Welcome to the 184th insertion of DEMUR®, an analytical series highlighting the intricacies of the artistic world and the minutiae lying within. In this episode, we debate the livelihood of contemporary runway fashion, discussing the problem with global accessibility and stewardship, as well as the industry’s undying love for performance.
In the modern age, the runway functions as a parallel between expression and consumerism. Leveraged as a performative muse, it stands among the upper echelon of fine arts, attracting all levels of the social hierarchy. Raking in millions per year, it’s a catalyst for otherworldly design, a tool in craft, and a presentation of one’s truest self, but it’s also flawed.
Years ago, the runway was exclusive to Paris, Milan, London and perhaps New York. On an invite-only basis, the elite and media were present, protecting the gatekept ethos of the luxury circuit. Unless you were someone or knew someone, it’s likely you’d be watching Versace’s newest collection on cable, or not at all - yet things have changed.
With the rise of interest in both mens and womenswear, we’ve seen an influx of youth-oriented designers emerge from the pavement. This, in pair with the heightened interconnectivity we now share, has made it easier than ever for creatives to showcase their work on a widescale platform. While seemingly positive, this shift has created some contingencies with the future of runway fashion, especially in regard to the industry’s superiority complex.
In other words, fashion’s gatekept circles are essential to the illusion of consumerism. As they become more accessible, they’re subsequently less desirable, contradicting this false inclusivity-centric narrative. Not only that, but as a result of the industry’s saturated market, designers are forced to use their catwalks as billboards in opposition to presentations, further killing the glamour of luxury.
So, has runway fashion died? In many ways, this provoking form of exhibition is still thriving, but it’s certainly heading down a dark path. Over the coming years, we’ll see if fashion continues to surge in popularity or fall out of trend.
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