One of the most viral moments from the 2021 inauguration ceremony occurred in the seemingly mundane moment when US senator Bernie Sanders sat down on a metal chair donning a warm coat a woollen mittens. The utility-focused nature of his look compared to his incredibly stylish political counterparts, coupled with the uninterested facial expression made for an instantly viral photograph that's made its way around the web.
The popularity of the photograph helped to drum up excitement for the now-iconic mittens, with consumers quickly pinning down the designer as schoolteacher Jen Ellis. To capitalize on the popularity the mittens are experiencing, Ellis paired up with LGBTQ+ youth organization Outright Vermont to hold an auction. Those looking to match with Sanders will supporting a cause can bid on the mittens. Currently, bidding is at $4,444 USD.
Image Credit: Brendan Smiaowski/Afp Via Getty Images
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Charitable Political Auctions
- New trend of using memorable political moments for charitable auctions can engage more audience and raise funds for specific causes
- Viral Fashion Items
- Viral fashion items allow for creative marketing campaigns and potential collaborations with charities for fundraising and social good
- Sustainable Fashion
- After the focus on sustainable fashion, people are looking to invest in long-lasting, practical items, managing to keep them simple but effective
Industries Being Reshaped
- Charities and Non-profits
- These organizations can benefit from memorable political moments and viral fashion items to engage supporters and raise funds
- Fashion Industry
- The fashion industry can leverage viral moments to collaborate with charities and non-profits to increase consumer engagement and build brand reputation
- Textile Industry
- As people shift towards sustainable and practical fashion items, the textile industry can potentially expand their offerings to cater to this new market niche
