Over the big four of fashion shows? Sure, New York, Paris, Milan and London Fashion Weeks are all established and glamorous in their own right, but if there’s anything the fashion world knows best it’s that the creative, even subversive energies of up-and-coming artists often has a lot to offer.
Here, we take a look at some of the lesser-known but no less exciting events on the fashion calendar from all around the world.
Berlin Premium
This international fashion trade show held each January is expanding year by year. Indeed, it is now one of Northern Europe’s largest fashion trade shows, boasting over 60,000 trade visits and an impressive 1,400 collections. It is held in conjunction with the low-brow yet high-style Bread & Butter event, focusing on the who’s who in streetwear.
Hong Kong Fashion Week
Much like the fashion it showcases, Hong Kong Fashion Week is an up-and-comer with a lot to say. Taking Asia by storm – as its biggest fashion festival – this celebration of all things Asian design is a must for anyone who takes global fashion seriously.
Asia Fashion Exchange
Another contender for the title of Asia’s most important fashion fixture is the Asia Fashion Exchange, consisting of the Asia Fashion Summit, Star Creation Designer Competition, Audi Fashion Festival and Blueprint trade show. Not a bad way to show off all Asian fashion has to offer!
The Asia Fashion Exchange does more than show off Asian fashion, however; it allows attendees to live and breathe it, with an exciting range of fashion thought leaders sharing their insights on the latest trends. Fashionistas also revel in the opportunity to shop their hearts out at Blueprint Emporium.
Istanbul Fashion Week
Istanbul Fashion WeekThe Eurasian metropolis that is Istanbul sure knows how to host a fashion event – indeed, the more established elites could learn a thing or two. Headliner Atil Kutoglu never fails to impress with his eclectic yet ever classy range, while emerging designers on the fashion scene excite fashion critics with their luxurious pieces. It’s the ideal fashion event to gauge the latest in both Asian and European design influences and trends.
Sao Paulo Fashion Week
South American designers strut their stuff at the Sao Paulo Fashion Week to great acclaim. This event is typically a colourful affair showcasing the rich diversity of the Latin American continent, and the festive colours, cuts and textures that make it so distinctive. Having launched the careers of the likes of Osklen, Jefferson Kulig and Colcci, Sao Paulo Fashion Week does not compromise on sophistication either.
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival, Sydney
Don’t be put off by stereotypes of Australia as boorish and backward. Its major cities, Sydney and Melbourne, are as cosmopolitan and multicultural as they come, which is fortunately reflected on the runways and catwalks of the country’s premier fashion event, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival. Big names Sass and Bide, Alex Perry, and Collette Dinnigan never fail to excite fashionistas around the globe, while the emerging designers showcased here also boast collections to die for. It is much more approachable than outright elite – and all the more fun for it.
