From absolute showstoppers to cosy, everyday outfits, fashion is a creative way of expressing your own unique style – no matter the occasion. Runway to Realway is an upcoming trend that allows you to bring a little of that glamour to life, without ever stepping foot onto a catwalk.
1. Examining the Transformation of High Fashion
High fashion has been evolving ever since its relatively recent inception – but how, and why? What began as impractical haute couture for the upper echelons of society has blossomed into a much more accessible form of clothing. Let’s look at the transformation of fashion in more detail.
From Brands to Street Wear
It used to be that only the ultra rich could flaunt the designer wares seen on the runway. It’s amazing to consider that nowadays almost anyone can sport a designer outfit thanks to high street replication of designer apparel. This gives people from all walks of life greater purchases on fashion choices while lowering the overall cost of what makes a person look stylish.
A New Spectrum of Expressiveness
Where before outrageous trends were set by the fashion houses of Europe, now young, lesser known designers have a platform for expressing their versions of the future of fashion, or adopting the most avant-garde created styles of the past. The mainstream industry takes these trends and creates them in a way that everyone can enjoy, both in terms of cost and wearability. For example, a style of backpack started as a niche trend at both the high fashion and streetwear levels, but has since made its way into almost every mall in the US. Suddenly a style of bag was available for everyone regardless of their budget.
Growing Popularity
With the reach of high fashion and streetwear have come fashion weeks and worldwide fame for designers of all kinds. Contemporary streetwear brands such as Off-White, Supreme, and Supreme can be seen as the height of fashion alongside gems from the past like Alexander McQueen and Christian Dior. Magazines and social media now feature everyday people in their streetwear variations of these established trends alongside the very models who wore them on the runways.
Elements of Popular Appeal
What makes streetwear simultaneously irresistible and affordable? The sense of camaraderie, community, and identity can be found in the limited nature of certain choices. Logos, memes, colours, and collaborations are all popular aspects of the streetwear and high fashion scene, making it easy for people to find something to “connect” with. And with events and releases big and small, celebrities and designers alike have made streetwear a phenomena accessible to everyone.
The Future of High Fashion
It’s becoming clear that the digital nature of the internet and social media is making a huge impact on the world of fashion, from design ideas and inspiration to self-expression in terms of identity. With more and more influencers taking part in the game, it seems that nothing is sacred in the world of fashion anymore – and that has to be a good thing.
2. Taking Catwalk Trends to the Streets
Fashion trends may start on the runway, but they almost always end up on the street. It’s up to everyday fashion lovers to take those looks from the showroom and interpret them for real life. There’s plenty of room for style experimentation as you bring catwalk trends to the street. Here’s some tips to help you:
- Look to the Streets – find existing trends that capture the essence of the runway show. What are others wearing? What does style mean to your community?
- Bring Your Artistic Vision – take the catwalk trends and make them your own. Think of ways to make the style fresh and modern. Add unique accessories or mix different trends together to create a signature look.
- Choose Quality Over Quantity – while it’s tempting to pick up a bunch of trendy items right away, don’t forget to invest in some quality classic pieces to complete the look.
- Think Outside the Box – don’t be afraid to bend the rules of fashion. Find clothes you love and make them street-ready – no matter which pieces they consist of.
It’s easy to get carried away trying to match a runway look, but have no fear – the beauty of street fashion is that it’s all about personal interpretation. As long as you’ve got a creative eye and style confidence, it’s easy to take catwalk trends and create something that rocks every street. Feel good in what you wear and don’t be afraid of what others think.
If you need a bit of inspiration, check out the many street style blogs online. Best of all, you can find trends all around you. Get out of the house and explore. See what everyday people are wearing — get a feel for the latest trends. You never know, you might come across a style that you’d never thought to try but would suit you from head to toe.
The important thing to remember is that taking catwalk trends to the street doesn’t mean you have to completely replicate a runway look. Feel free to adjust and interpret the trends in your own way as you flaunt your fashion skills.
3. Making the Most of Everyday Styles
When it comes to fashion and style, there’s no need to follow every trend. And who’s to say that there’s only one way to look chic? Why not take a more timeless approach, and make the most of everyday staples and classic pieces?
Start with the little things, like the bag you use to tote around your laptop and the sundresses you wear on weekends. Opt for classic shapes and shades that are sure to turn heads without ever going out of style. Leather tote bags or woven baskets are perfect for the office and can also transition to weekend errands, while pleated cotton sundresses in popping pastels are a great pick for a day of outdoor adventures.
Once you’ve gotten the little things out of the way, it’s all about building your wardrobe. Start with basics in an array of neutral shades: camel, ash grey, navy, and white are all timeless options. From there, you can play with textures and fabrics and add a few fun prints to your mix. Think leather jackets, flowy skirts, lightweight shirts, and textured sweaters.
Now that you have your wardrobe basics mapped out, it’s time for the accessories. There’s a certain je ne sais quoi when it comes to jewelry and scarf styling: Feel free to pair bold statement pieces, long necklaces, and bright colors together. Find pieces you love and you don’t have to worry about it – you can’t go wrong!
Putting together a classic and timeless style is all about finding confidence in your own true style. Pulling together the basics of a timeless wardrobe may take some time, but the process can also be incredibly liberating. Master the basics and you’ll have the tools to rock any look you want.
- Opt for classic shapes and shades
- Start with basics in neutral shades
- Play with textures and fabrics
- Choose statement pieces, long necklaces for accessories
4. Unlocking Your Personal Style Through Runway Inspiration
Everybody wants to have a sense of style that stands out from the rest. can help you get closer to achieving that goal. Here are some easy tips:
- Start with the basics: Find a collection of looks that you admire and keep coming back to. Don’t worry about copying it directly; instead, try to understand the elements of design that stand out the most. This could include the cuts, silhouettes, detailing, and colors. Having a clear foundation can set the tone for the rest of your fashion journey.
- Mix it up: Once you have the basics down, you can start to incorporate your own twist. Start by experimenting with the pieces and colors. Wear something unexpected or pull styles from interesting eras. It’s okay to play around with different pieces until you find the specific look that works for you.
- Be creative: Don’t be afraid to break the traditional fashion rules. While runway shows are static, day-to-day fashion and style is much less one-dimensional. A successful fashionista knows how to mix the old and the new, the traditional and the modern, the outrageous and the subtle. Try to find the unique balance that works for you.
- Explore different stores: Looking for ways to express your style? Visit stores that offer designs that are different from what you’d usually find at your local mall. You never know what kind of treasures you might discover. You may find oddly inspiring pieces, or a brand that echoes your fashion sensibilities.
Inspiring a sense of creativity in fashion is the key to finding and unlocking your own personal style. Runway looks are great first steps that can help point you in the right direction. Once you get an idea of what is out there, you can start to add pieces that showcase your individual style. Don’t be afraid to take some risks to get your fashion ideas noticed. Remember, fashion is all about having fun and expressing yourself.
High fashion may be glamorous and luxurious, but it doesn’t have to be impractical – it can be adapted to create affordable, stylish everyday looks that anyone can rock. Don’t be afraid to mix it up and experiment with the latest trends until you find that perfect balance between “runway” and “realway” that works for you!
