The corona virus (COVID-19) has threatened many sectors including the fashion industry. The virus has steadily spread across the world since it originated in Wuhan City in the Hubei Province of China. As a result, the pandemic has forced brands and design houses to close their doors and postpone upcoming runway shows. COVID-19 emerged at the height of this year’s fashion season. Below, we have highlighted some of the ways that the pandemic has impacted the fashion industry.
Many countries have implemented measures and policies that seek to reduce the spread of the virus. One of the best preventive measures for the virus includes social distancing. As such, many organizers have had to cancel or postpone their fashion events and activities. For instance, the African Fashion International (AFI) management called off the final day of AFI Fashion Week which was to happen on14th march. The AFI stated that their decision was in line with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization’s (WHO) advice.
In a bid to control the spread of the virus, most countries have quarantined workers and imposed mandatory quarantine procedures. The immediate effect of the pandemic is the shortage of materials and supplies around the world because there are few or no workers available to produce and manufacture the textiles.
People have shifted their priorities to sustain their families, and thus, demand for new outfits has significantly reduced. We tend to buy clothes for social functions, but now, with the current state of things, people are restricted at their homes. Therefore, individuals do not find the need to purchase new outfits.
Decline in Sales
The COVID-19 outbreak has caused department stores and clothing chain stands to lose a lot in terms of sales. Many consumers are diverting their discretionary spending for stocking up. Also, some stores have closed for an extended period while others are restricting the opening hours.