The world's bees are in big trouble and we all need to work together to save our little, fuzzy friends and raise awareness about the situation they are in. There are tons of ways we can create a buzz about the issues surrounding bees, from wearing bee inspired clothing to get people talking to sharing informative articles on social media. The fact of the matter is that bees are dying out and we rely on these little critters more than we probably know.
Until recently, I didn't know much about the plight of the bees. I'd heard they were struggling, but I had no idea of the disasters they were facing and how much humankind relies upon them for our survival, too. It was then that I stumbled across an incredible animation, The Death Of Bees Explained — Parasites, Poison and Humans, by Kurzgesagt that enlightened me on the shocking story of present-day bees. According to Kurzgesagt, one in every three meals is made possible by honeybees. If honeybees become extinct, thousands of plants would also perish, which could lead to millions of people starving in the years after the honeybee's extinction.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture, Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) has wiped out many hives, but the actual cause has not yet been pinpointed. A few factors that might contribute to CCD are killer pesticides, stress caused by human activities, and crop monocultures.
Finally, people are starting to sit up and take notice, though, including members of the fashion industry. Designer Ada Zanditon's spring/summer 2010 collection The Colony was inspired by Alison Benjamin and Brian McCallum’s book A World Without Bees and their study of CCD. Zanditon told SOMA Magazine , "[...] I wanted to construct the collection in the same way that bees construct their colony to bring aware-ness to the current issue of colony collapse and its impact on the world.” The collection was as beautiful as it was poignant, with garments featuring honeycomb structuring and hexagonal shapes in royal dark blues and standout reds.
If, like Zanditon, you wish to use fashion as your weapon of choice to raise awareness about the terrible plight of bees, then here you will find a selection of bee inspired fashion and accessories to begin the buzz around the future of our flighty friends.
1. The Busy Bee Patch
Embroidered Bee Sweater Iron-On Patch, $6.63, etsy.com
You can iron this patch onto a bee-utiful sweater to set your wings fluttering. It'll be a perfect piece for the upcoming fall months, since it would look awesome paired with a Cher Horowitz style yellow plaid skirt and knee-high socks.
2. The Bee Watch
Olivia Burton Bee Face Leather Strap Watch, $242, asos.com
Always bee on time with this elegant wristwatch. The humble bumble bee takes center stage on the face of the watch on a rosy hued backdrop.
3. The Tiny Bee Ring
Simple Tiny Sterling Silver Bee Ring, $24.95, etsy.com
Make a subtle style statement in this adorable, tiny bee ring. Choose from a range of bands including matte, shiny, or oxidized silver. This little beauty can be worn alone or with other stacking rings to pack a fashionable punch.
4. The Temporary Bee Tattoo
Paperself Bee Tattoos, $4, asos.com
If you have a less-is-more outlook when it comes to fashion, you'll most likely love this temporary tattoo with a bee design. It would make a great alternative choice for festival wear instead of metallic temporary tattoos that are proving a popular choice this summer.
5. The Darling Bee Dress
Bee On Honeycombs Sleeveless Skater Dress, $16.99-18.99, amazon.com
For any ladies out there wanting to flaunt a feminine frock this season but who are fed up with florals, this bee print skater dress would be a brilliant choice. Look as sweet as honey in this pretty skater dress available in sizes XS to 3X.
6. The Bee Keeper's Medallion
1909 Antique Bee Keepers Medallion Pendant, $306.16, etsy.com
This pendant is the ultimate way to fuse your passions of fashion, bees, and antiques all in one. It is an absolutely stunning piece, comprised of nine carat gold and featuring the words "Perthshire Bee Keepers Association" on the front along with the medal winner's name and the year date "1910" on the back. This is a lovely antique that you could pass on as an heirloom through your family tree to ensure that future generations recognize the importance of bees, too.
7. The Honeycomb Cuff
Honeycomb Hideout Bracelet, $20, heirloomfinds.com
Ooze sophisticated vibes in this stunning honeycomb inspired bracelet. When fashion is inspired by Mother Nature, the results are always beautiful.
8. The Sweet Bee Necklace
Bill Skinner Hexagon Bee Necklace, $68.50, asos.com
Channel understated luxe vibes in this gorgeous gold plated necklace featuring a bee and a honeycomb cell.
9. The Bee Prepared Bobby Pins
Bee Prepared Hair Pin Set, $12.99, modcloth.com
Smarten up a shabby chic hairstyle with a pair of these divine engraved bee bobby pins.
Become a total Queen Bee and fly your fashion flag high this summer for these wonderful little creatures who desperately need our help as much as we need theirs.
Images: Courtesy Brands; Giphy (1)
