In the US, body armour is a $465 million-a-year industry, which is set to reach $5.7 billion by 2024. As a culture of fear is perpetuated by gun attacks and violence in the US, high end brands are stepping in to give people peace of mind through high quality, undetectable bulletproof clothing.

Gucci has donated $500,000 to a gun control campaign in the US – a political statement in an industry normally shy to speaking out. In doing so, Gucci is revealing its true beliefs as a brand, affirming these values to Gen Yers and Zers who expect them to put their money where their mouths are.

In February 2018, America saw its third-worst school shooting in history at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida. In the wake of the tragedy, the teenage survivors have sought to mobilize the country both online and off, demonstrating Gen Z’s desire to engage with the big issues.

From taking #nomakeup selfies to signing petitions on political issues, a growing sense of social responsibility and commitment to local community have changed the way people view social action. Is caring about causes the new badge of cool? And has it become ‘chic’ to protest?