In the midst of the pandemic, designer Andre Yabin was forced to respond to the growing social and political divisions around the world – simply with the power of love.
For his clothing line YABIN he created the Love Shirt Dress, a statement piece, in the hope of leaving a positive emotional impact on the wearer. Adorned with bizarre heart doodles and the word “love” written on it, it is Yabin’s wish that the shirt shed some light on what the world needs most.
“It’s a topic of conversation,” says Yabin, “and combined with love it really highlights what we really need [right now]. “
Yabin is committed to putting love into action and his latest move is to partner with the Brit Rose boutique in Dallas to wear the Love Shirt Dress. Speaking to FWD> DFW and CW33, Yabin spoke about donating a portion of the proceeds from the shirt to the Suicide & Crisis Center in North Texas, an organization he believes has integrity.
Over the past year, conversations about mental health have increased and the center offers a variety of programs and services for those in need. And like other organizations affected by the pandemic, it suffered a significant loss of funding, which Yabin saw as a timely reason to help. The center also has a personal connection with Yabin. After losing a few friends to suicide last year, he wanted to find a way to help those who might be in trouble.
“I thought, ‘What better way to start the conversation than to integrate love into movement?'” Says Yabin about the partnership.
Yabin looks back proudly on his foray into the fashion world and calls it a unique experience. He started his career in architecture, but after a year the Dallas office where he worked was closed. Thanks to his partner, a seamstress, he found the desire to become a fashion designer. The pair began creating wedding dresses, and eight years later their pieces were featured on Fashion Week catwalk shows in New York and Paris.
Commenting on his collaboration with Brit Rose Boutique, Yabin said, “We have chosen to join forces for one purpose: to create awareness and money for those who need hope in these times.”
Follow Andre Yabin on Instagram and visit sccenter.org to learn how you can get involved. Yabins Love Dress Shirt can be purchased online and through the Brit Rose Boutique.
[ad_1]
