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Inclusivity is a big theme in fashion right now from size to ethnicity and gender, but veteran designer Cynthia Rowley has another positive message she wants adopted throughout the industry: "I just want no judgments."
Speaking on a panel at this year's POPSUGAR Play/Ground with her daughter Kit Keenan (who's followed in her mother's footsteps by designing her own line of clothing called KIT), Rowley declared that her biggest hope for the fashion industry is for it to drop the act of exclusiveness when asked what still needs to be fixed.
"I want people to be able to be who they are and wear what they want," the designer said. "I don't want to be judged by anyone, and I don't want to judge anyone. Rowley went on to say, "I feel like there has been, in the fashion world, so many filters and so much judgment . . . just you be you and do what you want and don't judge. I hope that goes through the whole industry." In other words, do you.
Of course, adopting such a positive message universally has its challenges, but we can all make strides for ourselves and for others when getting dressed each day. How? Don't hesitate when you're unsure of an outfit, wear it with conviction and encourage your friends to do the same. When new trends tempt you, try them out and recognise when others do too! Don't listen to those who say you can't wear a particular piece of clothing or a certain silhouette you love because it's supposedly "unflattering." Wear it with confidence and compliment coworkers, family members, even strangers when you love their outfit. Simple steps and gestures like these will go a long way.
Ahead, scroll through for images of Cynthia and Kit from this year's POPSUGAR Play/Ground. Then, continue on to shop our favourite new arrivals from the designer's collection.