At the recent BRICS+ Fashion Summit in Moscow, the fashion industry witnessed a historic moment as over 50 nations came together to launch the BRICS International Fashion Federation. This unprecedented collaboration among emerging markets—Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and their allies—signals a monumental shift in the global fashion landscape. The federation aims to empower designers, foster sustainable practices, and reshape the industry’s focus towards inclusion and collaboration, offering new opportunities for countries outside the traditional Western-dominated fashion capitals.
In many ways, the creation of the BRICS International Fashion Federation is a powerful declaration that emerging economies are no longer content to play supporting roles in the global fashion narrative. Instead, they are ready to lead. This newly formed federation not only unites these diverse nations but also challenges existing fashion hierarchies, where Paris, New York, and Milan have long held the reins of the industry.
A new platform for emerging economies
The establishment of this federation provides a platform for countries that have often been overlooked in global fashion conversations. The goal is clear: to elevate local designers, promote sustainable practices, and develop new supply chains that support local artisans. In doing so, the federation can create new pathways for countries in the BRICS+ group to collectively assert their influence in the global market.
As the world moves towards more sustainable fashion, this alliance is particularly timely. The BRICS International Fashion Federation places a strong emphasis on "slow fashion" and eco-friendly design. These values resonate with many of the participating countries, which have rich traditions of craftmanship and textiles that are often more sustainable than fast fashion’s mass-production model.
Unity in diversity: What it means for the global fashion landscape
This federation is also about recognising the value of diversity. For too long, the global fashion industry has been shaped by a narrow set of influences. By bringing together over 50 nations, this alliance will reflect a broader spectrum of cultures, styles, and voices. The participation of countries like India, Brazil, and South Africa—each with its vibrant fashion scene—promises to introduce fresh perspectives and creativity to the international stage.
Beyond aesthetics, the BRICS International Fashion Federation is about leveling the playing field. Many emerging economies are burdened by global supply chain inequities and underrepresentation. This new coalition gives these countries a platform to address shared challenges, from environmental responsibility to ensuring that artisans receive fair wages for their work.
What About Pakistan?
Amidst this collaboration, a key question arises: Where does Pakistan stand? With its rich textile history and thriving fashion industry, Pakistan could greatly benefit from such alliances. However, the opportunity to participate in platforms like the BRICS International Fashion Federation is contingent on having a well-structured national body that can represent the country’s fashion sector. Unfortunately, without a formalised fashion council, Pakistan’s designers are left on the sidelines of these global movements.
Even during the Moscow Fashion Week, it was clear that international fashion platforms require official representation from different nations. The management of the Moscow Fashion Week expressed an interest in inviting Pakistani designers to future events, but they made it clear that they would only work through an organised fashion council. This presents a challenge and an opportunity for Pakistan to align itself with this global shift by establishing a council that can promote our designers on these international platforms.
A global vision for fashion
The BRICS International Fashion Federation represents more than just a collaboration between emerging markets—it embodies a new vision for what the future of fashion could be. By prioritising sustainability, fair trade, and cultural inclusivity, the federation challenges the status quo and offers a fresh perspective on how fashion can be both profitable and principled.
This alliance signals a new era where nations that have historically been in the background of the fashion industry can now step forward as leaders. As this federation grows, it has the potential to reshape not only the fashion industry but also the way we think about global partnerships. It's a powerful reminder that when nations unite around shared values and common goals, they can challenge the existing order and create a more inclusive and equitable world.