Pecker is a key witness in the case against the former US president, who is accused of falsifying business records to cover up hush-money payment
Since the event is called a 'buyers lane', who are the buyers?
The event focuses on B-to-C and B-to-B. We have been working with leading brands and have confirmed buyers from Ounass, Nisnass, Galeries Lafayette, Souq.com, BHV, Grazia's e-commerce, Debenhams, SAKS Avenue, Tyrano and others.
Why did you feel the need for this event?
After partnering with dozens of fashion weeks over the years, we felt that the traditional catwalk model was broken. It requires a huge investment from designers and brands, and doesn't yield tangible returns for either party. Modest fashion is also hugely misunderstood and little known. The market for modest fashion is estimated at around $350 billion. It's a huge opportunity that many brands haven't had the chance to tap into. Through an entirely new format, our Pret-A-Cover Buyers Lane brings both emerging and established designers as well as leading global brands and consumers under one roof to enable collaborations and support brands to develop and thrive.
Define modest dressing. Why has it become such a global trend?
Modest fashion is not a trend. It's always been there... since the beginning of time, actually... and always will be. The only difference is that now, due to social media, people's preferences can be easily heard, and individual demands are easier to determine. The message today is clear - modest lifestyle is a choice. An astonishing majority prefer a modest way of life.
Is this the most important event IFDC has done till date?
Yes, in many ways it is. We're disrupting the typical fashion event. We're getting more involved in developing strategies that we hope will be a strong reason for a positive change and better approach to succeed in the business. Most importantly, we hope to inspire others to think disruptively.
What according to you are the event highlights?
No catwalk. No panel discussions. No workshops. No hired influencers. In each of these areas, we've done something as our answer to a better way to highlight the designer or talent behind the work being showcased. We're hoping this is just the beginning to effective answers and useful solutions in the fashion and design scene.
What can visitors expect at Pret-A-Cover Buyers Lane?
Throughout the six days (of the event), there will be special shopping sessions, pop interviews, media activations, social media competitions and technologically enabled fashion shows every night. City Walk's screens will immerse visitors into the designers' imagery. The pop-ups are open from 10am to midnight every day, and the shows and VIP receptions will take place from 7pm to 9pm. The event is free and open to public.
Pecker is a key witness in the case against the former US president, who is accused of falsifying business records to cover up hush-money payment
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