In celebration of the beloved and prestigious New York Fashion Week, The Knockturnal had the opportunity to attend NWFW’s THE TALKS program, where attendees learned all about how impactful travel is on fashion in the current day. The conversation reflected on From Destinations to Design: Travel’s Influence on Fashion, presented by Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts.
Among the panelists included luxury fashion brand, Proenza Schouler‘s, founders Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, as well as Dino Michael, SVP & Global Head of Hilton Luxury Brands, and Jacqueline Gifford, Editor in Chief at Travel + Leisure, who discussed the impact of travel on fashion and the creative process.
L-R: Jack McCollough, Lazaro Hernandez, Dino Michael, & Jacqui Gifford| PHOTO COURTESY: Bryan Bedder – Getty Images for NYFW: The Shows
In relation to fashion and various cultures, Gifford asked Jack how they maintain respect towards other culture. “You don’t want to rip someone’s culture off. You’ve gotta figure out ways to be inspired by it, but be really sensitive around those kinds of things… In our earlier days, we going on all these crazy trips. We’d go to Bhutan or go to India, all sorts of, you know, wild places and be super inspired and create collections around it. We’re definitely more, we’re less travel focused now in our, in our research approach[…] We’re kind of looking more inward in a way than outward.”
Consisting of travel playing a historical and significant role in shaping fashion trends, the discussion dove into how, ultimately, various cultures, aesthetics, and experiences can shape creativity for fashion and luxury designers. The panel also played as a poignant reminder that all these industries: hospitality, travel, fashion, and more all intersect during NYFW.
In regards to hospitality, Dino explained to listeners how a good hospitality experience revolves around creating a sense of being at home and feeling comfortable. They mentioned their brand’s philosophy of being the ultimate host, aiming to make guests feel like they’re welcomed home, appreciating
Jack McCollough & Lazaro-Hernandez – PHOTO COURTESY: Bryan Bedder | Getty Images for NYFW: The Shows
cultures, focusing on familiarity. Stressing the importance of the hotel’s culture, Dino expressed how the warmth of the team members plays a crucial role in creating a welcoming atmosphere, highlighting that culture plays a vital role in shaping the guest experience within the hospitality industry.
The conversation tilted towards the future of fashion, hinting at how there will always be an ongoing evolution of various fashion trends, but they are always truly adapting to the social context of the time
Travel will continue to influence design but with a heightened awareness of respecting diverse cultures. The fashion industry is evolving to meet the changing needs and values of consumers while staying true to its artistic roots.
Watch the full conversation here!