As I am catching with my daily updates of the WWD fashion news, I came across a very interesting article “Is Fashion’s Mystique Gone?” about the changing trend towards revealing the behind-the-scene works of many designers and the fashion industry. Shows like Project Runway and America’s Next Top Model have been sweeping viewers off their feet by revealing the good, bad, and ugly side of the fashion industry. The statistics speak for themselves – there is an average of 3.3 million viewers for Project Runway and 3.1 million viewers for American’s Next Top Model. I’m a regular viewer of Project Runway not only because fashion is what I do for living but also because the show is entertaining. “Let see what kind of out of this world challenge are they going to make the Designers do this week!” The drama is what keeps the viewer hungering for more. Let’s face it – we enjoy seeing aspiring designers and models being emotionally tortured on national TV by Heidi Klum and Tyra Banks.
Project Runway and America’s Next Top Models
What strikes me after reading this article is the question that it raises – Is the magic of fashion gone because so much has been revealed? Luxury is part quality, creativity, and exclusivity. With so many designers posting their behind-the-scene footages of their day-to-day work online, some may wonder if they are diluting their appeal by taking out the mystery. I think in a way it’s true but then it opens the door to a different level. As a consumer myself, I would like to know the brand – I mean, really know the brand – the people who design them, the people who make them, the materials that they use, and the steps to make it happen. I like to know the story behind what I’m buying. This is what makes my purchases interesting. Because I am a designer myself, I know how much work is involved in making even the simplest dress. It can take many hours to think of an attractive design that my customers want; more hours to create the pattern that fits many different bodies; even more hours to test and re-test the style; and finally putting all the fine details together before the dress is considered complete. It’s a lot of work but I love what I do and I feel like it’s all worth it. However, not everyone knows what’s really involved in making a beautiful garment or accessory. With social networks, it’s easy to show the customers what they are buying and what makes their purchases special.
I think reality shows and social media will continue to thrive especially in the fashion industry. I don’t think it takes the magic away either. Just because designers are showing the sweats and tears and the process to producing their work doesn’t mean anyone can do it. My husband can watch all the Project Runway episodes that he wants but he still can’t hem his pants. I’m still doing it for him. He is fascinated with how I can put a dress together because it’s not something he can do by just watching or observing me while I work. It is not as simple as it may seem.
Tags: America's Next Top Models, Heidi Klum, Project Runway, reality shows, social media, Tyra Banks, WWD
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