Fashions Finest’s 10-year anniversary celebration will culminate when it returns for its SS20 on the 14th of September 2019 at the Congress Hall, 28 Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3LS.
Growth
One of the most popular independent shows on the London Fashion Week calendar, Fashions Finest showcases some of the hottest new and undiscovered designers. Since its inception, it has grown internationally attracting more and more designers from around the world. Last year saw the launch of Fashions Finest Africa in Nigeria.
Inclusivity & Diversity
The biggest draw is the inclusive and diverse stance Fashions Finest has at its heart. Advocating for diversity and inclusivity is nothing new for director Deborah St Louis. She managed and worked at Mohagony Model Management with its director, “Mr. Mahogany” – Sola Oyebade. St. Louis was part of the campaign spearheaded by Oyebade backing the iconic all-black Vogue Italia Issue in 2008. Fashions Finest catwalk, team, and audiences reflect the diversity London city is so proud of: all ages, all abilities, all races, all genders, and orientations. It was a big part of the decision to move to its new location the Congress Hall after wheelchair users were unable to attend the show in a dignified manner due to maintenance issues at their previous venue.
“For us, talent is at the forefront and some of the most talented designers often have no formal training. We try to remove some of the challenges that seem to have little to do with the talent but are more linked to the opportunity open to those with more resources and privileges vs simply being based on talent and creativity. Our platform provides a nurturing environment to help designers catch up to fashion industry standards on the fronts that have less to do with the talent but the business side and even further education and training through our partners. It is also important to connect designers not only with buyers but also end-consumers and really getting a feel for their clientele.” states Deborah St Louis.
Change
The inclusion of the ‘Let’s Talk Fashion Business’ in 2017 has been a huge success and often oversubscribed. Having its hands on the pulse of what designers need, Fashions Finest’s partnership with Fashion Capital/ Fashion Enter has been running for several seasons. This partnership provided Fashions Finest designers with access to additional education and training as well as manufacturing.
To further mark its anniversary the platform had a website revamp and launched its online shop. A celebratory intimate Afternoon Tea at the Liberal National Club, London on Friday, the 5th of July.
Visitors are now able to purchase some of the latest looks from the Fashions Finest showcasing designers past and present.
Deborah St Louis said, “We are now an additional touch point for our showcasing designers to connect with consumers. Having stockists or retailers picking up your brand is an important milestone for new and emerging designers. Designers are now able to have their first or an additional retail/e-commerce presence. Some fashion shows and accolades, require designers to have a retail presence in order to apply. This can pose an additional challenge and slow down their career progression. For those of the right caliber, we can be the first point of call to achieve this. We are really excited to have launched the online store. It helps provide additional support to new designers and brands in the launching and growing their brand.”
SS20
The September edition kicks off with the “Let’s Talk Fashion Business” panel talk. This season features celebrity stylist and TV presenter Nicky Hambleton-Jones and will be hosted by presenter and actress Gayle Thompson. Nicky previously hosted Channel 4’s 10 Years Younger, the UK’s leading makeover show. Nicky runs her own styling business NHJ Style Consultancy. It focuses on personal styling for private clients, stylist training and retail consultancy. Nicky’s mission is to transform the nation. She wants to enable men and women to look fantastic effortlessly, regardless of their size or shape! This season Gayle interviews Nicky on her career and how she helps people find their perfect style and gain confidence.
Following this, the floor opens to some exciting collections from new and returning designers.
Fashions Finest propelled the careers of Hellavagirl, John Herrera, and Matthew O’Brien. It also regularly features brands as worn by Paloma Faith, Madonna, Nicki Minaj, and others. The event draws not only the national and international fashion industry but also VIP’s from sport, entertainment, and business.
You can view and shop more exciting catwalk looks here: https://www.fashionsfinest.com/shop
For tickets to Fashions Finest SS20 during London Fashion Week
