Fashion shows are not just about showcasing new designs, they are also a platform for designers to express their creativity, make a statement and set trends for the upcoming seasons. The fashion industry is constantly evolving and each year brings a fresh wave of excitement with its highly anticipated events. From the glitz and glamour of New York Fashion Week to the avant-garde designs at Paris Fashion Week, these events attract the attention of fashion lovers from all over the world. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the top fashion events of the year and highlight the trends and moments that made them truly unforgettable.
Overview of Major Fashion Weeks (New York, Paris, Milan, London)
The four major fashion weeks, also known as the “Big Four”, are held twice a year in February/March and September/October. These events set the tone for the fashion industry and are considered to be the most influential platforms for designers to showcase their collections. Each city has its own unique style and aesthetic, making it an exciting experience for fashion enthusiasts. Let’s take a look at what these fashion weeks had in store for us this year.
New York Fashion Week
New York Fashion Week (NYFW) is often seen as the start of the fashion month and sets the benchmark for the upcoming shows. This year, NYFW showcased a diverse range of designers, from established names like Marc Jacobs and Tom Ford to emerging talents like Pyer Moss and Christopher John Rogers. One of the standout moments of NYFW was when designer Christian Siriano sent models of all shapes and sizes down the runway, promoting inclusivity and diversity in fashion.
Another noteworthy aspect of NYFW was the strong presence of sustainable fashion. Brands like Gabriela Hearst and Prabal Gurung incorporated eco-friendly materials and production methods in their collections, sending a message about the importance of ethical fashion.
Paris Fashion Week
Paris Fashion Week (PFW) is known for its extravagant and avant-garde designs, and this year was no different. Big fashion houses like Chanel, Dior, and Saint Laurent showcased their collections, along with emerging designers making their mark on the global stage. One of the most talked-about moments at PFW was when designer Marine Serre debuted her collection featuring upcycled materials and sustainable designs.
Another highlight of PFW was the collaboration between luxury brand Balenciaga and environmental organization Oceanic Global. The show included an immersive experience that shed light on the issue of plastic pollution in our oceans.
Milan Fashion Week
Milan Fashion Week (MFW) is all about luxury and Italian craftsmanship. This year, MFW saw a mix of traditional styles and modern designs, with brands like Versace and Dolce & Gabbana showcasing their iconic designs alongside emerging labels like Iceberg and Sunnei. One of the standout collections at MFW was from designer Jeremy Scott, who paid homage to the 70s disco era with his colorful and vibrant designs.
MFW also saw a strong presence of sustainability in fashion, with brands like Stella McCartney and Giorgio Armani promoting eco-friendly practices in their collections. Additionally, MFW also featured a special event called the Green Carpet Fashion Awards, which recognizes designers and brands for their efforts towards sustainable fashion.
London Fashion Week
London Fashion Week (LFW) is known for its edgy and experimental designs, and this year it did not disappoint. From the bold and playful designs of Molly Goddard to the sustainable and gender-fluid collection of Tolu Coker, LFW showcased a diverse range of talent. One of the biggest moments at LFW was when designer Victoria Beckham celebrated her label’s 10th anniversary with a star-studded show featuring models like Naomi Campbell and Liya Kebede.
LFW also saw a strong focus on diversity and inclusivity, with designer Bethany Williams using her platform to raise awareness about social and environmental issues. She collaborated with organizations such as The Magpie Project and Adelaide House, highlighting the importance of responsible and ethical fashion.
Emerging Designers to Watch
Fashion weeks are not just about established designers, they also provide a platform for emerging talents to showcase their creativity and make a mark in the industry. This year, we saw a number of young designers who caught the attention of fashion experts and critics with their innovative designs and unique perspectives.
One such designer is Tomo Koizumi, who made his debut at NYFW with his stunning and voluminous gowns made from layers of colorful tulle. His collection was a hit among celebrities like Lady Gaga and Katy Perry, solidifying his place as one of the most promising new designers to watch.
Another emerging designer who made waves this year is Peter Do. His eponymous label, which was founded in 2018, has already gained a cult following for its minimalist yet modern designs. Do’s collection at NYFW featured tailored suits and coats with unexpected twists, making him a name to watch in the world of fashion.
Iconic Moments and Standout Collections
Fashion shows are not just about the clothes, they are also about the moments that leave a lasting impact on the audience. This year, we saw several iconic moments and standout collections that will be remembered for years to come.
One of the most talked-about moments was when Jennifer Lopez closed the Versace show during Milan Fashion Week wearing a revamped version of the iconic green dress she wore to the Grammys in 2000. This moment caused a frenzy on social media and once again proved the power of fashion in popular culture.
Another standout moment was when designer Virgil Abloh paid tribute to late artist Leonard Bernstein during his Off-White show at Paris Fashion Week. The collection featured pieces with Bernstein’s handwritten notes and quotes, creating a unique fusion of fashion and art.
Trending Colors and Fabrics
Fashion weeks also serve as a forecast for upcoming trends in the industry. From colors to fabrics, designers often set the tone for what we will see in stores in the coming seasons. This year, we saw a mix of bold and subtle colors, along with a focus on sustainable fabrics.
In terms of colors, earthy tones such as browns and greens dominated the runway. Designers like Bottega Veneta and Jacquemus showcased collections featuring these muted colors, while brands like Fendi and Balenciaga incorporated pops of bright colors in their designs.
Sustainable fabrics like organic cotton and recycled polyester were also seen on the runways this year, highlighting the growing trend of ethical fashion in the industry. Designers like Stella McCartney and Mara Hoffman used these eco-friendly materials in their collections, sending a message about the importance of responsible fashion.
Innovative Runway Concepts and Set Designs
Fashion shows are not just about the clothes, they are also about the overall experience. This year, we saw some innovative and immersive runway concepts and set designs that added an extra layer of excitement to the shows.
One of the most talked-about shows was Chanel’s Fall/Winter 2019 show at Paris Fashion Week. The Grand Palais was transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with snow-covered streets and ski lifts. Models walked down the runway in cozy and chic winter wear, making it one of the most memorable moments of PFW.
Another notable show was Tommy Hilfiger’s collaboration with actress and singer Zendaya. The show, which took place at Paris Fashion Week, celebrated diversity and inclusivity with its diverse cast of models and retro-inspired designs. The set was designed to resemble a ’70s nightclub, adding to the overall vibe and energy of the show.
Celebrity Appearances and Red Carpet Looks
Fashion weeks are not just attended by designers and fashion industry insiders, they also attract celebrities from all over the world. From front row seats at shows to red carpet appearances, these events are a hub for A-list stars and their iconic looks.
This year, we saw celebrities like Rihanna, Celine Dion, and Cardi B attending various fashion week events, often dressed in head-turning ensembles. One of the most talked-about red carpet looks was Zendaya’s Cinderella-inspired dress at the Met Gala, which attracted attention and praise from fashion critics and fans alike.
Sustainable Fashion Initiatives and Eco-Friendly Collections
The fashion industry has been under scrutiny in recent years for its negative impact on the environment and society. In response, many designers and brands have taken steps towards promoting sustainable practices and materials in their collections. This year, we saw a strong focus on sustainability at major fashion events, leading to a more conscious and responsible approach towards fashion.
One example is designer Stella McCartney’s collaboration with Adidas for her Spring/Summer 2019 collection. The collection featured clothing and accessories made from recycled waste materials, showcasing the possibilities of sustainable fashion.
Influence of Technology on Fashion Shows (Virtual Reality, Digital Runways)
Technology has played a significant role in shaping the fashion industry, and it continues to do so today. This year, we saw some exciting and innovative uses of technology in fashion shows, further blurring the lines between fashion and technology.
One notable example is designer Richard Quinn’s use of virtual reality at his London Fashion Week show. Guests were given VR headsets, allowing them to experience the show in a virtual world. This not only added an element of novelty to the show but also showcased the potential for technology to enhance the fashion show experience.
Street Style Highlights from Fashion Week Attendees
While the runways and red carpets are the main focus of fashion weeks, the streets outside the venues are also a hub for style and inspiration. Fashion enthusiasts from all over the world attend these events, showcasing their unique and creative ensembles.
This year, street style at fashion weeks was all about bold and vibrant colors, playful patterns, and statement accessories. From oversized blazers to bucket hats, attendees showed off their individual styles and added to the overall buzz and excitement of the events.
Predictions for Next Season’s Trends
As fashion events start to wind down and we look towards the upcoming seasons, it’s time to make some predictions for the trends that we will see on the streets and runways. Based on what we have seen this year, we can expect earthy tones, sustainable materials, and a strong focus on diversity and inclusivity in fashion.
We may also see a continuation of the “80s and ’90s revival” trend, with designers incorporating elements from these eras in their designs. And with technology playing an increasingly important role in fashion, we can expect to see more innovative uses of VR and digital runways in the future.
Conclusion
Fashion shows are not just about clothes; they are an exciting and ever-evolving industry that showcases the creativity and innovation of designers from all over the world. This year, we saw a mix of bold and subtle designs, along with a strong focus on sustainability and ethical fashion. From iconic moments to emerging talents, the fashion events of the year did not disappoint in setting trends and making a statement. As we look towards the future, we can only anticipate more groundbreaking and inspiring moments from the world of fashion.
