Embarking on Fashion's Next Chapter: Insights and Anticipation for FW 2024

As we step into the spotlight of another Fashion Week season, the air is charged with a unique energy, unlike any we've experienced before. This season marks a dynamic shift as the world has not only bounced back to pre-COVID numbers but, in many ways, has been reborn with newfound creativity, excitement and vitality. Our recent Launchmetrics Voices of Fashion Report, in collaboration with Lauren Sherman at #Puck, revealed a remarkable resurgence in travel, with key fashion capitals witnessing over 50% growth in 2023 compared to 2022. As we embark on this season, the anticipation is palpable—it's bound to be bigger, bolder and more captivating than ever.

Spectacular Debuts: The Changing Faces of Fashion

The change of creative directors is one of the most thrilling moments in the fashion calendar. When Burberry appointed Riccardo Tisci years ago, the impact was seismic. The brand generated over $2.3M in Media Impact Value (MIV?) alone just in conversations at the show about Riccardo Tisci -this was an over 150% increase in MIV? compared to what was generated the previous season in conversations around Christopher Bailey. With that in mind, this season promises to unveil the most anticipated debut collections from the new creative directors helming some of fashion’s biggest brands. From Seán McGirr's vision for Alexander McQueen to Matteo Tamburini's takeover at Tod’s, the stage is set for fresh perspectives and bold statements.?

Street-Style Surprises: A Fusion of Runway and Sidewalk

Fashion Week is no longer just about what graces the runway; it's a spectacle that extends beyond the catwalk. The streets (and even tubes/subways), surrounding the shows have become an extension of the runway itself. Consumers play a pivotal role, donning their unique styles, influencing trends and creating a symbiotic relationship between fashion enthusiasts and designers. It's a celebration of diversity, self-expression and the democratization of fashion, making the streets as crucial as the runways themselves.

A Homecoming: The Iconic Return of Tommy Hilfiger

In a departure from the traditional comeback tale, we're seeing a genuine homecoming. The iconic American designer touches the heart of NYC once again and the buzz is nothing short of contagious. Drawing from a legacy of unforgettable shows, Tommy Hilfiger transforms the runway into a world of awe and innovation. A Tommy Hilfiger show isn't merely an event; it's the perfect intersection between industry and consumer. Today, the brand adopts a holistic approach, curating an experience that transcends fashion—an ode to identity, community and forward-thinking togetherness.

The New Front Row

As we saw last year, athletes are increasingly becoming a prominent presence at Fashion Week. The recent Launchmetrics #Puck Voices of Fashion report I spoke about before delves deeper into this growing phenomenon. Athletes like Lewis Hamilton, Lebron James and Marcus Rashford attended the 2023 Paris Menswear shows, generating almost $12M MIV?. This surge emphasizes the value athletes bring to Fashion Week, elevating brand positioning and fostering meaningful consumer engagement. I’ll be interested to see how this trend evolves this season.

No matter what you're looking forward to this Fashion Week—be it the debuts, the iconic comebacks, the unexpected street-style surprises or the star-studded front row—one undeniable truth remains, Fashion Week is like the beginning of a new school year for the industry—a chance to write a new chapter, carve out a fresh destiny and experiment on the canvas of creativity. It's a celebration of risk-taking, pushing boundaries and the relentless pursuit of innovation. As we stand on the brink of another fashion adventure, I am proud to witness the unfolding of what's next. Wish us all luck….