Since the uniform makes up the life of a military veteran, it is deduced that their wardrobe is pretty much limited in terms of varieties of fashionable clothes; however, this changed recently with the jcpenny Welcome Heroes fashion event. The event was a collaboration between Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) organization and apparel store, jcpenney.
Paul Rieckoff, Executive Director and founder of IAVA, shared with a group of socialites comprising of bloggers, trendsetters, and social influences the jcpenney’s Welcome Heroes national campaign at a VIP cocktail reception held at the ACE Hotel. According to the source, the Welcome Heroes campaign, "seeks to honor veterans who served in Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom by providing over $1 million in jcpenney apparel to help IAVA veterans transition to civilian life".
Prior to the reception, fellow shoppers who thronged the Manhattan Mall at Broadway and 33rd Street were in for a treat at last month’s jcpenney fashion show, which featured men fashion looks and art by talented artist, Jayson Atienza. Dressed in the apparel brand’s fashionable clothes of suits, tailored clothing and casual sportswear, the models, including a military veteran, hit the runway in style.
War Veteran Runways
The jcpenny Welcome Heroes Event Featured Those in Battle
Trend Themes
1. Fashionable Military Apparel - There is a trend of creating stylish clothing options for military veterans that go beyond traditional uniforms.
2. Collaborative Campaigns - Collaborations between fashion brands and veteran organizations are becoming a trend, providing opportunities for both parties to benefit.
3. Transitioning to Civilian Life - There is a trend of supporting veterans in their transition to civilian life by providing them with resources and opportunities.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Retail - Fashion retailers can explore the market of fashionable military apparel, catering to the unique needs of veterans.
2. Nonprofit and Veteran Organizations - Nonprofit organizations and veteran organizations can collaborate with fashion brands to create campaigns that support veterans and raise awareness.
3. Art and Design - Artists and designers have the opportunity to showcase their work through fashion shows that feature military apparel and support veteran causes.