Embracing Inclusivity in Fashion Because Every Body Matter

For the longest time, fashion catered to a particular audience that fit specific standards of society. These standards included one's body type, gender, sexual orientation, and even ethnicity. One could not even imagine the representation of the disabled community on the ramp walk. Fortunately, times are changing for the better- even if it is a slow process. Designers and consumers of fashion have started to become socially conscious. In a politically divided world, the role of fashion should be to break boundaries, where individuals can express themselves regardless of their height, weight, age, gender, race, sexual orientation, or disability.

Misconceptions of what Inclusivity in Fashion really is.

Often, people use the words "inclusivity" and "diversity" interchangeably. They get the two terms mixed up, assuming that they portray a similar idea. However, there is a fine line differentiating the two. In fashion, understanding how the two words differ becomes crucial in truly being inclusive. Take, for example, a fashion brand doing an advertising campaign. Diversity in fashion simply means a mix of people from all communities. A fashion brand may be diverse when they portray a black model in their advertising campaign. But behind the scenes, the model may not have any control over what they want. However, when a fashion brand is being inclusive, they consider the voices and opinions of every single person part of their diverse team. Only then do they implement their plans of action.

What the lack of Inclusivity has done to the world of fashion.

In all the progress the world has made, people who are not part of the majority still find it hard to express themselves freely through fashion. For example, people who are physically disabled are constantly telling themselves that they are not fit to be models. As consumers of fashion, they even find it hard to find clothes that fit their body types. This is true for every single minority group. They feel that they are not "good enough" or the "right fit" for the fashion industry. As a result, the fashion industry fails to bring to the spotlight the creative potential of these individuals.

How the Fashion Industry can benefit from Inclusivity.

From the point of view of fashion brands, they can benefit immensely by being inclusive in their fashion approach. Of course, by including models from all backgrounds and designing clothes that are suitable for all, they can boost their sales and have an excellent public reputation. But, more importantly, fashion brands need to realize that they are being the forerunners of change. They are on their way to making the world a better place to live in, where not a single minority group is left behind. As a result, consumers of fashion also start believing that they are worth it.

The different ways in which fashion is moving towards Inclusivity.

The fashion industry has grown tremendously over the past few years. In 2020, the New York Fashion week saw Jillian Mercado, a physically disabled model, on the runway. In addition, Knix, a lingerie brand, encouraged anti-ageism in the fashion industry with its social media campaign. Versace's runway saw the debut of three plus-size models on the runway. Harry Styles, a British singer, has been the icon of genderless fashion. The efforts of various clothing brands to be inclusive in their fashion choices have not gone unnoticed either. For example, Braille Code Brands, a company based in New York, makes socks and shoes for the visually impaired. Many local and global brands are now incorporating inclusivity on the same lines.

Inclusive fashion can change the world for the better.

No doubt, inclusivity requires a tremendous amount of research and resources to cater to all audiences. However, the change is necessary for everyone to be able to make their fashion statement. Fashion goes way beyond clothes and accessories. It should allow everyone to feel included, encouraged, and empowered. And, once the fashion industry understands the true meaning of inclusivity, the fashion world will undoubtedly feel a greater sense of satisfaction.