For us mere mortals, what occurs in the world of fashion can be very unusual. Although elegant at times, some fashion designs can be quite outlandish, where models wear clothing and accessories that most people don’t expect to see at their local boutiques or even on A-listers at the next awards show.
These eccentricities, however, are not limited to just the clothing. Even the fashion shows themselves have seemingly become a contest to excite the crowd, especially if a designer wishes to stay relevant in a field where newer faces are being lauded each year.
One of the latest tricks is to hold the show in unique venues. The following are three noteworthy locations that have captured the imagination.
A children’s playground in Paris
In 2019, some notable designers in New York held their shows in various “common areas” around the city, including a subway station, a tennis court, and even a courthouse. But 30 years prior, Martin Margiela brought his crowd to tears with a fashion show at a playground in Paris.
In 1989, he asked to use a playground for his third show. The local parents agreed, provided that their kids could attend. The results were amazing for the local audience and those involved in the show as the models were asked to be more “natural” as they walked through the crowd, with some even smiling at the children. Towards the end, the children joined in the final walk.
Although some critics had harsh words for the unconventional setting, it was a very satisfying event for the organizers. It showed that high fashion was not limited to the usual fancy halls.
Underground Runway
Fashion shows often attract well-heeled spectators, media, top designers, and clothing executives. This makes the whole process relatively expensive, which is why it is difficult for new designers to participate.
Dubbed the Underground Runway (which ran from 2005 to 2013), new designers that could not afford the hefty fees at the usual spots of the Berlin Fashion Week showcased their designs in the subways. Aside from saving on expenses, this brought fashion closer to the public as commuters could view particular clothing lines, if they caught the right train.
The Great Wall of China
According to Writer for my paper, one of the most famous monuments in the world, it was just fitting that a fashion show would be set here. In 2007, Karl Lagerfeld held a show for Fendi. Eighty-eight models emerged from a guard tower, featuring womenswear for spring and summer.
Preparations for the event lasted for a year with one of the hardest parts being the negotiations to use the wall, an obviously important piece of cultural history. Although the show itself was less than 30 minutes, the production cost ten million dollars! It was well worth it though as the A-list crowd greatly appreciated the chance to view this unique show.
Summary
As an event to view the latest in clothing, some elegant while others avant-garde, it is expected that future organizers will try to find a venue that matches the theme of the show. Here’s hoping that there will be something unconventional yet inspirational soon.
