Does Runway Meet Reality? How Fashion Shows Influence Everyday Style
Photo by: Lara Giliberto
This year has flown by faster than the finales of fashion shows! We're already halfway through 2024, and we've witnessed trends come and go, sometimes making thrilling comebacks. The exciting question remains: what will be the next big thing in fashion? Will we revisit past trends, or will we uncover overlooked styles that transform into the next major sensation? The recent Haute Couture week might have offered some clues that could bring us closer to a more definitive answer.
From Fashion Shows to Street Style
Trends can manifest in numerous ways, but it’s within the realm of high fashion that they truly come to life, often crafting bold statements that captivate and inspire. These themes ignite creativity by pushing boundaries and sparking fresh, innovative concepts, revolutionising the very essence of artistic expression. They span from everyday attire to high-fashion runway looks, influencing a spectrum of fashion choices. Moreover, these shifts not only reflect the current cultural spirit but also challenge typically adopted fashion norms, paving the way for future breakthroughs. Each collection tells a unique story, transforming fabric and design into powerful narratives that echo on a global scale.
Two standout movements dominating this year’s runways are hyper-texture and sheer silhouettes. These groundbreaking styles not only dazzle with their boldness but also set an exciting tone for the future of fashion.
Photo: @thombrowne on Instagram
Through the vibrant runway flares, the fashion industry encourages us to express ourselves through our wardrobes, transforming our outfits into a dynamic and creative playground. Each piece of clothing becomes a chance to showcase our unique style and personality. By analyzing these designs, we can discover ways to simplify and adapt their artistry for our everyday lives. Incorporating these fashion cues allows us to strike the perfect balance between looking stylish and staying practical, making fashion an effortless part of our daily routines.
For instance, the incorporation of bows, as showcased on the Chanel Fall/Winter 2024-2025 runway, has become more than just a fleeting fashion statement; now it’s an exciting aesthetic that beautifully blends with styles such as grunge, coquette, and clean. Imagine adding a playful bow to your edy grunge outfit or a charming coquette ensemble to finalise the look. It’s all about mixing and matching to create fun and unique looks that stand out!
Photo: Via Chanel Fall-winter 2024/25 Haute Couture Show
Let us dive into a couple of shows and explore how all the brilliant designs might have a say in the upcoming fashion scene.
Thom Browne Fall/Winter 2024-2025
Thom Browne once again left us breathless with his exceptional tailoring skills. His 2024 Couture collection was nothing short of a fashion sensation, transforming the runway into a breathtaking blend of couture and art. For those curious about the intricate artistry behind stunning garments, Browne's use of muslin was a revelation. This typically hidden fabric took center stage, inviting us to appreciate every stitch and seam.
Although the color palette of white and beige often suggests minimalism, the final garments were layered and dramatic. The use of lightweight and breathable muslin created a powerful visual impact, marrying comfort with an invigorating sense of freshness. Each avant-garde piece on the Thom Browne runway presented emerging trends that could shape future directions in the fashion industry.
Take for example tailoring deconstruction. How influential would it be to see more designs that emphasise the craftsmanship and pure beauty of what we know as “incomplete”? By using muslin, the clothes would hold power in versatility, for they would be created with the solemn purpose of revealing their complex procedures, while also making them modern and lightweight. Who wouldn’t love the feeling of refreshing, lightweight fabrics?
Photo: Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode, Thom Browne Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2024-2025. Via FHCM Paris
These types of garments are heavily versatile, effortlessly swinging from clean looks to edgy, grunge vibes. How fun would it be to style pieces that can seamlessly fit into two wildly different aesthetics! If you’re a fan of fashion TikTok, you must have already ran across the layerin ensembles. It’s a we–known “trus the process” sequence that aligns perfectly with Thom Browne’s “work in progress becomes the final work” concept. We’re talking about long skirts than can be layered, shirts that transform into statement pieces, and garments that invite creativity and self expression. Every step and misstep will contribute to the ultimate masterpiece. It will change our perception on fashion coordination, both for our own outfits and others’. We’ll learn that every piece is a testament to the idea that the journey of creating a look is just as important and fun as the final ensemble. This new perspective makes fashion more exciting and encourages us to enjoy the process of putting together our individual styles.
Christian Dior Fall/Winter 2024-2025
Maria Grazia Chiuri dazzled all fashion enthusiasts with Christian Dior’s past and present extravaganza, where she celebrated cultural richness and powerful femininity! This show is all about pursuing a more body-positive philosophy, following the Ancient Greek pivotal moment of women fighting for recognition as serious athletes. Dior really did what had to be done to empower women even further!
Photo: Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode, Christian Dior Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2024-2025. Via FHCM Paris
The collection beautifully demonstrated the evolution of women’s sportswear, moving away from the constrictive corsets that traditionally held them confined. For far too long, women have been forced to wear garments that restrict their range of motion, with corsets so sharp that one mistake might have resulted in a flesh cut. But on this runway, the models glided down wearing beautiful silk garments based on whites, creams, golds and touches of black and metallics. The looks exuded freedom and comfort, and just gazing at the free-flowing, unrestricted patterns brought a sense of relaxation.
Each look was rich in tiny, yet outstanding details that rewarded those who looked closely. The strappy skimmer sandals’ shape was followed by long ear cuffs, adding a touch of coordinated elegance. Could these Greek-inspired ensembles be making a comeback? It is certainly possible, especially as we see a revival of simpler, more refined designs.
Photos: Christian Dior via Vogue
Dior’s collection transformed winter dresses into something truly exciting! These new silhouettes are brimming with artistic flair, featuring playful layers, sharp tailoring, and delightful details. Cinched waists and flowing skirts combine warmth and style in a blend of timeless elegance and modern flair, making winter fashion both fun and fabulous. Embrace the cozy yet chic vibe and get ready to turn heads all season long!
Where Comfort Meets Elegance
Already known as a loved fashion wave, the “clean” aesthetic now combines effortlessly with the sporty look and sports fashion to create a style that’s contemporary, fresh, and most importantly, cosy. It was masterfully embraced by Dior’s runway by including clothing that would encourage women to adopt sports dresses and skirts in their daily wardrobe. These pieces, often featuring built-in shorts for added protection and ease, offer a perfect blend of style and functionality. The collection pushes the limits of what sportswear may be and what it could become, hinting at a future where comfort and elegance may go hand in hand.
Photo: @dior on Instagram
As these stunning collections continue to unfold, we can’t help but wonder how these runway trends will influence our everyday wardrobes. How will they shape our purchasing decisions? Will we see the emergence of new aesthetics inspired by historical styles, or will contemporary innovations take center stage? One thing is certain: the fashion industry is in for an exhilarating ride with these fresh creations and dynamic movements leading the way.
Get ready to elevate your silhouette with bold layering and statement pieces! Don’t be surprised to see hyper-textured sweaters or eye-catching dresses making their way to the streets. These captivating styles are set to make waves and could soon become part of your own wardrobe, adding a fun and dynamic twist to your daily looks. The future of fashion is about celebrating individuality, embracing comfort, and pushing creative boundaries. Prepare to explore, experiment, and express your unique style in the most exciting ways!
