As the fashion industry continues to evolve and define contemporary trends, one of the most important events in the fashion world are the renowned fashion weeks in New York, Paris, Milan and London. Not only do these events shape the genre of fashion but they also serve as a platform for emerging and established designers from all around the world. Let’s explore the influential fashion weeks and see how they are impacting the fashion industry.
1. Decoding the Impact of Fashion Weeks: An Exploration of NY, Paris, Milan, and London
The Big Four fashion weeks – New York, Paris, Milan, and London – are hugely influential to fashion globally. With each one having a unique spin on the latest trends they each distinguish themselves by reflecting, creating, and inspiring upcoming fads in a markedly different way.
New York Fashion Week is an essential stop during the annual global tour of style. The city is known to be a bit daring with the fashion displays and this could be seen in designers’ collections that meticulously blended the old and the new. Law office looks with thirtys styling, denim duos with tulle skirts, tuxedos coupled with sneakers- this showcase had it all.
In Paris, the runways were full of energy and awe-inspiring creations, with some of the most iconic and well-known people in fashion in attendance. Old-world Sydney esthetics were combined with modern angles and colors. Crisp cuts and clean lines took center stage with bejeweled accessories and bold headdresses.
Milan took a dramatic turn with a more traditional and sophisticated approach. Focusing on mid-length coats, impeccable trousers and sharp tailoring propelled designers into the stratosphere of high fashion. There was an overarching smooth esthetic with embellishments and texture providing the occasional flourish in contrast.
London had a relaxed urban vibe with traditional British staples like tweeds and tartans that mingled with glamor and sparkle. Streetwear that had two distinct feels, sporty and technical, presented a unique blend of unpolished appearances and subtle sophistication that has grown over the past few seasons.
The four separate weeks presented collections that showed the most current trends through very different lenses. Each city left its own mark on the fashion world, displaying that fashion can be as unique and diverse as the population and culture that embody them.
2. The Rise of the ‘Fashion Capital’: How New York Dictates the Global Conversation
In the past few decades, the fashion world has been re-branded and re-shaped to what it is today: absolute dominance of the New York street style. New York’s mass of culture, along with a maximum of creativity, has been a defining factor in the city’s success as a fashion capital. With a growing trend of fashion designers and creative directors from all corners of the globe, it’s safe to say New York has taken over the fashion landscape and now dictates the global conversations of the modern fashion world.
The Big Apple is at the helm of the fashion game, hosting the world famous Fashion Week twice a year and producing major fashion awards such as the CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) which are internationally recognized. Fashion Week draws the best of the best every year, and the fashion industry’s elite all come together in the city to take part in the fully-booked and electrifying week. The main stages light up as a continuous slideshow of fashion’s current trends and visions for the future – all come under the eye of mass, with the season’s styles quickly becoming an overnight success.
The NYC streets are overflowing with the newest and greatest of fashion and people from all over ride the subway and come to the city to experience what being in the ‘Fashion Capital’ feels like. Influencers and tastemakers come together to make the greatest exhibitions in a city that knows no bounds. Here, the creativity of the locals is put to the test and everyday scenarios shape the ideas of what people all across the world are wearing the next day.
New York has had a great influence on the fashion world – designers create garments and are quickly catapulted into the spotlight as the new cult label. It is here that models and influencers thrive, pushing the envelope of acceptable fashion the further and creating boundary-pushing styles. With initiatives to promote sustainability, ethics, and diversity in the fashion industry, the city has become an icon of modern fashion.
Overall, the fashionable energy of New York is something that is constantly radiating outwards and affecting the industry’s trends and conversations globally. No doubt New York will remain a fashion powerhouse, with a mind-set solely to innovate and inspire.
3. Putting Paris in the Spolight: Defining French Chic
From Effortless Elegance to Poised Petite
No city captures the elegance and essence of fashion quite like Paris. Its native residents choose items of clothing that are effortlessly chic and modestly precious. A well tailored blazer with trousers or jeans and a tucked in tee is a quintessential Parisian look. Satin slips or slinky dresses are paired with menswear inspired coats for evening looks.
The secret to Parisians’ fashion success lies in the small details. Heeled loafers, scarves tied in a bow, vintage inspired sunglasses and berets are preferred finishing touches. Vintage is also the focus, with Parisians weaving in vintage pieces to create a unique look. Parisian fashion is the perfect marriage between classic menswear and sophisticated feminine pieces.
The overall look is that of a petite woman. Parisian women rarely don heels (save for special occasions). Slim cropped trousers and ankle length skirts or dresses coupled with the much-loved low-heeled pumps, a classic baguette or tote bag, create the effortlessly chic look.
Colors are subtle, usually a monochrome palette of black, grey and white with pops of color here and there. Texture plays a key role in creating visual interest, with lamb’s wool, tweed and velvet making an appearance often.
With the right ingredients, Parisian chic is easily achievable. To get the look:
- Opt for pieces that are well tailored with thoughtful details, i.e. double-breasted jackets, belted cardigans
- Accessorize to elevate your look: scarves, bags, sunglasses, statement jewelry
- Find vintage items to infuse a unique flavor in your wardrobe
- Choose shoes with a low heel to stay in fashion
By following these tips, you’ll be able to achieve the perfect balance between timeless and eclectic; creating a look that is unmistakably French chic.
4. Capturing the Glamorous Milanese Spirit: Italy’s Finest in Fashion
The bustling streets of Milan have long been known for their unique air of sophistication. It is no wonder that the city has been one of the fashion capitals of the world for years. The chic and glamorous style of the Milanese look is one that is both timeless and iconic.
Eye for Quality
The eye for quality that only the Milanese possess is what sets them apart from the rest. From fabrication to tailoring, Milanese fashion houses have developed the art of craftsmanship to achieve the highest standard of quality in their finished pieces. This passion for excellence is evident in many of the top fashion houses in Milan, such as Versace, Prada and Armani.
A Flawless Look
Milanese fashion is not only known for high quality, but for its classic beauty as well. Designers consistently turn out collections that exude beauty and style. From sleek silhouettes to bold and vibrant prints, Milan is at the forefront of fashion, and its designers have no shortage of ways to put together a flawless look.
The Finest of Fabrics
The use of the finest fabrics is another of Milan’s hallmarks. Cashmere, silk, velvet, and leather are all staples of the Milanese wardrobe. These luxurious fabrics, combined with skilled craftsmanship create a look that is elegant and timeless.
The Milanese Look
Put together a perfect combination of tailored cuts, luxurious fabrics, and timeless styles and you will have achieved the look of the Milanese: a look that exudes glamour and sophistication. Milan is without a doubt one of the best places to get the latest in fashion, and has rightfully earned its reputation as a fashion capital of the world.
From the runways of New York, Paris, Milan and London, we can all agree that the fashion industry is a great source of inspiration, innovation and creativity – something it will certainly continue to provide in the years to come. May the style of the future walk the catwalk of today.
