The fall season, usually a bustling time for the fashion world, has seen numerous beauty and fashion events canceled due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas War. However, some insiders believe that the industry’s relatively muted response is due to a prioritization of profits in the Middle Eastern market over taking a strong moral stance. Major beauty players, such as L’Oréal, Procter & Gamble, Unilever, The Estée Lauder Cos., Kering, and LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, have refrained from making statements regarding the Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel and the humanitarian crises in Gaza.
While the beauty industry has historically championed social justice and activism, some believe the silence is disheartening. Concerns about a diverse workforce with differing beliefs and potential political backlash have contributed to this silence. Companies like Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode faced criticism after condemning Hamas attacks but ignoring the loss of Palestinian lives.
Nonetheless, some fashion figures have spoken out. American Eagle displayed the Israeli flag in Times Square, and Stella McCartney, Victoria Beckham, GOOP, and the Council of Fashion Designers of America expressed sympathy for Israelis and Palestinians. Companies have also acted to protect employees within the conflict zone, with stores like Zara, H&M, Mango, and Chanel taking measures to ensure safety and humanitarian aid.
Numerous events and shows in the fashion world and the Middle East have been canceled or postponed due to the conflict, showing how deeply the conflict is affecting the industry. Fashion Trust of Arabia Awards, scheduled for Dubai, and various events in New York, including SoHo Commando’s opening, have been postponed or canceled. Israeli designers Pnina Tornai and Galia Lahav also canceled their collection showings at NYC Bridal Fashion Week in solidarity with their country, expressing hopes for a future of unity and creativity.
