Decoding Fashion Seasons: Unravelling the Connection Beyond Weather

In the UK, weather small talk is a national pastime. It is very similar but when it comes to the fashion industry, if we change seasons with the word collections. Then we have a different rhythm altogether. Why shows still hold on to the seasons as a description highlights how slow it can be to alter the mindset subtly promoted by the fashion capitals.

Understanding Fashion Seasons

Fashion seasons aren't about predicting the weather; instead, they revolve around four main cycles: Spring/Summer, Autumn/Winter, Resort/Cruise, and Pre-Fall. The big four fashion capitals of New York, London, Milan, and Paris play a pivotal role in shaping these seasons, tapping into the unravelling tapestry of tradition and outdated lifestyles.

Historical Context

In the pre-fast fashion era, haute couture was reserved for the elite upper classes. Fashion houses tailored their collections around significant events like sporting occasions, royal gatherings, and parties. The emphasis was on made-to-order, with collections showcased well in advance, aligning with the time required for meticulous craftsmanship. A revival of vintage and unique handcrafted clothing is slowly creeping around the internet and gathering at a pace. It's only flaw is it is very fractured unlike the original fashion houses who were and are very strong at preserving their brand and keeping a look out for blatant copy cats.

Fashion Weeks and Global Impact

Fashion Weeks, held twice a year in February and September, are the platforms where designers unveil their collections traditionally six months before the wearing season. Initially centred in the major fashion capitals, these events now resonate globally, with shows reaching audiences worldwide through platforms like YouTube and Tiktok. It makes you wonder why some of these shows are so exclusive, keeping viewing as an elite group of spectators that watch designers who always end up wearing black.

FASHION WEEKS 2024:

Changing Dynamics

Today, our relationship with weather can become quite political, with unpredictable seasons and news about climate change. The availability of clothing from around the world and changing consumer habits mean that fashion choices are no longer dictated just by how hot or cold it is. To top that we spend the majority of our lives inside whether it is in a building or car. Fashion shows are renowned for catwalk showing designs for people who walk not for people who sit. And I am not knocking sitters, I am doing it now.

Influence of Fast Fashion

The speed of manufacturing has reshaped how quickly fashion collections are made available. Some can be purchased straight after the show through exclusive shopping opportunities. Despite the runway's influence, fast fashion companies quickly replicate and stock designs, challenging the traditional exclusivity of high-end fashion. You have to admit, the designers at the retail end definitely know how to make clothing wearable! Many high fashion brands such as Gucci and Ralph Lauren have embraced the marketing ability of their fast fashion rivals by changing up the collections for their high street shops instead of waiting for the traditional shows.

Conclusion

As fashion shows no longer depend on the weather, the influence of fashion capitals is being challenged by emerging cities like Tokyo. The runway remains a source of inspiration for high street fashion, but the evolving dynamics of accessibility and quick manufacturing have reshaped the fashion landscape, creating a new era where trends are set at an unprecedented pace. But we do not have to keep up with their pace, don't let an outdated tradition dictate your shopping habits. Have a great day in whatever you are wearing.

Long live our clothes!