Honouring diversity through fashion

Diversity is woven into the fabric of creation. Genesis 1:28 speaks of humanity’s scattering across the earth, giving rise to countless cultures and traditions. Far from being a source of division, this scattering reflects God’s boundless creativity. Joel 2:28-29 reminds us that the Holy Spirit is poured out on all people, regardless of race, class or gender. This universality calls us to embrace diversity as a gift and a reflection of God’s kingdom.

As someone who loves and advocates for more diversity through fashion, I believe that cultural fashion is a powerful expression of identity, heritage and faith. Through it, we can celebrate our uniqueness and the cultures that shape us.

Here, five inspirational Christian women from all walks of life showcase their cultural heritage through fashion – a testament to the beauty and creativity God has placed in every one of us. Each outfit they wear tells a story, highlighting not only the artistry of the clothing but also the memories and values every individual holds. These women also share how they connect their faith and heritage, and provide their views on how the Church can do more to celebrate diversity, offering valuable insights into creating a more inclusive and united community of faith.

A call to celebrate

Having reflected on these women, it becomes clear that diversity is not only a beautiful aspect of God’s creation but also an opportunity for unity and growth within the Church. Their insights remind us that embracing cultural heritage and traditions can deepen our faith and strengthen our communities. It is not just a spiritual exercise but also has profound mental health benefits. Feeling seen and celebrated for who we are – both individually and collectively – fosters a sense of belonging and acceptance. As the founder of Cultural Style Week, I have witnessed firsthand how celebrating heritage through fashion brings people together, creating joy and mutual appreciation.

Consider how your own church can celebrate diversity. Could you organise an event where members share their cultural heritage through clothing, food or music? Perhaps participating in initiatives like Cultural Style Week from 21-27 May could be a step toward creating a more inclusive community of faith. Let us all think about ways to honour the unique identities within our church while remaining united in Christ. Together, we reflect the kingdom of God in its full richness and beauty.

Candy Ellie Graham founded Cultural Style Week, a global movement celebrating cultural heritage through fashion, beauty and self-expression. Starting online, it now includes in-person events across the UK and internationally. You can search for Candy’s Woman Alive articles at womanalive.co.uk 

Passionate about helping others feel celebrated inside and out, Candy serves as a prayer minister with Living Bridge Ministries and at Holy Trinity Brompton in West London. Through her Liberatatem YouTube videos, she shares her healing journey, offering tools for personal freedom and spiritual growth in Christ.

Insta: @candyelliesworld and @culturalstyleweek

Shaneen Clarke 

Author, speaker and TV host of Indian heritage, Shaneen radiates elegance in a pink sari. She shares: “When I put on my sari, I am reminded of our all-encompassing God who created us all and loves us all. I feel liberated in my femininity, proud of my roots and connected to the spiritual history of one of the world’s oldest civilisations.” Shannen also notes: “When I preach while wearing my sari, I feel an international bond with diverse cultures.” She believes the Church could celebrate diversity more fully by “having diverse leadership and planning cultural international events, incorporating food, clothing and music”.

Jennifer Laurent Smart

Equality and diversity manager at The Salvation Army, Jennifer wears a Wob Dwiyet (also known as the Gwan Wob, meaning ‘great dress’) crafted from Madras plaid fabric. It is one variant of the national dress of the Commonwealth of Dominica. She explains: “The outfit includes a foula (shawl), Jipon (petticoat) and Tete Anlé (headpiece), along with my gold jewellery.” Jennifer describes the experience of wearing it: “I feel amazing, elated and grateful. My faith and heritage shape my identity, and this outfit enables me to maintain a connection with the traditions of my family.” She often wears it to church functions and cultural events, and even donned it for a reception at Buckingham Palace. Jennifer believes the Church can celebrate diversity by “focusing on love and the positive aspects of difference, creating an environment where people feel valued”.

Dr Alexandra Maria Gordon

A medical doctor from North Transylvania, Romania, Alexandra wears a handmade traditional ensemble. “It consists of a shirt, lambskin vest, skirt and wool aprons, paired with handmade woollen socks and traditional leather shoes called ‘opinci,’ she explains. Wearing it fills her with pride and a deep connection to her ancestors. “The garments carry symbols of faith and optimism, and wearing them makes me feel honoured,” she adds. Alexandra highlights how wearing traditional Romanian clothing to church fosters a sense of belonging and protection. She believes diversity in the Church can be celebrated through “honouring the memory of our ancestors by encouraging traditional attire”.

Victoria Wya 

A banking professional of Nigerian, Ham heritage, Victoria proudly showcases a traditional outfit made from Ham fabric. She explains: “The colours represent our culture: green for agriculture, gold for ginger and maroon for royalty. Beads and a cow tail add beauty to our customs.” Reflecting on wearing her outfit to an African fashion show in London, she says: “I felt great and proud. It became a conversation starter, giving me the chance to educate others about my culture.” Victoria connects her faith and heritage by embracing shared values such as generosity and hospitality. She suggests: “The Church could encourage people to wear traditional attire once or twice a year to celebrate diversity.” 

Aleksandra Volkova

Founder of Volkova PR and Fashion Agency, Aleksandra wears a Ukrainian ‘vyshyvanka’ – an embroidered shirt she describes as a “sacred garment”. She says: “Wearing it makes me feel empowered and connected to my lineage. The symbols embroidered on it carry a form of genetic memory, protecting and inspiring me.” Aleksandra often wears her vyshyvanka to church, where it deepens her connection to faith and heritage. She suggests: “The Church can celebrate diversity by encouraging traditional attire during services and organising cultural exchange programmes to foster mutual respect and understanding