Charli XCX likes making a statement | Getty
(Picture: GC Images)TEE UP YOUR LFW STATEMENT
Thanks to the current Y2K revival, the wry slogan T-shirt has been making the rounds in fashion of late. ‘But what do you mean by the “wry slogan T-shirt?”’ we hear you cry. Well, think of the garments worn by Noughties starlets such as Britney Spears, post break-up with Justin Timberlake, who sent the tabloids into a frenzy via a shirt simply emblazoned with the words ‘DUMP HIM’. In recent months, we’ve seen the stars of today sporting similar pieces. Charli XCX wore a ‘They Don’t Build Statues of Critics’ T-shirt by US label Praying ahead of the release of her Crash album; and this week’s ES cover star Julia Fox has been spotted in a ‘Cancelled Adjacent’ tee. But what slogan T-shirts should you wear to London Fashion Week to make a statement? Here are three that’ll really raise a wry smile, all available to shop now via cult brand Omighty. Apple Wallets at the ready.
1. ‘WHO’S YOUR DADDY?’ Nepotism is rife in the fashion industry. Get straight to the point by asking the question without having to say a word. £42 (o-mighty.com)
2. ‘I OCCUPY SPACE AND HAVE MASS, I BREATHE IN AND BREATHE OUT’ For when the inevitable feelings of insecurity begin creeping in. We’re all human after all, no matter how much Prada we may (or may not) be wearing. £42 (o-mighty.com)
3. ‘IF YOU DON’T HAVE ANYTHING NICE TO SAY… COME SIT BESIDE ME’ Whatever row you’re seated in at the show, you’ll make some fabulous new friends. £42 (o-mighty.com)
THE BRAND TO KNOW
A recent graduate of Central Saint Martins’ MA fashion course, Feben (who like the greats before her, goes only by her first name) has already dressed the likes of Erykah Badu, Janelle Monáe and Beyoncé. Now the designer’s namesake brand is set to show at London Fashion Week on Saturday as part of the NewGen programme. Known for a rich colour palette, inky satin tailoring and lavish draping, the label explores the visual codes of Black life from all corners of the globe.
INTRODUCING: THE OUTSIDERS PERSPECTIVE
In 2022, fashion campaigns and runway shows are noticeably more diverse. But people of colour and those from marginalised groups represent just 5 per cent of workers behind the scenes. So it’s good news that Jamie Gill, chair of the British Fashion Council’s diversity committee, is launching The Outsiders Perspective, a talent incubator addressing the lack of diversity in fashion’s workforce. ‘There is enough evidence that supports the business case for diverse talent, but brands are struggling to find the team,’ says Gill, who hails from a British-Indian background. The initiative will ensure people of colour are equipped to join the operational side of any fashion brand. A new career might just be a click away.
NEWS JUST IN: WE GIVE YOU THE ED
Question: do the threads above remind you of anyone? Someone regular readers of ES should be familiar with? Someone like, say, our editor, Ben Cobb? Well that’s because he’s teamed up with Tiger of Sweden on a debut capsule collection of eight pieces — a belted overcoat, suave suiting, patterned knitwear and more — that’s based on his personal wardrobe. And, if you’re thinking you’ve only ever seen a head shot… now you know what he looks like below the waist.
Ben Cobb x Tiger of Sweden, at matchesfashion.com
