DV empowerment through fashion

We often think of fashion in terms of haute couture, but a 16 Days of Activism event this year will see clothes become the focus of empowerment in the Haus of Armour project.

It aims to address the low self-worth and poor self-image experienced by some survivors of domestic violence.

Often, survivors of domestic violence leave their homes with nothing more than the clothes on their back, and without the resources to reestablish a wardrobe.

Domestic violence worker with the Women’s Resource Service at the Mullumbimby District Neighbourhood Centre, Kate Jackson, has created a program that she is piloting during the 16 Days of Activism. She says it’s a global campaign to challenge violence against women and girls. The Haus of Armour offers a free personalised styling service for women impacted by domestic violence, provides free clothes and outfits for women to wear in their everyday lives, and is tailored to each individual’s needs.

Jackson is hoping the community will get on board with the project, especially local fashion labels from the area, who may be able to donate samples, seconds and heavily discounted stock to be used for styling and rebuilding the women’s wardrobes.

The Haus of Armour also needs a space for storing the clothes and outfitting 16 women over 16 days – Jackson is also accepting financial help to create an ongoing program. 

Jackson says the Haus of Armour is about being able to express yourself and how you want to feel. ‘It’s not the intention to make women fashion conscious –  it’s about using clothes and fashion as a means to help them feel the way that they deserve to feel – strong and empowered.’

To contact Kate, call 0457 864 253 or email [email protected].