27 December 2023, Mumbai
As global giants wobbled, fashion powerhouses from Asia, Africa, and beyond stitched a new path: "friendshoring." In Moscow, the BRICS+, representing 45% of the world's population, hosted a summit of 130 brands. This vibrant kaleidoscope aimed to rewrite the fashion narrative, not just through trade but through collaboration and inclusivity.
Fashion's $2.5 trillion tapestry saw a bold new stitch. Designers from India, Turkey, South Africa, and beyond saw in this summit a chance to challenge the old order. Cem Altan, President of IAF, envisioned it as a deeper "BRICS transformation," urging these nations to open doors, learn global practices, and stand united.
Key threads in this new weave:
- Friendshoring: Local brands in Russia, thriving after Western exits, proved the power of regional alliances.
- Emerging Narratives: Designers from beyond the fashion capitals showcased their unique styles, shaking Western dominance.
- Sustainable Stitches: Sustainability, a global buzzword, resonated fiercely, with brands exploring eco-friendly practices.
The BRICS+ Fashion Summit wasn't just a runway. It was a revolution, weaving a vision of a more diverse, collaborative, and sustainable fashion future where new threads from emerging markets would rewrite the global tapestry.
