London Fashion Week Opens Its Doors to the Public with Curated Panel Discussions
This June, London Fashion Week (LFW), in collaboration with Principal Partner 1664 Blanc, is set to welcome the public with a series of exclusive panel discussions. In celebration of its 40th anniversary, the British Fashion Council (BFC) is hosting an exhibition at the Institute of Contemporary Arts (ICA) to honour the diverse cultures that have made significant contributions to the British fashion industry.
On Saturday, 8th June, the event titled 'Explorations in Blue' will take place at the official LFW venue. This unique event offers the public a chance to engage with the exhibitions and partake in a day filled with insightful industry panel talks. The discussions aim to deepen understanding of cultural influences and address critical issues impacting the fashion industry. This initiative marks a significant step in breaking down barriers and fostering creativity and individuality within the industry.
This year's exhibition shines a spotlight on three influential cultures:
- Black Culture: Celebrating self-love and captured by photographer Stephen Akinyemi.
- South Asian Culture: Highlighting patterns, textiles, and craftsmanship through the lens of photographer Tami Aftab.
- Queer Culture: Featuring young, creative voices from the trans+ community, documented by photographer Dani D’Ingeo.
Panel Discussions Schedule for Saturday, 8th June:
A Conversation on Diversity
Time: 11:15 am – 12 pm
Host: Maliha Shoaib, Diversity Journalist for Vogue Business
Panellists: Artist and performer Darkwah, writer and creative Simran Randhawa, and Lea Ogunlami, presenter at i-D.
This discussion will delve into personal experiences, address challenges within the industry, and propose ways to create positive change.
How to Create, Build, and Sustain a Fashion Brand in an Ever-Evolving Environment
Time: 12:45 pm - 1:30 pm
Host: Victoria Moss, Fashion Director at Evening Standard
Panellists: Fashion designers Charlie Casely-Hayford and Rejina Pyo.
This session will focus on the importance of spotlighting young talent, the influence of personal heritage on their work, and strategies for longevity in the fashion industry.
Are We Going Far Enough? Performative Activism in the Fashion Industry
Time: 2:15 pm - 3 pm
Host: Kemi Alemoru, Culture Journalist for BBC, Dazed, and Vogue
Panellists: Model and activist Munroe Bergdorf, model James Corbin, and disability campaigner Victoria Jenkins.
This panel will address the issue of performative activism in the creative industries, offering insights into inclusive practices and exploring the pursuit of equality.
Charles Jeffrey in Conversation with Raven Smith
Time: 3:45 pm - 4:30 pm
Participants: Designer Charles Jeffrey and Vogue columnist Raven Smith
Celebrating a decade of his iconic brand Charles Jeffrey LOVERBOY, Charles Jeffrey will discuss his experiences as a young Scottish creative and the evolution of the fashion landscape over the past ten years.
Tickets for these unmissable discussions are available for purchase, with all proceeds going directly to the BFC Foundation to support emerging creative talent. This initiative by LFW and 1664 Blanc not only opens up the fashion world to a wider audience but also supports the next generation of fashion innovators.
For more information, visit London Fashion Week
Photography credits: Daniela Luquini
IG: @DLPICTUREUK except for the Loverboys photograph for http://showstudio.com/contributor/charles_jeffrey