The Future Of Fashion: Lessons From The Global Fashion Collective 2024

The Global Fashion Collective (GFC) is challenging the fashion industry’s long-standing reputation for elitism and exclusion. As an official part of the prestigious New York Fashion Week calendar and with a growing presence in London, Paris, Milan and worldwide, the GFC, spearheaded by Djibouti-born, fashion visionary Jamal Abdourahman, produces exclusive runway shows to help designers increase international exposure and access new markets.

So what lessons can we learn from this transformative brand challenging the status quo?

Firstly, brands must embrace inclusion. The Global Fashion Collective is committed to bringing in emerging designers that would otherwise be overlooked for reasons other than their talent. Where else would you see an experienced, white woman in her sixties with a background working with the FBI at Milan Fashion Week, if not in the dynamic world of Tess Mann? Based in Nashville, Tennesse, this designer is evolving her acclaimed bridal brand to explore a dynamic new realm of evening wear, gender-neutral designs, and bespoke custom creations.

But showcasing Tess Mann isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s business savvy. In fact, a staggering 59% of consumers say they are more loyal to brands that stand for diversity and inclusion.

Secondly, I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again, brands must be authentic. In fact, 88% of consumers demand that brands behave in an authentic way.

Take the Sagaboi collection. Creative Director, Geoff K. Cooper, drew inspiration from the vibrant culture of Caribbean Carnival and defiantly asserted the legitimacy of Caribbean voices and experiences within the fashion industry’s traditionally exclusive landscape. The Sagaboi brand embraces a message of unapologetic self-expression. The designs empower wearers to show up authentically, stand firmly in their truth, and confidently take up space – a philosophy that aligns with the tenets of my book, The Kim Kardashian Principle.

Thirdly, as the world increasingly becomes interconnected, The Global Fashion Collective reminds us that brands must adopt a global mindset. It was refreshing to see the acclaimed Peruvian haute couture label of Noé Bernacelli seamlessly alongside the Japanese designer Kubo San Made, whose collection drew inspiration from the British countryside. By breaking down cultural barriers and embracing a truly global perspective, the Global Fashion Collective is paving the way for the fashion industry to break down those regional barriers.

Now, what would I say to those fashion purists whose concern is that The Global Fashion Collective approach could come at the expense of preserving the heritage and distinct identities of the established and oh-so-fabulous fashion capitals like Paris, Milan, and New York? After all, the GFC could be homogenizing fashion in a way that erodes those very unique identities that make fashion season so unique, ultimately failing to resonate with consumers craving authenticity.

I’d say that 83% of audiences prefer to support businesses that align with their values, and the GFC’s bold approach is better aligned with the preferences of the consumers who will shape the future of the industry. And with 68% of U.S. adults believing that brands should speak out against racial inequality and injustice, I’d also say the GFC’s commitment to social justice is likely to resonate strongly with these key audience segments.

Bottom line?

In a world craving brands that authentically reflect their audiences’ diversity and values, I believe the Global Fashion Collective is helping lead the charge. By embracing inclusion, prioritizing genuine representation, and adopting a global, social-justice mindset, this dynamic collective is democratizing fashion like never before. So watch out, because before you know it, you might also just find yourself sitting front row at a coveted New York or Milan or Paris Fashion Week show, witnessing the future of the industry unfold.

Named Esquire’s Influencer Of The Year, Jeetendr Sehdev is a media personality, international speaker and the author of the New York Times bestselling sensation, The Kim Kardashian Principle: Why Shameless Sells (and How to Do It Right.)