“I always enjoy working with the members of the Fashion Council Germany on challenges and political ideas,” says Dr. Christian Ehler, CDU politician and Member of the European Parliament. In this interview, Ehler, who also sits on the Fashion Council Germany’s Advisory Board, explains why associations like Fashion Council Germany and collaborative projects such as the European Fashion Alliance become especially important when matters become serious at the EU level.

Interview by Grit Thönissen

Christian Ehler, what does the term “European fashion” mean to you?

Dr. Christian Ehler: For me, European fashion is not just something we take out of our wardrobe every morning. It is also culture — a living expression of European values and creativity. At the same time, it represents economic strength and global relevance. Around the world, European fashion showcases our history and our culture.

Considering this relevance as you describe it, how significant is the work of the European Fashion Alliance, which you support in various ways?

Dr. Christian Ehler: The EFA holds great importance in my view. As a European association of fashion professionals from nearly all European countries, the European Fashion Alliance represents a diverse network of companies, designers, and creatives on the European stage, a form of representation that had long been missing. Although textile manufacturers already had established associations, the needs and challenges of the fashion sector are quite different from those of the textile industry. Now, there is finally a unified voice that EU representatives can refer to.

And what about Fashion Council Germany as part of the EFA? How has the role of this relatively young council developed in recent years?

Dr. Christian Ehler: In my opinion — outstandingly! The Fashion Council Germany has secured a strong position within German political and social life and has become indispensable. Through its wide range of event formats, the FCG succeeds in bringing society, fashion, and politics to the same table. I’m very pleased to continue accompanying this journey as a member of the Advisory Board. Founded only ten years ago, Fashion Council Germany is relatively young. In France, for example, the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode has existed for around 150 years, and in Italy, the Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana for almost 70. Nevertheless, the FCG plays a central role in the EFA. With Scott Lipinski serving as Chairman of the European Fashion Alliance, the Fashion Council Germany currently holds a leading position — and that’s very good news. Germany has a wealth of talented designers and fashion professionals, and, let’s be honest, a certain talent for organisation, which certainly doesn’t hurt. The founding of the Alliance was made possible largely through Mr. Lipinski’s persistent efforts, so to me, it’s only logical that the Fashion Council Germany is now at the forefront of the EFA’s work.

Is the cultural and creative sector, to which fashion also belongs in Germany, taken seriously as an industry in the European Parliament? From both an economic and social perspective?

Dr. Christian Ehler: Absolutely, the cultural and creative industries are recognised! During the last legislative term, we organised many formats and events that highlighted and strengthened the role of the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs) in Europe. The European Commission also developed a report on the status of CCIs in Europe, outlining many opportunities and tasks for the future. So yes, from both a social and an economic perspective, Europe is paying close attention to this sector.

Where do you see the current key issues for the industry in Europe, and where does it need support from the EU right now?

Dr. Christian Ehler: For me, there are two main areas. First, strengthening European companies as they transition toward an economically successful and sustainable future. Environmental legislation poses real challenges for many businesses — we need to reform it while also providing practical support for implementation. Second, digitalisation. Both consumer behaviour and business models have changed significantly. The digital product passport, for example, which will soon be introduced across the EU, could not only inform consumers about garments but also provide companies with valuable insights into consumer behaviour. The EU can play a crucial role in supporting projects and innovation in this field.

So it does make sense, even for smaller fashion companies, to engage with the EU and align with the policies developed at that level?

Dr. Christian Ehler: Of course. At the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) of Germany, we are working to minimise the impact of regulations such as the Ecodesign Directive and the Green Claims Directive, both of which we in the CDU/CSU entirely reject, on small and medium-sized enterprises. But other regulations, including those on chemicals and digital policy, also affect small and medium-sized enterprises (SMIs). For us as politicians, it can sometimes be difficult to fully understand how certain laws influence smaller businesses, which is exactly why it’s so important for these companies to engage with policymakers, invest their time, and actively help shape legislation and funding programmes.

You also participated in the “Fashion Policy Round Table,” which took place for the second time in autumn 2024 and was initiated by the EFA. What is the purpose of this event?

Dr. Christian Ehler: As a parliamentarian, these are precisely the kinds of events and moments that give me a comprehensive understanding of the fashion sector — its current state, its challenges, concerns, and successes. At the same time, they provide the fashion industry with a platform to showcase its work and help shape its future. The Status of European Fashion report also plays an important role here. Only through such an informed assessment can we develop the right measures for the future.

Back from the European level to Germany: you are a member of the Fashion Council Germany’s Advisory Board yourself. What benefits does this bring you, aside from the responsibilities?

Dr. Christian Ehler: I don’t see my membership on the Advisory Board as an obligation at all — for me, the FCG is a space for exchange and idea generation. And I must admit, I always have a great time working with the members of Fashion Council Germany on challenges or political ideas!

Has this commitment also influenced your own perception of fashion? What does clothing mean to you personally?

Dr. Christian Ehler: Clothing means a great deal to me. While the playful possibilities in men’s fashion are somewhat limited, I own hundreds of ties and cufflinks, which I enjoy combining in different ways. There was a period when I wore ties less often, but I’ve since returned to them.

Is there an informal dress code in the European Parliament that you observe?

Dr. Christian Ehler: There used to be an informal dress code among Members of Parliament, a shared understanding of appropriate attire that also conveyed respect for the institution of the European Parliament. Unfortunately, that no longer exists. I view this growing informality with some scepticism, as it also reflects, to some extent, a more casual attitude toward democracy itself. And generally speaking, some turkey-necked gentlemen might actually benefit from wearing a tie again!