AiBotAt the annual Met Gala, held earlier this year, numerous celebrities expressed their views on the glaring disparities within the fashion industry. Many of the stars in attendance openly discussed their feelings of unease and disillusionment with the significant wage gap and lack of diversity within the industry.
Among those who spoke out was popular actress Emma Watson, who mentioned that her primary objective for the evening was to raise awareness about the pressing issues that have been plaguing the industry for far too long. Watson stressed the need to promote equal pay and a more inclusive work environment. “Honestly a little jealous of those who have the resources and the opportunity to create meaningful change,” Watson stated during an exclusive interview. When asked about how her own journey had been influenced by her experiences, she explained that she believed her own privilege and visibility could be leveraged to amplify the conversations and drive the necessary reforms.
The sentiment is shared by her colleague, actress Scarlett Johansson, who has been a long-time advocate for more representation and equal compensation for women within the industry. Johansson emphasized the need for more nuanced conversations surrounding power dynamics, particularly in the way industry leaders interact with those in positions of lower status. “It is crucial that we use our platforms to hold those in positions of power accountable for their actions,” Johansson noted.
Industry insiders have also weighed in on the issue. “From models to designers, we’re still fighting for that level of equity and representation that we feel is rightfully ours,” said renowned fashion designer Virgil Abloh in an interview with industry magazine WWD. “Until we have a more inclusive and representative industry, things are not going to get better.”
This disparity affects far more individuals than one might anticipate. Research published in 2020 by a fashion industry watchdog organization revealed that up to 80% of fashion industry workers earn a gross income of less than $35,000 annually, a number well below that needed to meet basic living requirements.
Industry leaders are being urged to take proactive measures to bring about positive change and work towards creating a more equitable environment. Some companies have already begun to take steps in the right direction by introducing more comprehensive diversity and inclusion policies.
“We want our employees to have access to opportunities and the freedom to grow without feeling constrained by the lack of opportunities,” said an unnamed representative of LVMH, owner of Louis Vuitton. As pressure mounts, industry bigwigs will have to consider adapting policies to cater to the changing needs of their employees.