How can fashion help refugees? Fashion design student Angela Luna found a way. She started a company that makes special jackets. These jackets turn into tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, and flotation devices. They are designed to protect refugees from harsh weather.
Luna calls her fashion company ADIFF. The name expresses her wish to make ADIFFerence in the lives of refugees and other populations in need. Luna's products aim to "provide shelter, safety, comfort, security, and other things to people on the go." All of Luna's jackets are one size and designed to fit both men and women.
Luna's first product, funded on Kickstarter, was the Reflective Reversible Jacket. Luna realized that reflective clothing - which makes people visible in the dark - could save lives. But she also realized that sometimes it's important not to be seen. In response, she created the Reflective Reversible Jacket. When you wear it one way, the reflective side shows. When you wear it the other way, the non-reflective side shows.
Although Luna's products were inspired by refugees, they are designed to protect anyone from the elements. ADIFF's waterproof gear can be used for hiking, camping, biking, or even walking around the city. For every jacket bought, one is donated to a refugee.
Luna's success is growing. She has already received the 2016 Womenswear Designer of the Year award. "I remain steadfast in the belief that fashion or any other industry can become a movement for change," says Luna. "All it takes is a new approach to an old problem."