London Fashion Week News

Graduate Preview Day

Wed, 08 May 2012 10:15:00 GMT

The ‘Fashion Monitor Colleges Portfolio Award’ in association with the BFC goes to Royal College of Art

The ‘WGSN Digital Presentation Award’ in association with the BFC goes to London College of Fashion

The ‘BFC Fashion Illustration Award’ in association with Fashion Monitor goes to University of Westminster

Salford University received a special mention from the judging panel for the level of visual representation and styling they demonstrated.

The annual Graduate Preview Day saw 25 colleges from around the UK attend and showcase the portfolios of their graduating students. Their work was reviewed by a judging panel of industry experts headed by Chair of the Colleges Council Anne Tyrrell, and included Adam Kelly, Selfridges; Hannah White, Fashion Monitor; Jacqui Ma, WGSN and Marios Schwab.

“The calibre of this years portfolios has been excellent and demonstrates the breadth of talent of both the students and the colleges. The contacts the colleges gain from the day are extremely beneficial to their graduates and we’ve seen an incredible attendance here today, with representatives from Abercrombie & Fitch, Burberry, Alfred Dunhill, Harrods, Paul Costelloe, Matches, Max Mara and Topshop” said Anne Tyrrell, Chair of the Colleges Council.

Caroline Rush, CEO of the British Fashion Council, said, “Graduate Preview Day is an exceptional showcase of work from this year’s graduating students. It’s a unique opportunity for British designers, retailers and industry experts to see the portfolio’s first hand and get a taste of the upcoming talent that will be entering the industry.”

Royal College of Art, winner of the Fashion Monitor Colleges Portfolio Award, will win two one year subscriptions for their best students to Fashion Monitor, the industry’s leading provider of contacts, news and events. The judging panel felt their entry demonstrated the best overall presentation of the students’ work.

Hannah White, Fashion Monitor Editor, commented, “This is the second year we've been involved with the initiative and it's really great to see how the students work has progressed. We felt the Royal College of Art demonstrated a really strong, well rounded body of work and the individual styles of the students shone through."

The WGSN Digital Presentation Award recognises the increasing relevance of integrating fashion and technology and was won by London College of Fashion.

The winner of the BFC Fashion Illustration Award in association with Fashion Monitor, University of Westminster, will also win two one year subscriptions which will allow the graduating students access to key industry contacts, something which is invaluable for breaking into the industry.

The BFC Colleges Council Graduate Preview Day is organised by the British Fashion Council to foster relationships between graduates and industry. The annual event brings together industry insiders from media, recruitment, retail, design, manufacturing, sales, marketing and PR to preview the work of graduating students who will be entering the job market later in the year. This year the Graduate Preview Day was held at The Mayfair Hotel.

For more information please visit www.britishfashioncouncil.com/collegescouncil

For further information on the Colleges Council, please contact:
Alex Woodfield
alex.woodfield@britishfashioncouncil.com / +44 (0) 20 7759 1960

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

Image Credit: Adam Kelly (Selfridges), Anne Tyrrell (Chair of the Colleges Council), Marios Schwab, Hannah White (Fashion Monitor) & Jackie Ma (WGSN).

London Collections: Men Schedule

Wed, 24 Apr 2012 10:46:00 GMT

Be the first to see the schedule and the brand new website at www.londoncollections.co.uk
Join the conversation #londoncollections

The first London Collections: Men schedule brings together an exciting array of London’s brightest menswear stars, British heritage brands and international names to show across the three day celebration of men’s fashion.

Iconic British brands Dunhill, Hackett, Margaret Howell and Pringle of Scotland will host presentations alongside a selection of heritage brands and tailors from London’s esteemed Savile Row. E.Tautz, Hardy Amies and Richard James will be showing their ready-to-wear collections, while presentations will be taking place on Savile Row on Friday 15th June. Belstaff will host an exclusive collection preview; Paul Smith is to host an event at BAFTA; there will be a Burberry Timepieces presentation and Thom Browne will present at Harrods.

London’s New Establishment designers Christopher Kane and Jonathan Saunders will show their acclaimed menswear collections, joined by Richard Nicoll debuting his men’s line. Reciprocating the success of their womenswear collections, they are sure to score international attention from press and buyers, and their shows will be highlights of the weekend.

In addition to over 50 shows and presentations, Burberry, Esquire & Mr Porter, GQ and Calvin Klein Collection, Louis Vuitton, Spencer Hart and Tom Ford will host events.

London Collections: Men will be the essential showcasing platform for London’s emerging menswear talent through MAN and NEWGEN MEN initiatives, sponsored by TOPMAN. Highly anticipated Menswear Day regulars include Christopher Shannon, Christopher Raeburn, J.W. Anderson, Lou Dalton, TOPMAN Design and Fashion Forward recipient James Long.

Shows and events will be taking place at venues across London with The Hospital Club becoming the central hub for London Collections: Men. There will be three floors of showrooms and carefully curated static installations from over 25 ready-to-wear and accessories designers. Fashion East will host a group of designers creating static installations which will run from Friday to Saturday.

HRH The Prince of Wales will be hosting a reception to celebrate the launch of London Collections: Men on June 14th 2012. A full events programme and cultural listings will be announced in early May.

Visit www.londoncollections.co.uk for the latest news, schedules and information.

‘Like’ British Fashion Council on Facebook for exclusive content www.facebook.com/britishfashioncouncil and follow us on Twitter @BFC

London Collections: Men will take place 15th-17th June 2012 at The Hospital Club, 24 Endell Street, WC2H 9HQ.

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

Image: Topman AW12

Fashion Week Dates

Fri, 19 Apr 2012 14:30:00 GMT

The CFDA and BFC today confirm dates for New York Fashion Week (NYFW) and London Fashion Week (LFW) over the next two years.

The dates for NYFW and LFW will be as follows:

New York Fashion Week 6th – 13th September 2012
London Fashion Week 14th – 18th September 2012

New York Fashion Week 7th – 14th February 2013
London Fashion Week 15th – 19th February 2013

New York Fashion Week 5th – 12th September 2013
London Fashion Week 13th – 17th September 2013

New York Fashion Week 6th – 13th February 2014
London Fashion Week 14th – 18th February 2014

New York Fashion Week 4th – 11th September 2014
London Fashion Week 12th – 16th September 2014

Both the BFC and CFDA are confident that this confirmation will ensure the smooth running of both fashion weeks and allow for designer brands and businesses in all four fashion capitals (New York, London, Milan and Paris) to successfully plan for the long term.

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

Kelly McCauley, CFDA, +1. 212.768.5708
k.mccauley@cfda.com

Image: Marios Schwab autumn/winter 2012 at London Fashion Week, February 2012

Applications for LFW September 2012

Fri, 08 Mar 2012 12:59:00 GMT

Online applications for spring/summer 2013 at London Fashion Week September 2012 are now open. Please note that NEWGEN MEN winners will now showcase at London Collections: Men (June 15th-17th 2012).

Dates for London Fashion Week spring/summer 2013:
Friday 14th September - Tuesday 18th September 2012

Download the SS13 LFW Showcase Pack for useful information on showcasing at London Fashion Week.

ROCK VAULT

Apply online now
Closing date: Friday 4th May
Find out more: www.britishfashioncouncil.com/rockvault
Further application enquiries: Lucia Heath - lucia.heath@britishfashioncouncil.com

ESTETHICA

Apply online now
Closing date: Monday 30th April
Find out more: www.britishfashioncouncil.com/estethica
Further application enquiries: Lucia Heath - lucia.heath@britishfashioncouncil.com

NEWGEN

Applications now closed.
Find out more: www.britishfashioncouncil.com/newgen
Further application enquiries: Emma Campbell - emma.campbell@britishfashioncouncil.com

NEWGEN MEN

Applications now closed.
Find out more about London Collections: Men: www.londoncollections.co.uk/men
Find out more: www.britishfashioncouncil.com/newgenmen
Further application enquiries: Emma Campbell - emma.campbell@britishfashioncouncil.com

EXHIBITION

Applications now closed
Find out more: www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/exhibition
Further application enquiries: exhibition@britishfashioncouncil.com

CATWALK/PRESENTATION

Apply online now
Closing date: Friday 13th April
Find out more: www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/catwalk
Further application enquiries: Emma Campbell - emma.campbell@britishfashioncouncil.com

For further information please contact:
Emma Campbell
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1964
emma.campbell@britishfashioncouncil.com

Image: Backstage at Michael van der Ham autumn/winter 2012, London Fashion Week February 2012

LONDON show ROOMS LA

Wed, 13 Mar 2012 09:00:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council’s (BFC) international showcasing initiative LONDON show ROOMS returns to Los Angeles with many of London’s brightest stars in March. 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. The showroom will showcase a selection of BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund shortlisted designers and Fashion Forward alumni including two of this year’s recipients, Louise Gray and Mary Katrantzou.

LONDON show ROOMS LA Participating Designers:

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

The Ones To Watch featuring:

David Koma
Holly Fulton
J.W. Anderson
Michael van der Ham

A project aimed at boosting British designer exports, LONDON show ROOMS has grown to include showrooms for women and menswear collections in Paris, New York, Hong Kong and LA with plans for expansion into mainland China later in the year.

The second LONDON show ROOMS LA will take place from March 13-15 at 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 providing a unique opportunity to secure new export business.

Caroline Rush, CEO of the BFC said: “Following an overwhelming response last October, we’re delighted to be returning to LA. The participating designers and the standout collections that they showcased on the London catwalk last month will be available to view during one-to-one appointments. We aim to further develop their profile on the west coast through media coverage and build their relationships with press, stylists and retailers.”

Launched in 2008, LONDON show ROOMS are a key element of the British Fashion Council's designer support and mentoring scheme. The project is co-directed by Anna Orsini and Barbara Grispini for the British Fashion Council with the support of the BFC’s Ambassador for Emerging Talent, Sarah Mower.

LONDON show ROOMS are supported by UK Trade and Investment and part-financed by the European Union Regional Development Fund.

The Los Angeles showroom will be open from 10 AM until 7 PM, March 13-15, 2012 at ACE Gallery, located at 5514 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90036.

With special thanks to Concept at ACE Gallery, Smashbox Studios, The Andaz West Hollywood, Betsee Isenberg and Fashion Glue.

www.britishfashioncouncil.com/londonshowroomsla

Press Contacts:
Lauren Urband
Senior Director of Public Relations
Starworks Group
laurenurband@starworksla.com
323.782.8630

Ashley Ross
Account Manager
Starworks Group
ashley@starworksla.com
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

Image: Louise Gray autumn/winter 2012 at London Fashion Week, February 2012.

Britain Creates 2012

Wed, 28 Feb 2012 15:54:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) is pleased to announce today further plans for its artistic project Britain Creates, as part of the Fashion 2012 platform to celebrate the year of London’s hosting of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Entitled Britain Creates 2012: Fashion & Art Collusion, this project, led by the British Fashion Council/Bazaar Fashion Arts Foundation and in partnership with the Mayor of London, is a unique opportunity to celebrate and strengthen the longstanding relationships between fashion designers and visual artists. Iconic British designers have paired together with top contemporary artists including: Giles Deacon & Jeremy Deller; Hussein Chalayan & Gavin Turk; Jonathan Saunders & Jess Flood-Paddock; Mary Katrantzou & Mark Titchner; Matthew Williamson & Mat Collishaw; Nicholas Kirkwood & Simon Periton; Paul Smith & Charming Baker; Peter Pilotto & Francis Upritchard; and Stephen Jones & Cerith Wyn Evans. More names are expected to join this outstanding roll call of British creative talent.

Britain Creates 2012: Fashion & Art Collusion is part of the London 2012 Festival, a spectacular 12-week nationwide celebration from 21st June and running until 9th September 2012, bringing together leading artists from across the world with the very best from the UK. The London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games are a celebration of excellence and performance and these partnerships have been commissioned to create pieces of work to reflect these special values.

The specially created exclusive pieces will be unveiled on 27th June 2012 at a VIP Gala fundraising event before going on display at the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A). Monies raised from the gala will form part of a bursary to encourage and support emerging artists and designers and to help encourage future collaborations.

All pieces will be exhibited to the public throughout the London 2012 Festival – at the V&A from 6th-29th July, followed by an installation in Selfridges ‘Wonder Windows’ programme during July and August.

The BFC will also issue an accompanying book for the exhibition with a foreword by Lucy Yeomans, Editor of Harper’s Bazaar and introduction by renowned fashion writer Iain R. Webb. The publication, an ‘exhibition in a box’ produced with Booth-Clibborn Editions, will include sections on all of the artists and designers, their sketches and proposals for the collaborations, photographs of work in progress and specially commissioned portraits of all the participants, and a set of posters showing each of the finished works.

Harold Tillman CBE, Chairman BFC commented “2012 is such a momentous year. The Britain Creates 2012: Fashion & Art Collusion project to celebrate the London 2012 Festival is the perfect opportunity to showcase unique talent within the UK in the creative industries and echoes the special relationships within. The pieces of art and accompanying book will leave a great legacy to reflect on this special year.”

The Mayor of London Boris Johnson said ''As London Fashion Week has just shown, our designers are a tour de force whose talent is important for our economy and the capital's reputation around the world. As one of the greatest centres for culture and creativity, London is the proud home to some of the best designers and artists in the world and this melding of two dynamic strands will produce an exciting exhibition that will be a highlight of our celebrations for 2012.”

The Arts Council England provided support for the commissioning of this project alongside individual donors including Megha Mittal.

For more details visit www.britaincreates.co.uk

For further information on Britain Creates please contact:
Gemma Ebelis, PR Manager, British Fashion Council
gemma.ebelis@britishfashioncouncil.com
Tel: 020 7759 1989

Image: Backstage at Mary Katrantzou AW12 at London Fashion Week, February 2012

Twitter Q&A

Thu, 15 Feb 2012 09:00:00 GMT

Speak to guests in real-time via #AskLFW during London Fashion Week. Once again, 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 17th February
Anya Hindmarch, Designer and Non Exec Director of the BFC
Time: 3pm
Read full Q&A transcript

Saturday 18th February
Jaime Perlman, Panel Member of Fash/On Film. Creative Director (Vogue). Founder (TEST & Test Present)
Time: 5pm

Sunday 19th February
Mel Rickey, Fashion Editor at Large
Time: 11.30am

Monday 20th February
Alice Temperley, Designer
Time: 1pm
Read full Q&A transcript

Tuesday 21st February
Stephen Webster, Designer and Curator, BFC Rock Vault sponsored by the International Palladium Board
Time: 3pm

Wednesday 22nd February
Alexa Chung, BFC Young Style Ambassador
Time: 11.30am
Read full Q&A transcript

Dylan Jones, Editor of GQ & Chair of 2012 Menswear Panel
Time: 5pm

Find out more about digital innovation at LFW...

Image: Anya Hindmarch

HRH The Prince of Wales

Thu, 22 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council is delighted to announce that on 14th June 2012, HRH The Prince of Wales will host a reception at St James's Palace to celebrate the launch of London Collections: Men - a brand new showcase of British menswear, style and culture that will run until Sunday 17th June.

The reception will provide a unique opportunity for international and UK media, retailers and style influencers to network with London’s menswear designers and businesses in magnificent and uniquely British surroundings.

London Collections: Men will promote the breadth of British menswear design to a global audience embracing heritage brands, iconic designers and emerging talent as well as championing British craft, skills, textiles and HRH's campaign for Wool. Spearheaded by Dylan Jones, editor of GQ, a Fashion 2012 Menswear Committee spanning British style and culture is curating the three day event to celebrate the worldwide impact of British talent in menswear. The event will combine shows, presentations, exhibitions, events and digital programming for a global trade and consumer audience.

Harold Tillman CBE, Chair of the British Fashion Council, said “It is a great honour to have the support of HRH the Prince of Wales to launch London Collections: Men and champion British menswear and culture.”

The Hospital Club will become the central hub for London Collections: Men. Located in the heart of Covent Garden, the venue will provide a space for presentations, events, screenings and lounges across the three day showcase. UK and International media and buyers will be given access to the on-site facilities including lounges and meeting spaces.

Sue Walter, CEO, The Hospital Club, says, “The Hospital Club prides itself on being the essential hub for London’s creative industries, and I’m thrilled that we are hosting this exciting new event in 2012. I believe London Collections will entertain, inspire and stimulate our members and the wider community, and endorse the Club’s position as London’s most dynamic space for creative collaboration."

Over 55 designers have been confirmed to participate in London Collections: Men include iconic British designers Margaret Howell and Paul Smith, heritage brands such as Aquascutum and Savile Row tailors including Richard James and E. Tautz. Paul Smith and Tom Ford will host events during this period. London’s emerging designers will be showcasing including MAN and NEWGEN MEN designers, both of which are sponsored by TOPMAN. The TOPMAN Design show, Fashion East and Fashion Forward designers will also showcase.

London Collections: Men will form part of Fashion 2012, 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 calendar of the major fashion events and activities throughout London’s Olympic year. For further information on Fashion 2012, please visit www.fashion2012.co.uk. The Fashion 2012 Menswear Committee includes Alex Bilmes, Esquire; Christopher Bailey; Dan Stevens; David Furnish; David Gandy; David Walker-Smith, Selfridges; David Walliams; Elizabeth Saltzman; Evgeny Lebedev; Gordon Richardson, TOPMAN; Harold Tillman CBE; Imran Amed, Business of Fashion; Jeremy Langmead, MR PORTER; Jo Levin, GQ; Lulu Kennedy, Fashion East; Marigay McKee, Harrods; Richard James; Simon Fuller; Stephen Ayres, Liberty; Tim Blanks; Tinie Tempah; Tom Ford and The Mayors Office.

London Collections: Men will take place 15th-17th June 2012 at The Hospital Club, 24 Endell Street, WC2H 9HQ.
For regular updates on the London Collections: Men programme visit: www.londoncollections.co.uk

Designer wishing to participate in London Collections: Men please contact:
Katie Bain at the British Fashion Council
Katie.bain@britishfashioncouncil.com
+44(0)20 7759 1978

For more information contact:
Gemma Ebelis at the British Fashion Council
Gemma.ebelis@britishfashioncouncil.com
+44 (0) 20 7759 1986

Image: J.W. Anderson AW12 at London Fashion Week February 2012

Alexa Chung

Sat, 17 Feb 2012 14:00:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) is pleased to announce today the appointment of Alexa Chung as BFC Young Style Ambassador. Alexa, two times winner of the Vodafone British Style Award at the British Fashion Awards is the epitome of ‘London style’ and is known internationally as a fashion icon.

Through her work as a TV presenter and model, Alexa Chung is a hugely influential figure in the fashion industry, and is a great representative for London as a leading creative fashion capital. Alexa regularly receives praise for championing London’s most up and coming design talents and having appeared on the covers of Vogue, Elle and Harper’s Bazaar; she has been a brand ambassador for multiple labels and muse to designers because of her distinctive personal style.

Through her new role as ambassador, Alexa will support the British Fashion Council as it continues to promote British fashion design talent to a global market.

Alexa will continue to attend key events as part of the BFC’s annual calendar including London Fashion Week, the British Fashion Awards, LONDON show ROOMS and events for Fashion 2012, the BFC’s cultural platform of fashion events during the Olympic year.

Alexa Chung comments “I always name London first when asked which city in the world has the best style. There's something so inherently rebellious about how people naturally style themselves. Brits aren't afraid to experiment or take risks with how they look, perhaps that's why London has always been home to the most dynamic and daring designers in the world. I adore fashion and am proud that it's now officially my job to champion those London designers both new and established that inspire me so much.”

Caroline Rush, CEO of the British Fashion Council, comments “We’re delighted to announce this role for Alexa. She is hugely influential in both the fashion industry and to the wider public, who have voted her as winner of the British Style Award at the British Fashion Awards for two years running.”

Alexa joins Laura Bailey, Cultural Ambassador and Poppy Delevingne, Young Ambassador.

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

Image: Alexa Chung wins the British Style Award at the British Fshion Awards, 2011

Future of Fashion

Sat, 17 Feb 2012 12:30:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council launched the ‘Future of Fashion – Strategic Considerations for Growth’ report this morning at a press conference, hosted by Sir Philip Green and Harold Tillman CBE, to open London Fashion Week February 2012.

The UK fashion industry is worth £21billion to the UK economy and makes a vital contribution to the global reputation of Great Britain as a leader in creative excellence. Much more can be done to drive the sector forward, however, and contribute to much needed growth for the UK economy. In this document The British Fashion Council lays out its vision for the sector, identifying five areas which it believes have great potential and highlights the action required to ensure this potential is met. Spanning skills, training, education, job creation, talent development, retail, manufacturing, philanthropy and sponsorship. The considerations offer inspiration and hope for the future of this great industry and for the UK economy.

As part of the conference, Sir Philip Green announced Topshop’s plans to sponsor NEWGEN for a further 10 years. He stated that it is his personal goal to mentor at least a further 2 or 3 designers from the ground up to the world stage to emulate previous successes.

Over the past 10 years, 120 designers have been supported by the NEWGEN scheme. 49 shows out of the 95 on the LFW schedule have been supported NEWGEN, this equates to 52% of the LFW schedule.

Harold Tillman CBE, Chairman of the British Fashion Council, said ‘We believe that fashion can do so much to drive growth in Britain. By presenting this opportunity, whilst highlighting the challenges, we hope to unite the industry and government in doing everything possible to drive that growth.’

A copy of ‘Future of Fashion – Strategic Considerations for Growth’ is available as a downloadable document from www.britishfashioncouncil.com/futureoffashion

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

LFW Facts & Figures

Sat, 17 Feb 2012 09:00:00 GMT

LONDON FASHION WEEK & BRITISH FASHION INDUSTRY FACTS & FIGURES FEBRUARY 2012

•    59 catwalk shows and 24 presentations to take place over 6 days
•    120 UK and International emerging and established, ready to wear and accessories designers at The Exhibition at London Fashion Week (LFW)
•    Vodafone announced as new principal sponsor of LFW from February 2012
•    Canon announced as official imaging partner of LFW
•    10th Anniversary of TOPSHOP sponsoring NEWGEN, London’s leading talent identification and showcase initiative
•    The Exhibition at LFW will play host to 13 Estethica designers, 15 NEWGEN Sponsored by TOPSHOP designers and 4 Multibrand Showrooms
•    5 Headonism designers will showcase their designs in an instillation in the East Wing as part of this seasons exhibition
•    Brand new fine jewellery initiative BFC Rock Vault Sponsored by the International Palladium Board is launched this season where 10 selected jewellers will showcase their A/W12 collections on the Terrace, Somerset House
•    The BFC introduces its 3rd showspace; the ‘Embankment Gallery Showspace’ will host 11 designers shows this season
•    BFC Fash/On film sponsored by River Island, an exciting new fashion film initiative is introduced this season providing a showcasing opportunity for fashion designers and film makers during LFW
•    New Designers on schedule this season include Belstaff, McQ, Moschino Cheap and Chic, Stella McCartney and Thomas Tait
•    On the catwalk there are 6 NEWGEN, sponsored by Topshop, designers: David Koma, Holly Fulton, J.JS Lee, J.W. Anderson, Michael van der Ham and Simone Rocha
•    Jonathan Saunders has been announced as this years BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund winner
•    Four Fashion Forward designers will show on the catwalk: Henry Holland, Louise Gray and Mary Katrantzou and one menswear designer James Long
•    International Fashion Showcase, a project created by the British Council and British Fashion Council showcasing over 80 international designers in 19 embassies and cultural institutes across London
•    Menswear day, now in its 7th season, has 7 shows, 4 salon shows and 2 presentations
•    London Collections: Men will launch in June 2012. Running from 15th – 17th June, this will kick start the Menswear calendar
•    2 NEWGEN MEN, sponsored by TOPMAN, designers are showing on the catwalk: Christopher Shannon and J.W. Anderson
•    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 exceeds £100m and media coverage from the International Guest Programme exceeds £61m (source: Precise)
•    It is estimated that orders of over £100m are placed during LFW each season; the International Guest Programme alone generates over £74m of orders
•    The direct value of the UK fashion industry to the UK economy is £21 billion (source: BFC Value of Fashion Report 2010)
•    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 2010)
•    The UK fashion industry is estimated to support 816,000 jobs 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 2010)
•    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 2010)
•    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

For more information contact:
Ellie Wilson at the British Fashion Council
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1986
ellie.wilson@britishfashioncouncil.com

Image: Peter Pilotto, SS12

LFW Sponsors

Sat, 17 Feb 2012 09:00:00 GMT

London Fashion Week (LFW) is the most creative and innovative event on the global fashion calendar. As always the London catwalk schedule will showcase a rich mix of designers and brands from highly creative rising stars such as Christopher Kane, Erdem, Marios Schwab, Jonathan Saunders and Richard Nicoll; 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 the newly announced principal sponsor Vodafone who have been closely involved with London Fashion Week for the past three seasons as the official communications partner and title sponsor of Vodafone London Fashion Weekend. Canon will be continuing their sponsorship as the official imaging sponsor of LFW and the BFC would also like to welcome new sponsor and partner, the International Palladium Board and American Express.

VODAFONE

This February marks the first season with Vodafone as Principal Sponsor of London Fashion Week having been closely involved with London Fashion Week for the past three seasons as Official Communications Partner and title sponsor of Vodafone London Fashion Weekend.

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 and underlines Vodafone’s support for British fashion. As part of Vodafone customers will be given access to an exclusive viewing platform and Vodafone VIP lounge offering a great view of the catwalk and intimate experience of London Fashion Week.

Whether you're into fashion, festivals or Formula 1™, you can get tickets into some of 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.

AMERICAN EXPRESS

American Express is delighted to be working with the British Fashion Council, as Official Card Partner of London Fashion Week. As a cornerstone of the global fashion calendar London Fashion Week has much resonance among our customers and we hope that our partnership will enhance and add value to their experience of the buzz and excitement that the London fashion scene has to offer. This association expands the Company’s world-wide commitment to fashion and follows a long-term partnership with New York Fashion Week and on-going relationships with many of the world’s major fashion brands. American Express is a global service company, providing customers with access to products, insights and experiences that enrich lives and build business success.

Contact:
David Stewart, PR Manager, American Express
UK: +44 1273 216674
david.a.stewart@aexp.com

CANON

Canon is proud to be the Official Imaging Solutions Partner of London Fashion Week. Once again the company will be providing a dedicated technical support centre for all professional photographers at Somerset House. The Canon Photographers Centre will ensure that all accredited photographers have everything they need whilst working at London Fashion Week, from internet access and printing facilities to a dedicated team of Canon support technicians.

Canon Professional Services will be providing the following complimentary services on-site for accredited London Fashion Week photographers; Camera sensor clean and check and minor camera repairs for Canon cameras, Technical expertise and 1-2-1 training, Canon camera and lens trials (subject to availability), A3+ photo printing service, Best Shot Photo Competition to win the new Canon PowerShot G1 X.

In addition, an exclusive Canon bus will be shuttling photographers between shows to ensure they don’t miss a moment of the capital’s catwalks.

DHL

DHL understands that nothing stands still in the world of fashion. 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 handle every aspect of the logistics process. As the experts in international shipping, DHL is committed to helping UK fashion businesses grow – providing guidance and advice on how to capitalise on the increasing appetite for British fashion coming from overseas markets.

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 design concept to consumer – is seamless, transparent and stress free. That’s why we’re delighted to be the Official Logistics Partner for London Fashion Week, as well as Fashion Weeks around the world.

EVENING STANDARD

The London Evening Standard, and 'ES' Magazine - revamped this season with a new title and an exciting updated format - is delighted once again to lend its support, as Official Media Partner to London Fashion Week.

Fashion, both local and international, is an integral part of our editorial offering and with a readership of 1.5M; it clearly inspires and entertains our audience. For more information on how to reach London's most affluent and style savvy consumers,

Contact:
Maurice Mullen on 020 7938 7414 or email maurice.mullen@standard.co.uk.

LAVAZZA

2012 marks two special anniversaries for Lavazza; a decade as the official coffee of London Fashion Week and the 20th anniversary of its Calendar. For the past 10 years, Lavazza’s iconic Calendar images have fashioned a glamorous backdrop for top designers, models and stylists to enjoy an authentic Italian coffee at London Fashion Week. This February Lavazza invites fashionistas to join in the celebrations.

LG

This year, LG will continue its partnership with London Fashion Week as the Official Garment Care Supplier for the second year running. The Home Appliance manufacturer will provide expert support with a dedicated Steam Team on hand to help Designers and Exhibitors prepare. The Steam Team will be located in both the main and gallery backstage show spaces. If you’d like support steaming or refreshing your items, please speak to a member of the team.

LG’s latest home appliance range includes leading innovations in washing, such as the introduction of 6 Motion Direct Drive technology. LG’s 6 Motion Direct Drive Technology is designed to give different washing motions the best care for your clothes by using a combination of drum motions to deliver an amazing wash performance coupled with optimum fabric care. With such a range of fabrics used in today’s fashions, LG’s 6 Motion Technology ensures that everything from jeans to delicates, from woollens to silk come out looking and feeling their absolute best as well as thoroughly cleaned.

To find out more information about LG’s washing range visit www.lg.com/uk/homeappliance.

MAC

M•A•C MEDIA LOUNGE
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 23 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 55 of these being in London. To get a 360° view of what’s going on in beauty this London Fashion Week including trends, technique, product and backstage insight – and the chance to purchase iconic fashion products via unique, on-site virtual retailing - head to the M•A•C Lounge in the East Wing at Somerset House from Friday 17 February until 22 February 2012.

MAYOR OF LONDON

The Mayor of London is proud to support London Fashion Week as the key showcase for fashion in the capital. Having cemented its reputation as one of the premier events in the international fashion calendar London Fashion Week has a hugely important role in championing British talent around the world and a sector that is vital to the British economy. The Mayor's investment has helped to support outstanding designers at a global level and helped new talent to emerge through the Fashion Showcasing Fund, managed by the British Fashion Council, and Fashion Forward. These are helping to develop design talent of the future, ensuring the sector retains its first class reputation for quality, creativity and innovation. The Mayor's Office is working with the BFC on exciting projects for 2012, which will be a momentous year for London – with the eyes of the world on the capital for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, we are confident that fashion will play its part in showcasing the best of British.

MERCEDES-BENZ

MERCEDES-BENZ, the definitive car brand sponsor for London Fashion Week, will be making sure guests from around the world move effortlessly between some of the most highly anticipated shows for the next round of catwalk shows.

The luxurious fleet of striking Mercedes-Benz models combine sleek style with power and poise and will be on hand to ensure guests travel in total luxury and comfort and enjoy their very own Mercedes-Benz experience during London Fashion Week. Mercedes-Benz will also continue to give consumers and followers unrivalled access to exclusive interviews, real-time news updates and behind-the-scenes footage with some of the world’s top fashionistas, as well as the people that keep London Fashion Week moving.

Visit Voices of Fashion at www.mercedes-benz.co.uk/fashion.

Contact:
Debbie Hull at Mercedes-Benz
debbie.hull@daimler.com
+44 (0) 1908 301313

Sheena Hamilton at Mercedes-Benz:
sheena.hamilton@daimler.com
+44 (0) 1908 301330

MONSOON

For the tenth consecutive season Monsoon is proud to continue its sponsorship of Estethica at London Fashion Week. Supporting the rise of sustainable fashion and showcasing the best of eco design, Estethica remains close to the heart of Monsoon’s values and ethics.

For autumn / winter 12, Monsoon is very excited to be showcasing the fourth instalment of the L.O.V.E. collection. The range has been inspired by the traditional arts and crafts of Jaipur, India – the home of paisley and block printing. Neon touches add a modern twist to a classic collection that closely harks back to Monsoon’s heritage. 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, Founde

Contact:
Louise Worrell or Harriet Robinson +44 (0) 20 3372 3101/3104

THE MAY FAIR

This February will see the illustrious fashion set descend on the capital as London Fashion Week takes hold. The May Fair Hotel is proud to announce its status as the official hotel of London Fashion Week, for the fifth year running.

A hotel located in the heart of the Mayfair village, the May Fair is THE fashion hotel. An ideal location for industry stalwarts to conduct impromptu meetings, host events and off course the ultimate place for those looking for some respite from the relentless round of parties. The hotel has a stunning selection of world- class signature suites in which to showcase collections, fashion brands and more besides. Its plush portfolio of offerings also includes a stunning Penthouse, the Crystal Room, the Danziger Suite, the Quince Salon, plus a private cinema for special event screenings.

For those who feel in need of some reviving spa time, the May Fair Spa has created a number of express treatments to deal with LFW fatigue, in particular The Crystal ‘Face of Fashion’ Massage (30 mins £55), which will leave you feeling fresh-faced and glowing with radiance. For those suffering with tired, aching feet the Fashion Eco Chic Pedicure (50 minutes £65.00) nourishes and softens. Only organic products are used, leaving you revitalised with aromas of peppermint, lavender and geranium.

The London Fashion Week experience continues in to the hotel’s May Fair Bar, where you can sample the latest cocktail creation from the bar’s renowned mixology team – The Show Stopper.

For further information please visit http://www.themayfairhotel.co.uk/fashionweek.

Contact: Joanne Lawless at Mason Williams on 0845 0941 007 or joanne@mason-williams.com

INTERNATIONAL PALLADIUM BOARD

The inspiring new showcase is sponsored by contemporary precious metal Palladium. A rare platinum group metal, Palladium is durable, incredibly versatile, lightweight and uniquely naturally white. The initiative runs as part of Palladium Visions 2012, a series of select partnerships with the world’s most inspirational and visionary artists. Palladium’s superior qualities offer unrivalled potential and ach Visionary will develop awe-inspiring creations through the mediums of Jewellery, Fashion, Art and Design.

Participating as part of Palladium Visions 2012 are students from the world-renowned Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design. Students were challenged to craft an extraordinary piece of jewellery based on the theme of ‘Lightness & Strength’. Five outstanding designs have been selected to be produced as Palladium creations, the designs to be exclusively unveiled as part of BFC Rock Vault.

A partnership formed to nurture new creative talent, Palladium is the natural sponsor to establish this creative legacy and showcase the ‘Lightness & Strength’ of an exceptional precious metal.

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

TONI AND GUY

TONI&GUY – Official Hair Sponsor of London Fashion Week
Always at the forefront of fashion, the TONI&GUY Session Team are embarking on their 16th consecutive season at one of the world’s leading fashion events - London Fashion Week.

Continuing to define hair trends season after season, the TONI&GUY Session Team consistently raise the bar when it comes to industry standards, always creating fashion-forward hair, inspiring beauty buffs worldwide, earning the reputation as a Global leader in the hair industry. With 40 shows confirmed for February’s London Fashion Week, this season is set to be one of TONI&GUY’s busiest, supporting a vast array of talented and diverse designers, including Giles, Matthew Williamson, Pam Hogg, Todd Lynn, Issa and Bora Aksu, leaving no doubt about TONI&GUY’s commitment to fashion’s finest.

Always with their fingers on the fashion-pulse, the TONI&GUY Art Team will be exclusively revealing backstage news and gossip as it happens, and giving insights about hair trends for Autumn/Winter 2012 via twitter @toniandguyUK.

Contact: Leonie Flynn, Senior PR Coordinator e: leonie.flynn@toniandguy.co.uk or T: 020 7921 9042

TOPSHOP

In February 2012 Topshop will be celebrating ten years of sponsoring the British Fashion Council’s NEWGEN scheme, alongside its other initiatives the Topshop Show Space and sponsorship of Fashion East. Topshop will be both celebrating the anniversary and recommitting to the future of the scheme, confirming its position as the single biggest supporter of emerging fashion talent in London. The Topshop Show Space has provided a Fashion Week home for those Topshop has been working with, either via NEWGEN or an in store collaboration. The space has helped to elevate London Fashion Week for all designers, consolidating London’s position as an essential stop on the calendar. The NEWGEN scheme was established by the British Fashion Council in 1993 and Topshop became the sole sponsor in 2001. The scheme is now the envy of the global fashion industry, acting as a promotional launch pad for young designers whilst also offering encouragement and support. Topshop looks forward to the ongoing evolution of its relationship with NEWGEN, an inspirational scheme that has launched the careers of some of London’s most iconic design talents.

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 eleven 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 fifth 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.

UKTI

UK Trade & Investment, the Government Department that helps UK-based companies succeed in the global economy, is delighted to be once again supporting London Fashion Week. 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 provide expert advice to over 500 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.

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

VITAMIN WATER

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 forth 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.

Estethica at LFW

Fri, 16 Feb 2012 09:00:00 GMT

For the twelfth 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. Estethica will showcase 13 designer’s autumn/winter 2012 collections in the East Wing of Somerset House, from 17-21st February.

Estethica designers have been 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 fabrics and materials. Over the past 6 years Estethica has supported over 100 designers, and in addition to showcasing during London Fashion Week, the initiative hosts a dedicated seasonal event and opportunities in the LONDON show ROOMS abroad.

Monsoon, who have sponsored Estethica since 2007, comment, “Now in our 10th 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 handcrafting 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.”

This season Estethica moves to a new intimate space in the bright Courtyard of Somerset House. New to the Estethica area of The Exhibition are British brand Victim Fashion Street and two ground-breaking projects involving UK Universities and established Estethica designers: Dr. Noki’s work with Kingston's University students on creative landfills and From Somewhere’s launch of Reclaim To Wear by Central Saint Martins. Both collaborations build on Estethica's unique commitment for nurturing and mentoring young talents.

Ada Zanditon; Henrietta Ludgate; Junky Styling; Makepiece and The North Circular will again showcase their ready-to-wear lines and Charini, who debuted at Estethica last season, will be returning to show their luxury lingerie collection. Accessories collections include Millinery by Pachacuti, Aiste Nesterovaite’s scarf and accessory collection and jewellery from Joanna Cave, offering a complete cross section of merchandise.

Caroline Rush, CEO of the BFC says, “Estethica is regarded both in UK and internationally as a leading showcase of ethical fashion. This season Estethica provides a focused selection of ready-to-wear, accessories and jewellery collections, offering buyers a unique choice of ethical brands over the week.”

Press and buyers are invited to attend the Estethica Champagne Reception taking place on Saturday 18th February from 1:30pm to 3pm. RSVP to estethica@britishfashioncouncil.com

The Estethica exhibition will take place in the East Wing of Somerset House, Strand, London, WC2, just off the Courtyard from Friday 17th to Monday 20th February 2012, 10:00am – 7:00pm and Tuesday 21st February 10:00am – 6:00pm

AW 2012 Exhibition Estethica Designers:

Accessories
Aiste Nesterovaite
Pachacuti

Jewellery
Joanna Cave

Lingerie
Charini

Ready-to-wear
Ada Zanditon
Dr Noki's - NHS
Henrietta Ludgate
Junky Styling
Makepiece
Monsoon
North Circular
Reclaim to Wear
Victim Fashion Street

For further information go to www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/estethica

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

Image from the Estethica Review, edited by Jessie Brinton. Pick up your copy from the Estethica area of the Exhibition.
Dress by Victim Fashion Street

Digital Innovation AW12

Thu, 15 Feb 2012 11:24:00 GMT

This London Fashion Week, starting 17th February 2012, the British Fashion Counci (BFC) continues to unite fashion and digital innovation, encouraging engagement with this global fashion showcase through social media, live streaming and pioneering new technologies.

The digital schedule is the strongest yet: 46 shows will be live streamed – 22 from the The Courtyard Show Space at Somerset House, 12 from the new Embankment Galleries Show Space at Somerset House, 8 courtesy of Topshop from their official Topshop venue, 1 Old Billingsgate Walk, 2 courtesy of Topman, as well as shows around the city including Burberry Prorsum and Roksanda Ilincic. Anyone can watch the shows at home (www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/live) or on the outdoor LED screen in the courtyard at Somerset House.

As part of their role as official digital showcasing partner of London Fashion Week, Canon are sponsoring the Cinema and Screening Room for the first time. The BFC Fash/On Film sponsored by River Island panel has curated a dedicated fashion film programme, as part of the Digital Schedule, to be screened in the Canon Cinema each day of London Fashion Week, with highlights including an afternoon of animation and six menswear films by director Jez Tozer. Members of the panel will host Q&A sessions at screenings with directors, film makers and designers.

The BFC are once again working closely with Twitter to promote conversation around London 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 guests including Anya Hindmarch (designer and BFC Non Executive Director), Alice Temperley (who will be talking about her show and film screening which is part of Fash/On Film) and Dylan Jones (Editor, GQ and Chair of the Fashion 2012 Menswear Committee), using the hashtag #AskLFW. The London Fashion Week Timeline will take to Twitter, keeping track of the shows throughout the week with live updates of start times (#LFWtimeline).

For the first time, we will have a dedicated photographer backstage at London Fashion Week to capture a ‘behind-the-scenes’ look for broadcast exclusively on CBS Outdoor UK’s network of Cross-track Projection (XTP) screens on London Underground platforms. This will be projected alongside highlights from the @LondonFashionWk Twitter feed and a news feed. This activity is part of an ongoing partnership with CBS Outdoor UK.

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 their mobile device, visitors simply need to download the free Aurasma Lite app and then hold it over the LFW image, at which point it will spring to life and bring you exclusive video content. For the very first time, Exhibition passes will provide a constant stream of live content – linking them directly to our latest Tweets through Aurasma. This is the first time this technology has been used. Covers of The LFW Daily newspaper will transform into exclusive video content. Inside you'll find Catwalk Highlight shots that turn into shows through Aurasma.

The BFC website has been re-launched recently, providing designers, press, buyers and the public with a dynamic platform to present the wide range of events, business support and news from the organisation. Highlights include a live feed of the best blogs from our Blog Portal, a press kit with full archive of press releases grouped by initiative, an archive of designer profiles and an events calendar of all our activity which can be downloaded to the user’s personal diary. This coincides with the launch of the dedicated BFC Twitter account (@BFC).

The BFC’s digital innovation strategy aims to harness technology and creativity to promote British designers to global audiences.

To see the digital schedule with times of all live streaming and fashion films, visit:
www.londonfashionweek.com/digitalschedule

To see full schedule of the guests for Twitter Q&A #LFW, visit:
www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/asklfw

www.twitter.com/LondonFashionWk
www.twitter.com/BFC

For more information regarding the British Fashion Council and London Fashion Week contact:
Ellie Wilson or Will Rowley
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1986 / +44 (0) 20 7759 1968
ellie.wilson@britishfashioncouncil.com / will.rowley@britishfashioncouncil.com

Image: Roksanda Ilincic SS12. Roksanda's show will live stream on Tuesday 21st February.

The Exhibition at LFW

Wed, 14 Feb 2012 09:00:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) has carefully curated 120 emerging and established accessories, jewellery and ready-to-wear designer brands to show their autumn/winter 2012 collections at the leading designer showcase, The Exhibition at London Fashion Week. The Exhibition will showcase 22 new designers for February 2012 and will be open to all UK, International media and buyers. Registration is available on site at Seamans Hall from 17th – 21st February, 10am – 7pm (closing at 6pm on the 21st).

The Exhibition at London Fashion Week is based at Somerset House, now situated over 2 floors instead of 4, it sees a newly curated style with a focus on creating a more tailored and visually merchandised feel to the showcase. New exhibitors this season include footwear designers, Alain Quilici; New York based Alejandro Ingelmo; Julian Hakes London and Kat Maconie. Other newcomers include NEWGEN designers Huishan Zhang and Lucas Nascimento. The Terrace Space at Somerset House will host a selection of accessories; new designers showing in this space include accessory designer Emma J Shipley and milliner Bernstock Speirs.

The Exhibition will have merchandised feature areas for each of the returning BFC showcasing initiatives; NEWGEN, sponsored by Topshop will feature some of London’s most innovative designers; Estethica, sponsored by Monsoon, gives a platform for eco-sustainable design; Headonism, showcases new British milliners supported by Ascot Racecourse; the BFC/Elle Talent Launch Pad and The Navy Board Room Collective, comprising of NEWGEN alumni, will be located on the first floor.

NEWGEN sponsored by Topshop now situated in the East Wing will showcase some of the UK’s finest emerging talents. This season marks the 10th anniversary of Topshsop’s sponsorship of NEWGEN and this London Fashion Week kick starts the celebration of their continuous backing of the scheme. New designers for this season include Simone Rocha who’s collections have generated great press recognition and have gained her prestigious stockists throughout the world. Lucas Nascimento, a graduate from the London College of Fashion who has spent the last three seasons showing at Rio Fashion Week and Huishan Zhang, a Chinese born London based designer who has found inspiration and direction in his own national identity creating a brand where Eastern heritage meets Western influence.

Brand new fine jewellery initiative ‘BFC Rock Vault’ sponsored by the International Palladium Board and curated by Stephen Webster supports showcases and promotes Britain’s most innovative fine jewellery talent. Housed in a structure located on the Terrace of Somerset House, overlooking the Thames, the designers will create their own unique installation within this dedicated area. This unique showcasing initiative has been developed by the BFC to nurture the creative fine jewellery talent based in London and give these designers the opportunity to further develop their businesses and exposure amongst both UK and International media and retailers. Designers featured within the Rock Vault are Alexandra Jefford, Fernando Jorge, Hannah Martin, Hillier, Husam El Odeh, Jo Hayes Ward, Jordan Askill, Melanie Georgacopoulos, Sophie Bille Brahe and Tomasz Donocik. These designers will also feature alongside five concepts created by Central Saint Martin’s students made from the precious metal Palladium. An event to launch this initiative will be held on Saturday, 18th February at the designated BFC Rock Vault space.

The BFC’s ethical initiative Estethica sponsored by Monsoon is showcasing 13 cutting edge designers this season. Over the past 6 years Estethica has supported over 100 designers, 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. Designers showcasing this season include ready to wear designers Ada Zanditon, Dr Noki's - NHS, Henrietta Ludgate, Junky Styling, Makepiece, Monsoon, North Circular, Reclaim to Wear and Victim Fashion Street. Joining them are accessory designers Aiste Nesterovaite and Pachacuti; Jewellery designer Joanna Cave and Lingerie designer Charini.

Headonism is a BFC initiative curated by Stephen Jones, celebrating the new wave of emerging London milliners and is supported by Royal Ascot. It showcases emerging talent within an installation that will be located in the East Wing of Somerset House. It was launched during the BFC’s 25 year celebrations by Mayor of London Boris Johnson. Designers participating in Headonism this season are Charlie Le Mindu, J Smith Esquire, Noel Stewart and Piers Atkinson and new addition William Chambers.

The four recipients of the BFC/Elle Talent Launch Pad 2011/12 award, Claudia Catzeflis, Saloni, Sophie Hulme and Vassilisa will showcase their collections in a newly dedicated space in The Exhibition. The four winners were announced by Elle Magazine in September 2011 to receive support to develop their businesses and grow relationships with regional retailers; Anna (London, Essex, Norfolk), Cricket (Liverpool), Hervia Bazaar (Manchester), Square (Bath). February 2012 is the second season for these designers to exhibit at London Fashion Week.

Four prominent multi brand showrooms will be representing designers at The Exhibition at London Fashion Week, Showroom Belgium, Place Rouge, Trace Publicity and Rainbowwave. The Showroom Belgium will be a visiting showroom as part of the BFC International Fashion Showcase. The Flanders Fashion Institute will present a selection of emerging fashion talent from Belgium including: A.Knackfuss, Cedric Jacquemyn, OMSK and WOLF by Sofie Claes and an installation created by Ra at The Exhibition during London Fashion Week. Trace Publicity will be returning for a second season bringing seven designers including Teatum Jones, Georging Hardinge and Fashion Fringe winner Fyodor Golan. Place Rouge will be joining for their third season with brands such as A Friend by A.F Vandevost, AVHASH by Anne-Valerie Hash and Jean Pierre Braganza. Rainbowwave will be supporting emerging talent with a showroom fully dedicated to designer Camilla Skovgaard.

For February 2012, the BFC has launched another brand new initiative ‘FASH/ON FILM’ sponsored by River Island. This new scheme aims to support and develop relationships between fashion designers and film makers, providing a showcasing opportunity at London Fashion Week. To celebrate the launch of this new initiative River Island will produce a short film showcasing their new Design Forum collection designed by Royal College of Art graduate Julian J Smith. It will premiere during London Fashion Week at the first BFC Fash/On Film festival sponsored by River Island in the Canon Cinema in the Courtyard Showspace and the Canon Screening room in the Embankment Galleries, Somerset House. To view the full schedule for the Fash/On Film showcase please visit: www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/digitalschedule

February 2012 sees the addition of a 3rd showspace space, the ‘Embankment Gallery Showspace’ at Somerset House. Situated in the embankment galleries, the former exhibition space will now be the venue for catwalk shows, presentations and events throughout the duration of London Fashion Week. The Showspace will host 11 designers’ shows this season, designers showing in the Embankment Gallery Showspace include Christian Blanken, Kinder Aggugini and Simone Rocha.

Caroline Rush, CEO of the BFC commented “This season sees a newly curated style of The Exhibition at Somerset House, this new layout and format will offer press and buyers a much more tailored and edited selection of British talent, this will help to bring more focus to the designers participating in the Exhibition. February sees the welcome return of seasoned exhibitors plus exciting and brand new designers providing visitors with the best possible talent in the UK fashion industry.”

Opening Hours of The Exhibition
The Exhibition at London Fashion Week will be open from 10am-7pm 17th-20th February and 10am-6pm Tuesday 21st February. Menswear Day is Wednesday 22nd February and NEWGEN MEN and Fashion East installations will be open from 12pm-5pm in the East Wing.

Press releases on this seasons initiatives are available at www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/press

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

Designers wishing to apply to be part of The Exhibition contact:
exhibition@britishfashioncouncil.com

Fash/On Film

Fri, 09 Feb 2012 14:22:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) today announces a brand new initiative FASH/ON FILM sponsored by River Island. This new scheme aims to support and develop relationships between fashion designers and film makers, providing a showcasing opportunity at London Fashion Week. It recognises the ongoing growth of fashion film as an important creative product of the industry and London’s position at the centre of this film revolution.

To celebrate the launch of this new initiative, River Island will produce a short film showcasing their new Design Forum collection designed by Royal College of Art graduate Julian J Smith. It will premiere during London Fashion Week at the first BFC Fash/On Film festival sponsored by River Island, which will become a regular feature of the LFW schedule.

As part of this season’s Fash/On Film showcase there will be a special TEST Presents screening of the London preview of the Diana Vreeland documentary 'The Eye Has To Travel', in association with Studiocanal, where author and director Lisa Immordino Vreeland will introduce the film and participate in a post-screening Q&A session with the audience.

The screening will be hosted on Saturday 18th at The May Fair Hotel, the official Hotel of London Fashion Week. Although predominantly by invitation only, there will also be the opportunity for members of the public to attend.

The Fash/On Film initiative sees the launch of its first nationwide search for emerging film making talent, inviting up-and-coming creatives to submit film ideas in response to a brief set by a leading British designer in conjunction with Fash/On Film. One filmmaker will be selected to receive professional support and mentoring through the production process, offering a unique opportunity to gain insight into and experience of the fashion film industry. This film will be shown at London Fashion Week September 2012, creating a prestigious launch pad into the fashion and film industry.

Farida Kaikobad, Brand Director River Island said "We are excited to preview our first collaboration with BFC at London Fashion Week. We’ve loved working with Julian and are excited to be using film to showcase his collection. It’s a new and innovative medium which we believe our customers will love watching.”

Caroline Rush, CEO BFC said “This is a great opportunity to support and develop the profile of young fashion designers whilst encouraging the rising stars of filmmaking into this arena. We look forward to having the chance to create a recognised showcase for incredible emerging British fashion film talent, supporting our global reputation for innovation and creativity.”

The BFC Fash/On Film newly formed committee is made up of key opinion formers across the film and retail industries and the BFC. The Fash/On Film panel have curated a dedicated film programme to be screened in the Canon Cinema each day of London Fashion Week. The films will be shown between live streams of catwalk shows from the Courtyard Show Space and the Embankment Galleries. The panel consists of Alyn Horton, Marketing Director, TEST and TEST Presents; Clara Mercer, Marketing Manager, BFC; Kathryn Ferguson, Film Maker and Curator of the BFI’s Birds Eye View Film Festival’s ‘Fashion Loves Film’ Strand; Jaime Perlman, Creative Director, British Vogue and Founder, TEST; Josie Roscop, Head of Marketing, River Island. Laura Hinson, Show Executive, BFC; Rosanna Falconer, Digital Marketing Executive, BFC; Stephen Whelan, Executive Producer, White Lodge; along with guest judges.

BFC Cultural Ambassador Laura Bailey will work with the Film Panel to unite this new initiative with the broader cultural aims of the BFC.

Find out more on BFC Fash/On Film sponsored by River Island:
www.britishfashioncouncil.com/fashionfilm

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

For River Island press enquiries please contact:
Arieta Mujay, PR Manager
Tel: +44 (0) 7518 1600
arieta.mujay@river-island.com
Image: Still from AW12 film by Palmer//Harding

Designer Fashion Fund Winner

Thu, 01 Feb 2012 00:01:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) today announced the winner of this year’s BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund is presented to Jonathan Saunders. The Award, which is now in its third year, was established to further enhance the reputation of London’s rising stars and assist in the development of their businesses. It comprises of £200,000 and access to director level mentors across the industry.

The BFC will develop a bespoke mentoring programme tailored specifically to assist in achieving Jonathan’s business goals for the next twelve months with the aspiration that the network developed during this year will endure throughout his career as he makes the transition from a developing creative business into a global fashion brand.

The panel’s decision was based on the strength of Jonathan’s catwalk and pre-collections over the past few seasons and the acclaim that he has received from UK and international media and buyers. He demonstrated a clear and concise view on the areas in which he hopes to develop his business over the next twelve months and beyond.

Nine designers were shortlisted by a panel of representatives of Fund sponsors. All of those shortlisted were then invited to present their collections and future plans to the judging panel of Fund sponsor representatives and industry experts chaired by Alexandra Shulman, Editor of British Vogue. All of those shortlisted will have access to support from the mentoring panel either directly or through Marigay McKee, Chief Merchant, Harrods who will chair the mentoring panel.

Scottish born Jonathan Saunders graduated from the Glasgow School of Art in 1999 with a BA and then graduated with an MA distinction from Central St Martin’s in 2002, studying Printed Textiles in both courses. Jonathan then went on to win the Fashion Enterprise award given to him by the BFC in September 2006 followed by the Elle Style Award Designer of the Year in 2007. Jonathan has also designed for Pollini between 2008 and March 2010 and recent collaborations for his own label have included Topshop and US brand Target and his own name label in stocked in stores around the world including Bergdorf Goodman, Hudson Bay, Liberty’s, Luisa Via Roma, Net-a-Porter and Printemps.

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. The BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund aids business growth and create employment opportunities, it is complementary to existing support schemes and focuses on developing profile and opportunities for British designer businesses.

The Fund was launched by BFC Chairman Harold Tillman in September 2008. Vogue, headline sponsor, whose March issue is on sale 6th February, will showcase the talents of all nine finalists.

Jonathan Saunders, said “I’m so happy about winning the fund. The last 12 months have been an exciting time for me and my team and I’m very proud of all their hard work. We have many exciting plans for the near future and this along with the support network provided by the BFC will enable us to achieve our goals.”

Caroline Rush, CEO of BFC, commented “The BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund is aimed to assist our very exceptional British designers who during the application process show that they have the potential and business acumen to take the development of their brand to the next step and make the transition to progress their business into a commercial global fashion brand. The panel felt that this really is Jonathan’s moment and he truly deserves to be the recipient of the fund prize.”

Alexandra Shulman, Editor of British Vogue, said “I am delighted that Jonathan has won this year's award. His recent collections have shown that he is a designer who can provide beautiful clothes that women enjoy wearing and he is in a great position to build on his current success.”

The BFC would like to thank the fund sponsors Burberry, Clothing at Tesco, Debenhams, Harrods, HSBC, Jaeger & Aquascutum, LF Europe, Marks & Spencer, Paul Smith, TONI&GUY, TOPSHOP, VOGUE and Westfield Shopping Towns.

Find out more about the BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund

For press enquiries regarding the British Fashion Council and the BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund please contact:
Gemma Ebelis, PR Manager, British Fashion Council,
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1989
gemma.ebelis@britishfashioncouncil.com

For press enquiries regarding Jonathan Saunders please contact:
George MacPherson, PR Director, Tel: +44 (0) 20 7318 0400
george@starworkslondon.com

Image: Jonathan Saunders spring/summer 2012

London Collections

Mon, 22 Jan 2012 20:30:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) today announces plans for a brand new Menswear showcase LONDON COLLECTIONS: MEN that will launch in June 2012.

Running from 15th – 17th June, London will kick start the Menswear calendar with a showcase of British brands and businesses embedded in a cultural programme. London Collections: Men is a development of the Men’s day at London Fashion Week which has grown in stature and content despite sitting outside of the traditional menswear calendar. This new showcase will emphasise both the creative and commercial importance of Britain’s brands and emerging talent as well as the rich cultural landscape that contributes to the inspiration and success of this sector.

The majority of brands and designers who participate in the Men’s day at London Fashion Week will be contributing to the showcase. London’s emerging talent showcases MAN, NEWGEN MEN sponsored by Topman and Fashion Forward will support the UK’s most innovative new talents to show during this period. Iconic British designers such as Margaret Howell, heritage brands such as Aquascutum and Savile Row tailors such as Richard James and E. Tautz will join London Collections: Men to show the breadth of British menswear.

Dylan Jones, chair of the Fashion 2012 Menswear Committee will be at helm of these plans, drawing together a committee of influential figures within the Menswear industry initially including Alex Bilmes, ESQUIRE; Christopher Bailey; David Furnish; David Walker-Smith, Selfridges; David Walliams; Elizabeth Saltzman; Gordon Richardson, TOPMAN; Jo Levin, GQ; Jeremy Langmead, MR PORTER; Marigay McKee, Harrods; Simon Fuller; Tim Blanks, Style.com; Tinie Tempah; Tom Ford and The Mayor's Office. The Committee will ensure that London Collections: Men becomes a unique opportunity to see and buy British menswear whilst experiencing the UK’s dynamic creative industries through a cross cultural curated programme.

Harold Tillman, CBE Chairman of British Fashion Council said “The menswear industry has been growing from strength to strength in past years and this is true testament to this, London Collections: Men will not only be a showcase for brands and designers but will form a cross cultural programme creating a festival for Menswear in what will be a truly exciting year for the UK. I would like to thank Dylan Jones as Chair of the newly formed Fashion 2012 Menswear committee and all of the members, designers and brands involved in making this work.”

Dylan Jones, Editor GQ and Chair of Fashion 2012 Menswear Committee said "This is a fabulous initiative, and one that will undoubtedly draw even more attention towards London this year. Whether you're involved in sport, fashion, media, retail, entertainment or tech, or indeed any industry, London is the place to be in 2012."

Gordon Richardson, Design Director, TOPMAN said “No longer shoe horned into one condensed hectic day, the newly established London Menswear Collections, over 3 glorious days now has the space to breathe, flourish and generate the buzz that will put its talented rising men's fashion stars firmly on the international fashion map.”

Jeremy Langmead, Editor in Chief, MR PORTER said “MR PORTER is looking forward to working with the BFC on this exciting new project that aims to give Britain's talented menswear designers and tailors the showcase they deserve. The menswear industry is experiencing huge growth right now and this makes both supporting home-grown talent, and feeding the worldwide appetite for innovative and expertly-made stylish men's clothes, essential. We look forward to creating a number of engaging ways that MR PORTER can help spread the word across all its content platforms during the London Collections."

Richard James, Savile Row Tailor said “We are very excited to be involved with the new plans for British menswear, and to be working with Dylan. This is a first for our company to present in this way.”

James Long, Fashion Forward Recipient said “I am really excited for the menswear plans and am looking forward to being part of a great year for British menswear. Thank you to all involved and all the work that has been put in to make this happen.”

The British Fashion Council would like to thank MR PORTER for partnering and supporting the London Collections: Men and the BFC would also like to give thanks to the team from TOPMAN for all of their continued and ongoing support for the NEWGEN MEN initiative and British Menswear.

London Collections: Men will form part of the Fashion 2012 Calendar, 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. For further on information on Fashion 2012, please visit www.fashion2012.co.uk.

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

For Menswear brands wishing to be involved in plans for Fashion 2012 please contact:
Katie Bain, British Fashion Council, Tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1978
katie.bain@britishfashioncouncil.com

Image: E.Tautz pre-autumn/winter 2012 collection

Rock Vault

Sat, 27 Jan 2012 17:00:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) today announces the brand new jewellery initiative BFC Rock Vault to support, showcase and promote Britain’s most innovative, fine jewellery talent. Sponsored by the International Palladium Board (IPB) and curated by Stephen Webster, ‘BFC Rock Vault’ will launch during London Fashion Week, February 17th – 21st, at Somerset House.

The ten successful jewellers who have been selected to showcase their AW12 collections within the Rock Vault are Alexandra Jefford, Fernando Jorge, Hannah Martin, Hillier, Husam El Odeh, Jo Hayes Ward, Jordan Askill, Melanie Georgacopoulos, Sophie Bille Brahe and Tomasz Donocik. The designers will feature alongside five concepts created in Palladium by Central Saint Martins students.

Housed in a structure located on the Terrace of Somerset House, overlooking the Thames, the designers will be awarded support towards creating their own unique installation within this dedicated area and will receive business mentoring support. An event to launch this initiative will be held on Saturday, 18th February at the designated BFC Rock Vault space at Somerset House.

This unique showcasing initiative has been developed by the BFC to nurture the creative fine jewellery talent based in London and give these designers the opportunity to further develop their businesses and exposure amongst both UK and International media and retailers.

The participants are invited by a panel led by Stephen Webster comprising Anna Orsini, British Fashion Council; Brad Mills, Chairman of the International Palladium Board; Caroline Broadhead, Central Saint Martins’ Programme Director; Catherine Nieto, Grazia Fashion and Accessories Editor; Francoise Tessier, Browns Fine Jewellery Buyer; Jos Skeates, EC One; Katie Bain, British Fashion Council; Lara Bohinc, Designer and Cartier Consultant; Liane Wiggins, Matches Head Buyer; Maria Lemos, Rainbowwave; Olivia Richardson, Liberty Head of Buying; Sarah Mower, MBE BFC Ambassador for Emerging Talent and contributing editor for US Vogue.com; Valery Demure, marketing and sales, jewellery and accessories agent.

Stephen Webster, comments, “As a London jewellery designer and a craftsman, it gives me great pleasure to be curating Rock Vault, an area dedicated for the first time to the rising stars of the UK jewellery industry under the umbrella of the BFC. Together with a panel of experts, we have selected what we believe to be the best representation of young talent. Over the last 10 years, jewellery has become an integral part of both men and woman's wardrobe. This meteoric rise has meant jewellery designers have been crying out for inclusion within the established fashion platforms. Rock Vault finally offers such an opportunity. We are all very excited to realise this vision.”

Brad Mills, Chairman of the International Palladium Board, comments, “We are proud to support London Fashion Week. This partnership opens a series of projects entitled Palladium Visions, which we will undertake in 2012 with some of the world’s most visionary designers, artists and jewellers to promote Palladium as the must-have, contemporary precious metal of the future.”

The International Palladium Board (IPB) is dedicated to establishing Palladium as the contemporary precious metal of the future. Palladium is a beautiful lustrous white metal, desired by jewellery designers and owners for its unique features – rarity, lightness and strength. In 2009 Palladium became the most recent precious metal to be hallmarked.

For more information please visit www.britishfashioncouncil.com/rockvault

Image: Jordan Askill

For press enquiries regarding BFC Rock Vault please contact
Kimberly Carroll, PR Executive, British Fashion Council, Tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1987
kimberly.carroll@britishfashioncouncil.com

For press enquiries regarding Palladium Visions please contact
Hugh Gallagher, Exposure Promotions, Tel: +44 (0) 20 7907 7145
hugh.gallagher@exposure.net

For designers wishing to apply for BFC Rock Vault please contact
Katie Bain, British Fashion Council, Tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1978
katie.bain@britishfashioncouncil.com

International Fashion Showcase

Wed, 31 Jan 2012 12:00:00 GMT

The British Council and the British Fashion Council (BFC) today announce the inaugural International Fashion Showcase to take place during London Fashion Week, February 2012. 19 embassies and cultural institutes across London will open their doors and display the work of over 80 international emerging designers. The public, together with international press and buyers, will have the opportunity to explore the collections of some of the most innovative, emerging fashion designers from around the world.

The first project the British Council and the British Fashion Council have collaborated on, this new showcase is part of the Fashion 2012 Cultural Programme and has been developed to celebrate the year of the Olympics and Paralympics and honour its values of international respect, excellence, equality and friendship. Countries participating in this showcase include Australia, Belgium, Botswana, Caribbean, China, Croatia, Estonia, Italy, Japan, Korea, Netherlands, Nigeria, Philippines, Poland, Romania, Sierra Leone, United States and Uzbekistan.

Each country has been asked to present a selection of emerging designers whom they feel most represents the future of fashion in their region. Sarah Mower MBE, BFC Ambassador for Emerging Talent and Contributing Editor to US Vogue, will chair an advisory panel that will judge each piece of work, with an award given to the country that presents the best emerging fashion talent showcase. This will be announced on Sunday 19th February, during London Fashion Week.

A map, guide and passport will encourage the public and London Fashion Week audience of UK and international press and buyers to follow the trail of the International Fashion Showcase around the various venues in central London.

Highlights will include:

American design school Parsons will present 10 of its first US graduate students in fashion design at Benjamin Franklin House. Four of the participating designers were finalists of the Alexander McQueen Metropolitan Museum Exhibition competition.
The Flanders Fashion Institute will present a selection of emerging fashion talent from Belgium including: A.Knackfuss, Cedric Jacquemyn, OMSK and WOLF by Sofie Claes at the Exhibition at London Fashion Week. Part of this exhibition will be a special installation created by Ra, the Antwerp based concept store.
The Chinese exhibition unites a diverse community of designers from Mao Jihong, the designer and entrepreneur behind EXCEPTION, to Xander Zhou, listed by Forbes in their Top 25 of most influential people in the fashion industry in China.
Three young designers from Estonia will present an exhibition of work including Kaspar Paas, winner of the Estonian Young Designer Award, who currently designs for John Lobb and who will be launching his own brand of footwear during this event.
Vogue Talents was developed out of the scouting activity undertaken by Vogue Italy and it will present eight talented designers at the Italian Cultural Institute in London embracing Ready-to-wear, menswear, accessories and jewellery.
The Embassy of Japan’s exhibition brings together young milliner Kaji Masahito and emerging designer Kawanishi Ryohei, a recent Central Saint Martins BA graduate, who both create bold works showing great sensitivity, which will be on display in a showroom off the main courtyard at Somerset House.
The Korean Cultural Centre will explore the new generation designers from South Korea, showcasing 8 british educated designers who in a short space of time have developed high profile collaborations with artists such as Lady Gaga as well as international media attention.
A selection of the best emerging African talent from Botswana, Nigeria and Sierra Leone will be on display at the British Council offices, curated by the V&A's Carol Tulloch.

For participating countries, this programme allows their emerging talent to be seen by key UK and international industry professionals during London Fashion Week. It also means that the wider public can explore the fashion scene in these international cities.

On Sunday 19th February, a jury comprising of top fashion journalists and curators will award the best project with a sculpture designed by former BFC NEWGEN recipient Jordan Askill at the BFC Show Space at Somerset House.

For more information about the British Council contact:
Alex Bratt, Senior Press Officer
+44 (0) 207 389 4872
alex.bratt@britishcouncil.org

For more information about the British Fashion Council contact:
Gemma Ebelis, BFC Press Manager
+44 (0) 207 759 1989
gemma@britishfashioncouncil.com

Image: a.Knackfuss, Belgium

Harold Tillman

Sat, 20 Jan 2012 15:21:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) today announced that its honorary Chairman, Harold Tillman CBE, will extend his term through 2012.

Harold was appointed Chairman on 24th January 2008 taking over from Sir Stuart Rose. Under his guidance the BFC has become an effective promotional body for the industry through clarity of objectives and vision. He has established the first full time management team for the organisation through the appointment of Caroline Rush to CEO and Simon Ward as COO. He played a lead role in moving London Fashion Week to Somerset House, personally negotiating with brands such as Burberry to return to London.

The BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund was established as a registered charity with Harold securing financial support from key retailers and partners. He has maintained close relationships with the Mayor of London each year successfully bidding for support for British talent and London Fashion Week.

In 2010 Harold delivered the Value of Fashion report, defining the British fashion industry for the first time and assessing its true value to UK PLC. In 2011 he established the China Britain Fashion Alliance and has supported the development of the London show Rooms programme bringing in global partners to promote British talent overseas.

There remain many opportunities ahead and Harold will continue to drive these forward and for the future as well as secure a successor who will continue to grow the profile of the sector globally and the businesses within it.

Support for this term extension was secured from key stakeholders including representatives from media, government, BFC patrons and sponsors.

Caroline Rush, CEO of the British Fashion Council said “The BFC is immensely grateful to Harold for the incredible hard work he has put into the role. He has been an inspirational and visionary leader and under him the BFC and London Fashion Week have significantly expanded and grown in global stature. On behalf of the BFC board, patrons and sponsors I thank Harold for his ongoing support”.

Boris Johnson, Mayor of London said “Harold's retail flair and business acumen are the perfect foil for the astonishing creativity of our fashion designers. As well as maintaining London Fashion Week's position as one of the most influential international showcases for design, he has been pivotal in the BFC's efforts to nurture up and coming designers. With fashion playing a key role in our celebrations for 2012, Harold will help ensure London's status as a big hitter in the global fashion stakes.”

Chairman of the British Fashion Council is an honorary role with an initial three year commitment, whilst several chairman have served for four years, this extended term will make Harold the organisation’s longest serving Chairman to date.

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

Image: Harold Tillman CBE, Sarah Mower MBE and Chris Moore (Catwalking).

Fashion Forward 2012

Fri, 19 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) today announces that three womenswear designers Henry Holland, Louise Gray and Mary Katrantzou and one menswear designer James Long, will receive Fashion Forward sponsorship for two consecutive seasons to show in London. James is the first menswear to receive support through this scheme.

Fashion Forward was established 6 years ago to provide funding to talented emerging British designer businesses to show and develop their businesses in London. To be eligible designers will either have progressed through NEWGEN or be at a similar stage in their business. London Fashion Week is the most creative and dynamic event on the international fashion calendar promoting established and emerging British design talent to a global audience. Fashion Forward is a key BFC initiative to promote emerging design talent. The award provides the winner with a cash prize to assist in showing their collection as well as access to business support provided by the BFC.

Fashion Forward applicants are judged by a panel of key industry representatives including Averyl Oates, Retail Expert; Caroline Rush, CEO, BFC; David Watts, Business Support Manager, BFC; Francesca Burns, Fashion Editor, Vogue; Ruth Chapman, Co-Founder, Matches and Sarah Mower MBE, BFC Ambassador of Emerging Talent, Contributing Editor to US Vogue and American Vogue.com.

Previous Fashion Forward winners include Christopher Kane, Erdem, Giles Deacon, Jonathan Saunders, Louise Goldin, Marios Schwab, Meadham Kirchoff, Peter Pilotto, Richard Nicoll, Roksanda Illincic, Sinha-Stanic and Todd Lynn.

Caroline Rush, CEO, British Fashion Council, commented “The recipients for this year’s Fashion Forward sponsorship are an exceptionally talented group of designers. 2012 is set to be a momentous year not only for fashion industry but the UK and I am looking forward to seeing Henry, Louise, James and Mary, taking strides forward in their business development. Menswear in London will be put in the spotlight this year making now the perfect time to introduce a menswear prize to Fashion Forward.”

Winners Comments

Henry Holland, “I’m delighted to be receiving Fashion Forward sponsorship. It is a huge accolade for the brand and I am excited about what the future holds.”

James Long, “I'm very excited to receive the first Menswear Fashion Forward Award, its great to take the brand to the next level and be part of the on going support from the British Fashion Council - Thank you.”

Louise Gray, “I am thrilled to have been awarded Fashion Forward sponsorship for 2012 as this backing will allow me to develop my brand even further. I have so many exciting projects coming up this year and this is a great way to start things off!”

Mary Katrantzou, "I'm so excited to receive the Fashion Forward sponsorship for 2012! It's really important to have that support and it's testament to the strength of London Fashion Week and the BFC's initiative to nurture talent and help designers build an established business."

For press enquiries regarding this seasons Fashion Forward winners please contact:
Gemma Ebelis, British Fashion Council, Tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1989
gemma@britishfashioncouncil.com

Image: Mary Katrantzou SS12 at London Fashion Week, September 2011

Dates for September 2012

Wed, 17 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

New York Fashion Week: 6th - 13th September
London Fashion Week: 14th - 18th September

The CFDA and BFC confirm the above dates for fashion weeks in September 2012. Both organisations remain committed to finding a long term solution that would see a confirmed Fashion Season where brands and designer businesses in all four fashion capitals (New York, London, Milan and Paris) can plan for the long term and when exceptional circumstances arise there is dialogue and empathy to find a solution that works for all.

The CFDA and BFC thank all organisations and individuals that have pledged their commitment to support both fashion weeks and their respective brands and talented emerging designer businesses.

The BFC would also like to thank Somerset House and the Brazilian Olympic Committee for their understanding and flexibility to enable London Fashion Week to take place at this time.

For press enquiries please contact:

BFC
Gemma Ebelis, British Fashion Council, Tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1989
gemma.ebelis@britishfashioncouncil.com

CFDA
Karen Peterson, CFDA, Tel: +1.917.553.7638
k.peterson@cfda.com

Image: Christopher Kane SS12 at London Fashion Week September 2011

Dylan Jones

Sat, 13 Jan 2012 11:25:00 GMT

As part of their plans for Fashion 2012 the British Fashion Council (BFC) is pleased to announce that Dylan Jones has been appointed as Chair of the Fashion 2012 Menswear committee.

Dylan's first role in this newly created position will be to form the committee comprising influential figures within the Menswear industry to work on a calendar of events for Fashion 2012. These events will celebrate and showcase the breadth of British Menswear from traditional heritage brands, to avant-garde and emerging talent as well as London as a leading fashion capital. While some events will be created by the BFC, the hope is that individual brands and organisations will develop their own events here in London.

Dylan will be co- hosting an event in Paris, during Men’s Fashion Week, on Sunday 22nd January to announce the first of many exciting new plans for British menswear in London during 2012. He will host the event alongside Chairman of the BFC, Harold Tillman CBE.

The BFC has developed this role to formalise the working party and advisory committee to assist in curating, launching and delivering its ambitious plans for the year. Men’s Day at London Fashion Week has grown with the support of designers, media, retailers, stylists and Topman. This year the BFC aims to grow the profile of British menswear and through this assist the growth in British businesses.

Fashion 2012 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.

Dylan Jones is the Editor of British GQ.

For further on information on Fashion 2012, please visit www.fashion2012.co.uk

New Brands Added to Schedule

Wed, 10 Jan 2012 12:20:00 GMT

Two more brands are to show on the London Fashion Week Show Schedule for the first time this February. Belstaff has announced it will present its first men's and women's AW12 collections on Sunday February 19th, 3.30pm-5.30pm. This will be the first collection to be shown since the relaunch of the brand.

Moschino Cheap And Chic will also make its London Fashion Week debut; the AW12 collection will be shown on Saturday 18th February between 1.30pm-3.30pm.

The Creative Director of Moschino, Rossella Jardini has released the below statement:

"To debut in London with Moschino Cheap And Chic is something I have been thinking about for a while. To have presence in a new city gives the younger line a stronger, more autonomous personality.
London is renowned for its contemporary style and famous sense of humor making it the perfect place to exhibit Moschino Cheap And Chic’s DNA and energy.
I’m sure London will be the appropriate platform for this line to grow whilst still remembering its roots."

The Moschino main line collection will show during Milan fashion week.

See the latest show schedule

Image: Moschino Cheap And Chic

MAN AW12

Wed, 20 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Championing the best and brightest new menswear talent, the joint initiative between Topman and Fashion East returns to the runway for the 14th consecutive season. MAN’s AW12 line up sees Shaun Samson return for a second time after a phenomenal debut last season, joined by designers who shone at Fashion East’s Menswear Installations; Agi&Sam and Astrid Andersen. Designers are selected by a panel of industry experts including Nicola Formichetti, Charlie Porter and Alister Mackie.

MAN enjoys an unrivalled reputation for identifying and supporting the most exciting new menswear names in the industry. Alumni James Long, Christopher Shannon and JW Anderson continue to trail blaze at Menswear Day with solo catwalk shows. Martine Rose and Matthew Miller who showed with MAN last season have since been awarded NEWGEN MEN presentations for AW12.

Ben Reardon, Editor GQ Style and MAN panel member says "This season MAN has both a local and global vision of fashion, from London to Jamaica, LA to Africa (by way of Dalston Superstore and Vogue Fabrics) with brilliant new designers Agi and Sam, Astrid Andersen and Shaun Samson. This is an exciting triptych of talent to continue London's exciting year ahead. I literally cannot wait to see what they will do.”

Lulu Kennedy, Director of Fashion East and MAN enthuses; “I love everything about these three designers; their diverse range of reference points (jocks, nerds, cartoons, dandies) their model casting and styling, their appetite for hard work, and above all the sheer brilliance of the finished garments which are entirely wearable.”

SHAUN SAMSON
Samson caused a sensation when his Mexican-inspired collection debuted with MAN last season. His SS12 collection was snapped up by a host of stockists including Selfridges, Joyce, Opening Ceremony NY and LA, Trading Museum/ Comme des Garcons Japan.
He designs ‘Men’s Modern Street Wear.’, inspired by growing up in San Diego with its mix of relaxed surf and street styles. He believes the modern man’s wardrobe should be wearable, effortless and special.
Samson studied Fashion Design in Los Angeles and Manufacturing and Product Development at FIDM. He built on these two degrees with a BA and MA in Fashion Menswear from Central St. Martins. He juggled his studies whilst working simultaneously for Jeremy Scott and won the prestigious ITS # 10 prize for his graduate collection.

AGI & SAM
Agape Mdumulla and Sam Cotton met whilst working at Alexander McQueen and founded their label in January 2010. Agi studied BA Fashion Design and Sam studied BA Illustration. They have worked for designers including Alexander McQueen, Karl Lagerfeld, Armand Basi, Blaak Homme, J.W. Anderson and Carolyn Massey.
They have graduated to MAN having shown with Fashion East Menswear Installations for the past two seasons; their SS12 collection was entitled “Tequila, Tabasco and Tomato Juice” – their own take on the tequila slammer. With a strong emphasis on bespoke print, they enjoy injecting humour into their collections, believing that fashion should never be taken too seriously. They strive to create unique yet accessible pieces with a strong commercial edge. Stockists include Sefton, ANMA:Life, Night Vision and The Unconventional.

ASTRID ANDERSEN
Astrid Andersen graduated from The Royal College of Art in 2010 and went on to win the Brioni Creativity and Innovation Award and the River Island MA Student Bursary Award. She aims to break down traditional sportswear stereotypes and give it a new resonance within luxury fashion. Her graduate collection, styled by Simon Foxton, was rapturously received and she has been featured in everything from i-D and Dazed & Confused to The Financial Times and VOGUE UK. The fact she casts the hottest boys in town can’t hurt either.
She has shown with Fashion East menswear Installations for the past two seasons and the panel unanimously agreed it was time for her to graduate to MAN’s catwalk. With international support from across the industry and increasing interest from outside supporters and collaborators, she remains one-to-watch for innovative and contemporary menswear.

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

For London Fashion Week Ticket Requests only: MAN@starworkslondon.com

Fashion East AW12

Thu, 21 Dec 2011 15:56:00 GMT

Since its inception in 2000, Fashion East has been credited with kick-starting the careers of some of the UK’s most prolific design talent including Jonathan Saunders, Meadham Kirchhoff, Marios Schwab, Michael van der Ham, Louise Gray, Roksanda Ilincic, Richard Nicoll and House of Holland.

The AW12 line-up is a first in Fashion East’s history – it is supporting exactly the same line-up of designers that showed last season; James Long, Marques Almeida and Maarten van der Horst. The decision was made following the unanimous backing of the Fashion East panel whose members include Sarah Mower, Grazia’s Kay Barron, Vogue’s Francesca Burns and Brix Smith-Start of Start Boutique.

As Sarah Mower, British Fashion Council’s Ambassador for Emerging Talent and US Vogue Contributor, explains; "Fashion East's 2012 cohort of designers excelled so remarkably that all their Spring collections have already been picked up by stores - so having them back to show together again for Fall 2012 will give buyers and journalists a second chance to spectate as these contenders take off in Olympic year."

Mary Homer, MD of Topshop, says "I'm delighted to see these three designers return for another season at Fashion East, testimony to their exceptional talent and creativity. Topshop has been a long supporter of British fashion, and our ongoing relationship with Fashion East is something we are very proud of. Lulu Kennedy and her team always identify the best of London's design talent, and I wish this season's recipients continued success into 2012."

JAMES LONG
James Long has fast become one of the most sought-after design talents in London for both menswear and womenswear. With a huge fan base ranging from Alister Mackie to Luke Day and Lucas Ossendriver praising Long as his favourite young designer, Long has certainly made his mark as a designer to watch. He debuted his first womenswear collection for Autumn/Winter 2011 with Fashion East, and was invited back for a second season in September. It is his instantly recognizable use of knit, leather and print that is key to the James Long aesthetic.
James Long has become one of the hottest tickets at London Fashion Week. His SS12 collection was rapturously received having been shot for publications including Stella Magazine, Vogue Turkey, and the US and British editions of Elle and Glamour. James Long Womenswear is sold in prestigious stores around the world including LN-CC in London, RA in Antwerp and Opening Ceremony in New York and LA.

MAARTEN VAN DER HORST
Maarten van der Horst was born in the Netherlands to an Indonesian mother and a Dutch father. He began his design education at the Artez institute of the Art during which he interned with Chloé in Paris. His completed his BA with a hand-painted, bright and joyous graduate collection that reflected his preference for highly personal statements using D-I-Y techniques. On the MA Womenswear course at Central Saint Martins, van der Horst developed his distinctive aesthetic further, marrying intricately embroidered, second-hand Nylon petticoats with Hawaiian shirts, Capri trousers and Bermuda shorts, creating a John Waters-inspired wardrobe.
His designs are technically advanced yet highly wearable, exuding a light hearted, joyful elegance without neglecting craftsmanship. His SS12 debut at Fashion East built on his MA collection, focussing on tailoring and feminine detailing whilst remaining true to his signature flattering boxy silhouette. The collection was snapped up by stockists including Opening Ceremony in New York and LA, Edition in Japan and Selfridges in the UK and has been featured in Vogue, i-D and Elle.

MARQUES'ALMEIDA
Both trained in womenswear, Marta Marques and Paulo Almeida subscribe to the Helmut Lang school of thought, where ‘fashion is about attitude, not hemlines’. While their aesthetic evokes raw effortlessness, the pair’s technical sensibilities are revealed in the construction of each piece. Cutting their teeth at Vivienne Westwood and Preen respectively, Marques and Almeida took the natural course of combining talents while on the MA at Central Saint Martins – hitting the mark between impulse and consideration. They create for a market that desires sartorial instincts with an authentic edge.
Having shown their Spring Summer 2012 with Fashion East at London Fashion Week their list of stockists now includes Opening Ceremony NY and LA, Desperado in Tokyo and Joyce in Hong Kong. They have been recently mentioned in Elle UK as the "new go to label for distressed denim" and their work has been featured in magazines like TANK, Russh, Elle UK and i-D.

Press Enquiries:
Beth Serota
beth@fashioneast.co.uk
+44 (0) 20 7770 6151

Image: James Long SS12 at Fashion East show, London Fashion Week, September 2011

Shortlist 2012

Fri, 15 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) today announced the shortlist for the BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund 2012. The shortlisted designers showcase the best developing Womenswear and Accessories labels in British fashion today, with potential to develop into global fashion brands. This year’s shortlisted designers are Jonathan Saunders, Marios Schwab, Mary Katrantzou, Meadham Kirchhoff, Nicholas Kirkwood, Peter Pilotto, Richard Nicoll, Roksanda Ilincic and Zoe Jordan.

The nine designers have been invited to present their collections and future plans to the judging panel of Fund sponsor representatives and industry opinion-formers, chaired by Alexandra Shulman, Editor of British Vogue.

The BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund, now in its third year, will provide one British based designer with a bespoke, high-level mentoring support programme over a twelve-month period, as well as £200,000. All eight runners-up will also be allocated a mentor through the Fund. The entire judging process and winner announcement will be documented in British Vogue’s March 2012 issue.

In order to be eligible for the scheme, designers must have an established business, be based in the UK, as well as having UK and international stockists and support from key media both UK and internationally. The winner will demonstrate a clear vision for their business and how the Fund will contribute to their continuing growth and infrastructure, with a focus on creating a strong international presence.

The Fund was launched by BFC Chairman Harold Tillman CBE, in September 2008 as part of the legacy programme for the BFC’s 25th anniversary celebrations. The aim of the Fund is to support talented British designers with the potential for commercial growth to start making the transition from a developing creative business to an international fashion brand.

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

Harold Tillman CBE, Chairman of the BFC, commented “The calibre of this year’s BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund shortlist reflects the exceptional talent that exists within the British Fashion industry today. Each designer has enhanced the capital’s profile as a centre of fashion innovation, and we are proud to be able to offer the winning designer the financial support and mentoring needed to help their brand grow internationally. Special thanks must be given to all of the funders involved with the scheme.”

Alexandra Shulman, Editor, British Vogue, said “It’s very exciting to see such a talented group making up the shortlist and the winner will certainly be very deserving of the prize. In this third year of the award we also hope to build on the support we can give them all at this stage of their careers.”

Find out more about the BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund

For press enquiries regarding the British Fashion Council and the BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund please contact:
Gemma Ebelis, PR Manager, British Fashion Council,
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1989
gemma.ebelis@britishfashioncouncil.com

Image: Christopher Kane spring/summer 2012, winner of the BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund 2011

2011 British Fashion Award 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.

NEWGEN AW12 winners

Fri, 08 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The British Fashion Council (BFC) today announced the names of 15 of London’s brightest emerging fashion design talents who have been selected to receive BFC NEWGEN sponsorship, supported by Topshop, to show at London Fashion Week in February 2012. NEWGEN, established in 1993, is one of the world’s most internationally recognised fashion design talent identification schemes. This season will see the 10th anniversary celebrations of Topshop's continuous backing of the scheme at London Fashion Week. Major celebrations of the ten years which have taken a myriad of London NEWGEN designers to the top are planned for February.

NEWGEN recipients for autumn/winter 2012 sponsored by Topshop are:

Catwalk sponsorship: David Koma, Holly Fulton, J.JS Lee, J.W. Anderson, Michael van der Ham and Simone Rocha

Presentation sponsorship: Christopher Raeburn and Thomas Tait

Installation sponsorship: Nasir Mazhar and SISTER by SIBLING

Exhibition sponsorship: Huishan Zhang, James Long, Lucas Nascimento, Palmer//Harding, and Tim Soar
All of the designers listed above under catwalk, presentation and installation sponsorship will feature in the NEWGEN space of The Exhibition at London Fashion Week.

NEWGEN is an internationally recognised showcase for the best emerging British fashion talent and is central to the British Fashion Council’s talent identification, designer development and showcasing programme. Since its inception, its alumni include Alexander McQueen, Matthew Williamson, Boudicca, Giles Deacon, Jonathan Saunders, Christopher Kane, Marios Schwab, Richard Nicoll, Erdem, Mary Katrantzou and Meadham Kirchhoff. The scheme has become a key draw for the international fashion media and buyers attending London Fashion Week.

Caroline Rush, Chief Executive of the British Fashion Council commented, “Autumn/Winter 2012 sees some of the most inventive and pioneering stars of the British Fashion Industry awarded the NEWGEN sponsorship and we are looking forward to seeing them participate in London Fashion Week in February which is set to be one of the most exciting to date.”

Sarah Mower, BFC’s Ambassador for Emerging Talent, said, “The calibre and variety of the talent coming up through NEWGEN is a brilliant reflection of exactly why London is shining in 2012. The designers selected for runway shows this season – both the fully-fledged designers Michael van der Ham, David Koma and Holly Fulton and the just-fledged J.W.Anderson, J.JS. Lee and Simone Rocha – are joined by brand new talents who are working their way up through the exhibition and presentation stages. The panel was impressed at the way this new, incredibly diverse set of individuals are united in their focus on concentrating on something so special and professional at such a young age. Be it making shirts, like Palmer Harding, or knits, like Sibling, or precious eveningwear like newcomer Huishan Zhang – each one is so happy to learn, co-operate and contribute to the NEWGEN group energy. I’d particularly like to thank Mary Homer and the Topshop team for their uniquely brilliant showcasing of these designers. They and the NEWGEN panel – a group of the most dedicated and critical editors, buyers and industry experts in Britain, who give so much time and free advice to our designers – are all fantastic contributors to making London the best it can be.”

Mary Homer, Managing Director of Topshop adds, "The coming season marks Topshop's tenth anniversary of supporting NEWGEN, one of the fashion world's most exciting and reputable sponsorship initiatives. We're proud to have been a part of the scheme over the last decade and have seen some of fashion's leading lights pass through on their way to stardom. We look forward to providing ongoing support to London's design talent over the next ten years and beyond, and I wish this season's winners the best of luck."

NEWGEN offers catwalk designers financial support towards their show costs and the opportunity to use the BFC Catwalk Show Space. Others receive sponsored presentation or exhibition space to showcase their collections, offering an important introduction for young UK-based designers to influential press and buyers from around the world. NEWGEN also provides business and mentoring support through the BFC in partnership with Shoosmiths, Baker Tilley and Lloyds TSB.

Simone Rocha receives NEWGEN catwalk sponsorship for the first time in 2012. Simone’s collections have generated great press recognition and have gained her extremely prestigious stockists throughout the world.

Progressive knitwear brand SIBLING is launching their second womenswear collection SISTER by SIBLING for AW12 with support from NEWGEN as an installation along with milliner Nasir Mazar. His collections take inspiration from a juxtaposition of street culture and vibrant ethnicity and his pieces have adorned the likes of Lady Gaga and Madonna.

Designers Lucas Nascimento and Huishan Zhang have received NEWGEN sponsorship for the first time and will be showcasing in the exhibition at London Fashion Week. Lucas Nascimento graduated in 2008 from London College of Fashion and has spent the last three seasons showing at Rio Fashion Week, his designs focus on the geometric and textural aspects of knitwear. Chinese born London based designer Huishan has found inspiration and direction in his own national identity creating a brand where Eastern heritage meets Western influence.

Tim Soar will showcase his second stand-alone womenswear line in the Exhibition at London Fashion Week. James Long also joins the exhibition with his progressive style and instantly recognisable use of leather and denim in his designs.

In 2012, Topshop will celebrate ten years of support of the NEWGEN scheme, providing London’s diverse young fashion designers with a showcase to a global audience. Topshop offers additional support to designers by providing show venues and commissioning special collections available during and beyond London Fashion Week. Topshop’s dedication to the support and growth of emerging talent remains unsurpassed.

London Fashion Week will run from Friday 17th February – Wednesday 22nd February 2012 and will be located at Somerset House, Strand WC2.

For more information on the NEWGEN designers visit
www.britishfashioncouncil.com/newgen

For press enquiries regarding NEWGEN at London Fashion Week please contact:
Gemma Ebelis, PR Manager, British Fashion Council, Tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1989
gemma.ebelis@britishfashioncouncil.com

For buyers enquiries regarding NEWGEN at London Fashion Week please contact:
Barbara Grispini +44 (0) 20 7759 1991 / +44 (0) 7765 000 224
barbara.grispini@britishfashioncouncil.com

For designers wishing to apply for NEWGEN please contact:
Katie Bain, British Fashion Council, Tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1978
katie.bain@britishfashioncouncil.com

For Topshop enquiries, please contact:
Liz Shuttleworth, Senior Press Officer, Tel +44 (0)207927 1484
liz.shuttleworth@topshop.com

Image: Backstage at Michael van der Ham SS12 at London Fashion Week, September 2011