The annual Fashions Finest (FF), two-day trade event during London Fashion Week, took place over the weekend (16-17 September 2017) at its usual residence, the DeVere Grand Connaught Rooms in London.
Established in 2010 by Deborah St. Louis, Fashions Finest is all about promoting the diverse spectrum of the national and international fashion industry, providing a much-needed platform for self-taught designers as well as those beginning at college level through to established designers.
Previous designers have received international press attention, grown their brand to include being stocked and sold nationally and internationally. This year, Fashions Finest launched its first collaboration with a collective of designers from the Prince’s Trust Enterprise Programme.
Ever popular, this year’s event attracted a good crowd of fashion industry elite alongside fashionistas.
Day one saw the collections of British talent Rose Appleton, Fleur Angelique by Sany Lou, and Unbridaled Couture, a slew of German designers such as Berlin-based label AKAME, designer Kim Tiziana Rottmüller, and returning German designer Marina Willms.
Closing day one was a fashion collective of eight designers from the Prince’s Trust Enterprise Programme that included Babydol Clothing, Quillattire, Vimpelova, ByVarga, War & Drobe, Sheree Robinson Knitwear, Fifth culminating in the finale of Rosie Red Corsetry’s collection of ethereal and hauntingly beautiful fairy tale gowns. It was great to see the inclusion of plus sized models in the show.
Guests on day two saw catwalk shows by Tahra Nketia, Chaela Rose, Mena Odi Collection, 13 Magpies Design Studio, Helen Howe Atelier, Ocansey Bianchi, Koyawo and closing with luxury jewellery line Jadau by Kanwal Toor.
There was also a popup and exhibition area for guests to peruse collections from accessory brands like The Naan Design, jewellery designer Alexandra Jacoumis, J D’Cruz (bags), clothing brand Caroline London, Just Kim Prints (bags), Polina Magiy Shoes and Pharrell’s (hats & clothing).
A highlight of the weekend, was Fashions Finest’s first panel discussion ‘Let’s Talk Fashion Business’, an interactive discussion including Q&As to offer help and advice for emerging brands to grow their business. Unsurprisingly, the biggest challenges for new brands are getting visibility, attracting buyers and making sales.
Images: ShotbyJo
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