Diane von Furstenberg put the fun back in fashion this past Fall/Winter New York Fashion Week by hosting neither a show nor a presentation, but rather an “experience.” Models donned the latest collection, socializing with guests, dancing, singing and enjoying the unconventional experience. DVF was aiming for something entirely new and she justified this change by explaining that she wants to encourage women to be themselves and to empower one another. Fans were able to attend the party via Snapchat, further breaking down the elitist barriers typically surrounding the infamously snobbish week in fashion.

Elitist barriers in fashion include impossibly high standards set by beautiful, thin models, high-priced clothing lines and limited seating at fashion shows, leaving many people able only to view this separate world through the lens of a magazine. Over the years, designers have been striving to diversify the face of the industry in terms of race, ethnicity, gender and size in an effort toward a more universal inclusion.

The rise of social media has helped significantly to break down elitism in the industry, especially in regards to the exclusive Fashion Week events around the world. Snapchat acts as a window into Fashion Month, as it has come to be known. You can sit front row and go backstage with the models as they prepare for the runway. Celebrities and models alike make their Snapchats public to take fans on a journey with them, a unique experience unmatched by other social media platforms.

Designers have also been utilizing Instagram to share their upcoming collections, allowing viewings to be international and instant, rather than fans waiting six months after a show to see the collections in stores.

There has also been a shift in the fashion industry to make the shows themselves more accessible. Givenchy made a bold move last season by opening its NYFW show to the general public in attempt to reach a wider audience.

Kanye West followed that show’s structure this season by releasing his latest album, The Life of Pablo, and his new fashion line, Yeezy Season 3, at the same time. He sold tickets to the show at Madison Square Garden, creating a fusion between fashion show and concert; anyone could purchase tickets and attend. Many attendees were excited about the new line, while others went solely to see the iconic Kardashian clan — who were there to support Kanye — so the show reached a wide range of audience.
Together, the designers’ initiative and social media platforms’ influence work towards a more inclusive and accessible future of fashion.

Email Callie Chute at [email protected].