From the outside, four fashion weeks twice a year for both men and women may seem a bit excessive.
In fact, each of the major fashion weeks has its own distinct style and personality, meaning they are all unique – and all very necessary.
Don’t believe us? Here’s our handy guide to New York, London, Paris and Milan.
New York
In three words
Young, hip, diverse.
What’s the vibe?
NYFW – which starts today – might have been established in 1943 (years before the other three cities), but it isn’t shackled by some of the same traditions as Milan and Paris. Like London, it’s seen as much younger and cooler, but it still maintains a commercial and sporty touch that the English capital doesn’t necessarily follow. It’s considered to be the most casual of all the fashion weeks.
Who normally shows there?
You have classic American royalty brands such as Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren, as well as some edgier offerings like Alexander Wang and Eckhaus Latta.
What’s the street style like?
The Best Beauty Street Style From NYFW Spring 2016 pic.twitter.com/0fOoosFzKO
— brenda camacho (@brendac14354557) December 10, 2016
#TBT: See All the Best Street Style From NYFW Last Season pic.twitter.com/np1ZDxTN0n
— erica granados (@granados_erica) December 5, 2016
AW16 street style.#nyfw pic.twitter.com/9222RP3QcY
— Irene Kim (@ireneisgoodl) August 3, 2016
When is it this year?
February 9-16
London
In three words
Experimental, edgy, cool.
What’s the vibe?
London is the youngest fashion week out of the big four, and the city definitely uses this to its advantage. This means that it’s hugely welcoming to newcomers and is known for being far more experimental, open and edgy than its counterparts.
Who normally shows there?
Highlights include the ever-glittery Ashish alongside Vivienne Westwood, Christopher Kane and JW Anderson. It’s also worthwhile looking out for the NewGen and Fashion East shows which display some hot new talent.
What’s the street style like?
When is it this year?
February 17-21
Milan
In three words
Glamorous, provocative, craftsmanship.
What’s the vibe?
Like Paris, Milan knows that it’s a big deal in the fashion world, and the shows reflect this. But perhaps unlike its French counterpart, MFW goes big on sex appeal. Think form-fitting outfits with an emphasis on traditional craftsmanship – all oozing Italian sex appeal.
Who normally shows there?
Lots of big names: think Gucci, Versace and Dolce & Gabbana.
What’s the street style like?
The Street Style in Fashion Week 2017 in Milan Italy: it's call the vintage abstract dress? pic.twitter.com/TiFpSy5Dpa
— Bunny (@talkfashion1k) February 3, 2017
When is it this year?
February 22-28
Paris
In three words
Artistic, creative, elegant.
What’s the vibe?
Arguably saving the best until last, Paris is the undeniable big dog of all the fashion weeks – and you can see why. Home to some of the most important fashion brands on the planet, PFW is all about pushing the boat out.
The bigger the better when it comes to creativity, but somehow the French capital always manages to pull it off with a whole lot of class. Talk about ending the fashion season with a bang.
Who normally shows there?
Who doesn’t? Chanel and Dior rival each other to put on the most exciting show of the season, with the likes of Balenciaga and Louis Vuitton holding their own as well.
What’s the street style like?
Ola Rudnicka at Paris Fashion Week Spring 2017 – Street Style pic.twitter.com/la8iTpbZBt
— ?? hf pixie ?? (@pradaspixie) February 5, 2017
When is it this year?
February 28 – March 7
