With post-pandemic effects dragging on longer than expected, it becomes increasingly difficult to “return to normal”. As Thanksgiving marks the start of the holiday season, we are pushed as a society to acknowledge the things we are grateful for. But because of the post-pandemic world, people get so caught up with issues it becomes a struggle to view the world in a positive light. From expressing gratitude towards healthcare professionals to thinking sustainably and ethically, the following are the top 5 fashion designers to be thankful for:
Ralph Lauren
With New York being its hometown, it isn’t a surprise The Ralph Lauren Corporate Foundation has made numerous contributions to show its gratitude toward front-line health workers. Starting with $10 million to help assist with the post-pandemic effects. The money was spread between the Emergency Assistance Foundation, the World Health Organization, the Pink Pony Fund, and A Common Thread. In addition to financially helping out those in need, a portion of the money was also used to produce 275,000 total gowns and masks. As if $10 million wasn’t enough, the brand continues to show gratitude towards hospital staff by sending them coffee and baked treats. With the help of Ralph’s coffee truck and La Colombe Coffee, the collaboration has shown healthcare professionals how thankful they are for their hard work.
Stella McCartney
Creating one of the most sustainable and ethically produced brands, the designer has constantly challenged the meaning of fashion. Within the recycled and regenerated materials, it’s evident how innovative Stella becomes when combining values, new ideas, and technology. It has even gone to the extent that all stores have solar panels and LEDs for energy. Her devotions to progress the fashion industry are evident through her 4 part strategy which includes: respect for nature, respect for people, respect for animals, and circular solutions.
Giorgio Armani
What once was a donation of €1.25 million has now increased to €2 million. Armani made generous contributions to the biggest hospitals in Italy, including three locations in Milan and one in Rome. With factories spread all across Italy, these production lines have been transformed to make overalls for hospital workers to further contribute to the cause.
Christopher Bailey
Similar to the transformation of Armani’s Italian factories, the designer of Burberry has altered numerous locations of trench coat factories to produce masks and gowns for patients and workers. In addition to the 100,000 masks sent to National Health Services in the UK, the fashion designer Christopher Bailey has also helped fund vaccine research and charities regarding COVID-19.
Coco Chanel
Arguably one of the most influential fashion designers of all time, Coco Chanel is also one of the most kindhearted and inspiring. Through the combination of men’s clothing and practicality within womenswear, Chanel has become the structure of a lot of fashion today. More importantly, the brand has recently come out with statements addressing bans on fur and exotic skins. Along with “Chanel’s Sustainable Journey”, it’s evident the brand stays true to bettering the world through the many post-pandemic contributions. From producing face masks to donating £1 million, it is clear Coco Chanel has always been for the people.
