by Not only is London Fashion week back, it’s celebrating its 40th anniversary. This means that all the OTT, calendar-crowded fun will be dialed up higher than usual. Expect more spectacles, more after-hours parties, more peacocking… basically, more everything – including events open to the public.
While LFW is overflowing with international buyers, press, the streets are awash with influencers trying to top street style best dressed lists, you don’t need a million followers to look fresh the runway or even a show ticket to get a taste of it. action.
While the shows themselves are the purview of industry insiders, LFW’s Citywide Celebration is curated by over 500 events and activities open to the public across 180 brands. From talks to exhibitions, plus chic food pit stops, these are the can’t-miss events one can (and should) attend.
Hear the Capital’s most enduring new designers speak
To celebrate 40 years of LFW, Selfridges has partnered with beer company 1664 Blanc on an exciting range of talks with British Fashion Council NEWGEN designers Aaron Esh, Tolu Coker and Saul Nash, as well as nine other industry specialists. That’s not all, they’ll be offering sneak peaks at their hot new runway collections, as well as exclusive items – including the Aaron Esh limited edition Blanc cobalt merino blue scarf.
Running from Tuesday February 13 to Tuesday February 27, 1664 Blanc will open an interactive cobalt blue contemporary Tobacco kiosk style serving their beer and other Parisian treats. Perfect for a pre-panel drink or to read their “Le Journal Bleu” newspaper, featuring exclusive interviews with the British Fashion Council’s NEWGEN designers.
Head on www.selfridges.com to view the full fashion program and book your tickets.
Attend a catwalk (and even sit on the FROW)
While the hallowed FROW is usually reserved for the most influential people in fashion, MoQueen has democratized the sacred space. Founded by Mo Bello, the London-born model and designer is offering the chance to buy front-row seats to her latest catwalk (February 17), as well as an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at her collection. Set in the stunning St John’s Church in Chelsea, it’s a rare opportunity to mingle with the fashion elite and see fashion beyond a phone screen.
Tickets can be booked at Moqueen.co.uk.
Explore the Di Petsa archive
Founded by Greek designer Dimitra Pesta, Di Pesta’s goddess-next-door dresses have become a celebrity cult hit – worn by everyone from Nicki Minaj to Bella Hadid. Although the upcoming show is by invitation only, this season the brand is hosting a free retrospective exhibition from 16 – 19 February at Marylebone Lane luxury hotel The BoTree. Here attendees can soak up the brand’s archive of “Wetlook” dresses from the runway and red carpet – then stop for a cocktail in the glamorous lobby bar.
Entry is available for the first time, for the first time from 9am-9pm in the BoTree Hotel.
Check out the part thanks to the By Rotation x EYC pop up
One of the most important (and arguably fun) ways to get involved is to dress the part. That doesn’t mean spending unnecessary money on a brand new wardrobe – especially when By Rotation is partnering with 360Ëštalent agency EYC for a two-day pop-up at Home House. Filled with a curated selection of contemporary designer items ready to rent, it’s a great place to try on new looks and pick out an outfit. In addition to the obvious sustainable and monetary benefits, it will be a great spot to mingle with insiders and other fashion obsessives within an Instagrammable showroom.
The pop-up is appointment only, and you can book a place by downloading the By Rotation app or contacting press@byrotation.com. It will be open Thursday 15th – Friday 16th February from 11am-4pm.
Learn about the city’s rich fashion history
As we celebrate 40 years of London Fashion Week – why not reflect on the homegrown talent that went on to radically shape the sartorial world. London Museum’s Fashion City exhibition shows the influence of Jewish fashion talent on the industry, from David Bowie favorite Mr Fish to Princess Diana couturier David Sassoon. Special workshops, music and talks will be part of this special after-hours viewing to immerse yourself in London’s historic eclectic style born of the Jewish diaspora.
Taking place on Thursday 15 February from 7pm-10pm, apply code BFC25 at the checkout at the Museum of London Docklands here Get 25% off adult tickets.
Have a pit stop at the Matches Raey Café
If you haven’t already picked up from this list, LFW is a delight. With so much to do, see, hear and post about it’s important to take a moment to refuel. Luckily Matches is on hand with its famous Raey’s cafe which has welcomed many copy editors over the years. There’s champagne on tap, delicious food with EDIT and most importantly, a chance to breathe.
The Matches Raey Café is open 16-19 February at 5 Plás Carlos, W1K 3AP.
Congratulations on 40 years of LFW at Alto le San Carlo
Don’t let the editors fool you, London Fashion Week isn’t all about work. With international celebrities, press and influencers all in town, and designers relieved that their months of hard work have paid off, it’s extremely fertile ground for a party. That’s why Alto le San Carlo will be offering exclusive LFW cocktails and musical performances on the Selfridges rooftop from 16-20 February. Even better, one lucky diner will have the chance to win a free meal at one of their restaurants.
Alto Fashion Week takeover with San Carlo in London will be open Friday 16th to Tuesday 20th February from 7-11pm.
