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Even though the general economic outlook is gloomy, there is still a strong demand for Finnish excellence in the fashion, clothing and textile industries. Finland has distinguished itself as an expert in sustainable operating models and as a counterforce to fast fashion. The new EU regulation brings strict controls to the whole value chain, creating big opportunities for creative talents who understand the different aspects of product lifecycles. Aalto University, which has established itself as a major educator of professionals in the global fashion, clothing and textiles industries, is also strongly involved in this development.

At the end of May, the fashion world turns its attention É«É«À² University’s annual fashion event, which expands into two parts. ±·Ã¤²â³Ùö²õ24 will present collections in a runway show, while ±·Ã¤²â³Ù³Ù±ð±ô²â24 will present them in the form of an exhibition. Together they are undoubtedly one of the most important fashion events in Finland and part of the wider Fashion in Helsinki week. 

"This year we are launching a new event, ±·Ã¤²â³Ù³Ù±ð±ô²â24, which has been in demand for some time. Alongside ecological sustainability, social sustainability themes and non-discrimination in fashion continue to be important themes. Alongside the collections we also want to present the research behind them, and this is most effective in the form of an exhibition," says Annamari Vänskä, Professor of fashion studies at Aalto University.

"The students' work is based on many themes that are personally important to them and are linked to the field of fashion. For example, the importance of craftsmanship, family history and background, or a general attitude towards life are strongly reflected. In addition, the exhibition showcases completely new kinds of fashion users," says Ilona Hyötyläinen, lecturer in fashion at Aalto University. 

After the fashion show ±·Ã¤²â³Ùö²õ24, the awarded outfits will be displayed in ±·Ã¤²â³Ù³Ù±ð±ô²â24. 

Other fashion week events

±·Ã¤²â³Ùö²õ24 & ±·Ã¤²â³Ù³Ù±ð±ô²â24 fashion event’s main partner is the City of Espoo. This year, the City of Espoo will assemble a youth jury aged 16-20 to decide which Aalto University student will receive the City of Espoo Award. The jury members will get to explore the world of fashion under the guidance of internationally successful fashion designer and Aalto alumn Ervin Latimer. 

"The value of creativity comes from knowledge and uniqueness. By investing in collaboration between the creatives and the industry, we can develop new opportunities and learning, which is key in our rapidly changing society. The creative industries are an important source of employment and attraction, attracting talent and businesses to Espoo. We are delighted to be the main partner of ±·Ã¤²â³Ùö²õ24 & ±·Ã¤²â³Ù³Ù±ð±ô²â24 and to be able to award one of the students' work", says Harri Paananen, Director of Economic Development of the City of Espoo.

The Uskalla! / Dare! seminar will bring together talented young designers, potential domestic fashion employers and investors at WeeGee house on Tuesday 4 June 2024. The creative industries discussion and networking event is organised together with the EMMA Museum and the City of Espoo. The Finnish Textile and Fashion Association is also involved. The event will be held in English.

During Aalto’s fashion week, second-year bachelor students will also present their collaborative projects in an exhibition. Aalto Fashion Collaborative Projects will be on display from 26 May to 2 June 2024 in the first floor of Kämp Gallery, Helsinki city centre. 

The partners of ±·Ã¤²â³Ùö²õ24 & ±·Ã¤²â³Ù³Ù±ð±ô²â24 are the City of Espoo, Marimekko, Fiskars, EMMA Museum and Konstsamfundet.