Today, audiences are shaping the cultural agenda. Empowered to speak up for the causes they believe in, people are actively calling out brands they see as inauthentic. What are the main drivers of this behavioural shift? And how can brands win the trust of these outspoken advocates?

Diverse representation is an expectation, but as individuals no longer allow themselves to be defined in singular terms, there's mounting pressure on brands to understand and sensitively reflect how the intersections between race, gender, class, and ability impact people's everyday lives.

The Black Lives Matter Movement of 2020 is casting the serious lack of inclusion and representation of Black women within the UK’s fashion industry into sharp relief. Recognising the need for change and access, BGIF is giving a leg up to those who have previously struggled to break through.

The BLM protests again highlighted fashion's failure on diversity. With people demanding acknowledgement, accountability and action from brands, staying silent is no longer an option. A-COLD-WALL*’s BLM initiative shows how luxury fashion can go hand in hand with activism.

In the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement being reignited by the death of George Floyd, brands are taking to social media to express solidarity and support. But as people expect increased transparency and accountability from companies, they are being asked to ‘pull up or shut up’.

The Telfar Shopping Bag may not be as recognizable or as expensive as iconic designs from Chanel or Dior, but it has become just as coveted among fashionistas. It’s attracted young shoppers with the chance to be part of an inclusive community, rewriting the rules of the ‘It bag’ in the process.