"The contrasts that fashion has undergone over the last 100 years have meant a liberation"

Maria Almenar is a fashion and trend journalist for BTV, Onda Cero, the Diari ARA and the Lifestyle supplement of La Razón, and she still has time to edit the blog Tendencias al dente. She is fascinated by the artifice and the dandies of the Victorian times.
 

Within the fashion world we find hundreds of blogs and Instagram accounts. Can anyone become an influencer?

I think that this concept is relative and that we’ve already extracted the initial value from it. If we talk about quantity, it's obvious that the number of followers, visits or comments defines who is influential or visible within a sector. In this sense, anyone who has a style that sticks and a language that suits his or her audience – whoever they may be - can become one. Quality also plays a part, which can be valued in terms of knowledge, values, professionalism, ethics or authenticity.

What do you think should characterise a good blog?

There is no magic formula that works and there are personal blogs for all tastes and concerns. In my opinion, there is a fundamental rule that marks the rest: that the blog is true to the person and that it reflects their way of being and thinking. The blog must be a letter of introduction about who you are, what you do and why you do it. There is nothing sadder than something deceitful or opportunistic.

Does it replace the journalist's job or supplement it?

Both, depending on what the company or client is looking for and the criteria that apply for the task to be carried out. There are jobs in the fields of communication or entertainment that can be done by other types of people.

We know you are passionate about fashion and the arts in general. With what period in the history of clothing do you most identify yourself?

Hard choice! At the aesthetic level, I am fascinated by the fashion of the Victorian era with all the ingenuity and excessive ornamentation present in the feminine costumes and accessories that complemented them perfectly. It was an era of great wealth in terms of colour, volume and texture that contrasted with the masculine fashion, which was much more rigid and refined in line with the uniforms of lords and dandies. At the practical level, I like the contrasts that fashion has undergone over the last 100 years. The century of liberation, revolution and diversity.

Recently we presented 12 new dresses in the Museum's fashion exhibition. Do you think that they represent the reality of fashion design of recent years?

It seems to me a good idea to introduce new dresses to illustrate the current design landscape and the selection is spot on as it puts consolidated talents side-by-side with emerging designers. It is an effective way to update exhibitions with creators who currently have a lot to say and who can count on the support of new audiences. An initiative to update, rejuvenate and energise museums which should be put into practice more often.

Which of the 12 additions most drew your attention?

It is impossible not to notice the macro jersei Transhumància of knitted, raw-coloured wool by Miriam Ponsa. A popular piece and one similar to what we all have at home, but turned into art thanks to the creative process and experimentation by this conceptual designer who rediscovers the traditions and crafts ... and someone who I very much appreciate.

Bloggers, youtubers, instagramers, snapchaters, tweeters ... What do you think will be the next social network to succeed?

Well! I'm no clairvoyant, but what is certain is that the same platform is now shared by Instagram and YouTube. Live images and videos to feed the egos.