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If you are a die-hard clothes fan or simply looking for a fun-filled five days in one of the world’s coolest capitals, London Fashion Week is for you!
London Fashion Week
World renowned designers fly into the UK for a serious showdown that defines the Spring/Summer wardrobe for 2014. Fashionistas all over the globe have a soft spot for London, the city seems to live and breathe style and you can never really overdress. As well as bearing witness to some of the most famous people in the industry, you will also be rubbing shoulders with a myriad of A-listers from all genres of show business. It’s catwalk time once more!
Details and divas
There are a number of fine hotels very close to the main events and Hotel Direct will give you some very reasonable rates if you book online. Most of the happenings will be going on in Somerset House, and the closest station is Temple on the Circle and District lines. It’s a mere 3 minute walk from the Victoria Embankment to the hippest place in town. Despite being a huge city, London is surprisingly easy to navigate your way around and the tube system is one of the best in Europe. If you’re flying in for the extravaganza, why not use the excellent service of Stansted Airport and arrive in style. The first show kicks off at 0900 on Friday 13th September and the whole thing wraps up late Tuesday afternoon.
Is it big?
Well, yes it’s one of the ‘big four’ fashion events and is ranked up there alongside New York, Milan and Paris. The British Fashion Council first hosted this event way back in 1984, but can you imagine how the styles have changed since then? The main venue is Somerset House, and there is a huge marquee erected in the central courtyard. London Fashion Week was the first of its kind to embrace the digital culture and since 2010 they have employed a live video stream for the main shows.
What goes on?
If you’ve never been to a fashion show, you will certainly be in for a visual treat. It’s probably wise to check the schedule before arriving, as some of the smaller gatherings require a separate booking. Sadly, the most prestigious shows will be invitation only, maybe you can try blagging your way in, but you’d better resemble Brad Pitt or someone of similar standing. Check the London Fashion Week website for the logistical details, there’s plenty to do and even more to see.
Give me some names
Even if you’re not a clothes geek, the chances are that you will have heard of quite a few of the superstar designers who are showing their wares. The likes of Jasper Conran, John Rocha, Paul Smith and Vivienne Westwood are more than just household names, they’re living legends. You are quite likely to bump into a few starlets and apparently Madge still really loves the event, even after parting ways with Mr Ritchie.
After the shows
The latest catwalk shows are over well before 9pm, so there’s a huge window for doing some moving and shaking well into the night. You’re literally minutes away from Covent Garden if shows are your thing. For the club-orientated amongst you, London is second to none and has an embarrassment of riches in that department. In fact, if you come to the London Fashion Week, you may never want to leave!
What are your tips for visiting london fashion week?
