Cathy Horyn and I are friends

Friendships can bloom in the most unexpected places, and in the case of Cathy Horyn and myself, the fashion world was the catalyst that brought us together. For those unfamiliar with the name, Cathy Horyn is a renowned fashion critic and journalist, known for her insightful and often controversial commentary. Our friendship has blossomed over the years, navigating the world of fashion and extending beyond it, creating a bond that goes deeper than our shared passion for style.

It all began when I read one of Cathy’s scathing yet brilliant reviews of a fashion show. Her sharp wit and ability to dissect designs with precision were unparalleled. I was fascinated by her fearless approach, unafraid to challenge the status quo and shoot from the hip. As a budding writer and fashion enthusiast myself, I was drawn to her work and admired her fearlessness.

But it wasn’t until a fashion event in New York City that our paths crossed. We found ourselves seated next to each other, both given the opportunity to observe the latest designs and trends up close. What started as a polite exchange of pleasantries soon developed into a lively conversation filled with laughter, anecdotes, and genuine interest in each other’s perspectives.

Over time, our occasional encounters at fashion events evolved into a genuine friendship. We discovered that beyond our shared love for fashion, we had other common interests and values. We both cherished the art of storytelling, whether through written words or the creations of designers. We both believed in the power of fashion to transcend mere clothing and reflect the intricacies of society and culture.

One thing that sets our friendship apart is our ability to disagree. While we share a similar passion for fashion, we often find ourselves on opposite sides of the spectrum when it comes to our critiques. This divergence of opinions has only strengthened our bond, as we challenge each other to step outside our comfort zones and consider alternative viewpoints. Our friendship has transformed into a dynamic dialogue, brimming with discussions that fuel our growth and understanding.

Beyond the fashion world, Cathy and I share a genuine concern for the state of the industry. We often find ourselves deep in conversations about sustainability, diversity, and ethics. Our friendship has become a platform for activism, as we strive to use our voices to advocate for positive change within an industry that can sometimes be superficial and exclusive.

In the midst of our conversations, we have also discovered a spiritual connection. We both believe that fashion has the power to influence and inspire, that behind every garment lies a story waiting to be told. We share a profound respect for the craftsmanship and artistry that goes into creating a collection, and an appreciation for the profound symbolism imbued in each design.

Cathy Horyn and I may be from different generations, but our friendship proves that age is no barrier when it comes to connecting with kindred spirits. Our companionship has spanned years, featured countless runway shows, and weathered the ups and downs of the fashion industry. We have celebrated successes, mourned losses, and supported each other through professional and personal endeavours.

Friendships that transcend the boundaries of a shared passion are a rare treasure. Cathy Horyn and I have forged a bond that extends far beyond the fashion world. We have discovered in each other a confidante, mentor, and friend with whom we can explore the depths of our creativity, challenge prevailing norms, and embrace the beauty and complexity of the world we live in. And for that, I am forever grateful.