For some people, being a fashionista is running to your nearest Zara and buying the same clothes you’ve seen on a celebrity or the mannequin. It’s knowing the difference between Brentwood and Burberry and having the eagle eye to spot a fake Bathu or Balenciaga sneaker.

For some, what truly defines a fashionista is their participation in the fashion cycle, one where trends are discovered, clothes are designed and people buy them to influence others into doing the same...