The Power of the Green Wave
Revisiting this newsletter's No. 15 issue about showing support by wearing colors, blue and yellow, at the onset of the Russia-Ukraine war. This is poignant given the devastating blow (put extremely politely) to women's rights due to the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization supreme court ruling. There are many ways to use your voice to show solidarity, support, or make a statement of protest. Clothing is one such communication tool.
The intentional selection of garment styles, colors, and symbols has been used for centuries to make declarations by groups. Notably: white worn by the Suffragettes, "Sunday Best" during the civil rights movement, peace signs, rainbow accessories for LGBTQ+ pride, pink pussy hats, and the green neckerchiefs (and all clothing for that matter) that originated in Argentina for abortion rights and are now showing up in protests across the US against overturning Roe.
The power of colored clothing and accessories and the semiotics of fashion remain strong today. They will continue this way.
Why do we reach for uniformity of colors and symbols in times of strife? Because it works. Aligning around the nuances or apparent aspects of fashion brings the individual into the fold of a greater movement or cause. It's encouraging. It rallies and bands people to come together. It allows you to express yourself and your position in a bold, public way.
It's not just colors; it's styles, graphics, and statement accessories. It's a unifying product supporting a more significant cause rooted in symbolism, fundraising, building dissent while rallying community engagement, and making voices heard loud and clear. It's a call to action.
Here are a few brands that are resolute in women’s equal rights and access to safe abortions, including featured make-a-statement products that donate proceeds directly to various pro-choice organizations:
Interested in regular styling advice and shopping recommendations?
Sign up for my weekly Style / Substance newsletter…
