French politician calls for more governmental support for the fashion industry

Paris´ former deputy mayor, Lyne Cohen-Solal, who was responsible for trade, artisans, independent professions and craftwork, published a report on the current state of the city´s fashion industry earlier last month, which shook things up within the French fashion industry. In addition, the report led to the French Minister Fleur Pellerin´s decision to establish a public fashion school. The report stems from one of Cohen-Solal's main frustrations: how fashion is viewed within the country itself. As fashion is considered to be a frivolous matter, it means that the sector does not receive the financial support it needs to really thrive. In an interview with Women´s Wear Daily (WWD), the French politician explained what she believes ought to be done to allow the fashion industry to prosper.

One of the most important points that Cohen-Solal makes, which might prove to be very important for fashion students, is that schools should make an effort of putting students in contact with industry insiders. “Not everyone is Yves Saint Laurent and has met his or her Pierre Bergé,” she said. An example she mentions is Études Studio: a fashion collective for arts, fashion and music. “We need to help these structures.”

In addition to promoting a better educational system, the former deputy mayor of the creative industry believes that more can be done for independent fashion designers. Although the fashion industry is of major importance for the economy, many financial institutions are reluctant to invest a lot in fashion enterprises. Cohen-Solal believes that an national organization should be created which offers funding to designers looking to expand their business. In turn, these designers could be asked to adhere to certain regulations, such as buying a certain amount of materials from French companies. Similarly, she believes that real-estate developers have a role here: “Municipalities should oblige them to give a good play to independent designers in shopping centers.”

Another point Cohen-Solal brings foward in her report is the benefit of creating one overarching institute to promote the industry´s interests. France is currently home to over twenty industry federations, which causes much confusion for those within the industry as to whom they should turn to for support. By creating what Cohen-Solal calls a ´Fashion Forum´, industry professionals will have a much easier time having their voice heard. Finally, the report calls for measures to improve what might be one of the most important events of the global fashion industry: Paris Fashion Week. The event, which annually generates a revenue of 400 million euros (435 million dollar) should offer the best service possible, “starting from the welcoming at the airport to hospitality and parking services.”