Savage X Fenty – Progression in a Small-Minded Industry
- Jade Kidd
- Jan 6, 2019
- 2 min read
Photo by RawPixel
When Rihanna announced the launch of her lingerie collection back in May 2018, we knew it would be unapologetic, inclusive and send shockwaves through the fashion industry as we know it.
Well, she obviously didn’t disappoint. Overnight, women of all shapes and sizes and races were seen represented on the global platform. There were bright, colourful and unique designs for EVERYONE. When I say EVERYONE, I mean it. Sizes ranged 32A to 44DD in bras and XS to 3X in underwear and other lingerie.
I knew what I was expecting, but I must admit even I was shocked. For someone to take such a step forward, without caring about the backlash from the so-called "traditionalists" of the modelling industry was quite remarkable.
It doesn’t seem like I was the only experiencing these feelings, as soon as the website launched, it was GONE. EVERYTHING. Well, what did I expect? Prior to the launch, the singer and owner of empire Fenty Beauty expressed her passion to promote inclusivity, especially for women of colour. She introduced a line of lingerie which comes in every shade of nude. This quite honestly is a RARETY to find in itself, as many lingerie companies can only stretch to black, white and beige.
But, if that wasn’t enough, on September 12th 2018, Rihanna brought her brand new collection to the stage of all stages. Yes, that’s right, New York Fashion Week. Being her first show, understandably there was an immense sense of anticipation surrounding it – and in true Rihanna style, she caused an explosion. Models of all shapes and sizes and races, from mainstream catwalk models to curvy and even pregnant models.
Well, that’s a first and as predicted, the fashion industry went wild. But for what? In an ideal world shouldn’t this type of exclusivity be the norm? Not in this world! In this world, there’s a uniformity in the so-called “type” of body you should have. No rolls they say! Ribcage needs to show! No inclusivity of different skin colours! That is why I personally feel Rihanna’s work to break down the stereotypes of the modelling industry is so important.
Be yourself, love your own body! Don’t worry what others think! It’s fine if other fashion houses don’t follow suit at least a positive step in the right direction is being taken.
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