Apparently we are all now fashion trendsetters.

http://www.sciencetimes.com/articles/4388/20150317/michael-jacksons-skin-disorder-now-becoming-fashionable.htm

This link was posted by one of the skin charities I follow with the question "Is it really okay to trivialize Vitiligo?". After reading the link myself I had to give out an audible groan, and then laugh, and not only for the bad phrasing of the article. I think what Winnie is doing is great, and the more exposure for her and Vitiligo is wonderful but I think for anybody (the media) to state that Vitiligo has become the 'hot new fashion accessory for 2015' is pretty terrible. Also, references to Michael Jackson, lazy journalism is fun.

Here's another - http://www.inquisitr.com/1922182/michael-jacksons-skin-disorder-now-a-must-have-2015-fashion-accessory/

So how does everyone feel about now suddenly becoming 'fashionable' because of our skin? I should quit my day job or something :)

Hey Charlie,

This is an interesting one but I completely agree with you.

Squirming in my seat at the phrase 'fashion accessory' and I'm sure 99% of those with vit, including Winnie, will feel the same - this isn't something any of us have chosen and for most it is a real daily struggle to deal with, so for articles to be talking about it like its some trend which we all picked up in a shop after watching the latest catwalks makes me uncomfortable.

Having said that, I think Desigual's latest campaign and work with Winnie is something to celebrate - unlike other brands whose motivations I keep questioning, Desigual's motivations are clear and have been years before Winnie came on the scene. "Say Something Nice" and "La Vida es Chula" are their mottos to encourage people to embrace and celebrate difference, I think bringing Winnie on as their main campaign model is them finally finding someone who represents their brand and beliefs (call me naive if you wish!) and not them trying to sell vit as a 'fashion accessory'.

Bottom line is to ignore these terribly worded articles and support the good work the spokespeople are currently doing for vit..at the end of the day wouldn't we all feel slightly better in our skin if the sight of vit was commonplace?

Replies

Becky Harrison March 23, 2015 at 7:23am

Hey Charlie,

This is an interesting one but I completely agree with you.

Squirming in my seat at the phrase 'fashion accessory' and I'm sure 99% of those with vit, including Winnie, will feel the same - this isn't something any of us have chosen and for most it is a real daily struggle to deal with, so for articles to be talking about it like its some trend which we all picked up in a shop after watching the latest catwalks makes me uncomfortable.

Having said that, I think Desigual's latest campaign and work with Winnie is something to celebrate - unlike other brands whose motivations I keep questioning, Desigual's motivations are clear and have been years before Winnie came on the scene. "Say Something Nice" and "La Vida es Chula" are their mottos to encourage people to embrace and celebrate difference, I think bringing Winnie on as their main campaign model is them finally finding someone who represents their brand and beliefs (call me naive if you wish!) and not them trying to sell vit as a 'fashion accessory'.

Bottom line is to ignore these terribly worded articles and support the good work the spokespeople are currently doing for vit..at the end of the day wouldn't we all feel slightly better in our skin if the sight of vit was commonplace?

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