The Runway Has Entered Its Wellness Era

Sep 19, 2024 at 9:16 AM

Wellness Takes Center Stage: The Convergence of Fashion and Holistic Health

The world of fashion has undergone a remarkable transformation, as the once-exclusive realm of after-parties and hedonism has now embraced the growing fascination with wellness. From the runways to the backstage, designers and beauty brands are seamlessly integrating holistic practices, signaling a shift in the industry's priorities.

Wellness: The New Runway Trend

Acupuncture and the Wellness-Driven Future of Fashion

The recent London Fashion Week showcased a remarkable integration of wellness practices into the fashion landscape. For Jenn Lee's SS25 presentation, acupuncture took center stage, with the brand collaborating with Qiaosi Yan, a Taiwanese-born cosmetic acupuncture brand. Models embraced the shoulder-slackening rewards of the TCM ritual, with acupuncture needles pinned to their faces backstage. The growing body of research on the benefits of acupuncture, including its ability to reduce pain, aid stress management, and improve overall well-being, has made it an increasingly appealing addition to the fashion world's wellness arsenal.

Acupressure and Lymphatic Drainage: Backstage Calm and Radiance

Acupressure also played a pivotal role at the Tove show, where models were treated to moments of mindfulness and calm. Facialists applied acupressure, targeting pressure points to alleviate stress and calm the mind, as well as lymphatic drainage techniques. The aim was not only to lend the models a luminous glow on the runway but also to address the skin-mind connection. As Orveda's Education Manager, Agnieszka Szumlak, noted, the fashion industry is becoming more conscious of wellness, mental health, and physical health, with the incorporation of well-being practices being the next step in the evolution of backstage beauty.

Cryotherapy and the Pursuit of Radiance

Backstage at Erdem's SS25 unveiling, 111sKIN introduced a novel approach to backstage beauty. For the first time, aestheticians performed a CRYO facial using a high-tech cryotherapy machine. This technique helps increase microcirculation in the layers of the skin and aid puffiness, resulting in a brighter, firmer-looking complexion. Cryotherapy is also touted for its wellness powers, helping to increase circulation, boost mood, and improve inflammation.

Wellness Brands Take the Spotlight

The convergence of fashion and wellness was further highlighted by the presence of Alo Yoga as the official sponsor of London Fashion Week. The wellness brand offered IV drips and sound therapy, among other buzzy wellness trends, to stressed-out showgoers, catering to the growing demand for holistic practices in the high-fashion arena.

The Wellness Revolution in Fashion

As the wellness industry continues to thrive, it's no surprise that designers and beauty brands are embracing a more holistic approach. By incorporating wellness practices into the fashion landscape, they are not only addressing the physical and mental well-being of models and attendees but also reflecting the cultural zeitgeist. This shift signifies a profound transformation in the industry, where the pursuit of beauty and style is now inextricably linked with the pursuit of overall well-being.