On July 4th, America celebrated its 250th birthday, and the celebrations continue with a unique fashion-forward tribute. The 'United Flags of Fashion' installation at Rockefeller Center showcases 130 custom state flags designed by renowned fashion brands, marking a creative collaboration between Vogue and the CFDA. This project celebrates America's diverse creative legacy and its people, with over 100 designers participating, including fashion icons like Michael Kors, Vera Wang, Tommy Hilfiger, and Tory Burch.
The flags offer a diverse range of interpretations, with some taking a playful approach and others drawing inspiration from the states' cultural and historical contexts. For instance, Norma Kamali's Massachusetts flag features a pair of Red Sox, while Cynthia Rowley's Illinois flag draws from the state's rural setting and the cultural hub of Chicago. Tommy Hilfiger's New York flag takes a preppy, all-American approach, while Calvin Klein's flag is a minimalist take on the state's identity.
Anna Wintour, global editorial director of Vogue, emphasizes the project's celebration of creativity and national pride. She states, 'The flags are a reminder of how creativity and making beautiful things are twin sources of national pride. All the fashion designers we spoke to were thrilled to make flags, and they took to the project joyfully. The result is a tribute to the country’s anniversary we can all be proud of.'
Rosie Rios, chair of America250, adds, 'Fashion has always been a powerful expression of America’s creativity, identity, and cultural evolution. As we commemorate our nation’s 250th anniversary, United Flags of Fashion offers a bold and inspiring tribute to the artistry that defines the American spirit.'
This unique project not only showcases the creativity of fashion designers but also highlights the diverse cultural fabric of America. It serves as a reminder that creativity and national pride go hand in hand, offering a unique perspective on the country's history and its people.
