There has been a campaign in the fashion industry led by models such as Naomi Campbell, Iman, and Bethann Hardison for more diversity rather than the cookie cutter images that we often see. Far too often in the fashion world, stereotypes are perpetuated of each culture, mistakenly called diversity- but how can it be diversity when there are often no women featured in these shows or wearing these designs? And how is it diversity when the designs instead perpetuate typical stereotypes? (Remember from a few days ago, Chanel had a headdress featured in their show for cowboys and Indians, in Texas.)
But there is one designer..
There is one designer, however, who has made diversity the theme of his 2014 fall collection and has featured women of different ethnic backgrounds front and center. Riccardo Tisci, creative director of Givenchy, has chosen Erykah Badu as the face of the 2014 collection.
It is not just the women featured, though.
It is the clothing as well. Mr. Tisci started his 2014 spring fashion show with draping inspired by Alix Gres, an early 20th Century designer, then has hues inspired by African and Indian textiles, and then kimono silhouettes.
He is going with his instincts and his own experiences growing up in a culture where everyone was considered the same. He embraces the diversity around him, and, when asked why he chose Ms. Badu, he said, “She is an icon– come on!”
So, why is diversity not embraced?
Diversity, not just in the fashion world, but in most walks of life, is not embraced or wildly noticed. It is often considered “weird” or “odd” if anything different is seen than what is normal. Diversity is, instead, shoved away as if it were something bad. ?People push normalcy, wanting everyone to conform and be the same as they are.
For instance, a little girl was suspended and threatened with expulsion for having a natural afro. Another girl was threatened with not allowing to graduate because she wanted to wear an eagle feather with her tassel; they also tried to fine her one thousand dollars.
Diversity seems to not be embraced because there seems to be this mentality that all have to look alike or at least very close. If anyone stands out, they are deemed “bad” or a “problem,” even if their dress or hair or wearing of particular religious symbols is from their heritage and cultural background.
This is just the beginning.
Hopefully, we will see more of people embracing diversity and encouraging others to do so. Our country is rich and full of many heritages and religions. All should be fairly represented and all should be able to express themselves freely. Otherwise, we do not have true tolerance or diversity.
Edited/Published by: SB
