Designer Sophie Theallet refuses to dress Melania Trump
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Sophie Theallet has said that she will not dress Melania Trump and called for other designers to follow her lead. In a passionate email sent on Thursday afternoon, the French designer, who regularly works with Michelle Obama, confirmed that she won't be dressing the incoming First Lady.
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"As one who celebrates and strives for diversity, individual freedom and respect for all lifestyles, I will not participate in dressing or associating in any way with the next First Lady," she wrote, reports WWD. "The rhetoric of racism, sexism and xenophobia unleashed by her husband's presidential campaign are incompatible with the shared values we live by. I encourage my fellow designers to do the same."
Michelle Obama wearing Sophie Theallet. Getty Images
Theallet, who is a regular on the New York Fashion Week schedule, went on to describe working with Michelle Obama as "a highlight and an honour".
"She has contributed to having our name recognised and respected worldwide," she said. "Her values, actions and grace have always resonated deeply within me."
Known for her striking red-carpet-worthy designs and use of bold colour, the designer is a favourite among the A list; she's dressed everyone from Alicia Keys and Shailene Woodley to Kim Kardashian. She trained under Jean Paul Gaultier and Azzedine Alaia in Paris before moving to New York and launching her own label in 2007.
Kim Kardashian wearing Sophie Theallet. Getty Images
"Our runway shows, ad campaigns and celebrity dressing have always been a celebration of diversity and a reflection of the world we live in," she continued. "I am well aware it is not wise to get involved in politics. That said, as a family-owned company, our bottom line is not just about money. We value our artistic freedom and always humbly seek to contribute to a more humane, conscious and ethical way to create in this world... Integrity is our only true currency."
In the run-up to the election, Melania Trump wore pieces by designers including Ralph Lauren, Gucci, Fendi, Roksanda and Dolce & Gabbana, all of which were either bought in New York City boutiques or online.
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Of course, there's nothing to stop the new First Lady from buying Theallet's designs herself; when your husband is worth an estimated $3.7 billion, you can pretty much shop wherever you want.
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