London Fashion Week 2023: A Glance at the Past and an Eye on the Future
Thom Browne
As the fashion world eagerly anticipates the upcoming London Fashion Week 2023, we find ourselves reflecting on the past trends that have emerged from this global platform and looking forward to what's set to influence the fashion landscape in the years to come.
The heart of British fashion, London Fashion Week (LFW), has always been renowned for its eclectic mix of the traditional and the avant-garde. It's an event that consistently sets the tone for global fashion, and the upcoming edition promises to be no different.
Alexander McQueen
A Review of Previous Years
Looking back at LFW over the years, we've seen numerous trends that went on to define global fashion. In 2020, we saw the return of punk aesthetics, with designers like Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen bringing punk-inspired collections to the runway. These shows played with androgyny, rebellion, and a DIY ethos, incorporating leather, tartan, and safety pins into their designs.
The pandemic that dominated 2020 and 2021 brought about a shift towards more comfortable, versatile fashion. This was reflected in 2021's LFW, where the focus was on 'comfort chic'. Loose silhouettes, earthy tones, and sustainable fabrics dominated the runway. Brands like Erdem and Victoria Beckham showcased oversized shirts, wide-legged trousers, and relaxed suiting, blurring the lines between home comfort and office wear. Sustainability also took center stage, with brands such as Stella McCartney leading the charge with ethically sourced materials and eco-friendly production methods.
The 2022 edition of LFW saw the emergence of maximalist aesthetics. The restrained minimalism of previous years gave way to daring prints, bold colours, and extravagant details. Designers like Richard Quinn and Christopher Kane showcased designs with a riot of patterns, sequins, and bright hues, marking a departure from the subdued colours and simple cuts of the previous year.
Dolce & Gabbana
Forecasting London Fashion Week 2023
As for what to expect from LFW 2023, here are some predictions based on emerging global trends and previous runway shows:
Digital Fashion: With the rise of virtual reality and digital art, we're likely to see an increase in digital fashion. As seen in previous years with brands like Burberry creating immersive virtual fashion experiences, the incorporation of technology into fashion shows is expected to grow.
The Resurgence of Elegance: With the world gradually recovering from the pandemic, we predict a return to elegance and sophistication in fashion. Expect to see tailored suits, evening gowns, and refined accessories. Brands like Emilia Wickstead and Simone Rocha, known for their elegant designs, are likely to lead this trend.
Sustainability: As the conversation around climate change intensifies, sustainability is expected to continue to be a key trend. Brands may push for ethical sourcing, eco-friendly materials, and transparency in production methods. Brands such as Mother of Pearl and VIN + OMI are likely to continue leading this trend, given their past commitment to sustainable fashion.
Genderless Fashion: Expect to see more gender-fluid designs, with collections that transcend traditional gender norms. Designers like Charles Jeffrey LOVERBOY, who have consistently challenged gender stereotypes in their collections, are likely to continue doing so in 2023.
Nostalgia: A trend that has been steadily on the rise, nostalgia-inspired fashion is likely to continue to be a dominant theme. From 90s grunge to 70s psychedelia, we expect to see designs inspired by various eras on the runway. Brands like Shrimps and JW Anderson, known for their retro-inspired collections, are likely to spearhead this trend.
As we anticipate the upcoming London Fashion Week 2023, one thing is for certain: the event will continue to be a beacon of innovation and inspiration in the world of fashion, influencing trends and dictating style for the year to come. It promises to be a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the undying spirit of fashion. As we wait with bated breath for the curtain to rise, we look forward to seeing how these predicted trends play out on the global fashion stage.
