FASHION CAPITALS

Fashion is every where but the trends just not gather every where. The fashion trends are mostly acquired in major fashion cities worldwide. What is In depends on the newest and hottest trends that brought by its fashion cities globally. Beyond those fashion trends that brought to us by the major fashion cities, it confides the culture and origin of its trends that firmly introduce to us by well known fashion designers or designer clothing brands. The scope of this Submission by us, Delwin Arikatt and Neha Modi, is to introduce to you the tribute of every fashion city on the blooming network of fashion industry worldwide. It is the network of fashion that invades the real fashion lifestyle of every fashionista in their fashion statements. This is to overwhelm the differences of every trends that introduced to us by every fashion designers in the said fashion industry. The 4 major fashion cities in the world London, New York, Paris, Milan, covers the scope of fashion world in its network, workers, and products. The trends that specifically innovates in rebirth of these major fashion cities who grant an extra sensational aspect of our fashion lifestyle. Fashion culture in every cities are the greater aspect of fashion trends worldwide. Its the glorious contribution ever made by these major fashion cities which implicates their tribute into the transitions of every fashion generation worldwide. Like in designer clothing industry, these major fashion cities conclave its brands of designer clothes. The network of designer clothing brands in these fashion cities reflects as booming networks because of the fashion houses through out the vicinity of the cities. These major cities are the business capital of well known designers brand companies like Ralph Lauren, Guess, and many more. Let us now, know about these cities in detail and how their fashion culture differentiate to each other and how do their fashion culture affects the fashion trends of todays generation. Let us explore and see their contributions and tribute in the world fashion.

FIRSTLY, FASHION CAPITAL:

A Fashion City or Fashion Capital is where the fashion industry has a relevant and important position for the local economy. Production and exporting of fashion goods, as well as fashion events like fashion weeks, trade fairs and awards, boosts its economy and raises its annual revenue, positively influencing other sectors of the local economy, like the service sector. Besides its economic power, a "Fashion City" has an active entertainment and cultural scene, attracting tourists and consumers not only because of fashion per se, but also because of its leisure variety. A Fashion City should be an object of inspiration for the professionals that are based there, with an active, vivid, strong, unique sub-culture, that can inspire not only fashion professionals, but also the people in the city, turning the street style and the street culture into an essential characteristic. This mix of fashion, business, entertainment, culture, and leisure makes a city attractive and internationally recognised as fashion

centres for their unique and strong identity, differentiating themselves due to specific characteristics. Traditionally, there are four main fashion capitals known as the "big four", consisting of London, New York, Milan andParis.Nonetheless, the "big four" is often extended to include other cities, such as Tokyo or Rome. Despite this, in ranking terms, the "big four" are usually classified as the top four fashion capitals of the world, this is not always the case, as can be seen in 2009, where Rome came fourth and London fifth, or in 2010, when Hong Kong came second and Milan placed itself sixth. As of 2011, London has been ranked as the top fashion capital of the world.

HISTORY OF FASHION CAPITALS:

Fashion and political power have often interwined in history, and this can be seen in classical history, where the major political powers of the world, such as Rome, Athens, Alexandria, were global leaders, in their respective eras and parts of the world, when it came to clothing. In history, several cities have been, in turn, fashion capitals. Furthermore, during the Renaissance era, different city-states in what would become modernday Italy, were Europe's main trendsetters, due to the cultural power that these cities exerted in that period of time; this includes cities such as Florence, Rome, Venice, and Milan. However, as one progressed into the late-16th century, with the influence of the Elizabethan era, the English court, or more specifically, London, became a major city in European fashion; similarly, due to the power of Spain at the period, the Spanish court influenced fashion, making it a major centre. In the 17th century, as the Renaissance started to fade away, with the power of the French court under Louis XIV, Paris established itself as Europe's main fashion centre, and would remain the world's undisputed fashion capital until the 1960s and 70s. In the Victorian era, with the powerful British empire, London also became a major fashion centre, it still looked up to Paris for stylistic inspiration. Throughout the 20th century, New York City grew as a fashion capital, and in the 1950s, Florence re-emerged as a leading city in haute couture. Paris' complete dominance of the fashion world lasted until the 1960s, when other cities rivalled Paris' dominance with regards to haute couture. In the 1980s, however, Milan, with its everyday, practical chic, and minimalistic fashion houses, also emerged as one of the leading fashion capitals of the world. Ever since then, London, New York City, Milan and Paris have been the leading cities in global fashion, making up the "big four".

FASHION CAPITAL RANKINGS 2011:

MILAN......

Milan is a fast-paced city with a thriving cultural scene and is a great city for shopping. It also holds its share of artistic and historical sites, including the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. The art galleries of Milan also reflect the history of the city. Everything from modern art to contemporary architecture is the pride of the city. Leonardo da Vincis iconic Last Supper, painted with an experimental mix of tempera and oil, is located at the Convento di Santa Maria delle Grazie. Pinacoteca di Brera, originally started by Napolean, is Milan's most prestigious art gallery. Moreover, the Duomo, dating back to 1300, is the most outstanding example of Gothic-Lombard architecture and the worlds fourth largest church. The most famous National Museum of Science and technology, Leonardo da Vinci is among worlds best scientific and technical museums. Milan, also known as the fashion capital of the world, hosts some of the best fashion designers in the world. Most of the main shopping outlets are located near the downtown. The throbbing heart of Milan is Piazza Del Duomo. The whole city seems to revolve around the square with people everywhere, either on their way to the office, out for shopping, off to the theatre, or else slowly strolling around under the gorgeous arcade of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Milan is a paradise for fashion freaks and shoppers. You could easily get top quality clothing, footwear, and accessories. All eminent brands and labels on earth constituting of Chanel, Armani, Prada, D & G, Valentino, Cartier and many more have their magnificent outlets at this place. So, if you are a style savvy , Milan is the haven for you.

WHY IS MILAN... A WORLD FASHION CAPITAL ?

Italy is a country where you can amaze of the elegant and sophistication of fashion lifestyle in every cities. In every city there are different culture of Italian fashion that you can see. Among those fashion statement in every cities, Milano fashion is the most stunning fashion culture that really affects and gives lot of contribution in Italian style of fashion. The fashion trends in Italy is centered now in the city of Milan. Thats why Milan is the fashion capital of Italy. Milan today, due to the effort of grand Italian designers, the city was well known for its fashion culture and trends and became one of the major fashion city allover the world. The next generation and classy fashion wave bears down on Italys Fashion Capital, as Milano hosted the presentation of the latest Milan Collections of Designer Clothing apparels and other well known fashion master pieces made by Italian fashion designers. The shows that highlights the best of Milan runs from October. This show is called Milano Colleziones. In this show, it sets the size and shape of the coming spring/summer season, along with their counterparts in Rome and New York. Fashion Industry in Milan is one the biggest business that has an annual turnover of an enviable 54.500 billion proud Made in Italy products, which in

turn supports 36,000 enterprises and nearly one million people. Elegance is in the Italian blood, and most Italians would unhesitatingly give up comfort in order to achieve it. Italy is a nation that cherished outward appearances. It was great if you have a good heart, but Italians would expect you to have well-groomed hair, an impeccable sense of dressing and a really neat pair of shoes besides. So theres no wonder that some of the worlds best sartorial artists are from Italy.

When it comes to artistry, Italy has the big frame of collections and numerous people that in lined with arts industry like in the art of fashion industry. In lined with the famous personalities in Milan fashion city, lets start with the pioneers of modern fashion, Elsa Schiaparelli, to the modern czar of extravagant opulence, Roberto Cavalli, Italian fashion has had it all. Italian men and women have some of the best fashion visionaries watching over what they wear: be it clothes, perfume, shoes, jewelry or hair-do, for almost all of the last century.The privileged Italians have had names like Brioni and Zegna look after their work wear, and the house of Valentino to call upon when they needed clothes for that real special occasion. Armani has been at hand, letting Italians know that they can be subdued yet elegant, as has the house of Versace which has given a new meaning to glamor. Diesel is a world conqueror in a category all its own, and the likes of Prada, Missoni, Ferragamo, Ferre, Bottega Veneta, Damiani and Bvlgari are discussed in hushed tones of awe in fashion circles across the world The models and performing artists on the catwalk are backed by an army of professionals, all out on the town during this peak week, promising a parade of gloss and glitter on the streets of fashion, the Golden Triangle between Via Montenapoleone, Via SantAndrea and Via delle Spiga. For the entire, exhilarating week the eye of fashion will be trained on one location which is Milan. For Italians, it is not about clothes at all. Italian fashion is actually all about an attitude: an attitude of custom-made, fluid, sophistication. A great fashion attitude that really contribute and a tribute of Milan fashion city to the world. Milan fashion network impressively giving way on the networks of designer clothes brands.

THE RISE OF MILAN

If Paris was considered the first capital of fashion in the 18th century thanks to Marie Antoinettes personal designer, Rose Bertin, who transformed the French queen into one of the very first arbiters of fashion, it was Florence that was the scene of the first Italian Haute Couture Show, considered by all the press and international buyers attending the show, as a revolutionary event. This innovative idea of a fashion show offering both the famous and emerging Italian designers the opportunity of presenting their creations to an international audience and gaining popularity and prestige overseas, was conceptualized by the Florentine aristocrat Giovan Battista Giorgini. On February the 12th 1951, Giorgini, considered the first promoter of the Made in Italy style organized a fashion presentation in the salon of his wonderful residence, Villa Torrigiani, in Florence, and invited some important

American buyers to come to Tuscany to attend it, on their way back home from the Paris fashion shows.This first Italian High Fashion show was seen as a positive success story, quite a revolution because, for the first time outside Paris, a fashion parade had been exclusively organized for foreign buyers and journalists. That special occasion sealed the overseas success of some of the best Italian designers such as Giovanna Caracciolo, Alberto Fabiani, Emilio Pucci, Emilio Schuberth. The official birthdate of the first Italian fashion shows, however, was really in 1952. After the success of his first Italian fashion parade in the salon of his villa, Giorgini organized a new, more complete, fashion presentation, choosing as the venue the impressive White Room at Palazzo Pitti (still in Florence) , an enormous hall decorated with stucco-works and frescos. This time too, Giovanna Battista Giorgini had a brilliant idea: as well as assembling the most fashionable Italian designers, he divided the show into categories. The first section was devoted toBoutique collections of leisure wear, which had proved to be very popular with US buyers, followed by sportswear and finishing off with the haute couture. It was a sophisticated division that differentiated the Italian fashion show from Paris and the world press responded enthusiastically. The top newspapers and magazines, the day after the presentation at Palazzo Pitti, openly complimented the organizational superiority of Italy over France, the desire of Florence to challenge and vanquish Paris in the fashion arena. The Sala Bianca at Palazzo Pitti in Florence, would witness, over the years, the incredible success of many stars in the Italian fashion panorama such as Renato Balestra, Rocco Barocco, Krizia, Missoni and Valentino, who in 1958 presented the first mini-skirts on the catwalks and in 1968, still in Florence, captured the attention of the media by presenting an unforgettable all white collection (probably in honor of the Sala Bianca at Palazzo Pitti, the stage of his presentation). Florence would remain the center of Italian fashion till the end of the 70s, and every designer aspired to present their collections in the White Room, as being invited to take part in the show was a symbol of prestige and a much sought after honor. Then the situation changed, Florence lost its position of supremacy in the fashion field and the Italian fashion shows moved to Milan. The name of the show was changed to Milan Fashion Week, now a world famous fashion event which, twice a year, focuses everybodys attention on the newest styles and colors proposed by world famous Italian designers. Florence was no longer the undisputed capital of Italian fashion but it continued to play a role in fashion and style over the years. Even today in fact, Palazzo Pitti and many other historical Florentine palaces, stage the famous Pitti Man and Pitti W Woman fashion shows, two of the most important annual Italian fashion events, which are a prestigious shop-window for many emerging young designers but also for our most famous and appreciated Italian fashion companies. However, Rome, the eternal city has also played an important role in Italian fashion and as the center of the Italian film industry has also led American movie stars visiting Rome to fall in love with Italian fashion design and style. Some years later, thanks to the strong artistic partnership between the American and the Roman movie industry, many Hollywood actors and actresses came to Rome to film movies directed by important Italian movie makers such as famous

Federico Fellini. Rome became the new Hollywood and, Italian designers started producing appropriate dresses for American actresses such as Ava Gardner and Anita Ekberg, who wore Italian made dresses not only during filming but also in their private life. The world of fashion, inevitably, moved to Rome, the eternal capital of beauty, histor and, as from the 60s also of Made in Italy elegance. It was in these years that designers and creators such as Micol, Zoe and Giovanna Fontana or Giovanna Gattinoni gained popularity, not only in Italy but in the United States and, in particular, in Hollywood, becoming the American actresses favorite designers. Emilio Schubert created looks for Anna Magnani and Sofia Loren. Roman haute couture became famous all around the world, confirming Italian fashion as the undisputed symbol of quality, prestige and refinement. This golden age lasted for about a decade, until the end of 60s when something happened which overturned the fortunes of Italian fashion and shifted its focus from Rome to Milan. The end of 60s and, in particular the year 1968 was a period of social revolution and protest against the political system, which started in France and moved rapidly to Italy too. Women started fighting for equal rights and, for the first time, they really started wearing trousers. Elio Fiorucci took advantage of this situation and promoted jeans for women to wear here in Italy, locating his shop in San Babila square, in Milan, which, would very soon become the centre of the Milanese trend-setting style. Fashion entered a new period in the 70s with the assembly line boom, as business men started producing t-shirts, skirts, trousers and jackets in bulk, giving birth to a more accessible fashion in terms of price. Designers were no longer considered to be luxury tailors but creators of a style that should be affordable for everybody. Milan soon became the new capital of prt--porter and the big textile industries started employing talented designers to give a distinctive touch to their creations. So in 1973, a young designer called Gianni Versace started designing models for Genny while another young designer, Giorgio Armani, designed his first creations for an important financial textile group. The focus of fashion, inevitably moved to Milan, also because the town offered all the comforts and convenience for business development: international airports, conference halls, majestic hotels for press conferences or receiving important guests. Moreover, Milan was the home of some of the most important Italian fashion periodicals. The episode which underlined the definitive moving of fashion from Florence to Milan was an accident involving Missoni fashion house in 1967. Just minutes before presenting their show at the Sala Bianca of Palazzo Pitti, in Florence, Ottavio and Rosita Missoni noticed that the lingerie worn by the models was unsuitable for the light lam dresses. However it was too late to change anything. The models walked down the catwalk with their lingerie showing. Press and buyers applauded the bold idea promoted by Missoni but the following year, Missoni were not invited to take part in the show. So, they decided to present their creations anyway, choosing a Milanese swimming pool as their setting. The success was enormous and the popularity they achieved convinced the other Italian designers to abandon the Florentine Sala Bianca in Palazzo Pitti and move

their collections to Milan, choosing a special set which would better enhance the originality of their creations. In 1975 the Italian Camera della Moda, presented its first official calendar of fashion shows and Milan celebrated its success. In 1978 about 51 collections were shown over 6 days including many Italian brands such as Missoni, Fendi, Genny, Mario Valentino, Enrico Coveri, Mila Schon, Roberta di Camerino and Laura Biagiotti. More than 30 years have passed since that event, but Milan continues to be the pulsating heart of Italian fashion, attracting every year thousands of people, fashion journalists and buyers coming from all the countries in the world, for the traditional Milan Fashion Week, to see the new proposals for the coming seasons, sure to find in it the best of luxury and elegance, the pure essence of tradition and attention to detail; in other words, the genuine Made in Italy style.

MILAN FASHION WEEK

Milan Fashion Week: (in italian:Settimana della moda) is a famous fashion week held semi-annually in Milan, Italy Spring/Summer event held in February March of each year and Autumn/Winter event held in September - October of each year. Milan Fashion Week, established in 1958 is part of the Big 4 fashion weeks internationally, the others being Paris Fashion Week, London Fashion Week and New York Fashion Week. The schedule begins with New York, followed by London, and then Milan, and ending the events in Paris. The Milan Fashion Week is owned by Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana (In English The National Chamber for Italian Fashion), a non profit association which disciplines, co-ordinates and promotes the development of Italian Fashion and is responsible for hosting the fashion events and shows of Milan. The "Camera Sindacale della Moda Italiana", was set up on 11 June 1958. This was the forerunner of the body which subsequently became the "Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana". Proprietors of the most important haute couture establishments in Italy, including some private establishments, which, in those days, played a crucial role in the promotion of this sector, were present at the Memorandum of Association: Maria Antonelli, Roberto Cappucci, Princess Caracciolo Ginnetti, Alberto Fagiani, Giovanni Cesare Guidi, Germana Marucelli, Emilio Federico Schuberth, Simonetta Colonna Di Cesar, Jole Veneziani, Francesco Borrello, Giovanni Battista Giorgini and the lawyer Pietro Parisio. The events dedicated to women's fashion are the most important (Womenswear / Milan SS Women Ready to Wear, Milano Moda Donna being the major fashion shows). The events dedicated to men include Menswear and Milano Moda Uomo.

TOP ITALIAN DESIGNERS AND BRANDS

Giorgio Armani Gianfranco Ferre Roberto Capucci

Blumarine Caraceni Cesare Paciotti Nico Didonna Salvatore Ferragamo Kiton Franco Moschino Elsa Peretti Fausto Sarli Mila Schon Tod's

Brioni Roberto Cavalli Corneliani Domenico Dolce Alberta Ferretti Angelo Litrico Carlo Palazzi Sergio Rossi Ferdinando Sarmi Luciano Soprani Nicola Trussardi

Valentino Nino Cerruti Antonio D'Amico Fendi Fiorucci Bruno Magli Anita Pallenberg Renzo Rosso Elsa Schiaparelli Sergio Tacchini

SHOPPING IN MILAN
As Milan is the city of fashion there are lots of places to go shopping, especially for shopping deluxe, e.g. Via Montenapoleone (Gucci, Versace, Fratelli Rossetti, Prada, Cartier etc.), Via della Spiga (D&G, Sergio Rossi, Tod's, Bulgari etc.) Via Sant'Andrea (Chanel, Armani, Moschino, Kenzo etc.), Via Manzoni, Via Borgospesso and Via Santo Spirito. The elegant Via Manzoni is home to Spazio Armani at no. 31. This is the Giorgio Armani multi-concept store where you can admire the Emporio Armani showrooms, Armani casa, and Armani fiori. You can also have an aperitif at the Emporio Armani Caf or spend an evening at the restaurant Nobu, with a dinner by the best Japanese chef to emerge in the last 10 years: Nobuyuki Matsuhisa who opened this chain of restaurants together with Robert de Niro. Around Milan you can go shopping at the outlet malls to have the same luxury feeling with all those designer brands but for less money. Sales take place in July and in January. The winter sales usually begin on 7th January.

One hour from Milan you can find the Fidenza Village Factory Outlet, a big outlet with 50 stores: from clothing to home furnishing brands. To go shopping without spending all your money there are four important streets in Milan: 1) Corso Vittorio Emanuele with Piazza San Babila, starts with the department store Rinascente, the monument to Milanese shopping that owes its name to Gabriele d'Annunzio. In Corso Vittorio Emanuele there are sophisticated label shops, such as Max Mara, Moreschi, Bruno Magli and Pollini, but there are also more popular labels such as H&M, Zara and Furla. 2) Corso Buenos Aires, that is one of the longest streets in Europe, connects Porta Venezia with Piazzale Loreto and it is even more commercial: there are Timberland, Mandarina Duck, Benetton, Kookai and Nara Camice. 3) Via Torino connects the Duomo and Corso di Porta Ticinese, is more for younger people and the casual style is sportier, with Foot Looker, Camper and Energy stores. 4) The closer you come to the Navigli area, which is the temple of street-style, the more the store scenario varies. Corso di Porta Ticinese, which becomes Via Torino that takes you right up to Piazza XXIV Maggio, is the right place for those alternative purchases: CustoBarcellona, Diesel, Miss Sixteen, Gas and Fornarina stand alongside second-hand clothes shops, stores with bizarre objects for the home, handmade clothes and accessory stores.

PARIS....
With a pedigree that extends through history, Paris is the grande dame of all the fashion capitals. Its magnificent palaces, elegant boulevards, and romantic neighborhoods have inspired designers and artists for centuries; and today the names of Parisian couturiers like Coco Chanel, Christian Dior, and Yves Saint Laurent are as synonymous with the city as landmark attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and Arc de Triomphe. Its reputation for being impeccably chic is long-standing, and one that Paris carries as confidently as a Louis Vuitton bag. Paris also has its most prominent fashion destination; 'the golden triangle' which is formed between the Avenue Marceau, the ChampsElyses, and the Avenue Montaigne. It also has specific roads such as the Rue du Faubourg- St-Honor that are dedicated exclusively to fashion. Whether it's the French movies or the opera, fashion has always been a part of the French culture and continues to manifest itself through every walking person you see on the Parisian streets. Paris also holds two of the world's most prominent fashion shows and as far as clothes are concerned, there's always something for everyone .

WHY IS PARIS ONE OF THE WORLD'S FASHION CAPITALS ?

There are a number of reasons, mostly dating back to the 18th century, although it can be argued that Paris fashion hegemony started well before that. While it lost ground during World War II, it came back with a vengeance and has remained the mainstay of fashionest since.Haute Couture began in the 18th century, but the French had been looked to with admiration or disdain in their dress sense well before that. In the 16th century, Anne Boleyn was famous for wearing a French-style hood, which showed her hair and had a generally provocative style. Even then, the French were famous for their liberal attitude towards sexuality. In the 18th century, couturier Rose Bertin was named the Minister for Fashion and the position was still retained in the Napoleonic era. Initially, it was the rich and powerful telling the designers what they wanted to wear in clothes, but in the 19th century, this changed. It was, surprisingly, an Englishman working in Paris who became the father of modern Haute Couture when Charles Worth put his name on his clothing labels. He went a step further, creating designs based on his own ideas and displaying them on live models so that clients could approve or disapprove. The novelty was a success and designers then began to dictate what was fashionable. From then on, it was understood that any designer who wanted to be a success had to be in Paris and become part of a couture house or form their own. Paris was the home of fashion shows and all the fashion magazines were either based in or looked to Paris for their information. For women throughout the Western world, Paris was the be all and end all of clothes. London, New York and Milan can all lay claim to some fashion influence. Especially during World War II, New York and London made inroads while Paris was occupied by Germany. But when the war was over, designers returned to Paris and couture reigned again. Chanel was still popular, but Dior became one of the most influential designers of the mid-century. Joined by Yves Saint Laurent and other prominent designers, Paris cemented its hold on style. But why is Paris the capital of fashion today? Simply because little has changed, despite the drop in the number of couture houses. The most important fashion shows still take place in Paris and more aspiring designers go to the city to learn and showcase their work than they do London, New York or Milan. To better understand why Paris is the capital of fashion, you need to consider the golden triangle a shopping district in Paris dedicated exclusively to high fashion clothes and accessories. The triangle lives between the Avenue Marceau, the Champs-Elysees and the Avenue Montaigne. In it, you will find the homes of Vuitton, Givenchy, Rochas, Dior, Celine, Chanel, Donna Karan and Hermes, just to start you off. Although there are certainly those who try to claim otherwise, Paris is still the fashion capital of the world. While it is true that the fashion magazines and designers dont have the absolute power they once did,

the ability to be flexible and understand changing tastes and trends is what keeps Paris a magnet for the fashion world. The idea of a Paris Original may not thrill women the way it once did, but people certainly still respond to interesting, inventive and wearable clothes and item for item, the bulk of those still come from Paris.

PARIS FASHION WEEK:

It is one of the most glamorous and exciting event of Fashion industry that is celebrated for a week in the fashion capital. Both established and upcoming fashion designers of Paris and other eminent fashion houses participate in the event to feature their new collection. Designers from all over the world participate in this event. Paris Fashion Week in France is a mega event that exhibit the creations of most of the popular fashion houses like Giorgio Armani, Alberta Ferretti, Guess, Eres, Armani Exchange, Hugo Boss, Genny, Ghost, Diesel,Christian Dior, DKNY, Givenchy, Chanel, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Cerruti 1881, Gianfranco Ferre', Elizabeth Emanuel, E-xentric, Dorothy Grant and all.

PARIS FASHION WEEK SPRING COLLECTION:

The spring summer collection of Paris fashion week feature clothes that are suitable for the summer season using light fabrics like cotton and linen. Light and pastel shades are preferred during this season, though the preferences of the designers change. Paris Fashion Week Spring or Summer 2007 was a very successful event, which exhibited the creations of established designers like Francois Henri, Andrew GN, Jeremy Scott,Jean-Charles de Castelbajac, Sophia Kokosalki, Fukuko Ando, Kenzo, Yoichi Nagasawa, Guy Laroche, Moon Young Hee and Stephen Burrows. The Spring - Summer 2007 Fashion Show was attended by celebrities like Demi Moore, Natalie Portman and Janet Jackson.

PARIS FASHION WEEK FALL COLLECTION:

The fall winter collection of Paris fashion week features warm clothes for winters. The collection includes all types of dresses like ready to wear evening dresses and party wear. Nina Ricci, Giambattista Valli, Elie Saab, Sybilla, Collette Dinnigan, PYuki Torii, Guy Laroche, John Galliano, Barbara Bui, Kenzo, Lanvin, Hermes, Chloe, Antonio Berardi, Sharon Wauchob, Martin Grant, Jose Castro, Sonia Rykiel, Martine Sitbon, Junko Shimada, Alexander McQueen, Cher Michel Klein, Cher Michel Klein, Jean Charles de Castelbajac are some of the designers who presented their collection at the Paris Fashion Week. Throughout the year two fashion weeks are celebrated across the city; Paris Fashion Week Spring/Summer and Paris Fashion Week Fall/Winter. The Spring/Summer fashion weeks take place between September and November, while Fall/Winter fashion week is organized between January and March. The dates of the event are finalized several months in advance, so that the press and buyers get an opportunity to preview the designs and creations of the fashion designers. Paris Fashion Week is a glittering event, which is attended by buyers of popular stores, the media and celebrities.

TOP FRENCH DESIGNERS

Paris fashion designers are known all over the world for their sense of style, innovation, unique imagination and creativity. In the fashion scenario of the world, Paris enjoys an eminent place. Paris is the ultimate destination for the fashion conscious people and also for those who want to seek fashion designing as a career. LEGENDARY FASHION DESIGNERS OF PARIS: Paris, the fashion capital, emerged as a fashion hub due to the contributions of many fashion designers. Some of the prominent names in the Paris fashion industry are Coco Chanel, Jeanne Lanvin and Jean Patou, Suzanne Lenglen, Salvatore Ferragamo, Andr Perugia, Elsa Schiaparelli and Madeleine Vionnet. EMINENT FASHION DESIGNERS OF PARIS: Pierre Cardin: The legendary fashion designer was born to a French family in France. He completed his education and started working with two Paris design houses, namely Schiaparelli and Paquin. Cardin also worked under Christian Dior during the age of the 'New Look'. Finally he established his own fashion house in 1950 and started with a men's wear boutique in the French capital. The boutique sold a wide variety of trendy collarless jackets, roll neck jumpers and other informal clothes. At present Pierre Cardin boutiques sell a complete range of fashion items, accessories as well toiletries in almost every part of the world. Christian Dior: Christian Dior was among the most prestigious fashion designers between the 1940s and 1950s. He ruled the fashion industry after the World War II, with his 'New Look' creation. Dior is currently a global brand and produces a variety of products. CONTEMPORARY FASHION DESIGNERS OF PARIS: During the later half of the twentieth century, the fashion designers of Paris were influenced by other international designers. The legacy of the eminent designers are carried forward by some contemporary designers like Jean Paul Gaultier,Christian Lacroix, Valentino, Karl Lagerfeld, Francisco de Rabanne da Cuervo and many other designers. Jean Paul Gaultier experimented with his designs, creating a blend of wearable and interesting attires. His skillful combination of hues, like purple with tobacco brown or parrot green with yellow and the fusion of lace and leather, makes his creations different from others. Currently he designs as many as 6 collections every year. John Galliano is another distinguished designer who is known for his imagination and dexterous designing skills. Galliano has created dresses for famous people like Diana, Princess of Wales and Cate Blanchett, the Hollywood actress. Galliano leads the design house of Christian Dior and has created collections including trendy eye wear, ready-to-wear, couture and accessories for the brand.

Christian Lacroix is among the popular fashion designers in Paris, who rose to prominence in the 1980s. He is well known for his haute creations, ready-to-wear line, leather goods, scarves, jewelry, glasses, shoes, bridal wear, kid's wear, perfumes and much more. His stores and boutiques are located in several countries of the world including Denmark, Russia, Taiwan, Switzerland, Japan, Israel, UK, USA, France and many more. Paris fashion designers are renowned for their unique creations as well as their innovative contribution to the world of style and fashion.

SHOPPING IN PARIS
Paris Fashion Street is considered as one of the must visit destinations in Paris. Uncountable shoppers gather here to purchase the world's best commodities at reasonable price. Innumerable shops sell both branded and non branded goods and at the same time assure flawless quality and unlimited variety. The fashion street in Paris is locally known as Rue du Faubourg SaintHonor in French. World's most upscale and luxury brands are available in the Paris Fashion Street. The location of Paris Fashion Street is at 8th Arrondissement and can be best accessed by Metro through Saint-Philippe-du-Roule. Paris Fashion Street consists of many smaller market divisions. Some of the popular stores in Paris Fashion Street include original outlets of Femme, Dior, Lanvin, La Baggarre, Lancome, Rolex, Gucci, Jun Ashida, Dolce & Gabbanna, Pink, Hermes, Et Vous and so on. These shops are only few of the most visited ones among many more of the fashion street. Each division excels in producing top quality Bastille Market is one the most popular street markets in Paris. The locals as well as tourists love the market for its extensive food and fashion products. Starting from fresh food produces to modern garments and accessories, all are available in one compact area. Daily life of the Parisians is reflected through this market collection. Belleville Neighborhood is another area famous for street shopping in Paris. Belleville is best known for its rough charm. Paris Fashion Street mainly focuses on representing the modern and contemporary trends in form of apparels and accessories. The shops have the widest possible collection of fashionable clothes and dress materials. This fashion street of Paris makes the city one of the most esteemed shopping destinations for the fashion lovers across the world. Flower markets, handmade perfume producers, hat makers have their own local shops at Paris Fashion Street. This street is well connected by the metro system of Paris. Baccarat: A flagship store of the famous crystal brand. The interior was recently redesigned by Philippe Starck, so the original chandeliers and mirrors now sit beside more contemporary elements. Balenciaga: Futuristic, interactive boutique of this famous old label, currently under the inventive design direction of Nicolas Ghesquire. Balmain: Classic old French label, now hot once more thanks to new designer Christophe Decarnin. Colette: Pariss original lifestyle store opened in the nineties, and today is still the citys best multibrand designer option. Its basement Water Bar is famous for stocking dozens of types of bottled water.

Christian Louboutin:This French shoe designer, known for his killer heels, became a household name thanks to Carrie Bradshaws shoe obsession in Sex and the City. Fleux: This spacious store in the Marais is packed with contemporary interior design. These range from stylish furniture, lamps, and mirrors by leading designers, to novelty teabag holders illustrated with caricatures of fashion designers Jean Paul Gaultier, Karl Lagerfeld, and Donatella Versace. Jean Paul Gaultier: This flagship store, carrying Jean Paul Gaultiers prt-a-porter collection, was designed by Philippe Starck to resemble a sexy boudoir. Lancel:A classic French brand, purveyors of luxury gifts, luggage, silver, crystal, and porcelain. Lanvin: Famous French label, now under the design direction of Alber Elbaz, with designer Lucas Ossendrijver overseeing the invigorated menswear collections.

NEW YORK....
Each neighborhood in this city has its own look, its own take on what it means to be from New York. Stroll along the Upper East Side and find your classic Manhattanite donning designer labels, hop up to Harlem for some unique urban chic, cruise to the East Village and witness the fresh flare of hipsterdom. No matter where you are, though, these fashion boundaries are constantly blending while new and exciting styles continually evolve. As the city that hosted the worlds first organized fashion week in 1943, New York is the place to be for buyers, models, press, and designers. Major fashion catalysts come in September and February for Mercedes-Benz Spring and Fall Fashion Weeks, as well as Couture Fashion Week. These weeks determine not only the trends for New York, but also set the standard for retail patterns globally. This year, fashion week will be held at Damrosch Park at Lincoln Center, their new home after 16 years in Bryant Park. While these haute-couture happenings only last a fortnight, exploring NewYork as a fashion capital is double year-round. People constantly search for the trendiest fashion, the hottest restaurants, and, of course, the chicest parties.

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK:

The semi-annual New York Fashion Week, branded Mercedes-Benz FashionWeekin 2009, is held in February and September of each year in New York City. It is one of four major fashion weeks held around the world (along with those in Paris, London, and Milan). The first New York Fashion Week, then called Press Week, was the world's first organized fashion week. Held in 1943, the event was designed to attract attention away from French fashion during World War II, when fashion industry insiders were unable to travel to Paris to see French fashion shows. Fashion publicist Eleanor Lambert organized an event she called "Press Week" to showcase American designers for fashion journalists, who had previously neglected their innovations. (Buyers were not admitted to the shows and instead had to visit designers' showrooms.) Press Week was a success, and fashion magazines like Vogue, which were normally filled with French designs, increasingly featured American fashion. In 1994, the event was moved to its former site in Bryant Park by Fern Mallis, where it was held inside a series of large white tents in the almost-block-

long park. Admission is by invitation only, to the fashion industry, fashion press, assorted celebrities, and internet based Fashion press (e.g. District L, Fashionista, FWD). Beginning in February 2009 (showing Fall 2009), many designers opted out of their usual Bryant Park tent fashion shows because of the current economy and held smaller presentations. At the Fall 2009 Fashion Week the public got a taste of technology as it is shaping the future of fashion. It is not only making it cheaper and easier for designers to create their collections, it is also saving them travel time as many broadcast their lines over the Internet. Many designers opted to not only market online but also sell exclusively online. Designer Norma Kamali and the Polo Ralph Lauren Rugby brand both have an application for the Apple iPhone. In the Vivienne Tam show, models walked the runway carrying Hewlett Packard mini notebook computers instead of the expected handbag.

Because of the recession affecting most of the world, designers were stepping outside of the box for fall 2009. In previous years, fashion houses would be expecting costs up to $750,000 to produce a quality runway show. The idea of using mannequins to display clothing was used by established designers Betsey Johnson and Vera Wang as a way to cut model and runway costs. Mara Hoffman, Sergio Davila and Nicholas K saved 40 percent of their costs by combining their separate lines into one show. Another trend seen during fall 2009 Fashion Week was recession friendly fashion. A number of pieces displayed were items that could be worn in the fall and carry over to the spring. A popular staple was bold color dressed that could be worn over a turtleneck in colder weather and stand alone in the spring; convertible blazers were introduced by Vera Wang and Karen Walker as a way to get double the wear out of one piece. Due to increasing pressure from Bryant Park management, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week was hosted in Damrosch Park at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts for the first time in September 2010. In addition to the new location, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week partnered with Fashion GPS, a new technology that offered quick seating and check-in for guests at the shows. Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week is perhaps the most wellknown event held during New York Fashion Week, but not the only one. Many top-name designers show their collections at other venues, including Ralph Lauren, Donna Karan, Calvin Klein and Marc Jacobs. Dozens of other fashion shows and related events are held around the city during New York Fashion Week, including Couture Fashion Week NY at the Waldorf-Astoria and iFashion Week by iFashion Network and iConcept Media Group focusing on emerging and independent designers.

NEW YORK FASHION DESIGNERS

1. Samantha Pleet- This young Brooklynite started small, making lookbooks by hand and bringing them into her favorite stores. Her Fall collection is mysterious and modern, playful and classy, and captivating enough to be carried in stores as far as Japan. 2. Tom Scott- Transforming granny sweaters and old tee shirts into young and exuberant trends is no task for the meek. Tom Scott honed his skills creating knitwear for the Ralph Lauren Collection and took it to another level, pairing pom-pom sweaters with harem pants and hairy scarves with his avant-garde 2010 collection 3. Ann Yee- Inspired by the styles of New York and Hong Kong, Ann Yee knew from a young age that she had an eye for fashion. After getting her B.S. in fashion design from Philadelphia University, Yee proved her talents working at major labels like Jill Stuart and LaROK. Her new ultra feminine collection, full of wool skirts and silk dresses, is about as chic as NYC gets. 4. Whit- Whitney- Pozgay- Shedebuted her playfulfeminine line this season. I always go back to that 60s post-mod moment, where the shapes were striking and girly, with a bit of Tomboy mixed in, says Pozgay, niece of designer Kate Spade. 5. Albertus Swanepoel- South Africa native Albertus Swanepoel designs an accessory that he finds is all too often overlooked: hats. Swanepoel makes hats to compliment any outfit perfectly. A favorite of Michelle Williams and Coco Rocha, his designs are elegant and playful and full of personality.

2012 UPCOMING FASHION DESIGNERS NEW YORK FASHION WEEK

1. Sally Lapointe: In Spring 2011, Sally Lapointe debuted, did her own thing and stood out among what seems to be an ever growing fashion week . Her signature designs are emotional, structural and flawlessly constructed. Lapointe is what is lacking on the American design scene when it comes to runway shows and new lines, and that is a fearless experimental drive to create garments according to her standards without toning it down for the mass market. 2. Demoo Parkchoonmoo: There are many "o's" in Demoo Parkchoonmoo's name. As is there was in her audience with her first show in US for Concept Korea, a collective of Korean designers who showed during the Fall 2011 season of New York Fashion Week. With an industrial design and fashion education, her designs reflect her knowledge with fluid, geometric shapes. She's new to us, but she's been on the forefront of Korean fashion since 1988 with numerous awards to show for it.

3. Jen Kao: This Kansas native is not brand new. She showed her first collection back in 2008. She moved to New York in 1999 to study studio art and from there developed an interest in textile design. Her collections often include feminine, flowing pieces, constructed leathers and some of the most unique knits I've seen. Her mix of cool and lady-like is something to see more of. She keeps getting better. 4 .Norman Ambrose: Many times new designers lean towards the edgy or downtown side. Not Norman Ambrose. His first presentation for New York Fashion week last Fall was all uptown with tailored coats, long gowns and sophisticated separates. His show landed him on many ones to watch lists for this season. And, yes, he should stay there. His clothes are already on par with the veterans like Salvatore Ferragamo, Oscar de la Renta and Ralph Lauren. It only has to get better from here.

SHOPPING IN NEWYORK

ADIDAS ORIGINAL STORES: With an inspired collection, the triple-stripe sportswear company has moved out of the gym and into retro fashion. Young jocks and wannabe D.J.s come here for anything from key chains, track suits and tees to limited-edition shoes. BLOOMINGSDALE: Plow through "B-Way," the aptly named, crowded main-floor arcade that feels like Times Square on Saturday, and hit the second floor for trendy, well-priced American brands. Bloomies also carries all the requisite bigname designer labels and houses an extensive selection of lingerie. The Soho Location, opened in spring '04, caters to a younger, hipper crowd. BARNEYS NEW YORK: Anyone worth her Manolos will tell you that Barneys Madison Avenue flagship is the final word in edgy designer fashion. The lower floors house sophisticated, expensive items like Prada suits; in the upstairs Co-op department, youll find Habitual jeans, Miu Miu dresses, and clingy Juicy tees. FAO SHWARZ: In 1862, German immigrant Frederick August Otto Schwarz began supplying New York society with Europes finest toys. Today, youll find a smattering of ultra-high-end goods and an array of stuffed animals, dolls, train sets, blocks, board games, and even candy. H&M: The throngs of bargain hunters, thumping music, and huge fitting-room lines could fray even a Zen masters nerves, but you cant beat this Swedish chains ridiculously low prices on must-haves of the moment like club clothes, ethnic-inspired tops, and cargo pants. MADISON AVENUE: This haute strip boasts fifteen blocks of celebrity designer shops (Calvin, Jean-Paul, Giorgio) and flagship fashion house boutiques (Prada, Herms, Chanel). Kick things off at Fratelli Rossetti on 58th Street for fab Italian shoes, and be sure to leave some time for the grand finale at the stately Polo Store on 72nd Street. SAKS FIFTH AVENUE: This top-end department store is filled with major American designers and plenty of Europeans, plus a complete collection of diffusion lines. The eighth-floor swimwear department swells seasonally to accommodate classics and styles with a little more va-va-voom. TIFFANY & Co.: The most democratic of the big jewelry houses, Tiffanys welcomes shoppers who come by Town Cars, taxis, and tour buses. Snap up key rings, money clips and cuff links, or invest in beautifully-made men's watches, kitchenware, or their classic 6-prong diamond engagement ring.

ZARA: This Spanish label offers runway looks at moderate prices, drawing style newbies from throughout the city. Count on silky dresses, colorful knits, and the skin of the moment (suede is a good bet).

LONDON....
Because this is England, these opposites are rarely as far apart as youd expect. One of the UKs biggest sporting and society events, horse racing at Royal Ascot, is a prime example. Usually gleaning more news coverage than each winning racehorse and jockey are the well-dressed duchesses on Ladies Day, wearing hats shaped like teapots or exploding flower bombsproving that tradition and eccentricity can go hand-in-hand, and reminding us that wacky headwear isnt the exclusive domain of Lady Gaga. Royal Ascot has in fact celebrated mad hats since it was founded in 1711, long before Lady Gaga was even baby Gaga.I find Londons duality inspiring, says young British-based designer Neil Sheriff. You get such extremes. Wealthy, conservative corporate-types in expensive suits from Savile Row will happily rub shoulders with pierced, army-booted punks whove found their look through record covers and street markets. Each of them is being true to his own path, and I feel this city allows all of us the freedom to do that.

WHY IS LONDON A WORLD FASHION CAPITAL?

In the past few years London has grown along the side of Milan and Paris and taken over as the fashion capital of the world. It is home to some of the world best designers including Thomas Burberry, Stella Mc Cartney and Alexander McQueen. Its has its own fashion gala and fashion weeks that happen every now and then which play an important role in setting the fashion for the following seasons. One of the most famous locations in London is King's Road which had been seen as one of the most important fashion location in the whole of Europe.

2012 LONDON FASHION DESIGNERS

A LA DISPOSITION BORA AKSU DANS LA VIE EUDON CHOI GEORGIA HARDINGE INBAR SPECTOR IZMAYLOVA JEAN-PIERRE BRAGANZA KRYSTOF STROZYNA MASHA MA PAUL COSTELLOE ASGER BUNMI KOKO E. TAUTZ FAD GILES ISSAT JACOB KIMMIE JOANNE HYNES LAKO BUKIA MEN'S ONE TO WATCH SA COLLECTIVE SHENZHEN CARLOTTA GHERZI FOR SADO ELISA PALOMINO FASHION MODE HOUSE OF EVOLUTION ODD LYNN JAMES SMALL SWEDISH SCHOOL OF DESIGN LEUTTON POSTLE ONES TO WATCH

SHOPPING IN LONDON
Absolute Vintage: Named The Best Vintage Shop in London by InStyle magazine in 2008, this retro fashion emporium is crammed with quality vintage clothes and accessories for men and women from the 1930s to 1980s, so its a treasure trove for fashion lovers. Allsaints: Despite having stores across Europe and the United States, this British fashion brand is very much rooted in the East End. Allsaints has its head office and design studio in Corbet Place in Spitalfields, and now theyve opened this huge new flagship store just around the corner. Beyond Retro: Occupying a 5,000 sq. ft. former dairy depot, this large-scale vintage clothing store stocks a centurys worth of retro styles from the 1900s onwards. Since opening here in 2000, theyve expanded to new sites in Londons Soho and Brighton as well as four outposts in Sweden. Dunce Apparel: A funky London label designed by young Australian-raised designer Neil Sheriff. The full range is available online. Harrods: The world famous luxury department store is one of Londons premiere tourist attractions. Interestingly, its founder Charles Henry Harrod started out with a wholesale grocery shop in Stepney, East London in 1834 before opening here in Knightsbridge. Tim Soar, Exciting new British menswear designer. The brand is stocked at hip bStore on Savile Row in London and online via asos.com. Harvey Nichols, 109 - 125 Knightsbridge. This famous department store dates back to the 1880s. Today HN stocks only the very best international brands. The Fifth Floor restaurant, caf and bar is where design-addicted fashionsitas pause to refuel. Selfridges: The second largest shop in the UK (after Harrods), Selfridges was founded in 1909. Reflecting its location on Londons main shopping street, the store sells a wide range of products from luxury fashion and designer items to household essentials.

BIBLIOGRAPHY:
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