In recent years, however, the leading cities have been subverted economically, and the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) are asserting their influence on the global fashion stage. Know how the change was affirmed by the BRICS+ Fashion Summit in Moscow recently.
The fashion industry encompasses the design, manufacturing, distribution, marketing, retailing, advertising, and promotion of all types of apparel (men’s, women’s, and children’s) from the most rarefied and expensive haute couture (literally, “high sewing”) and designer fashions to ordinary everyday clothing—from couture ball gowns to Juicy Couture-brand sweatpants. It’s not just about the style or type of clothing, but encompassing it all overall, as a collection.
The current fashion system has been centred around the BRICS+ Fashion Summit, which is an effort to introduce a novel way of doing business. The event in Moscow, which took place between November 28 – 2nd December 2023, brought together fashion experts from over 60 countries, showcasing 130 brands from the BRICS nations – Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa – as well as other emerging markets. Here are some insights from the Summit’s participants.
The Summit showcased a diverse range of events, featuring over 200 international speakers discussing industry matters. The Business program included 40 sessions, reaching 12,000 listeners and featuring speakers from Indonesia, China, India, and other countries. Speakers include Ali Charisma, Chairman of the Indonesian Fashion Chamber; Yang Jian, Executive Chairman of China Fashion Association; Alia Khan, Founder and Chairwoman of the Islamic Fashion and Design Council; Paras Bairoliya, Senior Member of the Board of Governors at the Fashion Design Council of India, and many more.
In the age of TikTok aesthetics and second-hand digital giants, the realms of technology and fashion can hardly be separated. The link between the two is only growing. From virtual trial experiences to luxury giants creating digital-only pieces, fashion has its eyes set on some big endeavours in the technology sector. Leading this innovation wave who are laying the framework for the next era of fashion.
The Fashion Shows presented brands from 11 countries in Moscow’s historical buildings, featuring 325 looks created by 126 stylists and makeup artists. The event showcased their unique perspectives and creativity. Renowned brands like AL•DRI•E (Indonesia), CHNNYU (China), The FDCI presents: Ritesh Kumar; KHANIJO; Naushad Ali; Shruti Sancheti (India), Arzu Kaprol (Turkey) and many more graced the runway with their unique perspective, ideas; a testament to their immense talent and creativity.
The event also held a 5-day B2B showroom in Zaryadye, featuring over 130 brands and designers from different countries, including Indonesia, India, Nigeria, Turkey and more, attracting buyers from various countries. The event fostered connections and deals worth 250 million rubles, according to Deputy Moscow Mayor Natalya Sergunina.
This push for innovation is likely consumer-led, with Gen-Z and millennial shoppers demanding both ethical and cutting-edge substitutes for traditional processes. Thus, besides the Business program, it also included a 27-hour-long fashion intensive course led by professors from fashion schools in 10 countries, a B2B showroom, fashion shows, and World Fashion Shorts. A festival of fashion, short movies, and many more. The event will be organized by the Fashion Fund and powered by the Government of Moscow.
They aimed to equip attendees with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in the fashion industry. All in all, the BRICS+ Fashion Summit also hosted the World Fashion Shorts event, featuring award-winning fashion films and sustainable installations. Balthazar Magallon, Multimedia Artist and Founder of Manila International Fashion Week and Manila International Fashion Film Festival from the Philippines, spoke about fashion’s role in cognition and individuality.
