London Fashion week is not only back, it’s celebrating its 40th anniversary. This means that all the OTT, calendar-choked fun will be dialled up higher than usual. Expect more spectacles, more after hour parties, more peacocking… basically, more everything - including events open to the public.
Although LFW is overflowing with international buyers, press, the streets awash with preening influencers trying to top street style best dressed lists, you don’t need a million followers a fresh off the runway look or even a show ticket to get a taste of the action.
While the shows themselves are the remit of industry insiders, LFW’s City Wide Celebration has curated over 500 events and activities open to the public across 180 brands. From talks to exhibitions, as well as chic food pit stops, here are the not-to-be-missed events anyone can (and should) go to.
Hear the Capital’s buzziest new designers speak
To celebrate 40 years of LFW, Selfridges has partnered with beer company 1664 Blanc on an exciting line-up of talks with buzzy British Fashion Council NEWGEN designers Aaron Esh, Tolu Coker and Saul Nash, as well as nine other expert industry insiders. That’s not all, they’ll also offer sneak-peaks at their new collections hot off the runway, as well as exclusive items - including a Aaron Esh limited edition Blanc cobalt blue merino scarf.
Taking place from Tuesday 13th February to Tuesday 27th February, 1664 Blanc will also open a contemporary cobalt blue interactive Tabac style kiosk serving their beer and other Parisian treats. Perfect for a pre-panel drink or to have a read through their “Le Journal Bleu” newspaper, which features exclusive interviews with British Fashion Council NEWGEN designers.
Head to www.selfridges.com to see the full fashion programme and to book your tickets.
Attend a catwalk (and even sit on the FROW)
Although the hallowed FROW is usually reserved for the most influential people in fashion, MoQueen has democratised the sacred space. Founded by Mo Bello, the London-born model and designer is offering the opportunity to buy front row seats to her latest catwalk (17th February), as well as an exclusive behind-the-scenes view of her collection. Set in the magnificent St John’s Church in Chelsea, it’s a rare chance to mingle with the fashion elite and see fashion beyond a phone screen.
Tickets can be booked at Moqueen.co.uk.
Delve into Di Petsa’s archive
Founded by Greek designer Dimitra Pesta, Di Pesta’s goddess-adjacent dresses have become a celebrity cult favourite - worn by everybody from Nicki Minaj to Bella Hadid. Although their upcoming show is invite only, this season the brand is hosting a free retrospective exhibition from 16th - 19th February at Marylebone Lane's 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 first-come, first-serve from 9am-9pm at The BoTree Hotel.
Look the part thanks to the By Rotation x EYC pop up
One of the most important (and arguably fun) ways to get involved is by dressing the part. That doesn’t mean spending unnecessary money on a brand new wardrobe - especially when By Rotation has partnered with 360Ëtalent agency EYC on a two day pop up at Home House. Filled with a curated selection of contemporary designer items ready to rent, it’s the perfect place to experiment with a new look and pick out an outfit. Aside from the obvious sustainable and monetary upsides, it’ll also be a great spot to mingle with insiders and other fashion-obsessives inside an Instagrammable showroom.
The pop up is appointment only, and you can secure a spot by downloading the By Rotation app or alternatively 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 who went on to radically shape the sartorial world. The Museum of London’s Fashion City exhibition charts the influence of Jewish fashion talent on the industry, from David Bowie favourite Mr Fish to Princess Diana’s couturier David Sassoon. This special after hours viewing will feature specialist workshops, music and talks to immerse yourself in London’s historically eclectic style born of the Jewish diaspora.
Taking place on Thursday 15th February from 7pm-10pm, apply code BFC25 at checkout on Museum of London Docklands here to receive 25% off adult tickets.
Have a pit stop at the Matches Raey Café
If you haven’t already gathered from this list, LFW is exhausting. 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 infamous Raey café which has welcomed many copy-filing editors over the years. There’s champagne on tap, delicious food by EDIT and most importantly, a chance to take a breather.
The Matches Raey Café is open 16-19th February at 5 Carlos Place, W1K 3AP.
Cheers to 40 years of LFW at Alto by San Carlo
Don’t let editors fool you, London Fashion week is not all just work. With international celebrities, press and influencers all in town, and designers relieved that their months of hard work paid off, it’s also extremely fertile grounds for a party. That’s why Alto by San Carlo will be offering exclusive LFW cocktails and music performances on the Selfridges rooftop from the 16-20th February. Better yet, one lucky diner will also have the opportunity to win a free meal at one of their restaurants.
