Random thoughts: Fashion's Evolution
From NYFW to Sustainable Style: My Journey Through Fashion's Evolution
Since 2013, I’ve been attending New York Fashion Week (NYFW). You can check out my very first blog post for a full recap of that experience—or simply as proof. After all, everyone “in fashion” claims they’ve attended NYFW, but let’s be honest: not everyone actually does.
For me, it wasn’t until September 2016’s NYFW that I had a pivotal realization about my career. As I sat watching the shows, immersed in the glamour and chaos, I began to feel a pull toward something deeper. I wanted to leave a more meaningful impact on the world, something beyond just creating designs or following fleeting trends. That moment planted the seed for the career transformation most of you know about today—I committed myself to a more sustainable approach to fashion and design.
Fast forward to this year, on Saturday, June 22, 2024, when I hosted the second annual edition of my sustainable fashion show. Despite the summer heat, the event was only four tickets shy of selling out completely! Attendees were engaged and eager to learn about sustainable fashion and circular economy concepts. Every piece showcased during the show was secondhand, and each model represented diverse and unique body types, proving that sustainable fashion is not only responsible but inclusive.
This journey has taught me that sustainability is about innovation, creativity, and a deeper connection to the pieces we choose to wear. I’ve also been working on some major revamp projects that I hope will bring my mission full circle—literally and figuratively. These initiatives focus on breathing new life into overlooked or outdated designs, ensuring they can seamlessly transition into modern wardrobes.
Rethinking Luxury in a Circular Economy
I once heard a quote that said, “You can’t sell luxury unless you live a luxury lifestyle.” While the theory makes sense—how can you truly sell something you’ve never experienced?—there’s something inherently contradictory about this idea in the context of fashion. Sustainable fashion, in particular, challenges the traditional notions of luxury. In my eyes, sustainability can be every bit as luxurious as traditional high fashion, especially when we’re discussing authentic designer goods or reimagined pieces through upcycling.
Take revamped or upcycled designs, for example. They hold a unique allure: a balance of exclusivity and creativity. I’ve been fascinated by Zuhair Murad for the past two years. His designs are regal and striking, exuding that “new money” confidence. And to me, that’s fabulous—new money is daring, bold, and refreshingly unapologetic. Just look at Wes Gordon’s modern, feminine reinvention of Carolina Herrera or LaQuan Smith’s sultry redefinition of the female silhouette. These are designers unafraid to take risks.
But here’s my question: Why can’t these renowned houses also hire “revamp designers”? Imagine a team dedicated to reimagining and repurposing headstock, less desirable or unsold designs, transforming them into timeless, versatile pieces. This approach could significantly reduce waste and extend the lifecycle of fashion items in a meaningful way.
The Cost of Fast Fashion and Social Media’s Role
As social media continues to influence consumer behavior, were seeing clothing wasted at an alarming rate. The numbers are staggering, and it’s a call to action for the entire industry.
What if we embraced a return to a more traditional fashion cycle? A system where quality and craftsmanship take precedence over speed and trendiness? Maybe then Fashion Week would feel less “fake famous” and more genuinely glamorous again. It’s a romantic idea, but perhaps it’s also a necessary one. After all, isn’t the essence of fashion about creating beauty that lasts?
This was the marketing for the summer 2024 Fashion Show. I wanted to keep it simple but direct.
My second sustainable fashion show - thrift store clothing only! I was so pregnant,…