Every region has its own traditional fashion, but with the world getting smaller, fashion of different regions and cultures is getting merged and fashion designers are contributing to this new trend by presenting their new collections that are inspired by different societies and cultures.

In a conversation with fibre2fashion, professor of Fashion Science at the University of the Arts, London, Ms. Helen Storey said, “Fashion has a vital role to play in connecting people, culture and society as fashion is one of the things that is common world-wide. For instance, every human being, especially young women, try to explore their identity very often with their clothes the world-over.”

According to the Australian fashion designer Gail Sorronda, fashion is a medium of expression, a dialogue that shifts according to the overarching feelings in society and culture. “On a more intimate level it either acts as a mask or literal representation of self,” she says.

“The way we perceive ourselves or wish to be perceived sends a powerful message in connecting people.  Silhouette, color and the duality of masculine vs. feminine are all symbolic gestures that influence perception and energy,” she adds.

Eugene Leung, the fashion designer who is known for moody and atmospheric designs, is of the opinion every fashion outfit should be designed with more suitable and practical looks.

Whereas the Brazilian fashion designer Maria Raz says, “Every fashion designer has a statement and people who can connect to it.”

“I think fashion is defined by the lifestyle and culture of the people who wear it. And I believe fashion should not focus on artistry to the point of becoming un-wearable. Fashion and the way people dress helps to preserve a sense of value and personality. As a result, fashion designers create new trends of life style and culture for people,” opines the Korean fashion designer Lie Sang Bong. 

A recent example of the Asian/Arabic-Western merged fashion is the new ‘High Street Fashion Collection 2013’ launched by the designer Umair Zafar, which is a combination of Indian fabrics clubbed with Arabic designs to produce a western outfit.

“The new collection is made only with Indian-made fabrics such as linen, cotton, satin and floral print voil. The cut and feel of the garment is designed to target youth, but at the same time absorbs into western theme,” Umair Zafar said. 

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India