The fashion world has evolved into a digital landscape where knowledge is power. A high fashion IQ is no longer just about what you wear, but also about how you engage with the industry. From Substack newsletters to personal shopping philosophies, there are numerous ways to refine your fashion sense and stand out in the digital age.
In today’s fashion ecosystem, being well-informed is a form of cultural capital. It’s not just about keeping up with trends, but understanding the nuances of style, the stories behind brands, and the art of personal expression. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or simply looking to elevate your wardrobe, cultivating a high fashion IQ can transform your relationship with clothing.
The Rise of Substack in Fashion
Substack has emerged as a hub for fashion enthusiasts seeking deeper insights and original thought. Unlike social media platforms that prioritize visuals, Substack offers a space for writers to explore fashion through a more nuanced lens. Farrah Storr, Substack’s head of international, highlights the platform’s unique appeal: “It’s built to connect you with creatives you’ll actually love, and hopefully leave you feeling inspired.”
Newsletters like Rian Phin’s Cultural Production and Amy Francombe’s Amy_Coded approach style as a science, offering readers a fresh perspective on fashion. These platforms provide a welcome respite from the endless scroll of Instagram and TikTok, focusing instead on thoughtful analysis and personal narratives.
Embracing Personal Style Philosophies
Endrit Nurcaj, style editor of Encore! challenges the notion that a high fashion IQ requires living in a fashion capital or following industry trends. His philosophy revolves around authenticity and self-awareness. “I like sharing things I discover,” he says. “I’m sometimes worried about ending up in a very small circle where everyone follows the same people, wears the same brands and starts looking at fashion through the same lens.”
Nurcaj’s biggest style influence is Ralph Lauren, whom he admires for maintaining a consistent identity across different labels. This philosophy extends to his shopping habits, where he values the physical connection with garments. “I need that physical connection with a garment,” he explains. “I’m not particularly interested in being ‘in season’. I’ll happily buy something in the sales, in an outlet, secondhand or somewhere completely unexpected.”
Expanding Your Fashion Horizons
To cultivate a high fashion IQ, it’s essential to explore beyond your comfort zone. This could mean delving into the contemporary bracket of brands, such as Ruohan and FANE, or engaging with media that prioritize original thought. Substack’s recent translation feature makes it easier to discover content outside your own echo chamber, broadening your fashion horizons.
Danya Issawi, Substack’s deputy editor, emphasizes the importance of honing your personal style while blocking out industry noise. “Having spent years working in and around fashion, I honed in on what my personal style is and feels like whilst blocking out noise from the industry at large,” she shares. This approach allows for a more authentic and unique fashion sense.
Ultimately, cultivating a high fashion IQ is about embracing your personal style, engaging with thoughtful content, and exploring new brands and shopping strategies. In the digital age, fashion is not just about what you wear, but also about how you engage with the industry and express your unique identity.
