# The Absurdity of Racing in Fashion

In an era where sustainability and inclusivity are at the forefront of the fashion industry, it's astonishing that some designers still engage in a practice that promotes exclusivity and elitism: high-stakes racing. Yes, you read that right – racing. As I delved into the world of competitive fashion, I couldn't help but wonder: why race when there's so much fashion to be made?

## The History of Fashion Racing

Fashion racing, also known as "red carpet racing" or " designer racing," has its roots in the 1970s and 1980s. During this time, designers like Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein would compete against each other by sending their models down a catwalk at high speed, with the fastest time winning. The idea was to showcase the latest designs while also promoting the brand's reputation for speed and style.

## The Glamour of Racing

Fashion racing quickly became a staple of the fashion world, with designers like Chanel and Dior participating in events like the Met Gala and the CFDA Fashion Awards. These events featured models strutting down catwalks at breakneck speeds, often while wearing elaborate costumes and accessories. The glamour of racing was undeniable, and it quickly became a highlight of the fashion calendar.

## The Dark Side of Racing

However, as I dug deeper into the world of fashion racing, I began to uncover a darker side to this practice. One of the most significant concerns is the safety of the models involved. With designers pushing their creations down catwalks at high speeds, there's always a risk of injury or even death.

Furthermore, fashion racing has been criticized for promoting exclusivity and elitism. Only a select few have access to the resources and expertise needed to participate in these events, leaving many designers and brands on the outside looking in.

## The Impact on Sustainability

As I explored the world of fashion racing, I couldn't help but think about its impact on sustainability. In an era where consumers are increasingly concerned with the environmental and social impact of their purchases, it's surprising that designers would choose to promote speed over substance.

Fashion racing requires massive amounts of resources, from the catwalks themselves to the elaborate costumes and accessories. These resources come at a cost, not just financially but also environmentally.

## The Rise of Alternative Events

In recent years, there's been a shift towards alternative events that prioritize sustainability and inclusivity over speed and exclusivity. Events like the London Fashion Week's "Slow Fashion" initiative and the "Sustainable Fashion" conference have given designers a platform to showcase their commitment to environmental responsibility.

## Why We Should Ditch Racing

So, why should we ditch racing in favor of more sustainable alternatives? For starters, it promotes exclusivity and elitism. By limiting access to these events, designers are perpetuating an exclusive club that leaves many on the outside looking in.

Furthermore, fashion racing prioritizes speed over substance. In an era where consumers are increasingly concerned with the environmental and social impact of their purchases, it's time for designers to prioritize sustainability over style.

## Conclusion

Fashion racing may have its roots in the 1970s and 1980s, but it's time to leave this practice behind. By prioritizing sustainability and inclusivity, designers can create events that promote environmental responsibility while also showcasing their creativity.

As I wrapped up my investigation into fashion racing, I couldn't help but wonder: what's next for the fashion industry? Will we see a shift towards more sustainable practices or will racing continue to dominate the scene? Only time will tell.

Recommendations

• Sustainable Fashion Initiatives: Encourage designers to participate in initiatives that promote sustainability and environmental responsibility.
• Inclusive Events: Create events that prioritize inclusivity over exclusivity, giving designers from diverse backgrounds a platform to showcase their work.
• Slow Fashion: Promote slow fashion practices that prioritize quality over quantity and speed.

By ditching racing and embracing more sustainable alternatives, we can create an industry that prioritizes creativity and responsibility.