With the spread of the view of BLM in recent months has also affected the fashion world. It comes with results of demonstrations around the world after an African American man was killed by a white police officer. But in what context has it affected the fashion world?
During the demonstrations, several of the great High-End brands have shown their sympathy through Instagram by sharing stories or using the hashtag #blacklivesmatter. But it has created debates. For decades, major brands have been accused of cultural appropriation or committing racism in their workplaces (1). Therefore, the sympathy of the different brands over Instagram does not seem convincing. It appears like a facade that brands use to be part of the movement. That is what Danielle Prescod, the style director for BET.com, express in an interview with CNN Style. Prescod is frustrated about why major brands have not advertised for black people in the past, by including them both on the runways, in their workplace or fashion magazines, but only when BLM becomes relevant (1).
We do not know for sure whether the great brands are practicing racism in the fashion world consciously or unconsciously. But it creates a concern when you do not see anything from their side. The only thing we can do is hope that major brands in the future will be better at including diversity in the fashion world and be a role model for everyone. And not just keep up with the wave of the latest movement.