‘Franco was famous for his outlandish designs, poking fun at aspects of the fashion world he considered to serious’ (Italy day, 2019) In his iconic ‘Cheap and Chic’ collection Franco expresses views on social issues through loud prints including protests against racism, climate change, the damage of advertising and the need for peace and love. Photography & Illustrations by Emily Chapillon
The iconic ‘Say no to racism jacket’ featured here combats social issues of the era which couldn’t be more relevant today. Franco himself died from AIDS complications, but succeeded in making impactful messages using his clothing. ‘Franco remains a fashion radical whose wit, humour, honestly, free spirit and critical lens became his legacy’ (Chavez, 2018)
Photography by Charles Hall & Illustrations by Emily Chapillon
Photography by Charles Hall & Illustration by Emily Chapillon
‘Moschino was innovative in how he had used fashion as a way to take an activist stance on the fashion system and the major consumerism it held. While he expressed his views and used his designs as a protest, it ironically became a fashion trend” (Zaratan, 2017).
Photography by Charles Hall & Illustration by Emily Chapillon
Franco’s clothes became synonymous with young urban youth in the early garage and drum and bass era, with the loud prints speaking to the outlandish nature of the kids at the time.
Photography by Charles Hall & Illustration by Emily Chapillon
The patterns were seen in the nightlife scene all over London, with the bold prints and messages speaking to the youth culture.
Photography & Illustration by Emily Chapillon
As a designer who aimed to combat social issues by using his platform and designs, Franco was ahead of his time, speaking about issues like the effects of pollution as seen in this ‘Speed pollution’ set.