Creativity, business and fashion education
The London fashion scene is undergoing a change. In fact, the news that Sarah Burton exits Alexander McQueen after two decades offers the opportunity for reflection on the field. In the fashion industry, London has always been synonymous with rebellious creativity. We’ve always admired British designers for their openness and innovative style. However, the economic situation impacted corporations, designers and fashion schools, disrupting the fashion scene.
Kering Group owns McQueen, Gucci, Balenciaga, Saint Laurent and Bottega Veneta. The conglomerate needs to revive sales and grow. Yes, they are among those who talk about sustainability and growth at once, which is nonsense. But that’s another story. Yet we think the first question the group should ask is: Can McQueen be a mass brand? Especially after the death of diffusion lines, McQ included?
London, creativity & fashion schools
By the way, London has always been the perfect place for those who want to express themselves in an avant-garde style with a fresh take on fashion. We have been working in the fashion industry for about 27 years now, and we have been inspired by the way designers in London pushed the boundaries of fashion. It’s been truly amazing!
In London, also, you can find some of the top fashion schools. Each one with its unique approach to teaching, these schools have produced some of the most successful and influential designers in the fashion industry.
Over time, from McQueen to Hussein Chalayan, to mention a couple of our favourites, we’ve been selecting some great pieces of clothing for our boutique and our clients. Of course, the scene is much wider. For instance, look at the great work Kervin Marc does!
Now, because of Brexit, costs have gone up, skyrocketing. So did taxes and duty fees. This makes it difficult for young designers and small brands to run their fashion businesses even because exporting to other countries is more complicated.
Ultimately, it is challenging for London to remain the place where rebellious ideas can grow and where new and upcoming designers can give space to their creativity. Furthermore, from the perspective of education, now only very wealthy kids can access London fashion schools.
We might face the beginning of a new phase in the London fashion scene. But if creativity gives in to business interests and fashion design is for rich kids and celebrities searching for an exciting pastime, what should we expect in the future of fashion?