Fashion week

[3] The foundations of fashion week began in Paris in the late 1800s before spreading to New York, Milan, and London in the 20th century.

The concept of the fashion week began in Paris, when marketers used to hire women to wear couture items in public places, from racetracks to beauty salons.

Poiret decided that to make this idea a reality he would combine socializing and shopping by throwing multiple galas featuring his pieces.

The formation of the Fédération Française de la Couture marked the first official Paris Fashion Week in 1973.

[10] In 1903, a Manhattan shop called Ehrich Brothers put on what is thought to have been the country's first fashion show to lure middle-class women into the store.

These shows were usually more theatrical than those of today, heavily based upon a single theme, and accompanied by a narrative commentary.

Designers were called on to cut their total number of collections per year in exchange for more durable garments which extended lifespan and minimized waste.

In the next year, brands like H&M, Burberry, and Zara followed in Patagonia’s footsteps and started producing garments with sustainably sourced materials.

[2] Influential brands like Chanel and Dolce & Gabbana showcased sustainable design in the Spring and Summer 2020 collections as well.

[16] In May, designer Richard Marlone won the 2020 International Woolmark Prize for his radical ideas in sustainable development.

[6][17] Organizers of Copenhagen Fashion Week 2023 set 18 minimum standards for the brands participating, an unprecedented decision.

[18] Although there are many notable fashion weeks around the world, only four are known as the "Big Four": in chronological order, New York, London, Milan, and Paris.

[1] Other notable fashion weeks are held in Copenhagen, Berlin, Madrid, São Paulo, Shanghai, and Tokyo.

"[8] In recent years, shows have begun to feature garments that are available for sale immediately, online or in stores.

[7] "See now, buy now" experiences have included shows from Tom Ford, Nicole Miller, Moschino and Tommy Hilfiger.

[30][31] Since fashion weeks were established, approximately 241,000 tons of CO2 have been released each year from attending the "Big Four" and major trade shows.

Buyers and sellers generate emissions and waste from air travel, accommodations, ground transportation, and fashion shows.