THE FASHION INDUSTRY NEEDS TO FULLY EMBRACE MOTHERS.

Although I frequently speak about fashion education, professional development, and African fashion, I've recently found myself analysing the role of motherhood in the fashion industry a lot more than usual. This past Sunday was Mother's Day in the UK. While it was a day of celebration, I witnessed several industries honouring mothers, but one thing that struck me was the fashion industry's quietness. I had hoped for some growth within this area so I was surprised but on the other hand not surprised. The lack of celebrations seemed like it was 'business as usual'.

The fashion industry is known for embracing creativity and innovation, however, there is a dire need for the industry to adapt in one critical area: completely embracing mums. The misconception that motherhood limits one's ability to perform or prosper in such a fast-paced atmosphere is not only out of date, but also an alarming oversight that requires rapid resolution.

There is an obsolete assumption that women cannot be as dedicated or perform as their counterparts without children. This view overlooks the extraordinary organisational, time management, and multitasking abilities that parenting, particularly motherhood, innately fosters. These abilities are highly advantageous in the fast-paced, often unpredictable fashion industry, where managing several projects and deadlines is the norm. Mothers contribute a level of efficiency and perspective that can spark innovation and drive success in novel ways.

There are many ways in which the industry can do more to help mother’s however below are 3 key areas I believe we need to address.

Networking and Career Advancement

Networking is a crucial part of advancing one's career in the fashion industry, yet it is typically done in locations or at times that conflict with parenting duties. This aspect of industry culture inadvertently excludes talented individual who are unable to get involved due to family commitments. Nevertheless, connecting attendance for after-hours networking with professional dedication and potential is a flawed strategy. The industry has to acknowledge and put into effect alternate professional development and networking strategies that include mothers and all carers.

Employ Flexibility

The plea for flexibility is now greater or more noticeable. The fashion industry has to embrace flexibility in working hours, remote work options, and an understanding of the unpredictable nature of parenthood. Mothers, like all parents, deal with the unpredictability of childcare, illnesses, school closure concerns and the duties that come with parenthood. Realising and supporting these necessities through flexible work standards is about more than merely fairness; it is about retaining and developing a diverse and skilled workforce.

Redefining Maternity Leave. More Support. More Opportunities.

One of the major challenges for mother's in the fashion industry is the stigma associated with maternity leave. Taking time off to welcome a new family member should not be portrayed as a setback, but rather as an important period that merits support. The industry can lead by example, offering comprehensive maternity leave and ensuring opportunities for career progression are not diminished due to parental leave.

Another area I want to touch on is better pay but I’ll save that for another day because the topic of better pay is needed not just for working mothers but many individuals working in fashion.

Fundamentally, mothers' inclusion and support for their specific needs and abilities is not only a moral obligation, but also a strategic benefit. Mothers provide essential talents, views, and dedication. The fashion industry could create an inclusive and diverse culture by providing a working environment that supports, rather than marginalises, these ideals. This, in turn, can foster innovation, creativity, and growth.