Women’s empowerment is spearheading many social movements - and it should be - especially in South Africa with its many challenges regarding gender equality and gender-based violence. 

In this article, we feature fashion as an empowerment tool. The clothes we wear are a reflection of how we see ourselves, what we believe, and what we hope for. Fashion is being used by women as a powerful tool in the ongoing fight for social justice. Whether it’s to challenge oppressive laws or protest against inequality, women throughout the world are using clothing as a way of making bold statements and pushing for change.

EMPOWERMENT AND THE FASHION INDUSTRY

The fashion industry, one of the biggest and fastest-growing industries in the world, is empowering women in so many ways - from women working in the fashion industry to those choosing clothing to reflect their personal style and preferences through fashion. 
Fashion has always been a form of self-expression, but today it’s becoming even more powerful. Women are using fashion and their individual styles to empower themselves and others around them. 

FASHION TRENDS PROMOTING EMPOWERMENT

Throughout history, fashion trends have changed. For women, there has been a shift from dresses and skirts to pants. This has had a significant impact on identity in dress and style.

In the 1920s women were portrayed as feminine and demure and were limited in what they could do and wear.  Today women can express their individualism, identity, and creativity through clothing - without being judged.
Fashion trends are more than just “what’s in style.” They’re about making bold statements. Positive shifts had been made in marketing campaigns to raise the self-image and self-esteem of women. Fashion ads now speak to women and connect with them in more authentic ways.

Look at what’s trending on social media. Women showing off their favourite athletic wear and sneakers make a bold statement: “I can be athletic and look good while doing it.” Women are making their voices heard as never before - sharing their unique perspectives and style on social media platforms and connecting with others with common interests and beliefs.

EMPOWERMENT THROUGH FASHION

Through fashion, women are able to challenge oppression, and protest inequality.They can wear what they want to wear, not just to define their bodies but to show that they have control over their bodies. Women can express their individualism and creativity, their gender identity, their sexuality, and even their political persuasion through fashion.

Empowerment advances equality, and equality is something that every person of every race and culture deserves - and fashion can be a powerful tool in achieving it!

JUMBO WISHES ALL CUSTOMERS AN EMPOWERING WOMEN’S MONTH.