Game Changers

Gone are the days where the best in fashion and beauty are reserved for only a small minority. These are the global brands prioritising diversity and inclusivity

- Zue Wei Leong

The discourse on diversity and inclusivity began in the mid-2010s, when social media gave everyone a platform to voice their concerns and opinions on the status quo. For the fashion and beauty industry, its exclusionary practices and glamourisation of unhealthy body standards came under scrutiny.

However, global brands only began joining the conversation when they saw the value of incorporating these elements into their business models. This is largely due to global popstar Rihanna’s astounding success with an inclusive make-up brand, Fenty Beauty and lingerie line, Savage X Fenty. The former, launched in 2017, brought in US$100 million in sales within the first 40 days of its launch, according to Vogue. It currently boasts an estimated value of US$2.8 billion.

In 2023, it is clear that consumers want to be seen and heard. Brands are adapting to be able to cater to this increasing demand but not everyone is doing it right. We highlight the few which are leading the way in ensuring their inclusivity practices are genuine and making a real impact.

UNDER THE SUN