Diversity Fashion Week 2022 is a fact! For three days you could visit various fashion-related events in which important social themes such as 'inclusion & diversity' were central. Speakers, exhibitions and of course two days of fashion shows by international designers who understand the importance of various models on the runway. For example, there was not only a wide range of different fashion styles from national and international designers, but also when it comes to the diversity of models. With the aim of inspiring, motivating and promoting inclusion in our society, but also so that everyone in our society feels seen, heard and represented.
Diversity Fashion Week started with a beautiful opening at the Westcord Fashion hotel in which various speakers shared their findings and research about inclusion and diversity in fashion. For example, Giancarlo Pazzanese, a Senior Lecturer at the Amsterdam Fashion Academy and specialized in cultural analysis and digital fashion, spoke about where exclusion in fashion was based and provided answers to questions such as 'Why has the fashion industry evolved so slowly towards the representation of diversity and inclusion of minority groups? and 'Why has there not been a substantial change in society towards inclusion? A very interesting presentation that was reinforced by experienced experts who themselves have experienced forms of exclusion in their lives due to their external characteristics.
There were also various exhibitions spread over several rooms to visit by artists and designer Fanny de Ruyter and Fares Moses, who all made a link with their work to social topics, which also formed the fodder for the networking event, which took place at the same time to educate people and organizations. closer together with the idea of being able to join forces.
The second day was the kick-off of the fashion shows of various designers. This took place in EFE Venue, which was completely transformed into a fairytale environment that did justice to this year's theme of "Winter Wonderland". During these shows there was an alternation in kids & adult fashion and these models alternated or walked the catwalk together. These shows had an informal and festive atmosphere which made it completely accessible and gave the feeling of being part of this show, so that 'inclusion' also came forward and was felt by the audience.
Also on this day extra attention was given to international designers with an exhibition space, which also gave the opportunity to get to know these designers.
The third day could be regarded as the highlight of Diversity Fashion Week, with the major shows in the Arendshoeve, the garden of Amsterdam. Here you can see the shows of the experienced and established designers, such as Fares Mozes, Jana Roos, Rosalie Key, Annigje, Nicole Plender and many more designers who can be found on the website of Diversity Fashion Week. The location also contributed greatly to the enchanting atmosphere of the evening, but gained its strength from the unique ambiance of the show, hosted by French presenter Fabio Rubino. Haute Couture designs sparkled on the catwalk against the fairytale decor of the location. An impressive ensemble that did justice to the inspiring creations of the designers, who were vigorously showcased by the various models that played their part in highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion in fashion.
Nevertheless, these three days were a beautiful and impressive edition of Diversity Fashion Week, an event that radiates more than just fashion and glamour, but is especially important for our society in which everyone counts and deserves a fair, equal place. Diversity Fashion Week uses the power and influence of fashion to give everyone a voice. An initiative that we would like to pay attention to and share with the world, but above all hope that it will receive more support from different angles. Together we make the difference.
