The Blurring Lines: Fashion, Folklore, and the Metaverse’s Influence on Reality
We live in an age of curated realities. Online, perfection is the default – filtered photos, meticulously crafted profiles, and increasingly, AI-generated content that borders on the uncanny. Offline, life is delightfully, messily human. This tension, between the hyperreal digital world and the imperfect physical one, was strikingly explored in John Alexander Skelton’s Fall 2026 show, a collection deeply rooted in Celtic folklore and presented with a distinctly Dickensian aesthetic. But Skelton’s work isn’t just a fashion statement; it’s a harbinger of broader trends reshaping how we experience reality, and how fashion will respond.
The Rise of “Digital Dualism” and its Impact on Design
Skelton’s exploration of “two worlds” – the realm of myth and the tangible present – taps into a growing cultural phenomenon. Sociologists are increasingly referring to “digital dualism,” the belief that the digital world is somehow less “real” than the physical one. This creates a yearning for authenticity, for experiences that feel grounded and tactile. This is reflected in the growing popularity of ‘cottagecore’ and ‘goblincore’ aesthetics, both celebrating natural imperfection and a rejection of polished online personas. According to a recent report by WGSN, searches for “raw materials” and “artisanal techniques” in fashion have increased by 47% in the last year.
This translates into design choices. Skelton’s use of nubby knitwear, undyed wools, and roughly hewn finishes isn’t accidental. It’s a deliberate grounding of fantastical silhouettes in tangible textures. We’re seeing this across the industry – a move towards sustainable materials, visible mending, and designs that celebrate the imperfections inherent in handmade goods. Consider Patagonia’s Worn Wear program, which encourages repair and reuse, or the increasing popularity of brands like Bode, known for its upcycled and patchwork designs.
Folklore as Future Inspiration: Beyond Trends
Skelton’s inspiration from Celtic mythology, specifically the god Cernunnos and the festival of Samhain (when the veil between worlds is thinnest), points to another significant trend: a renewed interest in folklore and ancient traditions. This isn’t simply about aesthetic borrowing; it’s about seeking meaning and connection in a world that often feels fragmented.
Brands are increasingly looking to mythology, ritual, and ancestral practices for inspiration. Dior’s Maria Grazia Chiuri has frequently drawn on feminist mythology and historical figures, while Loewe’s Jonathan Anderson has explored surrealist and folkloric themes. This trend is fueled by a desire for storytelling and a rejection of purely commercial narratives. A 2023 study by the Future Laboratory found that 68% of consumers are more likely to purchase from brands that have a strong sense of purpose and tell compelling stories.
The Metaverse and the Performance of Identity
The interactive element of Skelton’s show – the prowling poet, the revealed scarecrows – foreshadows how fashion will increasingly engage with the metaverse and augmented reality. The metaverse isn’t about replacing physical experiences; it’s about augmenting them, creating layers of interaction and performance. The scarecrows, acting as reveal mechanisms, mirror the way digital avatars can transform and surprise.
We’re already seeing this with digital fashion. Brands like Balenciaga and Gucci are partnering with gaming platforms like Fortnite and Roblox to create virtual clothing and accessories. But the future goes beyond simply replicating physical garments in digital form. It’s about creating entirely new forms of expression, allowing users to experiment with identity and explore different personas. According to Morgan Stanley, the metaverse market could reach $8 trillion by 2030, with digital fashion playing a significant role.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Web3 technologies like NFTs and blockchain. They’re enabling new models of ownership and authentication in the digital fashion space, allowing designers to create limited-edition virtual garments and build direct relationships with their customers.
The “Scarecrow Effect”: Duality and the Allure of the Uncanny
Skelton’s fascination with scarecrows – their “weird duality” of being both kitsch and evil – is a key insight. This speaks to our enduring attraction to the uncanny, to things that are familiar yet unsettling. The scarecrow embodies this perfectly: a human-like form constructed from inanimate materials, meant to ward off threats but also inherently vulnerable.
This duality is likely to become increasingly prominent in fashion. We’ll see more designs that play with contrasts – hard and soft, organic and synthetic, beautiful and grotesque. Think of Rick Owens’ deconstructed silhouettes or Comme des Garçons’ avant-garde creations. These designers aren’t afraid to challenge conventional notions of beauty and explore the darker side of the human psyche.
FAQ
Q: Will digital fashion replace physical fashion?
A: No. Digital fashion will likely complement and augment physical fashion, offering new avenues for self-expression and creativity.
Q: What is “digital dualism”?
A: The belief that the digital world is less “real” than the physical world, leading to a yearning for authentic experiences.
Q: How can brands incorporate folklore into their designs?
A: By researching and respectfully drawing inspiration from myths, rituals, and ancestral practices, focusing on storytelling and meaning.
Did you know? The Samhain festival, referenced in Skelton’s show, is believed to be the origin of Halloween.
What are your thoughts on the intersection of fashion and folklore? Share your opinions in the comments below! Explore our other articles on sustainable fashion and the future of retail to delve deeper into these exciting trends. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest insights and exclusive content.
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