In brief
In a departure from the exclusivity of fashion shows, a critic invited the public to engage in the experience, creating an inclusive atmosphere.
Last month, the atmosphere was mixed at Les Invalides, Paris, where Jonathan Anderson showcased his inaugural collection for Dior. While the elite celebrities and fashion executives awaited the show in hushed reverence, a contrasting event unfolded across town. Over at Le Saint Denis, a quaint cafe in the bustling 10th Arrondissement, a crowd of students, writers, and enthusiastic locals filled the space, spiritedly engaging with the fashion spectacle streaming on a TV set up by critic Elias Medini, affectionately known as Lyas.In a moment of disappointment over not receiving an invitation, Lyas decided to turn his misfortune into an opportunity by inviting anyone curious enough to join him for a communal viewing. “I didn't want to watch it alone on my phone when I could share the experience with others,” Lyas stated, reflecting on his choice to take an active role in the situation.The result was remarkable, as nearly 300 fashion enthusiasts gathered, and the atmosphere was electric. Unlike the typically formal fashion shows, there were no restrictions, assigned seats, or muted reactions. People cheered, laughed, and reacted candidly to the parade of designs, creating a scene reminiscent of a sporting event rather than a conventional fashion presentation. Lyas articulated a thought many in attendance shared: “Fashion is often viewed through a lens of elitism, but real people bring genuine responses to art. Why should we hide our reactions?” This gathering showcased that fashion can be a communal experience, bridging gaps between the industry and the public, and offering insights into how the enjoyment of creativity transcends the barriers of snobbery in the fashion world.
