Fashion Month: All you need to know

Each year the fashion world sees two ‘Fashion Months,’ one beginning in February, and another in September, each lasting four weeks, showcasing designers’ latest collections in the fashion capitals of the world, namely; New York, London, Milan and Paris (in that exact order). In February, designers showcase their Autumn/Winter collections, while in September designers debut their Spring/Summer collections for the following year. From journalists and editors to fashion buyers, and even our favourite influencers, the ‘somebodies’ of the fashion industry brave the month with their favourite pair of stilettos, and of course a designer bag in hand. For the average Joe Soap, the whole occasion can seem somewhat mindboggling, so here’s some of the most commonly asked questions answered, all in the one place. It’s only Spring, why are we seeing Autumn/Winter collections this month?Fashion month showcases designer collections two seasons ahead of time. This gives buyers and editors time to choose pieces they intend to purchase or feature in advance of when they arrive in store.  How long does a fashion show last?Typically, shows last about ten minutes, but they’re followed by exhibition style presentations which can last a few hours.  Who goes to fashion week?Fashion week is an invite-only affair. The designer’s public relations team compile a list of suitable industry players that might be interested in purchasing pieces from the collection or featuring it in their publication. Tickets can also be requested through making direct contact with a show’s PR coordinator.  How long does it take to design a collection?On average, it takes around 18 months for a designer to compile an entire collection. Is there an Irish equivalent of Fashion Week?Here in Cork, Cork Fashion Week showcases some of our local and national talent. Founded by Lockdown PR, the week-long event usually takes place in the Autumn. Details of the annual event can be found at www.corkfashionweek.com. In the capital, Dublin Fashion Festival also showcases some of Ireland’s upcoming designers, with a host of events taking place at various locations across the city. For more, see www.dff.ie Fashion Week Glossary:Atelier: Workshop or studioAvant-garde: Innovative designDu jour: On trend Frow: Front row Haute Couture: “High sewing,” or high fashion. Upscale, exclusive custom fit clothingPrêt-à-porter: Ready-to-wear clothing made for the masses Riser: A platform at the end of the runway for photographers to take shotsRun-of-show: A master list that details every look in a show, catalogued in order