Returning to my childhood narrative, the unfortunate truth was that Barbie dolls, Disney films, superheroes, and images of models or ordinary people endorsing various brands on television or in magazines did not depict individuals like me. Even the middle pages from magazines that I used to paste in my room did not feature people of colour. If a child never encounters someone resembling them in the media or on their toys, portrayed as beautiful, smart, or talented, how are they supposed to cultivate a healthy sense of self? My contention is that most children grow up with exposure to television, modelling, glossy magazines, deriving significant confidence from these sources. It is essential for all of us to see ourselves represented in magazines, television and in the mainstream media, .

It is crucial to acknowledge that representation fosters unity in society. The absence of representation establishes an unconscious divide, leading to superiority and segregation in society. For instance, a racially charged hashtag, #NotMyAriel, trended on Twitter, when Halle Bailey made history as the first Black actress to portray Ariel in The Little Mermaid. However, parents capturing the reactions of young Black children, who were astonished and overjoyed by this new Ariel, overshadowed the hate from cyberbullying. On a positive note, Barbie has embraced this change, featuring over 200 careers and counting, continuously inspiring the limitless potential in every little girl. They celebrate heroes like Katherine Johnson, a pioneer in math and science, who broke barriers by making critical calculations for the success of sending astronauts to the moon. Disney and various other branches of media are beginning to embrace diversity.

I am incredibly proud of women of colour such as Adwoa Aboah, Yara Shahidi, and Gabby Douglas for leveraging their platforms to impact the upcoming generation of women. They are demonstrating that girls can aspire to be anything they want, inspiring limitless potential and working to bridge the Dream Gap. Congratulations to Malenga Mulendema from Zambia for creating the first African children’s animated show for both TV and the movie streaming service Netflix. Titled “Mama K’s Team 4,” the show depicts the adventures of an all-girl spy team and is produced by Triggerfish Animation Studios in South Africa. This groundbreaking production provides a unique opportunity for a new generation of African children to witness characters they can relate to, portraying powerful and aspirational role models on-screen.

The post Barbie Dolls Redefining Representation appeared first on Victoria Kafifi.

This season’s event unfolded as a star-studded fashion spectacle. Izabel Goulart, a former Victoria’s Secret model, kicked off the show, and the other models showcased dazzling knit gowns, jumpsuits, and swimwear adorned with sparkling sequins and knit mesh. The essence of this new collection is to commemorate womanhood, embracing diversity, and celebrating a variety of body shapes and sizes.

The British Fashion Council has been promoting awareness of Positive Fashion. Julien Macdonald is dedicated to sustainable fashion practices, incorporating organic fabrics and maintaining environmental consciousness. He also want a better representation of diverse woman on the Catwalk.

The British Fashion Council (BFC), recognises that the fashion industry engages consumers daily. Therefore, through the Institute of Positive Fashion (IPF), their aim is to create an industry blueprint by bringing together expertise from different areas to help brands with a platform designed to celebrate industry best practice and encourage future business decisions to create positive change.

The post Julien Macdonald OBE Celebrates Authentic Beauty appeared first on Victoria Kafifi.

This season, designers in New York, London, and Milan have subverted industry norms by casting models of various ages in their shows. In regards to age, body size and race, there was a diverse representation on the runway at the Johnston of Elgin fashion show. One lesson this season taught us is that, it is evident that age is merely a number, one to which the fashion industry should no longer conform.

While seasons and influences may change, one constant remains: the quest for beauty and elegance. Johnstons of Elgin creates desirable pieces of art designed to resonate with its customers, precious objects of real beauty that hold great personal meaning in today’s disposable culture.According to Scott, Johnstons of Elign has retained its reputation for quality, artistry,innovation and designs for over two centuries.

These pillars are the very heart of what they do on a day to day basis and are demonstrated year after year. The Autumn Winter 19 collection exemplifies the brand’s exceptional craftsmanship,including intarsia hand-knitting and 360 digital printing technology. Johnstons of Elign collection reflects the keen sense of style and understanding of diverse tastes.

Flashes of tartan give a nod to the brand’s proud Scottish heritage, which dates right back to 1797.This sophisticated,elegant and colourful collection proves that Johnstons of Elgin is master of textile innovation and a brand for all seasons. In conclusion, this sophisticated and elegant fashion truly captivated, seamlessly embracing all ages with a timeless and inclusive allure.

The post The Evolution of Fashion Shows: Age-Inclusive Elegance appeared first on Victoria Kafifi.

One of the most thrilling moment of my career was meeting her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Her Majesty the Queen made an astonishing surprise appearance at London Fashion week. She was accompanied by Caroline Rush, the Chief Executive of the British Fashion Council, who guided her through the venue, observing presentations of various designers’ collections during London Fashion Week. Her Majesty took the time to visit each designer, engaging in conversations. Her purpose for attending London Fashion Week was to bestow the inaugural Queen Elizabeth 2 Award for British design.

Seated in the front row alongside Anna Wintour, Vogue’s editor-in-chief, her presence captivated the crowd, prompting them to rise in greeting. Her Majesty watched the show with a composed demeanor and excitement in her eyes. She adorned herself in an ice-blue skirt suit, complemented by a black handbag, black gloves, and black footwear. She even shared a light-hearted moment with Anna Wintour, resulting in both of them laughing and smiling.

After the show, in recognition of his achievements, Her Majesty presented Richard Quinn with the inaugural Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design.The British-born designer is known for specialising in womenswear and printed textiles.Remarkably, he manages a print studio in Peckham, situated in south London, which is accessible to both fellow designers and college students.

The post Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Designers appeared first on Victoria Kafifi.