Like every industry, the fashion world is being hit hard by COVID-19. Several stores have shut down and the annual star-studded Met Gala was postponed indefinitely. But as the world grapples with a new reality, a slew of powerhouse brands are pivoting to help fight the spread of the virus. From producing limited-edition T-shirts to manufacturing protective masks, here are the efforts of a few fashion heavyweights to extend help during this time of pandemic:
Michael Kors has been at the forefront of COVID-19 relief efforts. The American designer announces the release of the special edition LOVE T-shirt. The unisex white t-shirt features the word LOVE in light blue text as a continuation of the brand’s Watch Hunger Stop campaign in partnership with the World Food Programme (WFP). One hundred percent sales of the t-shirt will go to WFP and the organization’s efforts to provide children with vital nutrition whether in school or at home at this time of the pandemic.
“They are the organizations that much of the world turns to in an emergency, and it’s no surprise that they are rising to the challenges presented by COVID-19,” said Kors. “We’re honored to work with them and to share their efforts with our community.” The #WatchHungerStop Love T-Shirt, which retails for $40, is available at www.michaelkors.com and select stores globally.
As wearing face masks continues to become part of the new normal, many brands are producing these protective face covers as part of their product lines to help in preventing further virus spread. Kenneth Cole has joined the ranks with its washable, reversible mask that reads “Wear In This Together” on one side, and just blank on the reverse side depending on the wearer’s preference. For every purchase, Kenneth Cole will donate a percentage of the net sales to the World Health Organization’s COVID-19 Solidarity Fund. The donations will be used to support those severely affected by the coronavirus. These ranges from providing health-care access to patients and supplies for frontline workers to helping accelerate the development of vaccines, tests, and treatments, according to the brand. The face mask which retails at $15 is available at www.kennethcole.com and select stores globally.
No matter how simple it may be, there is nothing like a good ol’ white or black tee to wear. “We wouldn’t be DKNY without NY,” the brand said. “As people are staying home more than ever before, comfort is key.” DKNY makes sure your closet is stocked with the basic, thanks to the newly-released Essential Tee. The no-frills, no out-there design (except for a small logo on the back) t-shirt retails for $25. And the best part—all net proceeds will go to the NYC Mayor’s COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund which helps New Yorkers impacted by the pandemic. A closet staple, the Essential Tee fills the desire for more stay-at-home clothing while allowing customers to give back. The DKNY Essential Tee is available at select stores globally.
Lacoste re-interprets the polo shirt with the special edition L.12.12 Polo Merci. The new polo shirt will have a red heart embroidery around its iconic croc emblem symbolizing the brand’s continuous commitment to supporting the volunteers in this unprecedented health crisis.
“Reinterpreting the iconic Lacoste polo shirt by wrapping it in a simple red heart seemed to us the best way to show our admiration for those committed to saving lives during this pandemic,” shares Louise Trotter, Lacoste creative director. Net sales profit of the polo shirts will be donated to international partner associations working in this health crisis. The L.12.12 Polo Merci retails for 130 Euros and is available at www.lacoste.com and all stores worldwide.
In their own ways, these fashion brands are committed to stopping the spread of the disease, helping fund the fight against the virus and providing assistance to those who need it during this trying times. Cop these merchandise and help save lives.
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