From hobby to hype. How self-taught designers challenge masters

The classical school of design certainly has its advantages, and we continue to admire the work of those who graduated such famous schools as London’s Central Saint Martins and Antwerp’s Royal Academy of Fine Arts, whose collections cause a real sensation at Fashion Weeks every year. However, no less interesting are promising self-taught designers who have a unique sense of fashion trends. Despite the lack of some formal qualification, they boldly go beyond the usual concepts and paradigms in their creativity. When little-known self-taught designer Tom Ford took over Gucci, some experts were sure the company was not going to live any longer. However, he managed to turn Gucci into one of the most coveted brands in the world. Lack of formal education did not stop Jacquemus from winning the LVMH Prize and creating accessories that have become the most favorite among it-girls in fashion capitals. What stands behind this phenomenon?

1. How does passion and talent allow ambitious newcomers to beat established industry masters?
2. Who is a true fashion leader, and who is dragging along in the past?
3. How are social networks and bold ideas changing fashion, blurring the boundaries between hobby and professionalism, and how is the very status of a fashion designer changing against this background?
4. How do the society and the fashion industry take self-taught designers? Are there any prejudices or quite the opposite — admiration for their work? Do they have to make extra efforts to prove their right to exist?