The world’s major fashion capital’s may seem like a long way from our own high street purchases but have a lot more impact on what we wear, than you might realist. Designer’s collections are shown in September and February. In the September shows’, clothing that is modeled is a preview of what will be available for the following Spring / Summer, and clothing that is shown in February previews the Autumn / Winter collections of that year. These collections are then documented by the fashion press, buyers and stylists, and from here worn first by the rich and famous.

After being shown in magazines and newspapers the styles are adopted by the High Street, so usually one year after it is shown, an item will become popular with the general public.

There are four major fashion capitals of the world, as well as many smaller shows, the four major shows are:

Paris – Paris is considered the fashion capital of the world, the crème de la crème of Hauteur Couture (made to measure) and Prêt a Porter (Ready to Wear). Every designer covets to bring their art and ideas to Paris and the pinnacle is to show in the Hauteur Couture shows. Paris is home to an array of high end labels from old and established Chanel and Dior to more contemporary Chloe and Celine.

Milan – Milan fashion week is all about classic Italian glamor chic. Designers who show here tend to be influenced by classical cuts and styles, but with the added Italian sex appeal (and ubiquitous Italian tan). Think Dolce Gabbana, Giorgio Armani and Versace. Read the rest of this entry »