Young Siblings Create Brand, XLudingNoOne, in Response to Abercrombie & Fitch's Size Exclusion Position
Quinton, VA (PRWEB) July 14, 2013 -- They were shocked at the controversial remarks recently brought to light about clothing store policies that limited its sizes in order to appeal only to "cool, good looking people." These self-proclaimed "exclusionary" policies inspired them to boycott this brand and create their own clothing line, XLudingNoOne. They hope to embrace people of all sizes and ages, asserting that beauty is never defined by a number.
"A lot of people don't belong [in our clothes], and they can't belong. Are we exclusionary? Absolutely." This sentiment was shared by the CEO of a popular clothing company in a January 24, 2006 interview with Salon. This line of thinking is certainly not new, but it is a stark reminder of how societal norms are reinforced.
Public backlash against this exclusive brand began in the form of boycotting stores, online petitions, and donating these particular clothes to the homeless, according to ABC’s report published May 15. Meghan and James wanted to go a step further and create a new brand in which diversity, independence, and inclusion were embraced instead of shunned. They want to prove that it is not just a brand that sells--but also the philosophy and people behind it.
Meghan and James are no strangers to this type of exclusion, they ran an anti-bullying campaign just a few years back. As the school year ended, they immediately brought their focus to XLudingNoOne, a company they hope will facilitate in their anti-bullying efforts. They want to reach out globally and demonstrate that being "cool and attractive" is not limited to a certain size, but rather shaped by attitude. "Everybody deserves the same respect," they stress, "regardless of what our differences may be."
Meghan and James (with assistance from their dad), filed corporate documents, filed trademark applications, purchased domain names, established vendors, linked bank accounts, started visiting suppliers, and started outreach on their social media sites. As part of their outreach they were able to give our first donation to a local swim program that “includes” everyone.
XLudingNoOne is a clothing brand that aims to create a dialogue with the public about healthy body image and acceptance. It crosses international borders emphasizing their message of anti-bullying and inclusiveness...a message they hope is fully embraced by both children and parents worldwide.
Siblings Meghan and James are actively looking to partner with other firms to spread the message of inclusion. They intend to compete against the exclusionary position of powerhouse Abercrombie & Fitch (A&F). They would like to see A&F add larger sizes and send the message that “inclusive attitudes” are cool. When asked by a local reporter in Richmond, VA if XLudingNoOne would work with A&F if approached, Meghan said "only if they change their size policy" James followed up by adding "I'd rather work with Under Amour or someone responsible like them...they work with Wounded Warrior Project.” Their dad stressed that the odds of them succeeding at this venture depend on those that are willing to support his children and their “inclusive” message. “We have to rely on our Global family to support the brand and philosophy…it’s up to the people" he added.
Chris Coleson, XXL-uding No One, LLC, http://www.xludingnoone.com, +1 (804) 932-3863, [email protected]
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