Last week, we witnessed a historic day that captured the attention of countries worldwide as discussions about the American presidential elections dominated conversations and flooded social media. While searching for my daily fashion topic to write about, a question lingered in my mind: Can fashion ever be political? A question that many in the industry have likely pondered over at some point. It’s a complex and somewhat daunting topic to address, as any opinion expressed is bound to stir controversy. Nonetheless, I believe this is a discussion worth having. If you’re open-minded and willing to explore this topic without judgment, I invite you to read on!
Fashion has always been an extension of our identities, a way to express who we are and what we believe. Think back to the punk movement of the 1970s. It wasn’t just about the clothes; it was a rebellion against societal norms, a bold statement that resonated with a generation yearning for change. Designers like Vivienne Westwood used fashion as a canvas to challenge authority and provoke dialogue. Coco Chanel and Mary Quant stood against the norms of feminism and its dressing in the 1920s. Fast forward to today, and we see designers like Prabal Gurung taking a bow at the end of his recent show wearing a T-shirt that had ‘VOTE’ written on it. Gmbh showcased a collection called “United Nations” in solidarity with Palestine and gave the message of a ceasefire. These showcases are not just trends; it’s a declaration that fashion can — and should be involved in the conversation about our future.
Fashion has an undeniable responsibility to address the issues that plague our society. The garment industry is steeped in problems — labour exploitation, environmental degradation, and cultural appropriation are just the tip of the iceberg. To insist that fashion remain apolitical in light of these realities is not only naive but downright irresponsible. Fashion can serve as both an escape from reality and a powerful reminder of it. It can reflect our values while challenging us to do better. It has the power to reflect societal values and provoke critical conversations about pressing issues.
When I say political statements, it is beyond our beloved game of left, right, centre, liberal, secular, democratic, and other such words. It is larger than this idea. It is about a voice that can affect a whole society. It is about a societal movement. Now, if that collides and opposes the values of your favourite side, then it is not on the designers and neither on me (I’m just reporting here!)
Take a moment to think about how clothing has historically been used as a tool for activism. During the suffragette movement, women wore white dresses as symbols of purity and strength in their fight for voting rights. In the civil rights movement, figures like Martin Luther King Jr. donned tailored suits to convey dignity and respectability. These choices were deliberate; they sent messages that transcended mere fabric and thread. In the Indian context, we have khadi, which was symbolic resistance against British oppression during the Indian Freedom Movement. Another example is of Designer Anita Dongre. She has been a leader in the fashion industry’s transition to sustainability and addressed environmental issues with her efforts.
Today, we see similar movements within fashion, but they are not as strong or have that level of impact as did before. Designers do use their platforms to advocate for racial equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and climate action, and collections feature slogans like “Black Lives Matter,” but somewhere, they lack the power and resistance that is needed to face the issue and bring about the change. Why isn’t there enough speech or representation for, let’s say, “Abortion Laws” from the fashion industry when it is an issue that people need support for?
But let’s be real: it’s not always easy for designers to take a stand. The fear of being cancelled looms large in the creative community, especially now due to the rise of social media. Many worry that expressing their political views could lead to backlash or alienate potential customers. This fear can stifle creativity and silence important voices in an industry that thrives on innovation and self-expression. Yet, isn’t it precisely this kind of fear that we need to confront? The world is changing, and so must fashion.
The other side of the coin is that brands making campaigns for social change are just a part of their marketing gimmick. Fashion brands and corporations might end up using political movements to create a marketable image and capitalise on social movements rather than genuinely supporting them. If there is no true intention of bringing about change and doing it only for the social media buzz, then it does ruin the sincerity of fashion taking a stand. The sentiments of the audience and the consumers might get hurt, and the credibility of fashion and its seriousness may all vanish. Designers and brands must only have a political voice if they believe in it and not just do it for a hashtag or a few million views.
As we look toward the future of fashion, I believe it’s time for designers to embrace their role as cultural commentators fully. Fashion should not be relegated to superficial glamour or fleeting media moments; it must engage with pressing social issues head-on. We need more designers willing to take risks, challenge norms, and use their platforms for good.
Imagine walking down the street and seeing someone wearing a shirt that not only looks good but also sparks a conversation about social justice. Imagine couture on famous red carpets not just looking like a beautiful piece of art but also making headlines for the social issue that the dress is supporting or multiple such collections on the runway that compel the government to take a decision. That’s the kind of impact fashion can have when it chooses to engage with the world around it.
Fashion is much more than an industry focused on aesthetics; it is a powerful beacon capable of driving change when wielded thoughtfully. It has historically played significant roles in social movements and continues to do so today. Fashion should not shy away from its responsibilities; it should embrace them fiercely. It has the potential to transform from a mere reflection of culture into a formidable force for progress — a platform that champions justice in an ever-evolving world. The potential is vast and largely untapped; it can be a powerful tool for change — it’s time we start using it as such.
