There’s a discussion going on in the fashion world about whether to offer fashion shows for consumers, instead of fashion media, buyers and insiders.

The premise is that the existing model of presenting a season six months ahead of time is irrelevant to consumers (at show time) and gives knock-offs time to replicate the designs and sell them before the original fashion house has a chance.

The other undercurrent is that we live in an instant gratification society. The digital world has elevated our expectations for on-demand products. Presumably, a consumer oriented fashion show would present the current season offerings, available for sale immediately.

It’s an interesting debate. Clearly fashion shows have already gone away from the original concept which was to act as a sales presentation to key buyers.

What do you think?