging the norms is hard but necessary, especially in an era of social media where representation has become important now more than ever. It’s a call for designers to include all shapes and sizes into the design process.
“Our judgments of our bodies can limit our creativity as artists. Judgements limit creativity. And that limits fashion as an art form.” -Tess McMillan
View this post on Instagram
Culture inspires fashion
Drawing influences from different cultures is a way of celebration and making people feel seen. Jonathan Anderson, founder and creative director of J.W. Anderson and creative director of LOEWE, details the impact of the coronavirus on the world and how it’s essential for influential creatives in the fashion industry to reflect on the hardships and uplift the experiences of people through art and fashion.
“Fashion is a mirror. When you look at the culture, it will reflect back on you.”
View this post on Instagram
Racism should have no place in the fashion industry
My favorite session was between Jeremy Scott, creative director of Moschino, and musical artist Lizzo, where they talk about why fashion and culture are intersectional. Lizzo speaks on the importance of white allyship and how necessary it is to lift up the Black community, along with other people of color, by sharing the seat and opening the door. Some of the most iconic fashion trends in American culture today were created and popularized by the Black community. It’s time to celebrate all of it and to give credit where it’s due.
“…That is gonna be really important in white allyship in the future, especially in fashion. It’s not feeling shame of who you are but just kind of opening up the door and letting someone stand beside you who doesn’t look like you.”
It’s empowering and encouraging to experience these discussions on such a large and influential platform like Vogue. It’s a great way for consumers and fans to get a glimpse into the world of fashion and to hold brands accountable. I’m excited to see the fashion industry continue to progress in the right direction and promote transparency on every level.
Did you learn something new from our recap of the Vogue Forces of Fashion Summit? Is this an event you would like to attend next year? Sound off below!
For More Articles On Fashion Inspiration And Social Issues, Check Out:
Diversity In The Media: Is The World Finally Ready To Accept All Bodies?
