London Fashion Week News

Dates for September 2012

Fri, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Updated statement on Thursday 1st December 2011
“We have just received an official letter from the Camera Nazionale Della Moda Italiana following their board meeting earlier today. We will discuss this proposal directly with our counterparts at CNMI, CFDA and Federation Française de la Mode. Our priority is to find stability and an agreement to ensure the focus can be on our designers and their collections in time for fashion week in February.”

Wednesday 12th October 2011
“We completely support and echo the sentiment in the open letter that Diane von Furstenberg, President of the CFDA, published earlier this week. The situation that we, as the four international fashion capitals, have found ourselves for September 2012 is far from ideal and benefits no-one long term. We hope that we will be able come to a solution as soon as possible for 2013 and beyond; that our colleagues in New York, Milan and Paris are all happy with."

Friday 7th October 2011
"It is with great disappointment that we read Camera Nazionale della Moda’s statement released earlier today that they will continue to break the dates agreement and schedule shows over New York and London Fashion Weeks. No one would agree that this is in any way an ideal situation but we have and continue to receive incredible support from both international and domestic media and retailers to retain the existing agreement."

Dates for London Fashion Week September 2012

Friday 21st September - Wednesday 26th September 2012

Image: Christopher Kane SS12 at London Fashion Week September 2011

2011 Winners

Tue, 28 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council is proud to announce Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen as the winner of The British Fashion Awards esteemed ‘Designer of the Year’ award 2011. Burton’s creative direction at Alexander McQueen has allowed McQueen’s legacy to live on while still giving her own twist of creative genius to a collection that has outshone its rivals on and off the catwalk.

Hosted by George Lamb and Lauren Laverne the awards ceremony celebrated and recognised excellence achieved in the industry this year. The event was attended by industry leaders, designers, retailers, models, celebrities and media supporting both the nominees and winners of these prestigious awards. Attendees included BFC Ambassador Samantha Cameron, Kate Moss, Victoria Beckham, Kate Hudson, Colin Firth, Olivia Palermo, Josephine de la Baume, Marc Jacobs, Lady Amanda Harlech and Alexa Chung.

The ‘New Establishment Award’ was introduced this year to recognise a particular movement in British fashion that is taking the industry by storm. The inaugural winner is Christopher Kane whose visionary designs for his own label continue to lead trends globally, become must haves for any fashion credible shoot and essentials for all fashion collectors.

The ‘Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator’ was won by Sam Gainsbury of Gainsbury and Whiting. Gainsbury is a force to be reckoned with in the creative world; known in the fashion industry for translating designers’ visions into unparalleled fashion experiences. This year she turned her talents to the ‘Savage Beauty’ exhibition which broke all records and has been widely recognised as the most successful fashion exhibition in the world.

The ‘Red Carpet’ award went to many celebrities favourite this year, Stella McCartney, recognising the quantity and quality of her designs worn on the red carpet, creating global awareness in the media.

Victoria Beckham was the recipient of the ‘Designer Brand’ award. Her business has focused growth strategy with each new product range receiving media praise and achieving high levels of sell through. She is her own customer and this insight has created a label with many loyal followers across the globe.

London is known for innovation in the fashion world and this year’s ‘Emerging Talent’ awards only highlight further the extraordinary fashion talents in this city: Mary Katrantzou was awarded the ‘Emerging Talent – Womenswear’ award for her bold graphic print collections that were seen on everyone from Hailee Steinfeld to Alexa Chung. Tabitha Simmons earned recognition for her footwear brand by winning the ‘Emerging Talent Award- Accessories’ and Christopher Raeburn received the award for ‘Emerging Talent Award –Menswear’, a brand new category for 2011, recognising Christopher’s pioneering ethical designs.

Kim Jones was awarded ‘Menswear Designer’, for being instrumental in enhancing men's fashion in the past year. He was appointed Style Director at Louis Vuitton earlier this year.

Stella Tennant collected the ‘Model’ award, her timeless beauty has seen her feature in numerous shows, covers, editorials and major campaigns which this year included Zara, Reed Krakoff, Etro, Chanel and Celine.

The hotly contested ‘Accessory Designer of the Year’ recipient was Charlotte Dellal for her footwear label Charlotte Olympia which is inspired by the glamour of the 40s and 50s.

The British Fashion Award for ‘Outstanding Achievement in Fashion’, which recognises one designer who throughout their career has made an impact on the industry internationally, went to the inspirational Paul Smith who is a true icon in the industry for all that he consistently brings to the world of fashion.

Decided entirely by public vote, the ‘British Style’ award, brought to you by Vodafone, recognises an individual who embodies the spirit of the city and is an international ambassador for London as a leading creative fashion capital. Alexa Chung won this award for the 2nd year running. This award received more votes than ever before showing the increasing engagement from consumer audiences in fashion. Vodafone sponsored this award after being unveiled as the new Principal Sponsor of London Fashion Week for the next seven seasons.

Harold Tillman CBE, Chairman of the British Fashion Council, commented, “This year’s nominees demonstrate the breadth and creativity London has to offer. The fashion brands and designers that are based here set the trends across the globe. In addition, we are thrilled to be working alongside Save the Children on their Born to Walk Tall campaign, championed by our BFC Ambassador Samantha Cameron, this year.”

This year’s British Fashion Awards sponsors are MAC, Toni&Guy and Vodafone.

For more information please visit www.britishfashionawards.com

Image: Designer of the Year - Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen

For press enquiries, please contact:
Ellie Wilson
ellie.wilson@britishfashioncouncil.com
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1986.

New Establishment Award

Mon, 27 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) today announces a brand new category for the British Fashion Awards, named the New Establishment Award. As industry experts cast their votes for the winners of this year’s awards, due to be announced Monday 28th November 2011, they created a new category to seek and recognise a particular movement in British Fashion that is taking the industry by storm.

Over the past four seasons London has cemented its status as a capital for innovation, with a group of new designers commanding front row audiences only previously seen at the shows of long-established luxury fashion brands. This peer group is London’s New Establishment, bringing innovation to a luxury market. Sophisticated and exciting, they have surpassed being emerging designers and are growing into dynamic businesses with a global reach and a sustained impact on the way modern women dress.

London’s New Establishment category is personified by its inaugural three nominees. These designers were selected for their stand-out shows this year, their business growth, dominance in red carpet dressing and the international headlines driven by their collections. Though there were many more designers in the running for this Award, the judging panel decided that this year’s nominees are Christopher Kane, Erdem and Jonathan Saunders. The British Fashion Awards recognises the most influential people in fashion today who have contributed to the reputation and development of British fashion. The evening is attended by key industry opinion-formers, designers, retailers, models and celebrities to celebrate the very best in British fashion.

For more information please visit www.britishfashionawards.com

Image: SS12 collections by Christopher Kane, Erdem and Jonathan Saunders

McQ at LFW

Thu, 23 Nov 2011 15:50:00 GMT

For the first time since the brand was launched, McQ will present the autumn/winter 2012/2013 collection with a catwalk show at London Fashion Week in February 2012.

The show will form a preview to the the opening of a McQ store in London in Spring 2012: A Georgian townhouse located at 14 Dover Street, London W1S 4LW with 4 storeys and 273 square metres of retail space, McQ’s first flagship store will be designed by Pod and will offer womenswear, menswear as well as accessories from the collection.

The main line Alexander McQueen collection will continue to show at Paris Fashion Week.

For further enquiries please contact:
Hongyi Huang
hongyi.huang@uk.alexandermcqueen.com
+44 (0) 20 7017 8200
www.m-c-q.com

Image: Customised McQ tartan safety pin dress

Stella McCartney

Wed, 22 Nov 2011 13:23:00 GMT

To celebrate London next year, Stella McCartney will host a special fashion presentation on the evening of February 18th as part of London Fashion Week. The one-off collection will be available through the designer’s retail stores, stellamcartney.com and select wholesale accounts worldwide in May 2012. The designer’s Winter 2012 collection, will be shown as scheduled on March 5th in Paris.

In addition to Stella McCartney’s previously announced role as Creative Director for adidas Team GB for the Summer 2012 Olympics; the designer will also be celebrating the “World of Stella” at Selfridges on Oxford Street beginning January 26th until February 14th which will include a new fragrance launch, Ready to Wear, accessories, kids, lingerie, sunglasses and adidas by Stella McCartney collections.

Also in 2012 the designer will open a second London store location in addition to her already existing Bruton Street store which will include the first ever Stella McCartney Kids freestanding store reflecting “Stella’s World” in Brompton Cross on the 2nd week of February.

The new address will be: Stella McCartney, Brompton Cross 91-97 Fulham Road SW3 6RH

Stella McCartney is a partnership between Ms. Stella McCartney and PPR’s luxury division established in 2001 as a 50/50 joint venture. A lifelong vegetarian, Stella McCartney does not use any leather or fur in her designs. The brand’s luxury women’s ready-to-wear, accessories, lingerie, beauty and performance range with adidas are available through 15 other freestanding stores including London, New York, Los Angeles, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Paris and Milan as well around 600 wholesale accounts in key cities worldwide.

For more information about Stella McCartney, please visit www.stellamccartney.com

Outstanding Achievement Award

Tue, 21 Nov 2011 12:56:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) is delighted to announce that Sir Paul Smith will receive the Outstanding Achievement Award at this year’s British Fashion Awards on Monday 28th November. This special award celebrates the achievement of a designer whose work has had an exceptional impact on global fashion.

Four times previous British Fashion Awards winner, Paul Smith has been the recipient of Menswear Designer (1997/1999), Classic Designer (2001) and Contemporary Designer (2003). This award for Outstanding Achievement in Fashion Design, was voted for by a panel of leading internationally acclaimed journalists and retailers to recognize Paul’s extraordinary career an contribution to the British Fashion Industry.

Paul Smith is revered for his designs which are described as ‘classics with a twist’ and for his signature idiosyncratic take on traditional British styling in both his fashion collections and shops.

Paul Smith started his fashion career in a clothing warehouse in Nottingham. With no plans or qualifications and with the encouragement of his girlfriend Pauline Denyer (now wife) and a small amount of savings, Paul opened a tiny shop in 1970. By 1976 Paul showed his first menswear collection in Paris under the Paul Smith label and in 1998 showed his first women's collection at London Fashion Week and the women's mainline collection continues to this day.

Within 20 years Paul Smith had established himself as a pre-eminent British designer. He has the ability to anticipate and spark trends, not only fashion but often in the wider context of popular culture. He transmits a genuine sense of humour and mischief mixed with his love of tradition and the classics. In recognition of his dedication to British Fashion, he was knighted in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list in 2001 for services to the British Fashion Industry.
Paul has retained a base in Nottingham but opened an office in London in 2003. His first store opened on 10 Byard Lane, Nottingham in 1970. In 1998 he converted a town-house in Notting Hill, London which became his flagship shop. He now has 14 stores in London including Paul Smith Men, Women, Jeans, Junior and Paul Smith No. 9. The international growth of his business began and most famously in Japan, where Paul Smith has become synonymous with British design, he now has over two hundred stores in the country, other international stores can be found in Paris, Milan, New York, Far East and Middle East.

He is famed for dressing a broad range of high profile figures including politicians, entrepreneurs, footballers, rock stars, artists and actors who champion his label.

Paul Smith continues to be an integral part of his company; he is both designer and chairman and remains fully involved in every aspect of the business.

Sir Paul Smith commented,
“What a fantastic honour to receive this award. It is really an award for not just me but for all of my fantastic team, many who have been with me for a very long time and have helped me build up a solid structure which really works. Thank you!”

Harold Tillman, CBE, Chairman of the BFC, commented,
“I have known Paul for many years, he has built an incredible business, has bags of integrity and, a great sense of humour. Paul Smith, the brand and the man contributes a great deal to our industry commercially and creatively; his signature style is recognised throughout the world. He is the perfect recipient of the Outstanding Achievement Award this year.”

Image gallery of Paul Smith's collections

For British Fashion Awards enquiries, please contact:
Gemma Ebelis, British Fashion Council
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1989
gemma@britishfashioncouncil.com

Vodafone UK

Thu, 16 Nov 2011 10:00:00 GMT

Customers to get unprecedented access for the very first time to the world of high fashion

Vodafone UK is to become the Principal Sponsor of London Fashion Week, starting in February 2012. The seven season partnership will allow Vodafone customers to get closer than ever before to the emerging trends as they unfold at London Fashion Week. Vodafone has been closely involved with London Fashion Week for the past three seasons in its role as official communications partner and title sponsor of London Fashion Weekend.

Starting from London Fashion Week this February, as all eyes fall on the London catwalks, customers have even more opportunity to get a money can’t buy experience. As part of Vodafone VIP, customers will be able to win tickets to all catwalk shows taking place at the official BFC Catwalk Show Space, Somerset House. Vodafone customers will benefit from an exclusive viewing platform for the shows offering a great view of the runway as well as a VIP lounge for an intimate experience of London Fashion Week.

Caroline Rush, CEO of the British Fashion Council, said today: "Vodafone understand innovation. Through this partnership with London Fashion Week, British Fashion Awards and Vodafone London Fashion Weekend they will be supporting our innovative talent whilst providing unique opportunities and access for their customers to experience fashion."

Danielle Crook, Vodafone’s UK Director of Brand Marketing, said: “From Haute Couture to high street trends, our customers tell us that fashion is one of their great passions. Through this exciting extention of our partnership with London Fashion Week we’re looking forward to giving them even greater access to the heart of the British fashion world.”

Vodafone UK will continue to be title sponsor of Vodafone London Fashion Weekend and sponsor of the British Fashion Awards.

Whether you're into fashion, festivals or Formula 1™, you can get tickets into some of the Britain’s best events. Vodafone VIP is Vodafone’s way of saying thank you for being a customer. All Vodafone customers can register for Vodafone VIP at vodafone.co.uk/vip.

The British Fashion Council is to announce their continued and growing relationship with Canon and thank them for all of their support to date. Exciting plans will be revealed over the forthcoming weeks.

For further information please contact Freud Communications:
Anna Thomson
anna.thomson@freud.com
Tel: +44 (0) 20 3003 6392

Katy Wickremesinghe
katy.wickremesinghe@freud.com
Tel: +44 (0) 20 3003 6385

Image: Backstage at Richard Nicoll SS12 supported by Vodafone.

LONDON show ROOMS Hong Kong

Fri, 27 Oct 2011 10:41:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council’s (BFC) international showcasing initiative LONDON show ROOMS is bringing London’s rising stars of British fashion to Hong Kong, supported by Li & Fung Limited, from the 31st October – 1st November, 2011. This new venture to Hong Kong supports the China/Britain Fashion Alliance, a combined initiative between the BFC, the Beijing International Brand Management Centre and the China-Britain Business Council to promote British Fashion in China.

Centrally located at The Space Gallery, 210 Hollywood Road, the showroom will showcase a selection of BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund shortlist designers, Fashion Forward alumni with the addition of the winners of British Fashion Awards Menswear and Accessory Designers of the Year 2010. The initiative aims to develop the profile of these designers through introductions to Chinese media, creatives and retailers.

London has a reputation for nurturing the world’s most innovative, emerging design talents and LONDON show ROOMS in Hong Kong brings together many of those identified as London’s future stars. The designers showcasing their SS12 collections include E. Tautz, Jonathan Saunders, Marios Schwab, Mary Katrantzou, Nicholas Kirkwood, Peter Pilotto, Roksanda Ilincic and Todd Lynn.

The LONDON show ROOMS is a British Fashion Council project, supported by UK Trade & Investment and aimed at boosting British designers exports and raising the profile of British designers in international markets. Launched in Paris in October 2008, this initiative provides a unique opportunity for emerging British designers to promote themselves outside London. The project is co-curated and managed by Anna Orsini and Barbara Grispini for the British Fashion Council with the support of the BFC’s Ambassador for Emerging Talent Sarah Mower. The pop-up showroom is a strategic element of the British Fashion Council's support and mentoring scheme with the aim to promote London design internationally and secure new export business.

Caroline Rush, CEO of the British Fashion Council, commented “Hong Kong is an invaluable market for our British designer businesses. It is important that they develop their knowledge of and relationships with both media and retailers in this market; LONDON show ROOMS Hong Kong enables them to do that.”

The Hong Kong showroom will be open for two days, 31st October – 1st November 2011 at The Space Gallery, 210 Hollywood Road Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, +852 2361 1210.

LONDON show ROOMS Hong Kong is supported by UK Trade & Investment and from this season, part-financed by the European Union.

LONDON show ROOMS HONG KONG Participating Designers:
E. Tautz
Jonathan Saunders
Marios Schwab
Mary Katrantzou
Nicholas Kirkwood
Peter Pilotto
Roksanda Ilincic
Todd Lynn

For more information on LONDON show ROOMS and full biographies of the designers showcasing, please visit:
www.britishfashioncouncil.com/londonshowrooms

Image: Todd Lynn SS12

British Style Award 2011

Fri, 27 Oct 2011 15:32:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) has announced that it will once again be looking to the public to decide on the winner of the British Style Award brought to you by Vodafone at this year’s British Fashion Awards. The award, which was won by Alexa Chung in 2010, is presented to the individual who most embodies the spirit of London and is an international ambassador for London as a leading creative fashion capital.

The British Style Award is based on the success of the London 25 Award, introduced in 2009 as part of the BFC’s 25th anniversary celebrations and awarded to Kate Moss. A list of nominees including Adele, Daisy Lowe, Florence Welch, Lara Stone, Stella McCartney and Tilda Swinton was compiled by a panel of key opinion formers for this year’s award.

Voting is open from 27th October until 11th November 2011 and the winner will be announced at the awards ceremony on the 28th November. Members of the public are invited to vote through the British Fashion Awards website www.britishfashionawards.com/britishstyle and voters will be entered into a prize draw to win two tickets to attend the BFA awards ceremony.

The British Fashion Awards recognise the most influential people in fashion today and will celebrate the reputation and development of British fashion through awards such as Designer of the Year, Designer Brand, Accessory Designer, Menswear Designer and three Emerging Talent Award’s which recognise designers as they establish their emerging fashion businesses. Other awards that will be presented on the night include Outstanding Achievement in Fashion, Model and the Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator.

To raise donations for Save The Children, the official charity of theBritish Fashion Awards 2011, the BFC are encouraging voters to make a donation through Save the Children’s official Just Giving webpage. Members of the public can also donate straight from their mobile through JustTextGiving by Vodafone, by texting BFAS99 and the donation amount to 70070 e.g. text BFAS99 £5 to 70070. Texts are free from any network. For more information about JustTextGiving by Vodafone, go to http://www.justtextgiving.co.uk

To vote for the British Style Award brought to you by Vodafone, please visit
www.britishfashionawards.com/britishstyle

For more information go to www.britishfashionawards.com

Image: Alexa Chung, winner of last year's British Style Award

Applications for LFW February 2012

Thu, 28 Sep 2011 11:35:00 GMT

Online applications for autumn/winter 2012 at LFW February 2012 are now closed.

NEWGEN

Find out more: www.britishfashioncouncil.com/newgen
Further application enquiries: Laura Hinson - laura@britishfashioncouncil.com

NEWGEN MEN

Find out more: www.britishfashioncouncil.com/newgenmen
Further application enquiries: Laura Hinson - laura@britishfashioncouncil.com

EXHIBITION

Find out more: www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/exhibition
Further application enquiries: Camilla Scott-Bowden - camilla@britishfashioncouncil.com

ESTETHICA

Find out more: www.britishfashioncouncil.com/bfcestethica
Further application enquiries: Camilla Scott-Bowden - camilla@britishfashioncouncil.com

CATWALK/PRESENTATION

Find out more: www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/catwalk
Further application enquiries: Laura Hinson - laura@britishfashioncouncil.com

MENSWEAR
Find out more: www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/menswear
Further application enquiries: Laura Hinson - laura@britishfashioncouncil.com

For further information please contact:
Camilla Scott-Bowden
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1977
camilla@britishfashioncouncil.com

LONDON show ROOMS LA

Sat, 07 Oct 2011 10:56:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council’s (BFC) international showcasing initiative LONDON show ROOMS is taking London’s brightest stars of British fashion to Los Angeles for the first time this October, building on the success of LONDON show ROOMS in Paris and New York. This initiative aims to develop the profile and business opportunities for these designers in international markets. West Coast buyers, stylists and press will have the opportunity to meet designers and view the collections in a unique environment.

London has an unparalleled reputation for nurturing the world’s most innovative, diverse and creative talents and LONDON show ROOMS in Los Angeles brings together many of those identified as London’s hottest stars. The showroom will showcase a selection of BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund shortlisted designers, Fashion Forward alumni with the addition of the winners of British Fashion Awards Menswear and Accessory Designers of the Year 2010.

A project aimed at boosting British designer exports, LONDON show ROOMS has grown to include a showroom in New York, and, in June 2010, launched LONDON show ROOMS MEN in Paris, both of which were in partnership with the Centre for Fashion Enterprise. This season, following a successful London Fashion Week, LONDON show ROOMS will increase its presence in the U.S. and develop their businesses internationally with help from UK Trade & Investment (UKTI).

LONDON show ROOMS LA will take place from October 17th-19th at the Ace Gallery, located at 5514 Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles. The showroom is a fully subsidized space for designers to showcase their collections with the support of international marketing, media and sales advisers.

Caroline Rush, CEO of the BFC said, “Taking LONDON show ROOMS to LA will help further develop the profile of these designers through media coverage and introductions to media, stylists and retailers. LA is a significant market for our designers and we are delighted to be taking this initiative over to the west coast.”

Launched in 2008, LONDON show ROOMS is a key element of the British Fashion Council's designer support and mentoring scheme. The project is co-curated and managed by Anna Orsini and Barbara Grispini for the British Fashion Council with the support of the BFC’s Ambassador for Emerging Talent, Sarah Mower. The showroom provides a unique opportunity for emerging British designers to promote themselves outside London and secure new export business. LONDON show ROOMS are supported by UK Trade and Investment and part-financed by the European Union.

The Los Angeles showroom will be open from 10.30 AM until 6 PM, October 17th-19th, 2011 at the Ace Gallery, 5514 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA.

LONDON show ROOMS LA Participating Designers:

E.Tautz
Erdem
Jonathan Saunders
Marios Schwab
Mary Katrantzou
Nicholas Kirkwood
Peter Pilotto
Richard Nicoll
Roksanda Ilincic
Todd Lynn

With special thanks to Concept Los Angeles at ACE Gallery, Fashionglue and Mondrian LA.

www.britishfashioncouncil.com/londonshowroomsLA

Press Contacts:
Lauren Urband, Senior Director of Public Relations, Starworks Group
laurenurband@starworksla.com
+1 323 782 8630

Ashley Ross, Account Manager, Starworks Group
ashley@starworksla.com
+1 323 782 8630

General information on LONDON show ROOMS and buyers please contact:
Barbara Grispini, British Fashion Council
barbara@britishfashioncouncil.com
Tel: +44 (0) 7765 000 224

David Watts

Fri, 29 Sep 2011 12:16:00 GMT

David Watts has joined the British Fashion Council as Business Support Manager. His appointment underlines the BFC’s ongoing commitment to nurturing and supporting designer businesses. The BFC provides business support and mentoring as an integral part of all of its designer support schemes including BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund; BFC/ELLE Talent Launch Pad; NEWGEN, sponsored by Topshop; NEWGEN MEN, sponsored by TOPMAN and Fashion Forward, sponsored by Coutts & Co and The Mayor of London. David will meet these supported designers on a one to one basis and will assist in co-ordinating access to the BFC’s consultants, BFC team members, professional services and the broader industry to provide more specialist support. Going forward, David will also seek to develop broader networking and knowledge sharing opportunities.

David’s career, spanning twenty five years in the fashion and creative sectors, has focussed on building sales, marketing and creative development brand strategies in the UK, USA and Japan. Most recently, David was responsible for running an ERDF funded fashion contract for the East London Small Business Centre, providing one to one business advice to fashion designers and UK fashion brands helping them develop tailor made business plans for sales growth in new markets.

Simon Ward, BFC COO, commented “David is a welcome and important addition to the British Fashion Council team. He has a track record of working with designer businesses and, through the BFC’s broader industry network, will be able to broaden access to knowledge and expertise for London’s leading emerging fashion designers.”

David Watts, Business Support Manager
david.watts@britishfashioncouncil.com / +44 (0) 20 7759 1973

For press enquiries, please contact:
Ellie Wilson or Will Rowley
ellie.wilson@britishfashioncouncil.com / +44 (0) 20 7759 1986
will.rowley@britishfashioncouncil.com / +44 (0) 20 7759 1968

LONDON show ROOMS

Thu, 21 Sep 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) today announces plans to expand its international showcasing initiative, LONDON show ROOMS. In October 2011, LONDON show ROOMS will take a selection of London’s design talent to Los Angeles and Hong Kong for the first time, building on the success of this initiative in Paris and New York. LONDON show ROOMS is supported by Sarah Mower, BFC Ambassador for Emerging Talent.

LONDON show ROOMS LA will take place 17th – 19th October, giving west coast buyers, and press the opportunity to view the collections and the designers the opportunity to expand in this market.

LONDON show ROOMS Hong Kong will take place 31st October – 1st November, 2011 with Li & Fung joining as official sponsor. The decision to showcase in Hong Kong supports the China Britain Fashion Alliance, established July 2011, an initiative between the BFC, the Beijing International Brand Management Centre and the China-Britain Business Council to promote British Fashion in China.

Designers participating in LA and Hong Kong are previous Fashion Forward alumni and BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund shortlist and British Fashion Awards Menswear and Accessory Designers of the Year 2010. Paris and New York showcases designers who have received NEWGEN, Fashion Forward and Fashion East support.

Caroline Rush, CEO of the British Fashion Council, commented “LONDON show ROOMS has become an essential initiative to promote British talent internationally and help designers develop their businesses through directly networking and working with media, retailers and the broader fashion industry in each region. We are delighted to take this initiative to LA and Hong Kong.”

LONDON show ROOMS Spring/Summer 2012 key dates

PARIS
Thursday 29th September - Thursday 6th October 2011 | 9am - 7pm
New venue for spring/summer 2012 Le Loft, Impasse Guéménée, 3 Cour Bérard, off rue Saint Antoine 28, 75004 Paris (4eme)

NEW YORK
In Partnership with Centre for Fashion Enterprise
9- 10 November 2011
Penthouse Lofts, Soho Grand, 310 West Broadway, New York, NY 10013 +001 (212) 965 3000

LOS ANGELES
17 – 19 October 2011 venue tbc

HONG KONG
31 October – 1 November 2011 venue tbc

For the latest information and updates on LONDON show ROOMS and full list and biographies of the designers showcasing, please visit:
www.britishfashioncouncil.com/londonshowrooms

For press enquiries please contact:
Kimberly Carroll / Will Rowley, British Fashion Council
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1987 / +44 (0) 20 7759 1968
kimberly@britishfashioncouncil.com / will@britishfashioncouncil.com

For information on LONDON show ROOMS and buyers enquiries please contact:
Barbara Grispini, British Fashion Council
Tel: +44 (0) 7765 000 224
barbara@britishfashioncouncil.com

Twitter Q&A

Fri, 15 Sep 2011 14:26:00 GMT

This season, LFW is working closely with Twitter to promote conversation around Fashion Week using the hashtag #LFW and by mentioning the official account @LondonFashionWk.

Q&A sessions will be held over the 6 days of LFW from the @LondonFashionWk account. Tweeters can pose questions in real-time to the scheduled guests, using the hashtag #AskLFW. Join the conversation!

All Q&A sessions last 30 minutes.

SCHEDULE
Friday 16th September
Caroline Rush, CEO British Fashion Council
Time: 4pm

Saturday 17th September
Laura Bailey, BFC Cultural Ambassador (@LauraBailey77)
Time: 11am

Sunday 18th September
Poppy Delevingne, BFC Young Ambassador
Time: 4.45pm

Monday 19th September
Lucy Yeoman's, Editor, Harper's Bazaar (@LucyBAZAAR)
Time: 3pm

Tuesday 20th September
Louise Gray, designer (@LOUISEGRAYLONDO)
Time: 11am

Wednesday 21st September
Gordon Richardson, Topman
Time: 2pm

Full press release on Digital Activity at London Fashion Week

Image: Louise Gray

Fashion 2012

Sat, 16 Sep 2011 09:31:00 GMT

Fashion 2012 is the official fashion industry activity for the Olympic year. Created by the British Fashion Council (BFC), it is a central platform under which the industry is able to showcase and celebrate British fashion. It will provide a core focus for the industry and a schedule for the major fashion events and activities throughout London’s Olympic year.

Fashion 2012 has three key objectives – to celebrate and showcase our extraordinary talent in the world of Fashion; to inspire and educate young people to get involved with the industry; and to leave a legacy of future support and nurturing for our fashion stars of tomorrow.

The programme will be announced on 16th September 2011 at the opening of London Fashion Week by BFC Chair Harold Tillman CBE and London Mayor Boris Johnson.

The online platform will allow a consumer audience to register for newsletters before the schedule goes live in December 2011 in readiness for 2012.

The Fashion 2012 online resource will promote and showcase events, exhibitions and activity surrounding fashion throughout 2012. This will be supported by a downloadable app that will give details of events with links to Google Maps and more interactive content.

Fashion 2012 will highlight the breadth and depth of the talent in the UK and will position London as THE creative capital.

Activities include;-

-    A series of showcases and exhibitions including two London Fashion Weeks in February and September, major exhibitions at the V&A and London Show Rooms international showcase promoting BFC designers abroad

-    A joint BFC / British Council project bringing the world’s most exciting emerging fashion designers to London for the Fashion 2012 International Fashion Showcase

-    A major push for British Menswear featuring a series of activities both in the UK and abroad

-    An educational project in collaboration with Adidas and the BFC’s Colleges Council

-    The BFC / Bazaar Fashion Arts Foundation’s 2012 Showcase – “Britain Creates 2012” – in collaboration with the Mayor of London

Other events and activities are still in development and the BFC invites the industry to join in the celebration of the very best of British Fashion by e-mailing 2012@britishfashioncouncil.com to express an interest in the development of the calendar.

Harold Tillman CBE, Chairman of the BFC, said “In 2012 the eyes of the world will be upon us – we want to show the world that Britain is the leading force in the global creative sphere. Our fashion reputation is second to none and we will ensure that reputation is showcased and celebrated to the broadest possible global audience and that there are opportunities for the whole of the industry to get involved and participate.”

For more information, please visit www.fashion2012.co.uk

Britain Creates

Sat, 16 Sep 2011 09:30:00 GMT

To celebrate the Olympic and Paralympic Games, our most prestigious and renowned fashion designers will collaborate with leading visual artists on specially commissioned one-off works of art. These commissions, focusing on an Olympic and Paralympic value, will be showcased to a broad UK and international audience through a major engagement programme that will support the commissions - a series of activities both actual and virtual that will reach a broad & diverse audience.

To date 14 artists and designers have signed up to the project including, Christopher Bailey for Burberry, Charming Baker, Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, Hussein Chalayan, Giles Deacon, Jeremy Deller, Jess Flood-Paddock, Stephen Jones, Christopher Kane, Marc Quinn, Paul Smith and Vivienne Westwood. Further artists and designers and their pairings will be announced in autumn 2011.

Created and managed by the British Fashion Council / Bazaar Fashion Arts Foundation in collaboration with the Mayor of London, this exciting new project will be a highlight of the London 2012 Festival, a UK festival which runs from 21st June to 9 September next year and is the culmination of the four year Cultural Olympiad.

The Britain Creates 2012 project will be the start of an ongoing artistic project and bursary to support and encourage further collaboration between fashion and other art forms. The money for the bursary will be raised through the auction of the pieces and through the proceeds of a Gala event.

The 2012 Commissions will bring together pairs of leading artists and fashion designers who will work together across different artistic mediums. Leading creative figures will bring the Olympic and Paralympic values to life through a project that will salute the longstanding connection between fashion and the visual arts and show that when great minds collide, amazing things happen.

The pieces will be unveiled in June 2012 at a Gala event in central London. They will then be exhibited to the public throughout the London 2012 Festival period. Further details will be announced by LOCOG in autumn 2011.

The Britain Creates 2012 Engagement Programme will encompass an exhibition of the work (both public and through a high profile Gala for an influential global audience) and a series of stimulating interactions from seminars to film.

Britain Creates 2012 has received a grant from the Arts Council and has raised funds from private donors. Monies raised from the Gala and from the auction of the pieces will create future fashion and visual arts bursaries. A bursary committee will allocate funding.

Harold Tillman CBE, BFC Chair said, “Those viewing the Britain Creates 2012 Commissions either in person or virtually and those reading about it subsequently will be in no doubt that Britain is the leading force in the global creative sphere.”

Moira Sinclair, London Executive Director, Arts Council England said: "We are delighted to be partners in Britain Creates 2012. This is one of a number of opportunities to present our creative talents on a global platform as we welcome the world to London next year. The spirit of collaboration that Britain Creates 2012 embodies is at the heart of a continued drive to explore new possibilities and push boundaries, which has kept this country at the forefront of artistic innovation.”

The Mayor of London Boris Johnson said: "With its innovative designers, cutting edge street style and catwalk pizzazz, it's no wonder London has been voted fashion capital of the world. We want to show the city at its creative best in 2012 and these intriguing collaborations will bring together some of the most exciting designers and artists working in Britain today. I've no doubt we'll be seeing work that is as challenging as it is inventive, showing the power of creative collaboration and adding to a summer like no other."

The Britain Creates 2012 project has been made possible by generous donations from private funders including Megha Mittal and Tania Fares. They have not only provided essential start up funding to get this project underway but also give valuable input on the working committee. The working committee is led by co-chairs Lucy Yeomans, editor of Bazaar and Caroline Rush, CEO of the BFC.

Ruth Mackenzie, Director, Cultural Olympiad & London 2012 Festival, said: "I'm delighted that London 2012 is inspiring a project that puts artistic collaboration at its heart. I genuinely can't wait to see what extraordinary creations these leading fashion designers and visual artists will produce for the London 2012 Festival. And by generating funds to support a new generation of creatives, it will leave a great legacy."

LFW Facts & Figures September 2011

Fri, 15 Sep 2011 09:30:00 GMT

LONDON FASHION WEEK & BRITISH FASHION INDUSTRY FACTS & FIGURES SEPTEMBER 2011

•    68 catwalk shows and 37 presentations to take place over 6 days
•    205 UK and International emerging and established, ready to wear and accessories designers at The Exhibition at London Fashion Week (LFW)
•    Canon is the principal sponsor for the twelfth consecutive season
•    The Exhibition at LFW will play host to 19 Estethica designers, 17 NEWGEN designers and 6 Multibrand   Showrooms
•    Menswear day, now in its 6th season, has 9 shows and 6 presentations
•    On the catwalk there are 4 NEWGEN, sponsored by Topshop, designers: David Koma, Holly Fulton, Louise Gray, and Michael van der Ham
•    2 NEWGEN MEN, sponsored by TOPMAN, designers are showing on the catwalk: Christopher Shannon and James Long
•    Fashion Forward, sponsored by Coutts & Co and supported by the Mayor of London, will support three designers on the catwalk this season: Meadham Kirchhoff, Peter Pilotto and Todd Lynn
•    Over 5,000 visitors are expected: buyers, TV & radio crews, journalists and photographers
•    Media coverage equals or exceeds most major news and international sporting events
•    UK media coverage each season now exceeds £100m and media coverage from the International Guest Programme exceeds £53m (source: Precise)
•    It is estimated that orders of over £100m are placed during LFW each season; the International Guest Programme alone generates over £50m of orders
•    The direct value of the UK fashion industry to the UK economy is £21 billion (source: BFC Value of Fashion Report)
•    Fashion’s wider contribution to the economy in influencing spending in other industries is estimated to stand at over £37 billion (source: BFC Value of Fashion Report)
•    The UK fashion industry is estimated to support 1.3 million jobs, equivalent 4.5% of total employment, and is the largest employer of all the creative industries. The sector also provides opportunities to minority groups to a greater extent than most other creative industries (source: BFC Value of Fashion Report)
•    The UK Fashion industry is similar in size to the food/beverages services and telecommunications industries and bigger than the wholesale and retail of automotives, sports activities, chemical manufacture and advertising/video sectors (source: BFC Value of Fashion Report)
•    Major export markets are USA, Japan, Russia, France, Italy, Middle East, Hong Kong, China
•    The UK is renowned for having the best fashion colleges in the world

For further information on London Fashion Week visit www.londonfashionweek.co.uk

LFW Sponsors

Fri, 15 Sep 2011 09:00:00 GMT

London Fashion Week (LFW) is the most creative and innovative event on the global fashion calendar. This season highly creative rising stars such as Christopher Kane, Erdem, Marios Schwab and Richard Nicoll join iconic British designers such as Vivienne Westwood, Paul Smith, and heritage international brands including Burberry Prorsum, Aquascutum, Mulberry and Pringle of Scotland.

LFW is organised by the British Fashion Council (BFC) and is funded by sponsors, many of which provide services that have become integral to the unique experience London has to offer. The BFC thank all of their sponsors, in particular principal sponsor Canon, for their continued support.

CANON

Image is at the heart of London Fashion Week, and as a world-leader in imaging solutions, Canon is proud to have been a long-term supporter of European Fashion Weeks in London, Paris and Milan. This September marks Canon’s twelfth season as principal sponsor of London Fashion Week. There is a natural synergy between the fashion industry and Canon’s desire to develop innovative imaging solutions which unlock creativity and allow the designs on show this week to be captured at their best. Central to Canon’s support, Canon Professional Services (CPS) is once again providing a range of services for accredited photographers and videographers in the Photographers Lounge at the BFC Show tent. Canon’s specialist technical team is here to provide repairs, technical advice and personal training on a one-to-one basis. Whether it is a hardware or software issue, CPS will be there to ensure Canon’s photographers and videographers have the tools and knowledge they need to capture their best pictures on the day. The popular Best Shot competition will be running again to reward the photographer who captures the most defining shot during London Fashion Week. Exclusive Canon buses will also be shuttling photographers between shows so they don’t miss a moment of the capital’s catwalks.

Contact:

Anna Ghosh, anna_ghosh@cuk.canon.co.uk, +44 (0)1737 220 322

COUTTS & CO

COUTTS & CO is thrilled to be a sponsor of London Fashion Week and supporting Fashion Forward, showcasing London's status as a hotbed of emerging talent. This sponsorship reinforces our commitment to the world of contemporary creative industries, where the last few years have seen us enjoy highly successful relationships with fashion designers such as Stella McCartney and Ozwald Boateng, as well as sponsorship of Matthew Williamson’s 10 Years in Fashion retrospective at the Design Museum and most recently Coutts London Jewellery Week. With over 20,000 entrepreneurial clients, many of whom hail from the world of fashion, arts, media or celebrity, it is important for us to understand the world in which our clients live. The UK is a world leader at creating new fashion designers and by backing this initiative, Coutts can champion next generation talent with mentoring support, providing business acumen and training, and financial advice."

Contact:

Siobhan Griffiths, Coutts, +44 (0) 20 7957 2650

DHL

DHL understands that nothing stands still in the world of fashion. That’s why we’re delighted to be the Official Logistics Partner for London Fashion Week, as well as Fashion Weeks around the world. Like the fashion industry we support, we don’t let the grass grow under our feet. By responding quickly and effectively with tailored solutions that reduce costs, enhance operational efficiency and maximise speed to market, we help to create the perfect platform for fashion brands to achieve their global potential. From overnight express delivery of urgent samples to full warehousing and transportation of finished goods by road, sea or air. We have a dedicated team of experienced industry specialists ready to deal with every aspect of the logistics process. DHL is the global market leader in logistics and operates in more than 220 countries and territories. We ensure the entire supply chain journey – from cotton field to consumer – is as seamless, transparent and stress free as possible.

Contact:

Andrew Brentnall, uk.pressoffice@dhl.com, +44(0)207 908 6581

The Evening Standard

The Evening Standard and its glossy supplement 'ES' Magazine - is proud to continue its long-standing association with London Fashion Week. A distribution figure of over 700,000 copies a day and apps for both the i-pad & smart phones, means that the latest fashion news is now making its way, entirely free of charge, into the hands of more Londoners than ever before. With a high traffic website as part of the overall package, our digital and print offerings will offer comprehensive coverage during the week with catwalk reports, trend analysis and, on the lighter side, all the gossip and glamour from the front rows and after-show parties.

Contact:

Maurice Mullen +44 (0) 20 7938 7414 / maurice.mullen@standard.co.uk

F&F at Tesco

F&F at Tesco continues to be a proud official sponsor of London Fashion Week this season. As the largest British retailer, Tesco is dedicated to supporting both established and emerging talent and regards London Fashion Week as the most important platform for British designers to showcase their new collections. Already synonymous with affordable chic, F&F at Tesco is a highly successful brand that is available to buy in selected Tesco stores or online at tesco.com/clothing.

Contact:

Hayley Jordison-Harris +44 (0) 20 7486 3368

The Mayor of London

The Mayor of London is a proud supporter of London fashion, including backing the British Fashion Council since 2007. This investment has helped the BFC expand its operation, as well as supporting individual designers and promoting London as an international centre for fashion. London's fashion industry is a great success story, with it being voted the world's top fashion capital, and the Mayor of London is delighted to continue supporting the British Fashion Council. With exciting plans for the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics Games, there is much to look forward to from a sector that is as surprising as it is successful.

Contact:

Ben McKnight, Mayor's Press Office, +44(0)20 7983 4071

Coca-Cola®

Coca-Cola® is delighted to continue its partnership with London Fashion Week, making it the Official Soft Drink Partner of London Fashion Week and the Vodafone London Fashion Weekend for the second season. This will see Glacéau vitaminwater®, Coca-Cola, Diet Coke® and Schweppes Abbey Well® widely available at both events. Glacéau vitaminwater, the original and great tasting, enhanced hydration from New York will be the Official Soft Drink of London Fashion Week. It is perfect for keeping the fashion industry and busy fashion fans hydrated and helping them to get some of the vitamins they may need.

Contact:

Paul Valentine paul.valentine@exposure.net, +44 (0) 7079 077 226

LAVAZZA

This year LAVAZZA, Italy’s favourite coffee is celebrating its ninth year as the official coffee of London Fashion Week, and will be ensuring that fashionista’s get their daily espressos, cappuccinos and lattes. At the new Lavazza Café in the East Wing of Somerset House coffee lovers will be able relax surrounded by glamorous images from the latest Lavazza Calendar, shot this year by celebrity photographer Mark Seliger. Making its appearance at London Fashion Weekend will be Lavazza’s own supermodel, A Modo Mio. This September visitors will get an exclusive preview of the latest addition to the family, the A Modo Mio Favola in collaboration with AEG. Created for an authentic Italian home barista experience, a chic A Modo Mio coffee capsule machine is a must for coffee and style fans. The range is available from retailers including John Lewis and Selfridges and from
www.lavazzamodomio.co.uk

Contact:

Jo Strang at Lawson Dodd +44 (0) 20 7535 1361

M∙A∙C COSMETICS

M∙A∙C COSMETICS, the professional makeup artist brand, is synonymous with fashion. As the official makeup brand behind the runways of London Fashion Week and with presence in over 22 international fashion weeks M•A•C is integral to setting the trends that matter most each season. Working with the world’s leading makeup artists, M•A•C’s 50-strong team of Pro artists create and collaborate with top designers to define the latest, most modern styles at over 200 shows at the International Collections – with over 50 of these being in London. To get a 360° view of what’s going on in beauty this London Fashion Week including trend, technique, product, backstage insight (and that essential makeup touch-up!) head to the M•A•C Lounge in the East Wing of Somerset House - the BFC London Fashion Week venue - from Friday 16 – Wednesday 21 September 2011.

Contact:

Ruth Wiles, rwiles@mac-cosmetics.co.uk, +44 (0) 870 034 6858

THE MAY FAIR HOTEL

The May Fair Hotel, the official hotel of London Fashion Week for the fourth year running, has been a by-word for elegance and style since the twenties and redefines modern luxury with playful panache. The May Fair Hotel will be making a particularly stylish entrance this September with the unveiling of its designer windows inspired by the creative window displays of the world’s leading fashion houses. Exclusively designed by top fashion graphic artist, Spiros Halaris, whose clients have included D&G, Hemyca and Tom Ford; the hotel façade will be transformed to depict vibrant, stylish scenes from the catwalk.
For those who want to be part of the enviable fashion scene during London Fashion Week the May Fair’s uber-cool Bar is the place to see and be seen. Indulge in the Fashion Week inspired ‘Cocktail and Cupcakes’ or try the limited edition LFW cocktail “The Pout”. Those in need of some pampering can also luxuriate in some serious me-time at the May Fair Spa. Experience the selection of A-list treatments including the aptly named Catwalk Wrap (£135, 1hour 30minutes).

Contact:

Helen Parker at Mason Williams, helen@mason-williams.com 0845 0941 007

MERCEDES-BENZ

MERCEDES-BENZ, the definitive car brand for Global Fashion at London Fashion Week, will ensure that that the fashion cognoscenti from around the world move effortlessly between the London Fashion Week catwalk shows. The luxurious fashion fleet of striking models that combine style, looks, power and poise will ensure guests will seamlessly navigate LFW whilst enjoying their own Mercedes-Benz experience. Mercedes-Benz will also continue to deepen its relationship as an established supporter of global Fashion with it’s ‘Voices of Fashion’ initiative. The ‘Voices of Fashion’ digital channel has been created to give consumers and followers unrivalled access to the ‘Voices that define Fashion’ capturing exclusive interviews, real-time news updates and behind-the-scenes footage with some of the world’s top fashionista’s as well as the people that keep London Fashion Week moving. View the Voices of Fashion activity at mercedes-benz.co.uk/fashion.

Contact:

Andy Hart AndyH@yellow-door.com, +44 (0) 20 7290 0489

MONSOON

'Monsoon is proud to be continuing its sponsorship of Estethica for the ninth consecutive season. This ground-breaking concept which supports the rise of sustainable fashion and showcases the best of eco design, remains close to the heart of Monsoon’s values and ethics. For the new spring / summer 12 season, we are very excited to be showcasing the third instalment of our L.O.V.E collection. Embracing modern design with traditional Indian craftsmanship, the collection incorporates craft techniques including hand block printing and embroidery, beautiful hand-knitting and the use of organic fabrics. Estethica is such an inspiring platform to be a part of and we are proud to be sharing our values with great new design talent.’ Peter Simon, Founder

Contact:

Louise Worrell or Kelle Crisp +44 (0) 20 3372 3101/3102

TONI&GUY

Creating a synonymous link between hair and fashion, TONI&GUY continue to support British Fashion as ‘Official Hair Sponsor to London Fashion Week’ for a 15th season. With a heritage spanning over 45 years and over 400 salons in 41 countries globally, TONI&GUY is hairdressing’s only ‘Superbrand’, proving a unique ability to enjoy a global brand presence, whilst retaining that all important contemporary edge and fashion-focused signature. Providing session hairdressing teams backstage at over 60 shows each year, hosting an on-site salon service, plus with label.m professional haircare backstage and in all the best goody bags. TONI&GUY’s commitment to nurturing key British Design talent extends to their sponsorship of the BFC Vogue Designer Fashion Fund and their continued support of the Vauxhall Fashion Scout initiative, the largest off schedule venue.

Contact:

Karen Harper at TONI&GUY Media +44 (0) 20 7921 9000 karen.harper@toniandguy.co.uk

TOPMAN

TOPMAN as always been a stalwart supporter of young and emerging talent and has worked alongside such designers as Kim Jones, Cassette Playa, Todd Lynn, Richard Nicoll, Deryk Walker and Ann-Sofie Back early on in their careers. In 2005, MAN, a joint partnership between Topman and Fashion East was born and for the last ten seasons has been a firm fixture on schedule at LFW nurturing and supporting brilliant young menswear design talent. Topman are proud to be the official sponsor of NEWGEN MEN. Along with the fact that so many brilliant young designers have debuted at MAN, this BFC Award, now in its fourth season, is testament to the strength of menswear talent in Britain today and the undoubted need for further and on-going support to establish them as serious contenders in the global menswear market. This season a well deserved eight awards have been awarded to James Long, Christopher Shannon, JW Anderson, Sibling, New Power Studio, Katie Eary, Dr Noki and Lou Dalton.

Contact:

Kelly Reed at TOPMAN +44 (0) 20 7291 2721 / kelly.reed@topman.com

TOPSHOP

TOPSHOP "The NEWGEN scheme is one of the most important and highly regarded schemes for emerging fashion talent in the world today, and has kick-started the careers of many of the industry's star names. TOPSHOP is proud to be sponsoring the scheme for the 20th consecutive season, which is now such a central part of London Fashion Week." - Mary Homer, MD Topshop

Contact:

Mark Kean +44 (0) 20 7291 2415

UK Trade & Investment (UKTI)

UK Trade & Investment, the Government department that helps UK-based companies succeed in the global economy, supports the UK’s cutting edge fashion industry by helping companies grow their business internationally. UK designers export over two thirds of the clothing they produce, and the UK footwear industry sells over 90 per cent of its production around the world. Through expert guidance and key event support, UKTI is well-placed to help maximise the international trade potential of the fashion sector. A dedicated team in London provides expert advice to over 500 London based fashion companies per year, from small designers to large retail brands, as well as clinics, workshops, market visits and financial support to access overseas exhibitions. UKTI assists the BFC and UKFT on a number on key events both in the UK and abroad and runs a number of programmes for new and experienced exporters.

Contact:

To speak to a member of the UKTI London fashion team, please call 020 7234 3050
Visit www.ukti.gov.uk/london

Vodafone

Vodafone UK is proud to be official communications partner of London Fashion Week and title sponsor of London Fashion Weekend. Whether you're into fashion, festivals or Formula 1™, you can get tickets to some of the Britain’s best events. Vodafone VIP is a way of saying thank you for being a Vodafone customer. All Vodafone customers can register for Vodafone VIP by going online to www.vodafone.co.uk/vip
Vodafone UK have partnered with world renowned designer Richard Nicoll across two seasons, giving customers unique access to one of Britain’s top fashion designers at London Fashion Week, while all registered attendees during the week will be able to take advantage of the Vodafone tech support and battery exchange service at Somerset House.
As title sponsor of Vodafone London Fashion Weekend, Vodafone customers will have the opportunity to buy tickets 48 hours before they go on general sale, have the chance to get front row seats at a catwalk show to see the latest trends before they hit the high street plus see a top UK artist perform live at the launch event on 22 September. What’s more, all Vodafone UK customers can enjoy exclusive offers and discounts from the new partnerships with high street retailers.

Contact:

Jo Baker/Ben Taylor Vodafone UK Media Relations +44 (0) 1635 666777

Digital at LFW

Fri, 15 Sep 2011 15:58:00 GMT

This London Fashion Week, starting 16th September 2011, the British Fashion Council (BFC) continues to unite fashion and digital innovation, encouraging engagement with LFW through social media, live streaming and pioneering new technologies.

The BFC will be working closely with Twitter to promote conversation around London Fashion Week using the hashtag #LFW and by mentioning the official account @LondonFashionWk. The BFC will be engaging with designers and brands through the ‘Twitter Guide to London Fashion Week’, with helpful information on how to follow London Fashion Week in real time on Twitter. More comprehensive training will be offered to interested designers after LFW in dedicated digital seminars. Q&A sessions will be held over the 6 days of LFW from the @LondonFashionWk account. Tweeters can pose questions in real time to guests including Laura Bailey (BFC Cultural Ambassador), NEWGEN designer Louise Gray and Caroline Rush (BFC CEO), using the hashtag #AskLFW. The LFW Timeline will also take to Twitter, keeping track of the shows throughout the week with live updates of start times. Once again this season, highlights from the London Fashion Week Twitter feed will be broadcast on CBS Outdoor UK’s network of Cross-track Projection (XTP) screens on London Underground platforms. This activity is part of an ongoing partnership with CBS Outdoor UK.

The live streaming schedule continues to expand. This season 33 shows will be live streamed, 23 from the BFC Show Space at Somerset House, 7 courtesy of Topshop from their official venue Old Eurostar Terminal, Waterloo, as well as shows around town including Burberry Prorsum. Anyone can watch the shows at home or on the outdoor LED screen in the courtyard at Somerset House. New to Fashion Week this season is the BFC Cinema, showing all BFC Show Space live streams, as well as a dedicated film programme, with highlights including a day of films by NEWGEN alumni, a morning showcasing Estethica brands and an afternoon with Test Presents.

Aurasma will be bringing LFW to digital life this season. Aurasma is a new technology that’s capable of recognising images and objects in the real world and seamlessly integrating them with rich video content and audio. Using a smartphone, all the LFW visitor has to do is download the free Aurasma Lite app and then hold the phone over the LFW logo or image, at which point it will spring to life and bring you exclusive LFW video content.

The LFW Mobile Site means that users can access a quick and simplified version of the website while on the move via their smart phones – including the show and events schedules, designer database and guide to the best of London’s restaurants, bars and shops.

The BFC’s digital innovation strategy aims to harness technology and creativity to promote British designers to global audiences. A digital committee comprising Caroline Rush, CEO, British Fashion Council; Clara Mercer, Marketing Manager, British Fashion Council; Ben Hammersley, Editor-at-Large, Wired & Founder of Dangerous Precedent; Daniel Marks, Director, The Communications Store; Graham Fink, Creative Director, M&C Saatchi; Imran Amed, The Business of Fashion; James Grant, CEO, Starworks; Jane Boardman, CEO, Talk PR; Jason Knight, Krow Communications and Sojin Lee was established in 2010 to inform and develop the BFC’s digital offering.

To see the digital schedule visit www.londonfashionweek.com/digitalschedule.

For more information regarding the British Fashion Council and London Fashion Week contact:
Gemma Ebelis, PR Manager
Te: +44 (0) 20 7759 1989
gemma@britishfashioncouncil.com

Image: Somerset House

Poppy Delevingne

Fri, 15 Sep 2011 10:00:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) today announces Poppy Delevingne’s appointment to the recently created role of Young Ambassador for the BFC. She joins Laura Bailey who was announced Cultural Ambassador last month. The role of these ambassadors will be to support the British Fashion Council as it promotes British fashion design talent to a global market.

As an ambassador Poppy will attend key events as part of the BFC’s annual calendar including London Fashion Week, the British Fashion Awards and LONDON show ROOMS. Behind the scenes Poppy will receive regular briefings from the BFC on forthcoming activities, business support schemes and showcasing opportunities. She will also be meeting with designers, in their studios, to hear first-hand the challenges faced by young designers when they are setting up their businesses. This unique insight will allow Poppy to promote and become a spokesperson for these designers and brands when she is working with stylists and will be asked to provide comment or write features about the British fashion industry.

Poppy Delevingne commented, “I've been brought up around British fashion all my life, so it only seemed like the next most natural step to become an ambassador for the BFC. British fashion is extremely exciting and influential. I'm honoured to have been asked and looking forward to supporting new British talent.”

Caroline Rush, CEO of the British Fashion Council, said “Poppy is a successful international model and fashion icon and has been a huge supporter of British brands over the years. Her influence within the fashion industry will provide our British designers with increased media exposure and introduce them to her key contacts from other creative industries."

For press enquiries please contact:
Gemma Ebelis at the British Fashion Council
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1989
gemma@britishfashioncouncil.com

Image: Poppy Delevingne, Storm Models

Exhibition at LFW

Thu, 14 Sep 2011 12:00:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council has confirmed 202 emerging and established accessories, jewellery and ready-to-wear labels to show their spring/summer 2012 collections at the leading international designer showcase, The Exhibition at London Fashion Week. Renowned as London’s premier showcasing platform for emerging designer businesses alongside established brands, this season The Exhibition will showcase 74 designers new to London Fashion Week. The Exhibition is open to all UK and International media and buyers. Registration is available on site from 16th – 20th September, 10am until 7pm (closing at 6pm on 20th).

The Exhibition at London Fashion Week is based at Somerset House over 4 floors and, for the first time this season, as well as showcasing the most innovative womenswear ready-to-wear and accessories, there will be a dedicated menswear collective. Amongst the new exhibitors showing for spring/summer 2012 are J Brand with their newly launched ready-to-wear collection that is arriving straight from their presentation in New York, and The Exhibition will be the first opportunity to buy. J Brand are represented by Rainbowwave and will be located in a private showroom in the newly renovated East Wing of Somerset House. Other newcomers include previous Fashion East designers, Eliot Atkinson and Simone Rocha; luxury handbag designer Jerome Dreyfuss, and Howland London, a new label inspired by youthful sensibilities and luxury living. The Terrace Rooms at Somerset House will host a wide selection of accessories brands with Valery Demure showroom returning this season, featuring the best in British and international accessories designers including A-Morir; Eddie Borgo; Fleet Ilya; Jennifer Behr; Melanie Georgacopoulos and Swash.

Exhibitors are selected by an expert panel of media and retailers to guarantee the integrity and quality of the exhibition, and to ensure the collections will appeal to an audience of both UK and international retailers alike. As well as installations and multibrand showrooms, The Exhibition will have merchandised feature areas for each of the BFC’s showcasing initiatives. NEWGEN, sponsored by TOPSHOP will feature some of London’s most innovative designers on the terrace at Somerset House; Estethica, sponsored by Monsoon, gives a platform for eco-sustainable design; Headonism, brings new British milliners in partnership with Ascot Racecourse; newly announced BFC/Elle Talent Launch Pad winners will have a show space in the Embankment Galleries; 7 menswear designers can be found in the East Wing, and The Navy Board Room collective, comprising of NEWGEN alumni, will be located on the first floor.

The NEWGEN, sponsored by TOPSHOP area, of The Exhibition will feature 17 of London’s brightest emerging talents, including those on both the catwalk and the presentation schedule. New designers for this season include Palmer//Harding, the Central Saint Martins design duo whose designs have already been seen on Bjork, Naomi Campbell and Lady Gaga, and progressive knitwear brand SIBLING, who are launching their first womenswear collection SISTER by SIBLING for SS12 in The Exhibition with support from NEWGEN. Tim Soar will also showcase his first stand-alone womenswear line in The Exhibition building upon his SHE:HIM project which he launched for SS11, where elements from his menswear collection were re-worked into womenswear. The NEWGEN designers will be situated on The Terrace at Somerset house and will have daily happy hour sessions between 2-3pm.

The British Fashion Council’s ethical initiative, Estethica, is showcasing 18 designers this season. Renowned as the BFC’s fastest growing initiative, Estethica has supported over 108 designers over the past five years who have all adhered to at least one of the three Estethica principles: fair trade and ethical practice in the production process; the inclusion of organic fibres; or the use of up-cycled and recycled materials and fabrics. Designers showcasing this season include From Somewhere, Ada Zanditon, Henrietta Ludgate, Pachacuti, and Partimi. Joining them for the first time are up-cycling accessory designer Lost Property London; ‘sustainable couture’ designer Eva Zingoni, who uses surplus materials from Parisian fashion houses to create bespoke pieces; ethical lingerie brand Charini; raincoats by Rajkumar Dyeing & Printing Works and Aiste Nesterovaite, launching their scarf collection. There will be a champagne brunch in the Estethica area of The Exhibition on Sunday afternoon, hosted by Gregory Barker, Minister of State, Department for Energy and Climate Change.

For the first time at The Exhibition, there will be a new menswear feature area, located in the East Wing of Somerset House. Five of the menswear designers who will showcase for 6 days in this dedicated space include Berthold, Cassette Playa, Katie Eary, Rose and Rose, and William Richard Green. Menswear day will be held on Wednesday 21st and is once again expected to be a highlight of London Fashion Week, with 9 on schedule catwalk shows and 6 presentations.

Headonism will be supporting four of London’s most exciting emerging milliners in The Exhibition, as part of a new partnership with Ascot Racecourse that was announced in June 2011. Designers showcasing include newcomer Charlie Le Mindu, J Smith Esq, Noel Stewart and Piers Atkinson. An evening with the milliners, hosted by the BFC and Ascot Racecourse will be held on Friday 16th September from 5-7pm, in the Embankment Galleries, with a speech from renowned milliner, Stephen Jones OBE.

Four new recipients of the BFC/Elle Talent Launch Pad award, Claudia Catzeflis, Saloni, Sophie Hulme and Vassilisa will showcase their collections in the dedicated space in The Exhibition. In September 2011, the four designers were announced by Elle magazine to receive support to develop their businesses and grow their relationships with regional retailers. The winners receive sponsorship to exhibit at London Fashion Week for two seasons, as well as access to Elle’s top stylists and marketing materials. A launch event will be hosted for the winning designers on Friday 16th September in the embankment galleries.

The Navy Board Room collective has expanded to showcasing 10 designers who are all NEWGEN alumni. These designers have gone on from winning NEWGEN sponsorship, to develop their businesses, and now drive the sales at London Fashion Week. Emerging London talent Mary Katrantzou will join Atalanta Weller, Bora Aksu, Cooperative Designs, Fannie Schiavoni, design duo Felder Felder, Mark Fast, Maria Francesca Pepe, Michael Lewis and Yang Du in the Navy Board Room collective on the first floor.

Seven prominent multi-brand showrooms will be representing designers at the Exhibition: Bloody Gray PR, Claret Showroom, Eastern Block, Place Rouge, Rainbowwave, Trace PR and Valery Demure. Rainbowwave will be championing 6 emerging design talents, with ready-to-wear from Raquel Allegra and Tucker, footwear from Ancient Greek Sandals and Camilla Skovgaard, and jewellery from Deepa Gurnani and Husam El Odeh, who won the Emerging Talent Award - Accessories at the 2010 British Fashion Awards. Place Rouge will be returning for a second season, bringing six brands including A Friend by A F Vandervorst, Agent Provocateur Jewellery, and Jean-Pierre Braganza. EasternBlock is a high-end seasonal showroom who are joining The Exhibition for the first time. Since 2004, they have strived to work with the avant-garde of the next generation, helping them to develop lasting business relationships with high-end retailers. Showcasing brands Krystof Strozyna, Tuesday Night Band Practice, Klavers Van Engelen, and Steve J and Yoni P, they can be found on the first floor in the Navy Board Rooms.

To support the British Fashion Council’s dedicated digital schedule, designers Ada Zanditon, Cassette Playa, Damanis and Tze Goh will be showing their latest collections through digital presentations in the on-site screening room in the Embankment Galleries. Digital showcases will also be presented in the BFC cinema, which will have daily themed screenings from selected designers. To view the full digital schedule, please visit:
www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/digitalschedule

Caroline Rush, Chief Executive of the British Fashion Council, commented, “The Exhibition offers media and buyers the most comprehensive and exciting edited collection of British design talent that’s available for spring/summer 12, all in one location at Somerset House. This season we’ve welcomed back returning exhibitors, taken on new talent, and created a dedicated menswear collective for the first time to provide the best possible selection of London’s brands.”

Opening Hours of The Exhibition

The Exhibition at London Fashion Week will be open from 10am – 7pm 16th – 19th September, and 10am – 6pm Tuesday 20th September. Menswear Day is Wednesday 21st September and NEWGEN MEN and Fashion East installations will be open from 1-5pm in the East Wing. The dedicated Buyers Lounge will again be located in the embankment galleries.

Press releases on this season’s NEWGEN recipients; BFC/Elle Talent Launch Pad designers, Headonism initiative and the Estethica collective are available at www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/press

Estethica at LFW

Wed, 13 Sep 2011 10:00:00 GMT

For the eleventh season, Estethica, sponsored by Monsoon and founded by the British Fashion Council (BFC), will form a significant part of the London Fashion Week Exhibition at Somerset House. This year Estethica celebrates its 5th anniversary (10 seasons) and is hailed as one of the best leading ethical showcases, forming the hub of London’s ethical fashion industry, and being highly regarded both in the UK and internationally.

Estethica welcomes 19 cutting edge designers for spring/summer 2012, chosen for their design excellence and commitment to working in a sustainable way. All designers adhere to at least one of the key Estethica principles of fair trade and ethical practice in the production process; the inclusion of organic fibres and the use of up-cycled and recycled materials and fabrics. Over the past 5 years Estethica has supported over 100 designers, and in addition to showcasing during London Fashion Week, the initiative hosts a dedicated seasonal press day and opportunities in our showrooms abroad.

There are five new designers showing their collections in the Estethica area of The Exhibition this season. Returning to show are up-cycling designer Lost Property of London, who are known for their fashionable and functional bags produced from abandoned fabrics. Eva Zingoni will bring ‘sustainable couture’ to The Exhibition this season, with her collection based on recycled luxury fabrics, cut from surplus materials from Parisian fashion houses. For the first time, the Soil Association will be exhibiting organic products. Brands on the Soil Association stand, co-designed by Tamsin Blanchard, Style Director of Telegraph Magazine, will include Monkee Jeans, People Tree and Continental Clothing. Ethical lingerie brand Charini; Aiste Nesterovaite’s scarf collection and raincoats by Rajkumar Dyeing & Printing Works are also new for spring/summer 12.

Monsoon, who have sponsored Estethica since 2007, comment “Now in our ninth consecutive season, Monsoon is hugely proud to be continuing its sponsorship of Estethica. Sustainability has always been close to Monsoon’s heart with the use of hand crafting and natural fabrics integral to the Monsoon handwriting. As founding members of the Ethical Trading Initiative we feel it is vital to encourage and support the emerging talent in this field. We love working with Estethica as they share our values and embody all that Monsoon stands for.”

Estethica celebrated its 5th anniversary in May 2011 with an evening hosted Livia Firth and Harold Tillman CBE for past and present Estethica designers and industry experts. Installations were curated by five of the current Estethica designers: Christopher Raeburn, Dr Noki, From Somewhere, Junky Styling and The North Circular. The Anniversary event also saw the launch of the Mayor of London’s Green Guide to Fashion. This guide is the latest addition in a series of Green Creative Industry Guides for London, and will be available later this year, providing businesses with guidance on how to lower their carbon emissions.

Caroline Rush, CEO of the BFC says, “Estethica’s 5th Anniversary celebrations this year have highlighted how Estethica has gone from strength to strength, and reflected the fashion industry’s support for sustainable design. As Estethica continues to lead the way in showcasing ethical fashion, both the quality and diversity of the designer collections in The Exhibition make the Estethica showcase a London Fashion Week highlight.”

There will be a champagne brunch in the Estethica area of The Exhibition on Sunday afternoon, hosted by Gregory Barker, Minister of State, Department for Energy and Climate Change.

The Estethica Review, edited by Jessie Brinton, is also new this season. Read it online here or pick up your copy from the Exhibition in The Embankment Galleries, Level 1, at Somerset House, Strand, London WC2 from Friday 16th September to Tuesday 20th September 2011, 10.00am – 7.00pm.

Spring/Summer 2012 Exhibition Estethica Designers

Ada Zanditon
Aiste Nesterovaite
Charini
Dr Noki’s NHS
Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF)
Emesha
Eva Zingoni
From Somewhere
Goodone
Henrietta Ludgate
Joanna Cave
Junky Styling
Lost Property of London
Michelle Loewe-Holder
Monsoon
Pachacuti
Partimi
Rajkumar Dyeing & Printing Works
Soil Association Certification

For press enquiries, please contact:
Will Rowley or Ellie Wilson at the British Fashion Council
will.rowley@britishfashioncouncil.com / ellie.wilson@britishfashioncouncil.com
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1968

For more information: www.britishfashioncouncil.co.uk/bfcestethica

Image from the Estethica Review, edited by Jessie Brinton. Pick up your copy from the Estethica area of the Exhibition.
Jacket by RDK Rubber, dress by Ada Zanditon, mask (work around neck) Dr Noki, earrings by Joanna Cave.

BFC/ELLE Talent Launch Pad Winners 2011

Thu, 07 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) and ELLE magazine today announce this year’s winners of BFC/ELLE Talent Launch Pad. Designers Claudia Catzeflis, Saloni, Sophie Hulme and Vassilisa will all receive professional support to develop their businesses over the coming year.

The BFC/ELLE Talent Launch Pad initiative was established last year with the aim of introducing emerging designers to established and respected retailers and increasing their exposure to UK wide audiences. Independent British retailers Cricket, Hervia Bazaar, Square and Anna have committed to placing orders for at least one of the shortlisted designers for two seasons and to host in-store events to raise the profile of the designers. The winners will also receive a stand in The Exhibition at London Fashion Week to showcase their collection for two seasons.

Caroline Rush, CEO, British Fashion Council, commented “This year’s BFC/ELLE Talent Launch Pad designers are all women with strong individual style which is reflected in their individual collections. All were considered to be strong new businesses that would benefit from the support mentoring and profile of this scheme”

The BFC/ELLE Talent Launch Pad was developed as a legacy initiative of the British Fashion Council’s 25th anniversary to assist new designer businesses to develop a solid British market, have access to retail mentors and through this raise their profile regionally and nationally through editorial and professional marketing material. The designers will also have access to Elle’s stylists and marketing resources.

Jenny Dickinson, Acting Editor, Elle Magazine, commented “The BFC/ELLE Talent Launch Pad aims to provide nascent British designers with the opportunities, acumen and support to thrive in the competitive fashion industry. The UK is a hub of fantastic, creative talent, but turning a flair for design into a profitable business is a gargantuan task. ELLE is delighted to work with the British Fashion Council again this year to provide that support to four exciting new designers. The standard of this year’s entries was incredibly high, but we have found four labels. Meet them in ELLE’s October issue – four fantastic women, who we believe in and know we can take to the next level.”

The selection committee, comprising of industry experts and retailers is chaired by Caroline Rush, and includes Anna Park, ANNA; Anne-Marie Curtis, ELLE UK; Asiya Durrani, Hervia Bazaar; Emma Jones, Temperley; Helena Christensen; Justine Mills, Cricket; Louise Carter, BFC; Lyn Gardner, Square; Oscar Pinto-Hervia, Hervia Bazaar; Rebecca Lowthorpe, ELLE UK; Sara Berman.

All designers are showcasing their collections at London Fashion Week commencing 16th September 2011.

Find out more about the winners...

Find out more about the scheme...

Image: BFC/ELLE Talent Launch Pad winners (left to right) Saloni Lodha, Nadja Solovieva, Claudia Catzeflis and Sophie Hulme. Photographer: Henry Bourne for ELLE Magazine

Designer Fashion Fund Applications

Thu, 24 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council today opens applications for the 2012 BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund. The Award, now in its 3rd year, consists of £200,000 and access to director-level mentors across the industry.

The winner and seven other shortlisted designers will be featured in the March issue of Vogue, and will gain access to a panel of business-development and industry mentors to support their business, brand and collection development over a 12-month period.

Designers eligible for the scheme must have an established business and be based in the UK, with both domestic and international stockists and support from key media in the UK and internationally.

The Fund was launched by BFC Chairman Harold Tillman CBE in September 2008 at a Downing Street reception. Vogue, partner of the Fund, whose March issue is on sale in early February, not only features the designers shortlisted, but also supports the mentoring programme through editor meetings and, for the first time in 2011, a symposium, which will address collective business issues. The inaugural winner of the award for 2010 was Erdem and the 2011 winner was Christopher Kane.

Eligible designers are invited to submit applications no later than 14th November, 2011. The judging committee, chaired by Vogue Editor Alexandra Shulman, is made up of patrons and industry experts, who will then shortlist applicants to be invited for interview. Marigay McKee, Fashion and Beauty Director at Harrods, chairs the mentoring panel. The winner will be announced in February 2012.

The BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund is supported by Aquascutum, Burberry, Clothing at Tesco, Debenhams, Harrods, House of Fraser, HSBC, Jaeger, LF Europe, Marks & Spencer, Paul Smith, TONI & GUY, TOPSHOP, Vogue and Westfield Shopping Towns.

The British Fashion Council has an international reputation for supporting emerging talent through its existing schemes: NEWGEN, supported by TOPSHOP; NEWGEN MEN, sponsored by TOPMAN; and Fashion Forward, sponsored by Coutts & Co and supported by the Mayor of London. The BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund aims to support business growth and create employment opportunities. It is more than complementary to the BFC designer support schemes - it provides an essential new platform to focus on developing profile and growth for British designer businesses.

For more information, please visit www.britishfashioncouncil.com/designerfashionfund

For press enquiries, please contact:
Will Rowley at the British Fashion Council
will.rowley@britishfashioncouncil.com
Tel: +44(0) 20 7759 1968

Image: Christopher Kane autumn/winter 2011 collection, backstage at London Fashion Week February 2011. Christopher won the 2011 award.

Laura Bailey

Fri, 04 Aug 2011 08:52:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) today announces Laura Bailey’s appointment to the newly created role of Cultural Ambassador for the BFC. Laura is the first of a number of young/cultural ambassadors that will be unveiled prior to London Fashion Week in September. The role of these ambassadors will be to support the British Fashion Council as it promotes British fashion design talent to a global market.

As an ambassador Laura will attend key events as part of the BFC’s annual calendar including London Fashion Week, the British Fashion Awards and LONDON show ROOMS. Behind the scenes Laura will receive regular briefings from the BFC on forthcoming activities, business support schemes and showcasing opportunities. She will also be meeting with designers, in their studios, to hear first-hand the challenges faced by young designers when they are setting up their businesses. This unique insight will allow Laura to promote and become a spokesperson for these designers and brands when she is working with stylists, asked to provide comment or write features about the British fashion industry.

Laura Bailey commented, “I'm proud of my new ambassadorship with the BFC and I am thrilled to be to working with and promoting young British talent. I think it’s a really exciting time for British fashion - via the shows, in the shops and on the streets. I'm also keen to work with the BFC on their collaboration with the film and art world. Roll on September for London Fashion Week!”

Caroline Rush, CEO of the British Fashion Council, said “As a model, writer and fashion icon Laura has an in-depth knowledge of the British fashion and film industry that we hope will provide our designers with increased media exposure and strong links with the other creative industries. The most exciting thing about these newly created ambassadorial roles is that they will grow organically into a unique role that best utilises each ambassador’s expertise, contacts and interests.”

For press enquiries please contact:
Gemma Ebelis at the British Fashion Council
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1989
gemma@britishfashioncouncil.com

Image: Laura Bailey with Harold Tillman CBE, British Fashion Council, Chairman

Head of Development

Thu, 27 Jul 2011 10:08:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council today announced the appointment of Louise Carter to the newly created role of Head of Development. Over the past two years the British Fashion Council has developed its promotional programme and support for British designer businesses to year round activity. The organisation aims to continue to strengthen its cornerstone projects London Fashion Week and the British Fashion Awards as well as developing its existing initiatives alongside new opportunities to promote British designer fashion, as Head of Development, Louise will play a key role in achieving these objectives.

Caroline Rush, CEO commented “This role was created with Louise in mind, enabling her to focus on scoping scale and opportunity of new projects such as London Pre with thorough industry engagement, developing a programme of events through 2012, whilst continuing to take a lead role in ensuring quality and the creative delivery of the existing events programme including London Fashion Week and the British Fashion Awards”.

Louise has worked for the British Fashion Council since 2006, first as a consultant then as Special Projects manager and latterly working as Head of Events with responsibility for London Fashion Week, the British Fashion Awards and developing the events programme. In this role Louise has proven her ability to help shape new challenges, developing the creative layout and environment of London Fashion Week at Somerset House as well as leading the team responsible for negotiating and creating the show schedule.

The British Fashion Council appointed its first full time management team in 2009 to deliver its 25th anniversary celebrations and a legacy programme to enhance ongoing support and promotion for British designers businesses. Over the past few years the organisation, under the guidance of Chairman Harold Tillman CBE, has developed the BFC/ELLE Talent Launchpad, The BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund, The BFC/Bazaar Fashion Arts Foundation, Men’s Day at London Fashion Week, an international programme of London show Rooms, a newly formed Buyers Advisory Committee, London Pre and an Ambassador programme through the appointment of Sarah Mower, Ambassador of Emerging Talent and Samantha Cameron as Ambassador for British Fashion and the newly created China Britain Fashion Alliance.

The British Fashion Council has brought key functions such as PR, Marketing, Sponsorship, Event Management in house and has established a business support function to deliver business support for those within the BFC designer support schemes. In addition to this the BFC is supported by consultants with expertise in global retail and media strategies as well as advisory panels of industry experts to assist in talent selection and development of promotional opportunities for British designer businesses to a global market.

Image: Louise Carter pictured at the British Fashion Awards Nominees Party, September 1st 2010.

MAN Line-up for SS12

Thu, 27 Jul 2011 17:20:00 GMT

Entering its thirteenth season and with Topman’s continued support, MAN has added two new names to its entourage of design talent, Shaun Samson and M atthew Miller, who will be joining returning MAN expert Martine Rose, all of whom have been selected by a panel of industry insiders. Once again Fashion East and Topman will showcase the work of three emerging and highly talented menswear designers at Menswear Day during London Fashion Week.
Lulu Kennedy, Director of Fashion East says ‘This is one of our most exciting line ups yet, with each designer having a very distinct and strong look. I’m thrilled Martine Rose won the MAN panel’s unanimous vote for a 3rd season, and that we welcome two newcomers - Matthew and Shaun – who are winning competitions for their style and innovative garment techniques, and selling to prestigious stores already’.
Gordon Richardson, Topman Design Director says ‘MAN is all about heralding what’s new in menswear today and I can think of no better designers than the three who are part of this year’s line-up. From a very strong list of promising young designers these three showed strong self belief and personal design characteristics that epitomised the very sense of what’s modern right now’.

Martine Rose
This is the seventh season from Martine Rose’s self titled label. Her previous collections have included ambitious installations at Blacks’ members club and Somerset House and have been well received by press and industry alike. AW11 saw her show a second critically acclaimed catwalk as part of MAN at the Royal Opera House.
Martine has collaborated with Wallpaper Magazine and Timberland, CAT boots and was one of the designers selected to take part in Selfridges 'Bright Young Things' project. Prior to launching her own label, Martine was co founder of the highly acclaimed international fashion label LMNOP.

Matthew Miller
Matthew Miller graduated from the Royal College of Art in 2009, where his graduate collection was singled out by Vogue as one to watch. Since graduating, Matthew has shown for the past three seasons at London Fashion Week as part of Fashion East’s menswear installations and in Paris at the British Fashion Council’s London Showrooms. His work draws on his interest in mathematics, science and technology, combining to create a new vision for menswear. His signature aesthetic mixes tailoring and sportswear with intricate textile decoration resulting in unique yet highly wearable pieces.

Shaun Samson
Shaun Samson is a California-born British-trained menswear designer launching his label under his own namesake in 2011. His design and approach comes from growing up in the laid-back suburban surf-mecca of San Diego, where throughout his youth he was inspired by the surrounding myriad of street-styles. Samson completed his first AA degree in Fashion Design before furthering his studies in Manufacturing and Product Development at FIDM in Los Angeles. His passion led him to complete a BA and MA in menswear at Central St. Martins during which time he also worked with Jeremy Scott on four collections. Samson quotes that he designs ‘Men’s Modern Street Wear’. He believes the modern man’s wardrobe should be wearable, effortless and special. Samson has also just won the prestigious ITS Fashion Collection of the Year Award. ITS has been a platform for emerging designers from all around the globe. Past finalists have included Mark Fast, Michael Van Der Ham and Peter Pilotto, whilst many others have gone on to work within major fashion houses.

The MAN panel includes AnOtherMan Creative Director, Alister Mackie, Style.com's Tim Blanks, Editor of GQ Style Ben Reardon, Fashion Director of GQ Style Luke Day, Deputy Editor of Fantastic Man Charlie Porter, Creative Director of Mulger, Fashion Director of Lady Gaga and Uniqlo and Fashion Director of Vogue Hommes Japan Nicola Formichetti, Fashion Director Andrew Davis, Fashion Editor of Vice Magazine Daryoush Haj-Najafi, and TOPMAN Design Director Gordon Richardson, presided over by Fashion East director and founder, Lulu Kennedy.

Image: Shaun Samson, autumn/winter 2011.

For further information please contact
George MacPherson, Account Director, Starworks London
george@starworkslondon.com
+44 (0) 20 7318 0400

Kelly Reed, PR Manager, Topman
Kelly.reed@Topman.com
+44 (0) 20 7291 2721

Provisional Schedule

Thu, 13 Jul 2011 13:07:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) has just announced the provisional schedule of designers who will be showcasing their spring/summer 2012 collections at London Fashion Week (LFW) in September.

View the provisional show schedule and download contacts

New additions to the flourishing presentation schedule: Emilia Wickstead, Fred Butler, Peter Jensen, Teatum Jones and Willow, as well as NEWGEN designers Dominic Jones, Jordan Askill and Sister by Sibling.

Menswear Day will be held on Wednesday 21st September with the Aquascutum men's presentation as an exciting new addition.

London Fashion Week will run from Friday 16th - Wednesday 21st September 2011 and will be located at Somerset House, Strand WC2.

Please Note: The provisional catwalk and presentation schedule for spring/summer 2012 is subject to change and is updated regularly. Refer to the online schedule for the latest version:
www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/schedule

Image: Backstage at Mary Katrantzou AW11 at LFW February 2011

For press enquiries regarding London Fashion Week please contact:
Gemma Ebelis, PR Manager, British Fashion Council
+44 (0) 20 7759 1999 / (0)7802 393 411
gemma.ebelis@britishfashioncouncil.com

Vodafone London Fashion Weekend

Fri, 07 Jul 2011 13:32:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) today announced they are bringing the management and production of Vodafone London Fashion Weekend in-house.

Vodafone London Fashion Weekend is the capital’s designer shopping event within the official London Fashion Week venue at Somerset House and will run from 22-25th September 2011. It gives consumers and members of the public the opportunity to shop from over 100 designer collections, including ready-to-wear, jewellery and accessories, at discounted prices.

The BFC aim to improve the consumer experience at Vodafone London Fashion Weekend, enhance the designer selection and develop it in line with the international designer showcase, London Fashion Week. As part of this, more collections from London Fashion Week designers will be available and high profile catwalk shows will run throughout the course of the weekend.

Caroline Reader and Georgina Riley are joining the British Fashion Council as Events Manager and Production Manager to take forward Vodafone London Fashion Weekend. They join the team from Single Market Events who developed the initial concept of Vodafone London Fashion Weekend and have coordinated all activity to date. Single Market Events will continue to support the BFC through marketing and ticket sales.

Caroline Rush, CEO of the British Fashion Council, commented “Following the buzz from London Fashion Week, Vodafone London Fashion Weekend gives consumers the opportunity to experience fashion first-hand and shop the designer’s collections. By taking on this event we’re looking to raise the standard, utilise our existing relationships with designers and increase the availability of British designer fashion to the UK public. The BFC thank Single Market Events for their continued support in developing this unique consumer fashion experience.”

For more information on Vodafone London Fashion Weekend and to book tickets, please visit www.londonfashionweekend.co.uk

Caroline Reader, Events Manager
caroline.reader@britifashioncouncil.com / +44 (0) 20 7759 1971

Georgina Riley, Production Manager
georgina.riley@britishfashioncouncil.com / +44 (0) 20 7759 1967

For British Fashion Council press enquiries please contact:
Gemma Ebelis or Will Rowley at the British Fashion Council
+44 (0) 20 7759 1989 / + 44 (0) 20 7759 1968
gemma@britishfashioncouncil.com / will@britishfashioncouncil.com

The China/Britain Fashion Alliance

Sat, 01 Jul 2011 14:12:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) today announced the historic China / Britain Fashion Alliance; a combined initiative between the BFC, the Beijing International Brand Management Centre (BIBMC) and the China-Britain Business Council (CBBC).

The China / Britain Fashion Alliance will promote British fashion in China, showcase British fashion designers in China, foster mutual cooperation and collaboration, open strategic and economic dialogue for regular exchange at senior level and provide strategic guidance to the development of fashion in China.

Harold Tillman CBE, Chairman of the British Fashion Council, announced the alliance this evening at the China-Britain Business Council’s (CBBC) Summer Party which was hosted by Sir David Brewer, Chairman of CBBC.
Tillman, commented “London is a creative powerhouse and China is the manufacturing powerhouse – if we combine these two things we believe great things can happen.”

This announcement follows China’s decision to officially list the Cultural and Creative Industries as one of their key development pillar’s in 2011 and Monday’s launch of the China-UK Creative Cooperation Office.

For British Fashion Council press enquiries please contact:
Gemma Ebelis or Will Rowley at the British Fashion Council
+44 (0) 20 7759 1989 / + 44 (0) 20 7759 1968
gemma@britishfashioncouncil.com / will@britishfashioncouncil.com