The AFW Talks returned for a third year in a row as a proven highlight on the Amsterdam Fashion Week schedule. For its 2023 Edition, we delved into the embracing of unplanned beauty in the world of fashion, sustainability from both a consumer and an industry perspective, and the rapid changes within the world of modern menswear. Hosted within The HUB by AFW, industry experts engaged in thought-provoking discussions, each bringing their distinctive expertise to the table.
“Embracing Unplanned Beauty in Fashion” with Esmay Wagemans
On the 1st of September, moderator Cathelijne Blok delved into the world of renowned sci-fi artist Esmay Wagemans, resulting in a captivating talk that delved into the fusion of human imagination and artificial intelligence in the fashion world. Uncovering the creative power of imperfections, the conversation concluded the unique pathway Esmay uncovered, continuously in search of the perfect balance between art and fashion. This Talk was a must-attend for those fascinated by the evolving interplay of imagination, technology, and the future of fashion.
How can we make fashion a force for good?
Whilst sustainability has gained widespread recognition, the fashion industry’s progress towards positive change has been slow. In this talk, Nanette Hogervorst (Founder SFGC), Chanel Trapman (Filmmaker & Founder Mumster), Sara Dubbeldam (Sustainable fashion journalist and activist), Reina Ovinge (Founder The Knitwit Stable) and Vincenzo Fornoni (Head of Business Development at True Cost Label) delved into the shared interests that bridge the gap between industry and consumers, and posed questions that made both consumers and brands think about their responsibility towards waste. Concluding that sustainable fashion is about new ways of dealing with clothing, the participants argued the propelling of exchanging, borrowing, and leasing into the mainstream. Lead by moderator Shaquille Joy, this unique gathering was made possible by the Sustainable Fashion Gift Card (SFGC), an organisation committed to promoting sustainable practices in the fashion world.
Talk 3: Shaping the landscape of modern menswear
In the realm of menswear, the traditional staples of hoodies, tracksuits, and sneakers are undergoing a remarkable evolution. The contemporary menswear scene now embraces bold colours, striking silhouettes, and refined shirting, departing from convention in style. Amsterdam Fashion Week brought together key figures leading this exciting shift, including Wouter Leenders (Founder Ansh46), Regi Schalks (Creative Director of Flâneur), and Afeez Amao (Founder ‘TRENDSBYAFEEZ). Sharing profound insights into the driving forces behind this menswear transformation, they shed light on the creative inspirations propelling these groundbreaking changes and how they together give shape to the progressing menswear movement in the Netherlands.
