A fashion industry leader gets political.
Diane von Furstenberg has sent a post-election message to the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), telling industry insiders to help her cause by “creating beauty, optimism and happiness”.
In an email to the CFDA members on Monday, obtained by Page Six, the designer, who is also the president of the trade organisation, penned: “Dear Fellow Designers, Fashion is a reflection of the time, so how can we help on the eve of this new era?”
“First, we must believe in ourselves and in our work. We must believe in the values of tolerance and inclusiveness that are the fabric of our country. We must believe we can make a difference and use our influence by creating beauty, optimism and happiness. More than ever, we must embrace diversity, be open minded, be generous and have compassion.”
The message concluded with: “More than ever, we must be an example of good. Love is life!” And she signed the message, “Diane.”
Von Furstenberg has been a vocal supporter of Hillary Clinton throughout her campaign. Her husband, Barry Diller, even said last year that he would move country and join the resistance if Trump succeeded in his election bid.
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The designer is not alone in speaking out.
CEO of Oscar de la Renta Alex Bolen told The Business of Fashion: “Last night, the American people expressed their strong desire for change. Fashion will need to react, in a likewise strong way, to that new mood. We look forward to the challenge.”
President and CEO of the CFDA, Steven Kolb, said: “I worry about [Trump’s] position on immigration and how it will impact the workforce of our industry from garment workers to design students who come here to study and want to stay. I worry about the image of American brands abroad. I worry about his position on trade and how it will impact the supply chain. And I hope with all my heart that he can put aside his ugly rhetoric and bring the country together so all Americans can live their lives freely as they choose.”
Phillip Lim and Wen Zhou, co-founders of 3.1 Phillip Lim said: “Today is a very challenging day here in New York City – our community is filled with shock and disbelief. There is an indescribable, unwavering somber cloud that is palpable through the streets, on the subways, and here in our own studio. However, we believe in the power of optimism and hope. Together, our desire is to unite with members of our team, the fashion industry and the country as a whole to move forward. We cannot let this election set us backwards, we will march onwards. We are undoubtedly stronger together.”
The fashion world is becoming increasingly divided after Trump’s win. Twitter user @shewhovotes has started an impassioned campaign over Twitter to boycott brands such as Nordstrom until they stop stocking Ivanka Trump’s fashion brand.
And after New Balance’s head of public affairs, Matt LeBretton, spoke out in support of Trump’s trade policies, sneaker fans have posted images burning their shoes.
Interesting times ahead, indeed.
