This November, Yerevan Fashion Week 2024 returned with a bang, solidifying its position as a rising star in the global fashion scene. The four-day extravaganza showcased the vibrant tapestry of Armenian and international fashion, blending tradition with contemporary trends.
A Cultural Tapestry
The event kicked off with a powerful statement, held at the Monument to the Repressed of the Soviet Era. This symbolic setting underscored the fashion week’s commitment to celebrating creative freedom and cultural heritage. The opening ceremony featured a captivating runway show by Naira Khachatryan and the Fashion Scout Armenia Competition, which highlighted the talents of emerging designers from Artsakh and collaborative projects like CreLab Tavush x CreLab Kotayk.
Global Glamour
Internationally renowned designers like Reza Nadimi from Iran and ANCIELA from the UK graced the runway, adding a global dimension to the event. Their collections, which seamlessly merged cultural heritage with modern aesthetics, showcased the universal appeal of fashion.
However, it was the Armenian designers who truly stole the show. Manuk Aleksanyan’s avant-garde designs, a harmonious blend of tradition and experimentation, left a lasting impression. The “Parajanov and Fashion” project further emphasised the deep-rooted connection between fashion and art, paying homage to the legendary filmmaker Sergei Parajanov.
A Forum for the Future of Fashion
Beyond the glamorous runway shows, Yerevan Fashion Week 2024 offered a series of thought-provoking panel discussions and talks. Industry experts, including Thomas Brownlees, Vahan Khachatryan, and Paycar Akulyan, shared their insights on the future of fashion, technology, and sustainability.
A standout session, “The State of Fashion in Europe 2024 & Textile Sourcing,” moderated by Ruben Sarukhanyan, featured global fashion leaders like Louise Clement and Doreen Tan. They provided valuable insights into international trends and sourcing strategies, empowering Armenian designers to expand their global reach.
Another compelling panel, “Culture and Sustainability,” highlighted the importance of eco-friendly practices in fashion. Elen Manukyan and Jennifer Droguett emphasized the need for sustainable solutions to address the environmental impact of the fashion industry.
Challenges and Opportunities
While Yerevan Fashion Week 2024 made significant strides, there’s still room for improvement. Some critics pointed out the lack of diversity in the collections, with many designs leaning towards commercial trends rather than offering innovative perspectives.
To truly stand out on the global fashion stage, Yerevan Fashion Week needs to strike a balance between promoting local talent and curating cutting-edge collections. Additionally, expanding the event’s public outreach through more open-air shows and community engagement initiatives could further solidify its position as a cultural landmark.
A Bright Future
Despite the challenges, Yerevan Fashion Week 2024 is undoubtedly a promising platform for Armenian fashion. By fostering a dialogue between tradition and innovation, local and global art and commerce, the event is positioning Armenia as a rising force in the global fashion industry.
As the curtains close on this year’s event, one thing is clear: Yerevan Fashion Week is more than just a fashion show; it’s a cultural movement. It’s a movement that aims to redefine Armenia’s creative identity, nurture its talented designers, and inspire a new generation of fashion enthusiasts.
