The fashion industry has always been a reflection of what America is all about … inclusion and diversity. It will continue to stand by these standards. I am personally horrified to see what is going on.
– Diane von Furstenberg, Belgium-American fashion designer.
This quote is from an article in The Business of Fashion by Imran Amed.
For Mr. Amed’s article many fashion industry professionals were asked to comment on Trump’s recent executive order to halt the current refugee program and (temporarily) ban travelers from seven Muslim countries from entering the United States. Ms. von Furstenberg and Steven Kolb, chief executive of CFDA were the only ones willing to make a comment. Others declined to say one word.
Isn’t that rather odd considering the outrage expressed around the country and around the world? CEOs from Apple, Facebook, Starbucks, and Nike just to name a few, are all unafraid to take a public stand against Trump’s actions.
Why so quiet on the fashion front? I surmise that (assuming most designers actually disagree with Trump) they might be afraid to alienate Trump supporters, many of whom could be their customers. Let’s not forget that Kellyanne Conway was sporting Gucci at the inauguration. Brands such as Isaac Mizrahi and Lori Goldstein sell on QVC, a magnet for middle-of-the country shoppers. Also, Trump’s daughter, Ivanka is an influential member of the fashion biz.
It could be that designers and corporate brands are nervous about offending all the wrong people (customers and Trumps). If they say nothing, they’re safe.
But SAFE is not fashionable right now. SPEAKING UP is what’s trending.
OverDressed for Life 
Very nice! An important topic to address. Thanks to you and Diane!
I am speaking up. I agree with the temporary ban with those who do not have the proper credentials to enter the U.S.
Thank you, Sophia for reading OverDressedforLife. I understand your point but I think it’s a very complicated issue. First of all, Trump’s travel ban wasn’t about illegal immigrants – many of the people caught in that fiasco had been vetted and did indeed have “proper credentials.” It was about keeping certain people out of this country. As for undocumented immigrants, they are doing a lot of work that evidently unemployed Americans are not willing to do. So, without them there will be fewer people to harvest our produce, clean our offices and homes, take care of our children and elders. Perhaps what our government should do is revisit what it takes to enter into the United States legally.
What an important point.
Economic boycott is an important political power that we the people share.
Which are the brands outspoken against Trump and his administration? Which are supporters?
We should put out money where are mouths are!