This season, Universal Standard is skipping a traditional spring collection and going for a less conventional approach: book publishing. Size included retailer released What would fashion look like if it included us all?, a book that aims to challenge stereotypes of what is considered beautiful in the fashion world. Illustrated by artist Alison Hawkins, it may be aimed at kids, but its message transcends your age or stage in life.
“When the idea for a children’s book was launched, we immediately saw its multi-layered impact, its authenticity, its originality, its charitable component and the role it should play in our time,” co-founder and director Universal Standard’s creator, Alex Waldman, tells Bustle. “You can’t imagine how many women have written saying, ‘Where was that book when I was young ?! And “I can’t wait to make this read a part of my class!” “”
One hundred percent of revenue selling books will be donated to Save with stories, in partnership with Save The Children and No Kid Hungry. In response to COVID-19, Save With Stories is generating donations to provide books, learning materials and meals to children in hardest-hit communities across the country. Digital copies are also available for free download online, providing parents with easy access to the book, with the option to donate to charity.
“It went from concept to hardcover in three weeks,” says Waldman. “This time around our message comes in the form of a children’s book, but we really hope it serves as a reminder to everyone of what is possible. It is a movement that will make fashion see inclusiveness as the creative opportunity that it is: the opening of many doors and a huge victory for everyone on the side of fashion, industry and retailers. consumers. “
Now that she can cross book publishing off her list, what’s next for the Universal Standard team?
“We continue to work with other brands who are equally excited about a more inclusive future in fashion, through capsule collections, as well as behind-the-scenes advice,” said Waldman. “We hope our book further inspires the fashion industry to embrace us all, just as we are.”
Coinciding with the release of the book is a edit purchasable fashion on the Universal Standard website, which includes all parts presented in the book himself. “The book really speaks our language – word and illustration,” says Waldman. “If you look closely, you will see some familiar pieces. There is even a nod to our collection of collaboration with Rodarte.
Coming up, check out some of the pieces featured in the book that are available for sale right now.
We only include products that have been independently selected by the Bustle editorial team. However, we may receive a portion of the sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.
Waldman suggests avoiding trends altogether and just researching what feels good. “Nowadays, the ‘clothing projector’ is more like mood lighting,” she explains. “You can wear whatever suits you and suits your mood. ”
“Personally, I like the idea of flowing shirt dresses with strappy flat sandals, anything that looks light and easy,” says Waldman.
She also likes to wear something with “a subtle sheen”, especially when mixed with a touch of matte. “It’s super simple and very chic,” says Waldman.
A fitted and tailored blazer instantly elevates any look. Throw it over whatever t-shirt you’re wearing and you’ll be instantly ready for those last minute Zoom calls.
Think of this as the grown-up version of the plain white shirt. Don’t know what to wear? Don’t overthink it: Pair a crisp white button-down shirt with your favorite jeans and you’re done.
Finding perfectly worn vintage denim can be overwhelming. Save yourself the stress with the light wash version of these jeans, a Universal Standard favorite.
A burst of color goes a long way. This dark red hue can be worn with your must-have black pants, your and dark wash denim, and pretty much everything in it.
Everyday jeans that can be reinforced with a trendy leather jacket and boots, or relaxed with an oversized sweater and sneakers.