Naomi Campbell announces collaboration with fast fashion brand Pretty Little Thing

Naomi Campbell is one of the biggest supermodels of our time, known for walking for some of the industry’s most iconic collections. From Vivienne Westwood to Valentino, the British talent was the first black woman to appear on the covers of Time, Vogue France, and British Vogue, and was declared a supermodel by the industry and international press just a few years into her career. No matter the collection, designer or circumstance, Campbell has held her own throughout the decades in a rapidly-evolving industry. 

Now, Campbell is rumoured to be collaborating with fast-fashion retailer Pretty Little Thing – much to the dismay of the fashion world.

With a sneak peek appearing on social media of the brand, the collection is said to be designed by Campbell herself, showing a director’s chair with the words “Pretty Little Thing, designed by Naomi Campbell” sprawled across the back. However, brand’s widely known history of alleged unethical practices have prompted her morally conscious fashion followers to question the move. 

“Naomi Campbell x PLT is the plot twist of the century,” said one Twitter user.  “Naomi Campbell x PLT is the most disappointing collab to come out in recent times….I have no words,” said another. More followed, calling the news “insane”, “shocking”, and “disappointing”.

It is by all means an unexpected collaboration. Campbell has previously advocated for sustainability and labour rights in the past, appearing very vocal when it comes to supporting emerging designers in the industry. PLT received a score of 0-10% in the Fashion Transparency Index – the same as its fellow fast fashion retailers of Fashion Nova, Boohoo, and Revolve. The brand has previously exclusively worked with influencers, including ex-Love Island contestants Molly-Mae Hague and Gemma Owen, meaning that the Campbell collection will be one of their most high-profile partnerships thus far.

There are a few excited to see what she will offer, saying it will be “cute” and that they are “intrigued to see” what it will hold. But the majority aren’t best pleased with the move and are keen to highlight the issue of opting for financial gain over industry ethos, hoping that other fans won’t be swayed to purchase the fast-fashion items.