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Main Cast: Alexa Chung, Tan France, Marco Morante, Charles Lu
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1 season, 10 episodes, 50-minute runtime
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In the realm of reality TV, fashion competitions have carved out their niche, captivating audiences with the thrill of creation, the agony of tight deadlines, and the drama that inevitably unfolds when creative minds clash. Amidst the plethora of fashion-focused shows, “Next in Fashion” emerged on Netflix in 2020, offering a fresh take on the genre. Hosted by the charismatic duo of Tan France, known for his role in “Queer Eye,” and designer and model Alexa Chung, the show brings together 18 innovative designers from around the globe, all competing for a hefty $250,000 prize and the chance to debut their collection with luxury fashion retailer, Net-a-Porter.
The Format
Unlike other fashion competition shows where contestants often start solo, “Next in Fashion” begins with the designers paired into teams. This approach adds an interesting layer to the competition, as it not only tests the designers’ individual talent and vision but also their ability to collaborate and merge their distinct styles. Over the course of the season, challenges are thrown at the pairs, each designed to test different aspects of fashion design, from sportswear to couture.
The structure of the show is straightforward yet effective. Each episode focuses on a specific theme or aspect of fashion, pushing contestants to explore their creativity while adhering to tight deadlines. The bottom two teams face a tense critique from the panel of judges, leading to an elimination. As the competition progresses, the stakes get higher, the challenges become more demanding, and the pairs are eventually dissolved, leaving the designers to fend for themselves.
The Judges and Guest Judges
“Next in Fashion” boasts an impressive lineup of judges and guest judges. Tan France and Alexa Chung serve not only as hosts but also as mentors and critics, guiding the contestants through the competition. Their chemistry and differing backgrounds in fashion provide a balanced perspective on the contestants’ work.
The show also features a rotating panel of guest judges, including influential figures in the fashion industry such as designer Tommy Hilfiger, celebrity stylist Elizabeth Stewart, and Instagram’s director of fashion partnerships, Eva Chen, among others. These guest judges bring their expertise and insight to the table, offering valuable feedback to the contestants and adding credibility to the competition.
Standout Moments and Challenges
One of the show’s strengths is its ability to craft challenges that are both relevant to the current fashion landscape and demanding enough to push the designers to their limits. For example, the activewear challenge reflects the growing trend of stylish, functional sportswear, while the couture challenge tests the designers’ ability to create high fashion under pressure.
A particularly memorable moment from the season is the “Underwear” challenge, where contestants were tasked with creating a line of lingerie in a very limited timeframe. This challenge not only tested their technical skills but also their understanding of what makes lingerie empowering and inclusive. The results were a testament to the creativity and diversity of the contestants, showcasing everything from sleek, minimalist designs to bold, boundary-pushing pieces.
The Impact of “Next in Fashion”
“Next in Fashion” sets itself apart from other fashion competition shows in several ways. Firstly, the global diversity of the contestants brings a wide array of perspectives and aesthetics to the competition, enriching the show with cultural influences that are often underrepresented in mainstream fashion. This diversity is not just in nationality but in the contestants’ backgrounds, with some being self-taught and others having worked under major fashion houses.
Secondly, the show places a significant emphasis on sustainability and ethical fashion. Several challenges encourage the designers to think about the environmental impact of their creations, pushing them to use sustainable materials and methods. This focus on sustainability is reflective of a broader shift in the fashion industry towards more responsible practices.
Lastly, “Next in Fashion” is notable for its positive and supportive atmosphere. While competition is inherent to the show’s format, there’s a palpable sense of camaraderie among the contestants. This supportive environment, coupled with Tan France and Alexa Chung’s mentorship, creates a nurturing space for creativity and growth.
Conclusion
“Next in Fashion” is more than just a fashion competition; it’s a celebration of creativity, diversity, and innovation. The show manages to strike a perfect balance between entertainment and education, providing viewers with a glimpse into the hard work and passion that goes into fashion design. Whether you’re a fashion aficionado or simply looking for an engaging and inspiring watch, “Next in Fashion” is a show that delivers on all fronts. With its talented contestants, challenging tasks, and a focus on the future of fashion, it’s a must-watch for anyone interested in the transformative power of clothing.