Netflix show 'Next in Fashion' newest binge-worthy reality TV show
With a similar premise to lifetime-hit Project Runway, “Next in Fashion” is Netflix’s take on reality TV with a focus on competitive design.
Connoisseurs of style gathered from across the world to participate in a competition, which is said to assess their creative vision. As contestants, they are expected to create custom looks contingent to a specific theme, presented by household names Alexa Chung and Tan France.
Throughout the series, you are likely to acquire knowledge on the fundamentals behind certain trends, some of which may include streetwear, denim and military, to name a few.
Since participants hail from distinct countries and express opposing views on fashion, their originality is evident in their work. In fact, not only do we become familiar with their respective taste in style, but the show also provides the audience with some insight into the contestants’ personal lives — allows us to understand why they chose to partake in this particular contest to begin with.
A number of the participants are already quite experienced in the realm of fashion, yet lie on different ends of the spectrum. Some have an already established brand, while others aspire to create one. Designers Carli Pearson and Kiki Milele are among those who have collaborated with professionals in the industry, such as creators Stella McCartney, J. Alexander Martin and more. Contestant Ashton Hirota has gone as far as to style illustrious names in pop music, including Beyoncé, Justin Bieber and Post Malone.
Those who aren’t as privileged in the world of fashion rely on the publicity of the show, and ultimately the cash prize to be attained at the grand finale. The winner is said to earn $250,000, courtesy of online luxury retail site, Net-a-Porter. With so much at stake, there is little room for mundane designs, relaxed banter and a tired work ethic.
If the competitive nature of the recent Netflix hit wasn’t enough to convince you to indulge in the program, maybe the appearance of celebrity judges may entice you further. After each round, presenters welcome a panel of judges to reach a conclusion as to who outshone their competitors. Guests include Tommy Hilfiger, Josefine Aberg, Christopher Kane, in addition to other fashion personalities. Their elaborate opinions of the looks presented allow the contestants to improve their approach, if they are so fortunate to progress.
While "Next in Fashion" has its elements of entertainment, the heart of the show lies with presenters Chung and France.
Chung, a 36-year-old fashion mogul, is renowned for her experience as a TV presenter, acclaimed writer, model and designer. Her wicked charm and constructive fashion advice allow the contestants to feel welcome and the audience satisfied with their newly chosen binge.
France, also 36 years old and famously known for his role as a fashion expert on Netflix original "Queer Eye," brings a hint of spunk and flare with his high-class choice in garb. Throughout the season, France develops a close relationship with the contestants and even shares emotional sentiments with the group. His empathetic nature and witty character serve as sources of pleasant diversion from the competition.
With its release on Jan. 29, “Next in Fashion” has taken the world of style enthusiasts by storm. Those within the fashion industry, and others who express a simple interest, have finished the season in a matter of days, and in extreme cases, hours.
To those who have not had the pleasure of wallowing in the reality show, I invite you to hop on the latest bandwagon. Otherwise, with the prominence of social media, you may expose yourself to spoilers.
