Better Lives blog 2
The Better Lives theme that stood out to me the most was ‘diversity’ because it was interesting to learn more about how fashion brands continue to accumulate various cultures and ideals to portray themselves as more ‘inclusive’ and more ‘accepting’ for an audience. The 21st century has brought an increasing number of expectations for the fashion industry, as consumers are extremely vigilant and connected due to the various social media networks, therefore making it pertinent for each brand to portray strong values that align with the public.
Nowadays, it is very common to see all body types represented in a campaign, or all skin types, or all gender types, but I find it difficult to understand whether people are following through with diversity because it is ‘trending’ or because they actually understand the meaning of the word ‘diverse’ and how different people make up a society. There is a thin line between respecting diverse cultures and disrespecting them. However, the main job of public relations managers in fashion, is to prevent brands from causing blunders by making sure they do not cross this thin line.
Throughout these lectures, I have been able to further understand the importance of acknowledging every culture, every body type, every skin tone, and every aspect that makes a person ‘different’. Additionally, due to my own indian ethnicity, I have been able to look at every scenario with varied lenses. For example, when the Dolce & Gabbanna campaign was released in Asia, there was dispute over it led me to believe that certain people might not be aware of these lines, and might not consider certain actions or statements to be disrespectful. This could be because of the lack of exposure, or their own biased opinions that should not be excused.
The main challenge the world is facing right now is making the idea of diversity normal, an idea that becomes engraved in every individual so that it does not have to be an ‘effort’ to be inclusive, just a natural reaction. Once this is surpassed, brands and consumers will have a much more fruitful relationship.