Earlier this month, a Vice story focused on how the death of Thailand’s king has changed Thai fashion, with black recently becoming the country’s most popular colour. The interplay between real world events and fashion is incredibly interesting and, though I haven’t heard of any Brits wearing darker tones as a result of Brexit, I often wonder what will happen to UK fashion in the wake of Britain’s departure from the EU. 

British fashion has been led by some of the most creative designers in the world. In fact, in many ways, what Britain has lacked in terms of infrastructure and big-brands it has more than made up for in terms of its creative output. One of the primary reasons for this is Britain’s housing some of the best fashion schools in the world, which, every year, attract the best students from all over the globe. Many of these students then go on to work with the biggest European labels, which gives British creativity a global platform.

But, since university applications from the EU have dropped nine percent since the Brexit referendum, Britain’s global appeal is clearly in decline. This means that Britain’s status as one of fashion’s creative powerhouses is under threat. And it’s a serious threat – since the UK will not officially leave the EU for at least two years, this figure could very well drop even further.

Perhaps even more worryingly, Brexit may threaten the essence of British fashion itself. When you buy from a luxury brand, you don’t just buy the product, you also buy into the brand’s ethos and associations. Italian labels, for example, suggest European glamour; French brands promise style and chic; New York labels, power and dynamism. What about Britain? British fashion draws heavily on ideas of prestige and tradition – or, more recently, a punkish rejection of these ideas. But, post-Brexit, does the rest of world primarily look at our small nation as one which boasts an impressive heritage? Or are we just a petty nation which would rather withdraw from the world rather than play a leading role in it?

It’s an open question. The world’s perception of Britain probably didn’t fundamentally change on 23 June. But it may have shifted slightly – especially in Europe, where the British people’s decision to leave was perhaps felt most forcefully. And whether people want to buy into the new British look is not yet known.

After last week’s election upset, American brands may find themselves facing a similar image problem. Though some, like Alex Bolen, CEO, Oscar de la Renta, are taking the challenge in their stride: After the election, Bolen said this:

"Fashion is an expression of the here-and-now, not yesterday, not tomorrow. Our fundamental job as designers is to suggest a way to dress that is an appropriate reflection our times, of the world in which we live right now. Last night, the American people expressed their strong desire for change. Fashion will need to react, in a likewise strong way, to that new mood. We look forward to the challenge."

There’s reason to be positive in the UK, too. British designers, I’m sure, are just as capable of taking an approach similar to Bolen’s. And many of them will. Furthermore, high-street brands are already seeing a benefit from the boost to sales Brexit tourist spending is having. With more money flowing into their businesses, retailers will be able to further develop and invest. Though how long this will last is another question.

Do you think Brexit will have an impact of British fashion?

Email me your thoughts.