Representation in design is no longer optional—it’s essential.
- Stelan Mergenthaler
- Dec 17, 2024
- 1 min read

As designers, our job is to communicate visually, but who we represent can say just as much as how we design. Brands like Savage X Fenty set the standard by making inclusivity a key pillar in both their product and visual design strategies. From their diverse ad campaigns to their UI-friendly website, Fenty has proved that accessibility and representation aren’t just good ethics—they’re good business.
However, some brands seem to ride the wave of inclusivity without fully committing. Look at Starbucks ' “What’s Your Name” campaign, celebrating gender diversity. While the intent was applaudable, critics argued it wasn’t enough, calling for more long-term initiatives rather than one-off campaigns.
Personally, I think inclusivity in design starts with listening—whether that’s through audience feedback, user testing, or just diversifying the voices at the table. Visuals that resonate with broader audiences require thoughtfulness, not tokenism.
Who’s getting inclusivity right in your opinion? Let’s celebrate—and challenge—together.
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