The CFDA and PVH target inclusion, equity and diversity in new research study

By

Gabriella Lacombe

Published
Oct 16, 2020

The Council of Fashion Designers of America and PVH have partnered to launch a new research study concentrating on how the fashion industry can be more diverse and equitable. 

With a particular focus on race and the topics of talent acquisition and retention, key goals of the study include helping companies quantify their culture’s strengths and opportunities for improvement; providing insight into actionable steps towards a more inclusive and diverse future; and fostering a talent pipeline for under-represented communities.

The study, which initially started in late 2019, was temporarily paused due to the impact of Covid-19, the CFDA said. 

The CFDA and PVH said they are currently gathering insights from fashion companies, designers and students, and that findings will be shared in a white paper set to be released in the coming months.

The two organizations first began working together to tackle diversity and inclusivity within the fashion industry in 2018, when the CFDA and PVH held an industry forum focused on inclusivity and diversity in partnership with Dagoba, a global consulting practice specializing in I&D and engagement. Later, in January of 2019, the two released a briefing on the state of I&D within the industry. 

“PVH is extremely pleased to once again partner with CFDA on this critically important work," said Lance LaVergne, PVH Corp.’s chief diversity officer and SVP of global talent acquisition and associate experience.

"We recognize the tremendous opportunity we have to bring greater inclusion and diversity to the fashion industry, and this work will help us identify the actions and initiative that will have the most meaningful impact."