Stop Staring clothing controversy

I want to publicly respond to some of the comments and questions from our friends and fans about Revival Retro's position as a retailer of Stop Staring!

Revival Retro will not do business with any person, or company, who participates in any kind of hate speech. 

 

Historically, we have been a big supporter of Stop Staring! You will find many instances on this website from over the years where we have stated we are proud to be a stockist of these high quality, stylish dresses. 

I enjoyed meeting Alicia Estrada back in 2013. I have always known her to publicly avow her faith in God. She is also an amazing designer.

In 2020 she has chosen to promulgate her view of God's will via her Stop Staring business platforms. Some of the activities relating to that mission have proved disconcerting to us. 

 

We are concerned about specific comments and until clarification is gained and trust is rebuilt we will cease buying this brand. Here is why:

 

On first look, it seems like Alicia / Stop Staring are using their social media platforms, with it's large audience of people who love their clothing, to spread the word of God, above and beyond encouraging people to buy her dresses. It's not the business decision I would make but each to their own. If she wants to use her company's reach to promote her personal convictions it is her prerogative: Every one of her followers has the ability to comment, question and unfollow.

Once you dig a little deeper and go beyond the deep religious conviction there is behaviour and comments directed towards specific individuals that should be questioned though and makes us question the integrity of who we are doing business with. One key instance is comments apparently telling someone to repent for being gay. I do not stand as Alicia's accuser but from the information that has been presented to me I am troubled.

 

Where accusations have been levelled and screen shots shared by others of public posts by Stop Staring, I encourage company owner, Alicia Estrada, to denounce all hate crime. I hope that she will apologise for any homophobic comments (perceived or actual) and stand publicly as an ally of the LGBTQI+ community.

 

That's why we will stop buying from that company until further notice. We still have some of their dresses in stock and we will undertake promotional activities to sell this stock: As a small business we cannot afford to write off this inventory, neither will we contribute to the waste that the fashion industry creates by destroying or discarding garments, so you will find Stop Staring clothing for sale on this website until remaining inventory is sold through or until this (gay owned) business hears from Stop Staring and we are satisfied that this is a company we want to do business with.