is the fashion industry becoming too sensitive?

In the days following the close of the Spring/Summer 2026 fashion season, a wave of think pieces, Instagram posts, and reposted quotes has flooded the digital sphere - all calling for “love,” “peace,” and “positivity” in fashion. From Business of Fashion’s recent reflections to Olivier Rousteing’s own posts, a clear narrative has emerged: designers are tired of what they deem ruthless reviews and negativity surrounding their work.

But is fashion simply facing criticism? Or has the industry become too sensitive?

This season was historic, marked by a series of high-profile debuts and creative handovers. With such anticipation naturally comes public opinion - the same scrutiny that has defined fashion for decades. Critique and creativity have always coexisted. So why now does criticism feel like an attack rather than a discourse?

Fashion has long thrived on exclusivity, an inner circle accessible only to the few deemed worthy. Yet, over the past five years, that exclusivity has been pierced by a new wave of voices: TikTok critics, independent commentators, and yes, everyday people who love fashion enough to talk about it. Many of them aren’t industry insiders - some studied fashion, others simply care about it - but all share a passion for conversation and accountability.

So, why are influencers and reality stars welcomed, dressed, and celebrated at shows, yet when someone offers honest critique, it’s suddenly “too harsh”?

Platforms like “Boring Not Com” and other independent voices have become vital to an industry that often thrives on self-serving praise. They bring honesty, analysis, and a pulse check that big fashion houses, protected by PR and paid partnerships, often avoid. These new-age commentators are not tearing the industry down; they’re reminding it to stay grounded - to stay real.

Fashion, at its core, is about change, experimentation, and truth. Not every collection will land, not every debut will make history — and that’s okay. But it should still be open to honest critique, even when it stings.

After all, not all of us are on the payroll of LVMH or Kering. Sometimes, the most authentic love for fashion comes from those looking in from the outside - not those paid to protect it.