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.

Nigerian knitwear label BLOKE is demonstrating how independent fashion brands can be drivers of local, sustainable innovation and activism. With many people growing tired of the fashion industry’s surface-level green efforts, they’re turning to brands that let them be activists in their own right.

Launched in 2021, Jendaya is opening up conversations about the underserved luxury market in Africa. Through its e-commerce platform, it’s making international labels more accessible to shoppers on the continent while shedding a much-needed spotlight on home-grown brands.

The fashion world is acclimating to a ‘new normal’ as people push for greater inclusivity through the body positivity movement. Universal Standard is embracing these ideals by offering high-end basics in sizes 00-40, ensuring that women of all shapes can get clothes that look and feel just right.

In a campaign to promote its expansive range of sports bras, adidas has shared a photo collage that features 25 pairs of bare breasts of all shapes and sizes. As conversations around body image evolve, people are turning to brands that embody redefined ideals of inclusion.