Open reflection but be sure to include, discuss and pull together some ideas from class and connect them to your observations from the past five weeks. What have we learned? How are you thinking/seeing fashion differently now? 

In these five weeks of confinement, I have been taught that fashion is much more than textile garments created to cover a body. Fashion is influenced by history and social changes, bringing new trends, and even new styles to the world. In the 1960s, with the revolution of ’68 during the Vietnam War, the hippie phenomenon was born and still survives even among the most famous brands.

The COVID-19 crisis is accelerating changes that already existed in our industry and triggering new ones. In this unprecedented time, digital strategies are more important than ever for fashion brands. Information and communication are key to our community. Those who quickly adapt to this constantly evolving landscape, making data-backed decisions while leaning on their main strengths, will find themselves in the best position to thrive in this crisis.

What started as a year of hope for the so-called “new 20s” became increasingly complex. No one expected what would happen within a few months of the start of the year, and the fashion industry, either. This first quarter of the year has marked a change for the fashion world, which has not only been hit hard but has also been able to reinvent itself and reform.

With confinement, we said goodbye to special occasions or vacations that would justify buying new clothes. The images of street style or red carpets of celebrities stopped emerging. Featured events like the MET gala were canceled and the future of the fashion weeks became uncertain. The virus hurts all areas of fashion, from raw materials, manufacturing, logistics, or commerce, and has also transformed consumer preferences. Despite it, the fidelity of the buyers by the companies remains immovable.

Masks have become the product of the year, of course arising out of a need, but proving that you can also make fashion with them. Masks, in this case, made of fabric, have positioned themselves as the most sought-after item in the men’s fashion category. Off-White‘s version of arrows occupies that coveted first place and the best example is the fact that it is sold out all over the planet. The mask has now become a cult object that is resold at quantities up to three times higher.

Both the most sought after articles for men and women have sneaked sneakers, sweatpants, sweatshirts, and, ultimately, looks that bet on comfort. Likewise, lingerie has registered marked growth. Sneakers are also the order of the day, becoming more technical than in previous quarters.

Just as fashion changed in favor of women and became more feminist with Chanel, now brands have to adapt to a change that almost forces us to paralyze the planet. The fact of not being able to leave home influences us in the way we dress and the threat of a virus manages to transform fashion so that we can protect ourselves without losing style.