LondonEdge September show report.

As one of the first shows to kick off the autumn fashion trade fair season in the UK, the September 2015 edition of LondonEdge reported its biggest show for three years and an increase in footfall against last year, according to the organisers.

Held from 6th - 8th September 2015 at Islington’s Design Centre, LondonEdge

Managing Director Carole Hunter said she was very satisfied with the turnout and growing popularity of the fair:  “We’re absolutely delighted with the results of with the 32nd LondonEdge. Early indication is that we have seen a rise in footfall from this time last year. Not only that but also really pleased at the high number of potential new exhibitor enquiries that we’ve had at the organisers’ office during the show. We’re looking forward to the next show at Olympia West between 7th-9th February 2016.”

LondonEdges’ 32nd show also saw the beginning of Edge:Edit. launched as a snapshot showcase of up and coming new brands from young designers of the future, Edit included utterly creative collections from fresh & talented Sera Ulger LDN, Sanctus, Librastyle and Nympha.

While the show welcomed new exhibiting brands this season that included The Ragged Priest, Motel, Syd & Mallory & Jeffrey Campbell and others, trade visitors and buyers were also treated to a daily programme of catwalk presentations, featuring brands such as Dolly Dotty, Bright & Beautiful, Collectif, with brands such as Voodoo Vixen, Hell Bunny and Queen of Darkness, Innocent, Banned, New Rock and others.

      

Pictures displayed at the Youth Club stand from their archives.
Photo by Lucia Carpio for My Fashion Connect.

Also for the very first time this season there was a new programme of seminars presented by industry experts to share a wide range of educational and inspirational topics, ranging from the benefits of blogging to insights on online retailing, from finance issues to trends and from new business top tips to the continued influence of 90’s fashion and club culture.

Youth Club had a presence at LondonEdge to showcase that they have a valuable archive of over 60,000 iconic images embodying youth expression and individuality over six decades for licensing in fashion, brands and editorial usage.
Photo by Lucia Carpio for My Fashion Connect.

Fiona Cartledge - Photo by Lucia Carpio.

Among the speakers was Fiona Cartledge, founder of Sign of theTimes store in the 80s and 90s in the Kensington Market.  She spoke of the development and history of sub-culture fashion and the influences of the music club scene of the 80s and 90s on fashion through authentic photography taken by modern day icons such as Jeremy Deller and Gary Wallis.  Known for her unique parties and knack for organising unique events, Fiona highlighted the close relationship between musicians and fashion designers and retailers that drove fashion trends.  Still much sought after for organising promotional events, Fiona’s new book Sign of the Times will be out this autumn.

Karen Savage - Photo by Lucia Carpio.

Meanwhile art-oriented designer KarenSavage who started her statement Tee shirt label during the 1990s spoke of her journey in the fashion business, providing insights on how fashion retailers’ way of sourcing fashion have changed over the years. 
Both speakers highlighted also how social media have changed the way consumers shop and how retailers source.

Fifties dresses by Dolly & Dolly.
Photo by Lucia Carpio

In terms of fashion trends on offer, LondonEdge was a show of two halves: vintage styling (a la 50’s) on one hand, and edgy punk and rock styles on the other.

Be Bob a Hairbands - photo by Lucia Carpio.

Interesting items and brands featured included an array of 50s-inspired fabric hairbands from Be Bop a Hairbands by Niki Murphy, beard-grooming and skin products from Brighton-based Bear Face, Monkey Business.

Bear Face grooming products - Photo by Lucia Carpio.

and unisex lumber-jack shirts with jersey inserts and T-shirts for his and hers from Monkey Business.

Shirt by Monkey Business - Photo by Lucia Carpio

Here’s what happy exhibitors and visitors say about their LondonEdge experience:-“We are really excited about the direction that LondonEdge are pushing towards. It’s a brave new world out there and LondonEdge are targeting brands that have a strong social media message, as well as those who have a unique selling point. It’s a refreshing approach to a global tradeshow calendar that is becoming increasingly monotonous.” – The Ragged Priest

“Our maiden voyage to LondonEdge has likely generated our company more new business than any of our prior trade show experiences. The LondonEdge team have been so helpful with any and all of our concerns or any requests we’ve had. We love the venue, location and all of our friendly neighbouring vendors. Already looking forward to the next show. Thanks for everything!” – Coral & Jade – Bettie Page by Coral & Jade, Esther Williams and Girlhowdy

“A unique and necessary show! LondonEdge attracts a customer that it would otherwise be very difficult to find. A one-stop shop for the rare breed.” – YRU
“A fun and lively exhibition that has provided us with new leads, customers and orders. LondonEdge promised to provide us with an exhibition to remember – and they certainly did! We look forward to returning in February 2016.” – Jeffery Campbell and Paulo Vandini

The next LondonEdge will run, fully loaded, from 7th - 9th February 2016 at Olympia West, Kensington, London W12.

Catwalk photos and atmospheric event shots supplied by organiser.  Others by Lucia Carpio for My Fashion Connect.