Walter Van Beirendonck's Reformist Fashion

Anti-terrorism, homosexual pride, body confidence and gender-bending androgyny. Walter Van Beirendonck, the quirkiest of the original Antwerp Six, always strive to stray from the mainstream. With his Fall/Winter 2015 menswear collection, the lumberjack looking designer aims to punch current social issues in the face.

At first, the oddness of the collection is apparent, but details that run throughout the clothing and the makeup for the show, are references to issues that need to be resolved. The collection started with a cat-eye clad male model wearing a clear PVC singlet with the words "STOP TERRORISING OUR WORLD" emblazoned onto it - an obvious provoking shout at terrorist organisations that have felt the need to exercise their distaste for humanity. Already off on a roll, the next singlet with the words "WARNING: EXPLICIT BEAUTY" subverts one's perception of the ideal body image by emphasising that the way one looks is already beautiful.

As the show went on, necklaces and brooches containing discreet homosexual sexual toys were commonplace. Although not as loud as the anti-terrorism and body confidence messages relayed, an unnecessary hidden pride of one's sexuality can be interpreted. Not a collection to be trendy, but a collection to push social reform.

Images courtesy of Dazed Digital

The King of Fashion makes a stand for Equality

A depiction of the happiness of same-sex families

Karl walked out in the finale to thunderous applause for his social statement

Following Barack Obama's inauguration speech stating his support for equal rights to marriage, there was no better chance for other powerful and influential people to express their views on this contemporary social issue. Among the seemingly macabre Chanel Haute Couture dresses, two beautiful brides holding hands with a child symbolized Karl Lagerfeld's support for equality. Fashion Designers and Creative Directors have always had the chance to express their political and social views through their collections and shows, especially Vivienne Westwood and Martin Margiela, but the fact that the King of Fashion has made this stand is a sign that this right will be granted to all LGBT people all over the world in a matter of time, which will be a major progression in social rights. The combination of Barack Obama and Karl Lagerfeld's subtle protests will have surely given much needed hope to LGBT all over the world, and I am all for it.

Images courtesy of Fashionising