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When did feminism become 'trendy'?

How your empowering fashion choice might actually be damaging the movement.

By Becca HarringtonPublished 4 years ago 3 min read
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I have been a passionate intersectional feminist for years now, having learned more about the history of the movement at university. I probably have a conversation about feminism every single day, and am constantly trying to learn more and enlighten others too. It's amazing to see the movement grow, develop and gain interest from mainstream media and news outlets. The word 'feminist' seems to be on the lips of girls younger and younger as each new year comes, and more women are beginning to the don the title with pride. So when this powerful f-word grew across the media landscape, why was the last place I probably expected to see it be in our shops?

When I saw different pieces of clothing embellished with 'girl power' mottos and the word 'feminist' in pride of place on the highstreet and in incredible popular fashion brands including Topshop, H&M, Boohoo, ASOS and more, I was over the moon. I grabbed the first jumper I saw, ready to take on the world and smash the patriachy as a proud feminist. I looked at the price tag, and felt a wave of guilt. I suddenly thought to myself: were fashion retailers really about to cash-in on an important and vital social movement?

There’s a certain power to wearing a particular item of clothing, and it’s true for some people that the very nature of wearing a particular item can automatically make them feel ready to take on anything life throws their way. With this being said, we all know t-shirts aren't going to change the face of feminism, but I started to think about what damage they could actually be doing.

Firstly, in supporting these large brands, you are also supporting extremely wealthy men, benefiting from underpaid, overworked employees. As well as this, you are also supporting a disgustingly poor representation of women in adverts and on websites, as well as unethical fast fashion. When you break it down to the reality of what the fast fashion industry benefits from, wearing a £30 'girl power' t-shirt doesn't feel so feminist after all.

Intersectional feminism is vital to ensure all women's lives and experiences are valid, heard and fought for. Therefore, in projecting feminism through an item of clothing bought from a fast fashion or unethical brand, we fall into the trap set up for us by them: 'this will sell'.

So, now you're asking what to do as a proud feminist who wants a snazzy t-shirt?

1. Research and support ethical, sustainable and female-run businesses. You'll find plenty selling proud feminist merch, and will take business away from the brands that only jumped on the bandwagon for the money.

2. Educate yourself about intersectional feminism, and what you can do to support women everywhere. Acknowledge your priviledge and keep momentum in the movement through supporting in ways it will actually benefit, such as donating to charities!

3. Remember feminism isn't a 'trend'. As much as we have progressed over the last 100 years, the fight is still not over! Use your fashion choice to spark a discussion and raise awareness for women's struggles.

We’re very lucky to live in a place where we are free to express ourselves the way we do, and this fashion piece can be empowering and liberating for us priviledged women to show how proud and strong we are, and potentially encourage those who aren’t as clued up on feminism to ask questions and spark discussions. Unfortunately, when the shops stop selling these t-shirts, feminism will still be needed. With this being said, I truly believe feminists are going to change the world, and that begins with you and your actions, not the t-shirt you wear.

feminism
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About the Creator

Becca Harrington

Intersectional Feminist. Writer. Earth-lover.

I like the 1975 and doughnuts ✨

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