If SS’23 was a tribute to fashion’s prepandemic past, then FW’23 can be described as a sobering reality check. After all, fashion can be said to be a reflection of what’s going on in the world, and right now the world is grappling with the long-term consequences of the recent pandemic, an ongoing economic recession and a bleak outlook because of the climate crisis.
Apart from Diesel’s revival and its show — which was staged on a stage that featured a condom tower, it’s been a quiet season. A fashion insider commented that brands were struggling to find something to say. Gone were the days when runway shows determined what was popular. Now a single question remains: What is there left to say or even do with fashion?
Well, plenty, judging from the movements taking place within the industry — a new roster of creative frontmen for key brands, the surprising boom of if-you-know-you-know brands like Loro Piana, The Row and Proenza Schouler, and major business moves, like Kering’s acquisition of a 30 percent stake in Valentino, and a merger between luxury fashion giants Tapestry (which owns Kate Spade and Coach) and Capri (which owns Versace, Michael Kors and Jimmy Choo).
As brands reposition themselves and creative directors shuffle around, we are reminded how fashion is endlessly evolving. Through its reinventions and its innovations, its inspirational value holds firm as it helps us not just to think of what is but of what could be, and we have never needed its aspirational influence as much as we do now.
NEW BEGINNINGS
This story is from the September 2023 edition of ELLE Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the September 2023 edition of ELLE Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
The Lost Art Of Relaxation
Burnt out? Struggling to focus? Living on hyper-alert? You're not alone-in a post-pandemic world, our nervous systems are shot, and a booming industry is looking to cash in. JOANNA ELLNER explores the wellness buzzword of the moment and calls for a radical rethink of relaxation.
What Do Women Designers Want
Women are the beating heart of fashion, but female designers remain under-represented in the industry. Here, couture legends show how their identities shape them, and how they're pushing for change.
Swipe For Love Right
Is finding LOVE IN THE DIGITAL AGE easy? Four women of different ages speak up about the highs and lows of dating apps.
Was Working 1195 1145 Tor At Billionaire Worth It?
What started as a dream job began to look increasingly like a nightmare.
A New Frontier
Best known for its bespoke leather bags, here’s why Ethan K’s surprising foray into womenswear is one to keep an eye out for.
In Fashion, Hope And Change
From the bio-revolution to new legislation, there are signs that a change for good is underway.
THE magic OF Marseille
France's grittier second city is leaning into its edgier side-and we're all heading south for it.
WHAT'S beef?
Impeccable service meets stunning decor and mouthwatering meat dishes at COTE Korean Steakhouse.
the art of Living
Fashion houses at this year’s Milan Design Week showcased the best and latest in home and product design, with every piece telling a story of innovation and style. Here are some of the highlights you'll want to get your hands on.
Cultural revolution
YUEQI QI's works take on myriad forms. But above all, they love letter to her Chinese heritage.
