WikiLeaks to Launch Fashion Label In India

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is all set to launch his range of apparel and accessories in India in the hope that the country's newfound fervour for online shopping will catapult him into a brand icon.

The 43 year old may be stuck in the UK’s Ecuadorian embassy since 2012 but has been working on turning designer with a Wikileaks fashion collection that would challenge the Che Guevara brand’s success.

Wikileaks representative Olafur Vignir Sigurvinsson told the Times of India: "India is one of the countries where awareness about WikiLeaks is the highest and Julian is excited about the proposition."

Sigurvinsson said that the idea is to sell "high-end fashion apparel, accessories, household goods, paper goods, that kind of stuff", with retail plans including both physical stores and online e-commerce. WikiLeaks is also looking for partners in India, “who can manage the property and translate it into retail and e-retail platforms." Franchise India is reportedly facilitating the brand’s entry into the country. Sigurvinsson added that the monetization of the brand can help rake in additional funds for the group, which mainly relies on donations.

This is not the first time Assange has engaged himself with fashion. In June, he was expected to be preparing to take to the catwalk for fashion designer Ben Westwood (son of Vivienne) but had to withdraw due to ill health.