fashion diplomacy

The kimono, a garment that dates back to the 5th century A.D. and worn by westerners for at least 150 years, inhabits the slippery gray area between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation. [...] For a long time, the kimono as a fashion statement – both contemporary remakes and authentic vintage garments – largely avoided being called out for cultural appropriation.

Ghanaians abroad have been urged to vigorously promote the beauty and elegance of their traditional wears to become the preferred brands internationally. [...] It was to promote the cross-cultural exchange for peace and development between the two countries as well as to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the United Nations.

Is it time to redraw the world's fashion map? Cities like London, Paris, New York and Milan have sustained their status as leading world fashion capitals for more than half a century.

December 11, 2014

Some of these emerging diplomatic trends seem to have the potential to solve real problems, but can they really guarantee results or are they diplomatic fads that will go out of style as soon as the diplomatic community is faced with more complex challenges?

Ralph Lauren. Donna Karan. Marc Jacobs. Alber Elbaz. Diane von Furstenberg. Arnold Scaasi. Sonia Rykiel. Michael Kors. Calvin Klein. Levi Strauss. Is it mere coincidence that so many Jews have earned international acclaim in the fashion business?

Iriana Widodo is our latest First Lady and since last Monday she began her new era as the Ibu Negara of the world’s third largest democracy. People say behind each great president, there is a great first lady – and behind her is a great team.

For many Muslim women around the world, the hijab — the scarf covering their hair — is not just a religious accouterment but also a symbol of their identity.  Young Muslim women are posting pictures of themselves in their hijabs on Instagram, inspiring large followings and placing more emphasis on the traditional headpiece as a fashion statement.

“Fashion connects all people,” said Mr. Drori, who interned at Azzedine Alaïa in Paris and Donna Karan in New York before returning to start Colle’cte. “It can be a bridge across color and religion.”

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