What's Happening?
Elias Medini, a fashion critic and influencer known as Lyas, is expanding his fashion show watch parties to London and Milan, with sponsorship from the British Fashion Council and MAC Cosmetics. These events, which began as a spontaneous gathering in Paris, aim to democratize fashion by providing free access to fashion shows. The London event will feature the Dilara Findikoglu show, with attendees required to dress in all black. Medini's initiative is supported by several sponsors, including Meta and Vestiaire Collective, which will offer prizes to attendees. Despite the logistical challenges, Medini is committed to making fashion accessible to a wider audience.
Why It's Important?
Medini's initiative highlights a shift in the fashion industry towards inclusivity and accessibility. By removing traditional barriers to entry, such as exclusive guest lists and high costs, these watch parties allow a broader audience to engage with fashion. This approach could influence how fashion events are organized in the future, potentially leading to more open and inclusive industry practices. The involvement of major sponsors also indicates a growing recognition of the value in reaching diverse audiences, which could drive further changes in marketing and event strategies within the fashion sector.
What's Next?
Medini plans to expand his watch parties to other cities with fashion weeks, aiming to include televised streaming to reach even more people. The success of these events could attract additional sponsors and partners, further increasing their scale and impact. As Medini continues to push for democratization in fashion, other industry players may follow suit, leading to a broader transformation in how fashion is presented and consumed globally.