At the Portugal Fashion event, various leaders and experts gathered to discuss the transformations shaping the future of fashion. Among the event's highlights, THE Design's CEO, Teresa Pimentel, shared her insights on the accelerated market changes and new consumer demands.
Accelerating Changes in the Fashion Market
With the pandemic, the trend of change in the fashion market has significantly accelerated. Today's consumer dictates the rules, being more demanding and conscious. "Consumers want to buy better, valuing sustainability and opting for conscious purchases," Teresa highlighted. Even in a difficult economic climate, consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable products, showing a growing concern for ecology and product durability. The term "slow fashion" is increasingly in vogue.
The Digital Future and Customization
The event also emphasized the importance of digital integration in the fashion value chain. "The future is digital," stated Teresa, emphasizing that digital is no longer just a department but an integral part of the entire value chain. People want everything immediately but also desire customization. "Consumers want to influence their purchases, personalize them, which eliminates waste and unnecessary stock." This trend is comparable to the automotive market, where customers are willing to pay more and wait for a customized product.
Sustainability and Partnerships
Sustainability and partnerships were central themes of the conversation. "Partnerships are once again reinforced. Collaboration with ESAD in promoting new talents and collections of finalist students is crucial," Teresa emphasized. The creation of a true ecosystem for Portuguese fashion depends on these synergies, combining scientists, technologists, and designers.
A New Mindset in Fashion
Another essential change discussed was the need for a new mindset in the fashion industry. "Seasonal and standardized consumption shows how we live in 'herds'. We need a design that values a fair, timeless market and employs circular design," Teresa explained. This includes using as little energy as possible in manufacturing, avoiding waste, and prolonging the product life cycle.
The Role of THE Design
Founded in 2005, the THE project aims to promote new talents and exclusive designers, both national and international. "Values such as creativity, timelessness, comfort, and versatility are always present in the collections we present," Teresa highlighted. THE offers demanding curation, ensuring a coherence of language and values. "Our audience is mainly composed of mature, active women who value quality and conscious purchasing."
Teresa Pimentel's participation in Portugal Fashion underscored the need for innovation, sustainability, and cooperation in the fashion industry. Looking to the future, THE continues to lead the way, promoting fashion that is both elegant, conscious, and innovative.
