Navigating Fashion Weeks: Understanding Runway to Real Life
The world of fashion is one that is constantly evolving, and one of the ways it does so is through the biannual fashion weeks that take place in major cities around the world. These fashion weeks are hotbeds of creativity, showcasing the latest and greatest in fashion trends for the upcoming seasons. However, for most of us, it can be a bit overwhelming trying to navigate through the seemingly chaotic world of runway shows, designer presentations, and street style. But fear not, as we break down the key components of fashion weeks and how to apply them to your own style, we’ll help you understand how to bridge the gap between the runway and real life.
What is Fashion Week?
Fashion week is a series of events that happen twice a year in the fashion capitals of the world – New York, London, Milan, and Paris. These events showcase the latest collections from the world’s most renowned fashion designers, as well as up-and-coming designers. These collections set the tone for the upcoming season and influence the direction of fashion for months to come.
The Runway
The runway is the main stage for fashion week. It’s where designers present their collections to a room full of industry insiders, celebrities, and fashion enthusiasts. Runway shows are typically highly produced events, with extravagant sets and elaborate choreography. Models strut down the catwalk, showcasing the designer’s latest creations and setting the tone for the season.
For many of us, watching a runway show can be a bit daunting. The clothes may seem out of reach, unattainable, or simply not practical for everyday wear. However, the runway is not just about the clothes, but also about the inspiration and creativity behind them. It’s a chance for designers to push boundaries and think outside the box, giving us a glimpse into the future of fashion.
The Presentations
Along with runway shows, designers also have the option to present their collections in a more intimate setting, known as presentations. These events are held in a more relaxed setting, allowing for a closer look at the details and craftsmanship of the garments. Unlike runway shows, presentations also give designers the opportunity to interact with attendees and explain their inspiration and design process.
Presentations also tend to have a more eclectic mix of models, showcasing diversity and inclusivity. This is where we start to see how the runway translates to real life, as the models reflect different body types, ages, and styles.
Key Trends to Look Out For
While there are countless trends that come and go each fashion week, there are a few key ones that tend to stand out and become more prevalent in real life. One of the easiest ways to incorporate these trends into your wardrobe is to look for key pieces that can be styled in multiple ways and will stand the test of time.
Some of the trends to take note of include statement sleeves, oversized silhouettes, and rich jewel tones. These trends can easily be incorporated into your everyday wardrobe, from pairing a bold statement sleeve top with your favorite jeans, to mixing and matching oversized pieces for a relaxed yet chic look.
The Street Style
While the runway and presentations may be the main event, the fashion on the streets during fashion week is just as important. Street style has become a phenomenon of its own, with fashionistas and influencers flocking to fashion week to be photographed in their most stylish ensembles.
The street style during fashion week can be a source of inspiration for your own wardrobe. It’s where you can see how fashion editors, bloggers, and models are putting a unique spin on the latest trends and making them their own. Take note of how they mix high-end designer pieces with more affordable options, and how they infuse their own personal style into their looks.
The Bottom Line
Fashion week may seem like a world that is out of reach for most of us, but it’s important to remember that it serves as a source of inspiration and creativity. While not all of the trends on the runway will translate to real life, there are ways to incorporate key elements into your wardrobe to elevate your style and make it your own. With the help of presentations, street style, and the key trends to look out for, navigating fashion weeks and understanding the runway to real life becomes much more manageable and ultimately, fun.
