Following an announcement by the Fédération de la Haute Couture on Wednesday, it has been confirmed that Paris Fashion Week will be held in person from September 28 to October 6. While it was originally speculated that the event would use a digital format not dissimilar to that of London Fashion Week, the Fédération’s decision provides welcome relief to a fashion calendar that has been somewhat disfigured by the ongoings of Covid-19.

 

Noting only that the event will comply “with the recommendations of public authorities,” and be “completed by the platform set up for Paris Fashion Week online,” little else was revealed by The Fédération’s announcement, especially in regard to venue choices, guest lists and the commercial production of showcased collections. The latter of which bears a significant challenge to designers wishing to use factories that have either closed, or furloughed a significant section of their workforce.

 

Casting a new light on existing concerns regarding environmental and economic sustainability, Covid-19 has weakened the argument for in-person Fashion Weeks in a manner that transcends mandated social distancing. With designers struggling with limited finances and factories operating with shrunken workforces, the catwalk to consumer pipeline will undoubtedly need revisiting. All things considered, a physical Fashion Week at the end of September might provide the much needed sense of assurance that even amid uncertainty, the show can and must go on. 

 

Source: TANIKA D'SOUZA