Michelle Obama's fashion designer refuses to dress Melania Trump - urges industry to refuse to dress her

New York-based French fashion designer Sophie Theallet who has dressed US First Lady Michelle Obama has refused to dressed Melania Trump, the wife of the US president-elect Donald Trump, because of his political views.

Melania Trump, wife of US president-elect Donald Trump

In an open letter posted on Twitter on Thursday, Theallet, 52 explained why she’ll stay away from the next US first lady once she moves into the White House.

"As one who celebrates and strives for diversity, individual freedom and respect for all lifestyles, I will not participate in dressing or associating in any way with the next first lady," she wrote.

"The rhetoric of racism, sexism and xenophobia unleashed by her husband's presidential campaign are incompatible with the shared values ​​we live by."

"I am well aware it is not wise to get involved in politics," Theallet added. "That said, as a family-owned company, our bottom line is not just about money."

“As an independent fashion brand, we consider our voice an expression of our artistic and philosophical ideas. The Sophie Theallet brand stands against all discrimination and prejudice,” the letter says.

“I encourage my fellow designers to do the same,” she added. “Integrity is our only true currency.”

Theallet has worked in the United States for more than fifteen years, and is a regular fixture at New York's fashion week.

Theallet has dressed US first lady Michelle Obama since 2009

US First Lady Michelle Obama, has been dressed by Theallet several times and has provided welcome publicity by wearing several of the designer's dresses since 2009.

"She has contributed to having our name recognized and respected worldwide," Theallet wrote of the current first lady. "Her values, actions and grace have always resonated deeply within me."

Source: Huff Post