For many, fashion stands out as an expressive symbol of independence that is often just out of reach. The simple act of choosing an outfit can often feel like, navigating a maze. 

According to Dove, sight disability in South Africa is the highest of all disabilities. With 57% of women making the total split of (32%) including all visual impairments or partially sighted people in SA. 

As a brand that consistently supports inclusivity and real beauty for all women, Dove is highlighting this issue through its inclusive campaign, 'Express Yourself in 100 Colours'. 

The collaboration aims to dismantle barriers in the fashion industry, encouraging all women to celebrate their individual style and to express themselves in 100 colours, freely and confidently, fostering a culture of 'Colour confidence'.  

Concurrently, Balini's innovative designs, incorporate the Braille Identification System into clothing — promoting accessibility and empowering visually impaired individuals to express their personal style independently and confidently, says Dove.

"Our campaign, 'Express Yourself in 100 Colours', is designed to empower women to boldly embrace their individuality through a diverse palette of 100 colours. This initiative not only promotes freedom and confidence but also nurtures a culture of 'Colour Confidence' where women can freely express their personal style without the worry of marks and stains on their favourite garment," says Navini Ramsamie, Dove deodorant brand manager.

"This newfound freedom opens doors to increased self-assurance for all women, including those who are visually impaired. It empowers them to explore and express their personal style with confidence, embracing the beauty of diversity and the vibrancy of 100 colours," Ramsamie adds. 

The campaign is a testament to Dove's Invisible Dry Deodorant, expertly tested and proven to leave no white marks on 100 diverse colours, empowering women with the freedom to welcome a spectrum of hues into their wardrobes — all while offering 48-hour sweat and odour protection and superior care for their underarms, according to Dove.

For the second consecutive year, Dove deodorants have partnered as the official fashion sponsor of the Hollywoodbets Durban July, where Balini's Dove 100 colours inspired design will take centre stage, says the brand. 

Dove says the Durban-based designer's passion for fashion inclusivity was sparked by a deeply personal experience — having witnessed a visually impaired family member struggle to choose clothes. This pivotal moment galvanised her resolve to empower the visually impaired in fashion, ultimately leading to the creation of the innovative balini™ brand.

This includes:

  • the garment's size and colour
  • washing and care instructions, and 
  • a description of the style.

Additionally, the system provides guidance on how to coordinate the piece with other colours and garment types, empowering visually impaired individuals with the independence to make informed style choices, Dove adds. 

"Join Dove on Saturday, 6 July at the Hollywoodbets Durban July, as we celebrate the richness of diversity and inclusivity with all women. Experience the unveiling of Balini's groundbreaking braille-embedded showstopper and witness how Dove Invisible dry transforms fashion into a realm of true accessibility and expression. Continue this exciting journey with us by following our social media pages for more updates and stories," the brand concludes. 

For more information, visit www.dove.com. You can also follow Dove South Africa on Facebook, X or Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of contributor