Classism In The West African Fashion Industry

The West African fashion industry is a vibrant and dynamic sector that has grown rapidly in recent years. The region is home to many talented designers, models, stylists, and other creatives who have made significant contributions to the global fashion industry. However, despite this success, the industry is not immune to the issue of classism, which can limit opportunities for designers and creatives who do not come from privileged backgrounds.

Classism is a form of discrimination that is based on a person’s social class or economic status. In the West African fashion industry, classism manifests in various ways, including the exclusion of designers who do not have access to the same resources and networks as their wealthier counterparts, the limited representation of models who do not conform to Western beauty standards, and the lack of opportunities for creatives who come from low-income backgrounds.

One of the key ways in which classism manifests in the West African fashion industry is through the exclusion of designers who do not have access to the same resources and networks as their wealthier counterparts. In many cases, fashion designers who come from privileged backgrounds have access to funding, mentorship, and industry networks that can help them to succeed in the industry. This can make it difficult for designers who do not have these same resources to break into the industry and gain the same level of exposure and success.

Another way in which classism manifests in the industry is through the limited representation of models who do not conform to Western beauty standards. Many high-end fashion brands in West Africa have traditionally favored models who are tall, thin, and have European features, which can exclude models who do not fit into these narrow beauty standards. This can be particularly challenging for models who come from low-income backgrounds, who may not have the resources to conform to these beauty standards through expensive beauty treatments, fitness programs, and diets.

Finally, the lack of opportunities for creatives who come from low-income backgrounds is another way in which classism manifests in the West African fashion industry. Many fashion creatives, including stylists, photographers, and makeup artists, may struggle to find work in the industry if they do not have the same level of education, training, or experience as their wealthier counterparts. This can create a cycle of exclusion that limits opportunities for talented creatives who may not have had the same advantages or opportunities as their wealthier peers.

To address the issue of classism in the West African fashion industry, there are several steps that can be taken. One of the most important is to increase funding and resources for emerging designers who may not have access to the same resources as their wealthier counterparts. This can include providing mentorship, business support, and networking opportunities that can help emerging designers to break into the industry and gain exposure.

Another important step is to increase the representation of models who do not conform to Western beauty standards. This can involve casting models of different sizes, shapes, and skin tones, and working with models who come from diverse backgrounds and communities. By doing this, fashion brands can help to create a more inclusive and diverse industry that celebrates a wide range of beauty standards.

Finally, it is important to create opportunities for creatives who come from low-income backgrounds. This can include offering training programs, apprenticeships, and internships that provide valuable experience and skills development for aspiring fashion creatives. By doing this, the industry can help to break down barriers to entry and create opportunities for talented individuals from all backgrounds.

In conclusion, classism is a significant issue in the West African fashion industry that can limit opportunities for designers, models, and creatives who do not come from privileged backgrounds. To address this issue, it is important to increase funding and resources for emerging designers, increase the representation of models who do not conform to Western beauty standards, and create opportunities for creatives who come from low-income.