In an effort to recognize the influence of fashion, we polled some of our favorite designers to find out who they believe has a forward-thinking outlook on fashion today and in the future.
Fashion is frequently viewed as frivolous, just something to look at. However, that assumption disregards the ability of clothing to make an impression that lasts. Our history has been presented this way for centuries, with each decade being characterized by the trends and fashions developed by gifted designers around the world. Fashion is a view of the world at a particular moment in time, as interpreted by some of the most creative people in the world, going all the way back to the royal dressmakers of the 18th century who used gowns to mark moments in time to the designers of the 1990s who gave us an era of culture that included iconic supermodels.
They are the historical, contemporary, and futuristic visionaries. They establish the character of the culture and the legacy we leave behind. They design their clothing to visually tell our lives, not merely to be worn.
Like any other type of art, some have come before and more will. In honor of fashion’s influence, we polled some of our favorite designers to find out who they thought had a forward-thinking outlook on fashion today and in the future.
Tanya Taylor is a company that prioritizes women. She has embraced color and uniqueness in a way that the fashion industry as a whole rejects, despite the fact that women wear the majority of fashion labels. She believes that the future of fashion lies with other designers who follow her lead in honoring people via their apparel.
What particular objectives or needs do they support for fashion in the future?
I’ve always thought that inclusivity is key to the future of fashion, and I’m so proud of Henry and Nyla for making it their personal mission to give everyone the sense that they belong in the industry. Nyla is bringing a surprising twist to classic techniques, encouraging everyone to embrace their identities, while Zankov employs art, color, and pattern to produce straightforward, unique, and gender-neutral knitwear designs. I’m excited to observe how their inventiveness develops during each season.
Siriano, Christian
It has been praised that Christian Siriano unapologetically creates luxury for a wider variety of sizes. Plus-size inclusion in high-end design has been lacking for far too long; it shouldn’t even be a question or a visionary project. He views some of his colleagues as the future since they are building on what has been established as the standard.
Who is the emerging designer about whom you are enthusiastic, and why?
I find that everyone’s current work is just incredibly exciting. Even though we started in 2008, Prabal Gurung, Brandon Maxwell, and I still consider ourselves to be youthful fashion designers. I find what we’re all doing right now to be really great. Of course, there is still a place in the world for people like Calvin and Ralph. However, I believe the Potenza’s have their chance. We make an effort not to deprive one another.
Hoffman Mara
With her brand, Mara Hoffman took a risk. Despite the expense, she stopped producing in 2015 so that she could design with a focus on the environment and people while still producing large collections season by season. Since then, she has evolved into a crusader for fashion reform, endorsing measures like New York’s Fashion Act and innovations like sustainable fiber printing. She believes that those that priorities change will be the next generation of fashion innovators.
Who is the emerging fashion designer you are most enthusiastic about, and why?
The founding member of La Réunion, my friend Sarah Nsikak, inspires and excites me. Her emphasis on circularity and minimizing waste is crucial to her approach to design, in addition to the fact that her work is truly artistic. La Réunion is a true example of slow fashion, which is crucial for the industry’s future.
