It's April 9, 2008, the day of the controversial Olympic torch run through San Francisco leading up to the 2008 Summer Games in Beijing, and we can't help but think about the relationship between fashion and activism as we watch the masses of protesters gathering just outside, ready to express their message to the host nation and the world. In a previous post on British designer Katharine Hamnett, we suggested that fashion at its best is provocative, and fashion activism is a natural collaboration we don't see enough. Today, we're seeing lots of it. Droves of people are wearing their hearts on their sleeves, literally through slogans on clothing. Katharine Hamnett would be proud.

The Central Saint Martins grad was the first designer of prominence to tackle environmental, social and political issues head on by speaking out through her clothing. From Wham! wearing "Choose Life," to Naomi wearing "Use A Condom," to the designer herself wearing "58% Don't Want Pershing," to those gathered along the Embarcadero today wearing "Free Tibet," Katharine Hamnett's impact goes well beyond the runway, affecting matters much bigger than seasonal trends.

Check out the Spring 2008 collection from Katharine Hamnett. All of the tees are made with 100% certified organic cotton, using water-based, earth friendly ink for the prints.