The fashion industry has a long history of reinforcing a limited, Western, and overwhelmingly White vision of what constitutes attractive and appropriate clothing and styles. Canvas8 spoke to Kimberly Jenkins to find out how brands can help to shape a more inclusive fashion landscape.

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.

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’.

Fans, overjoyed to learn that Simone Biles was on the cover ofVogue’sAugust issue, expressed disappointment when they realized the photo was not shot by a Black photographer. This speaks to people’s mounting pressure on brands to improve representation both behind and in front of the camera.