After learning that her mother and family members were dyeing their bras brown to match the color of their skin, 31-year-old Tara Raines launched a campaign on Facebook called 'What's Your Nude?' to encourage bra manufacturers to provide more color options for black women.
Traditional "nude" bras have been made in varying shades of blush, buff and off-white, but none of these colors represent the darker skin color of millions of women around the world. These women are also willing to spend the money if they are able to find the right bra. As Raines notes, "Women of color have tremendous spending power in the U.S. and it's absurd to think that in 2012 we are essentially disenfranchised when we shop for lingerie. It's my hope that this campaign will drive not only awareness, but swift action by bra makers."
While creating a shade for every skin tone out there would be near to impossible, HuffingtonPost states that even offering one brown shade is a good start. Supporters of the 'What's Your Nude' campaign can visit its Facebook page, click 'Like' and contact their favorite bra makers to spread the message.
Brown Bra Battles
The 'What's Your Nude?' Facebook Campaign Asks for More Color Options
Trend Themes
1. Diverse Undergarment Options - Providing a wider range of color options for undergarments can cater to the needs of diverse consumer groups and address the issue of inclusivity in the fashion industry.
2. Racial Representation in Fashion - Recognizing and addressing the lack of representation of different skin tones in fashion can lead to innovative solutions that promote diversity and inclusivity in the industry.
3. Consumer Activism on Social Media - The 'What's Your Nude?' Facebook campaign showcases the power of social media in mobilizing consumers to push for change in industries and encourages other activists to use online platforms to drive awareness and action.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion and Apparel - Fashion brands and apparel manufacturers have an opportunity to disrupt the market by offering a wider range of color options for their undergarments, catering to customers of diverse racial backgrounds.
2. Beauty and Cosmetics - Beauty and cosmetics companies can explore creating products that complement different skin tones, including shades of nude, to promote inclusivity and serve a wider range of customers.
3. Social Media and Marketing - The success of the 'What's Your Nude?' Facebook campaign demonstrates the potential of social media as a powerful platform for consumer activism, presenting opportunities for marketers to leverage this trend and engage with socially conscious consumers.