What Is a Fashion Statement?
Written By Mariana Bardales
First, I would like to ask: what is fashion to you? You can think of fashion as personal style, or simply what you choose to wear on your day-to-day. But have you ever thought about the deeper meaning behind fashion?
It's hard to describe fashion in one word, or even one sentence. I could say fashion is expression, style, or trends, but that would only scratch the surface of what fashion truly is. To put it simply, fashion is far more than trends, style, or putting together an outfit to go out to your favorite spot with friends. Historically, fashion has been used as a form of expression and protest, from wearing bright red lipstick during times of war to wearing pins as accessories to speak on injustices. Recently, designers have used runway shows to showcase unconventional cuts and unique designs, and to speak out against social injustices.
Lately, I have been looking at runway shows as I was part of one at my university this past spring. Being part of the production team made me realize how much symbolism goes into every little thing of the show, from the theme to set design, promotion, and each unique look, along with the hair and makeup. As I brainstormed with my team, I came across some unique and powerful shows that inspired our own. As I watched Willy Chavarria’s SS26 “Huron” show opening act, I was amazed by the powerful statement of this opening show. The show begins with a model in the middle of the runway dressed in all white baggy clothing, making his way to the back of the runway stage and kneeling down as other models enter the stage. The models walk the runway as others kneel down in a straight line, and the rest fill in the circle in the front of the stage, sitting down with their arms behind their backs. This act was a quiet yet clear protest advocating for immigrant rights, along with other injustices being challenged in The US.
Willy Chavarria’s SS26 “Huron” show opening act
This was only the beginning of my exploration of how fashion can be used as a powerful tool to use our voices. Along with powerful runway show openings like Chavarria’s SS26 “Huron” show, fashion designers constantly challenge the norm and speak out through their unique designs.
Unique designs like Jonathan Anderson’s Dior runway designs incorporating low, cropped cuts and tight jeans “bring back to the runway an identity that is less virile and more fluid.” Published by the NSS magazine, the article Is Being Cool Back in Fashion? Describes Anderson as anything but silent regarding his runway designs. In addition to unconventional cuts, small details such as small jewelry like a simple pin can be a form of protest and expressing beliefs. During several award shows like the 2026 Grammys, Golden Globes, and the Sundance Film Festival, many celebrities were seen wearing ICE OUT and BE GOOD pins. These pins were created by the American Civil Liberties Union as a movement to honor the lives of people who have been affected by ICE and all the current injustices happening around the country. This is not just fashion, it is a statement reaching millions of people. Whether you think it is a performative act, these celebrities know that their statement will reach a mass audience, and a statement at this level opens up space for conversation. Once again, using fashion as a form of expression and protest.
Fashion can bring us closer together, creating a space for self-expression and opening up conversations about things that are impacting us. So, the next time you come across your favorite fashion trend, clothing collection, or runway show, think about what the intention behind that is and whether the message aligns with your beliefs and what you fight for.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Hello, my name is Mariana Bardales. I am a second-year college student at UC Irvine. I love film, photography, fashion, music, and anything creative. I also enjoy traveling and going to new places to explore and learn about the history of each place. I enjoy making short films, listening to music, and learning about my community in my free time.
If you would like to read more about how fashion has been used as a form of protest in the past, I recommend these articles:
The red lipstick during WWII: How red lipstick became a symbol of victory over Nazism
ICE pins: What the “Ice Out” Pins at the Grammys 2026 Mean | Teen Vogue)
Here are more articles if you are interested in reading more about this topic:
Vinted Pay: From Resale App to Fintech Giant | +330% Profits 2024 - nss magazine
