The Big Issue launches new fashion range

9 May 2017 by
First published: 9 May 2017

The Big Issue launches new fashion range, a limited edition collection called #WEARABIGISSUE.

Want to do good while looking good? Yesterday, The Big Issue launched a new fashion brand, #WEAREBIGISSUE via their new online shop bigissueshop.com. The range encourages you to shop with a social echo and to empower change while you’re at it.

The history

The Big Issue magazine launched in 1991 in response to the growing number of rough sleepers on the streets of London. Since then, it has developed into a multi-million-pound social investment business that drives change. It is the world’s most widely circulated street newspaper; written by professional journalists and sold by those who’ve been affected by homelessness. The magazine has helped over 92,000 vendors earn £115 million.

The Big Issue exists to offer homeless people the opportunity to earn an income and reintegrate into mainstream society. In 2016, The Big Issue launched The Big Issue Shop. If you’re looking for an easy way to make a difference, purchasing from this online platform which sells products with a social meaning could be your answer.

The creators

The creators of the new project are dedicated to improving our communities and changing lives for the better. The managing director of The Big Issue, Russell Black, said: ‘We are delighted to be working with some of the most respected street artists in the UK for our #WEARABIGISSUE exclusive t-shirt range, available at The Big Issue Shop. There is plenty of change coming in the UK and people have a lot on their mind. This limited edition #WEARABIGISSUE range of garments will allow people to share what they feel passionate about and the change they want to see.’ The Big Issue Shop offers a means for social trading that will make ethical shopping a truly accessible option. Russell Black added that every purchase from The Big Issue Shop puts people and the planet first.

Top celebs

With blank t-shirts as their canvas and Big Issue as their brief, many artists such as Paul Insect, Hayden Kays and Paul Weller have gotten involved with this awesome cause. These big names have been designing prints on themes including ocean pollution, gentrification, sex workers and climate change. London-based fashion photographer Marc Hayden shot the promo images for the campaign.

You can check out the full range here.