London Fashion Week 2017: What is the point of five days of runway shows

They’re just frivolous, superficial and dictatorial after all, right?

For the fashion crowd at least, these shows are significant (Getty Images)

It’s the most expensive 20 minutes of a fashion house’s year, the clothes are ridiculously overpriced and, for the most part, could never be worn by anyone over a size 8 so, what is the point in fashion shows?

Their purpose continues to be a big topic of discussion but interestingly more so among those with little to no interest in fashion.

By those outside of the industry it can, understandably, be difficult to appreciate why events like London Fashion Week are important. They’re frivolous, superficial and dictatorial after all, right?

While the hefty price tags and minority audience certainly make it an easy target for dismissal, first of all, you must understand that not everyone is interested in the same things.

And, for the fashion crowd at least, these shows are significant.

They not only do they give an insight into what we’ll be wearing next season but they also serve as a reflection of modern society.

For that reason alone, fashion week is revered as an increasingly important part of popular culture just like its counterparts in music, art and film. Though, for some reason, they face far less denigration.

So, what is London Fashion Week?

At its core, it’s an important, six-day industry event that allows designers to show their collections to buyers, journalists and, of course, the odd celebrity, but it also maintains the city’s status as a top fashion capital.

Something that it’s worked hard to establish since the 1960s heyday of Biba and Mary Quant.

And, to top it all off, let’s not forget that the fashion sector plays a significant role in the UK economy with London Fashion Week alone estimated to rake in £269 million each season.

Granted, the extreme designs you are so often witness to on the runway might not be that wearable but, whether you’re a certified fashionista or not, they serve to inform clothing across the board.

From Marks & Spencer to Topshop and everything in between, the high street is very much influenced by what it sees at London Fashion Week.

As for the size issue, yes, it’s true that the clothes are paraded on unnecessarily thin models but that’s not to say fashion is irrelevant to women.

The designers are undeniably sizeist but that doesn’t make what the models are wearing inconsequential. Fashion there to be interpreted and to serve as inspiration.

Whether you bow down to the altar of high-end fashion or not, it is categorically for anyone and everyone.

In spite of their virtues, unfortunately, fashion shows continue to come under attack as throwaway, boring and shallow.

Still not convinced? Then you probably never will be.

At which point, the answer seems rather simple. If you don’t enjoy fashion shows then don’t watch or read about them.