The BoF Voices 2024 event, held from November 12 to 15 at the picturesque Soho Farmhouse in Oxfordshire, celebrated the themes of creativity, inclusivity, and sustainability in the global fashion industry.
The BoF Voices 2024 event, held from November 12 to 15 at the picturesque Soho Farmhouse in Oxfordshire, celebrated the themes of creativity, inclusivity, and sustainability in the global fashion industry. This annual gathering, now in its ninth year, brought together influential figures from various sectors including fashion, art, activism, and design to share insights and foster meaningful discussions.
One of the standout moments of the event was the conversation between Alessandro Michele, the newly appointed creative director of Valentino, and Jacopo Venturini, the brand’s CEO. Their dialogue highlighted the essential relationship between creativity and business. Michele emphasized the importance of freedom in creative expression, stating that while his work can polarize audiences, he embraces this as an essential part of his artistic journey.
“I think I polarize the audience in some ways; there are people who hate me in a very strong and aggressive way,” he noted.
This candidness about his creative process resonated with many attendees, illustrating how vulnerability can coexist with artistic genius.
The event also featured British-Jamaican designer Bianca Saunders in conversation with trailblazing model and activist Bethann Hardison. At 82 years old, Hardison remains a powerful advocate for diversity and inclusion within the fashion industry. Her experiences from the 1970s and 1980s were shared with a mix of humor and gravitas as she discussed her ongoing fight against injustice in fashion. “It’s not easy calling people out,” she remarked, underscoring her commitment to advocacy even as she acknowledges the challenges that remain.
Artistic expression was further explored through presentations by contemporary artists such as Salman Toor and Es Devlin. Toor’s works often reflect his identity as a queer Pakistani-American artist navigating cultural narratives through his paintings. His unique perspective sheds light on personal experiences while challenging broader societal norms. Devlin’s exhibition “Congregation” displayed portraits of Londoners from immigrant backgrounds, emphasizing connection and shared humanity amidst diversity.
The discussions at BoF Voices 2024 were not limited to individual stories; they also addressed systemic issues within the industry. Conversations around sustainability were prominent, with speakers like Bandana Tewari advocating for a deeper understanding of fashion’s impact on society and the environment. The dialogue emphasized that true luxury is increasingly defined by access rather than mere exclusivity—a sentiment echoed by Jesse Lee during discussions on interior design as a new luxury frontier.
Throughout the event, participants were encouraged to reflect on their roles within their respective fields and consider how they could contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable future. The overall atmosphere was one of optimism and collaboration, with attendees leaving inspired to embrace their creativity while advocating for change.
In summary, BoF Voices 2024 served as a vital platform for sharing ideas that challenge traditional norms within fashion and beyond. With influential voices like Michele and Hardison leading discussions on creativity and inclusivity, the event highlighted a collective commitment to fostering a more equitable industry that values diverse perspectives and sustainable practices.
