It’s true what they say word of mouth is faster than any other form of communication. Over the last few weeks we have noticed a significant rise in questions regarding the future of the LFF after the following information has been posted on the London Development Agency website.
“London Fashion Forum (LFF) is a non profit-making limited company that has been funded by the London Development Agency until 2005â€
Well the truth is we don’t really know what is happening to the LFF and it’s funding. We do know that we have surpassed early all of our outputs (the variables by which we are measured) and that we have performed some brilliant and REAL projects. There is currently an audit being performed by Grant Thornton in the effectiveness of the LFF and to outline a possible plan for the future. So that’s it we are in the lap of the Gods patiently waiting to discover the next part of our voyage! At the end of the day monies now available are restrictive due to the Olympics and actually we can all understand this scenario.
We are so excited about Clotheshow Live now just around the corner. On the 2nd – 7th Dec we and a cross section of merry designers of LFF are eagerly waiting to meet and greet the 180,000 plus expected attendees. I can’t believe it – away from home for five days!! It’s like being a student again in my old stomping ground!
Romeo Pires
The LFF have a large stand and for those designers that wanted to be part of the event but left it too late we would like to offer you an exclusive opportunity to be part of the show. For six lucky designers of ladieswear and six lucky designers of accessories we will be showcasing your product on the stand free of charge. Please contact the office immediately and speak to Vanessa to secure your place.
The trip to Wales went very well last week. It was good to see Virginia (now the new Chair) Adrian (Director) and Glen (Production Manager) in such good form. Naturally the loss of such a big personality as Huw Williams can never be replaced but total credit to the team for working on such innovative new projects especially Vision in March 06. For further information regarding the WCTA please click here https://www.fashioncapital.co.uk/index.php?option=content&task=view&Itemid=27&id=5279/
The LFF newsletter goes to press TODAY. Yippee. We have had the talents of Jo Iles working on layout and design and it’s jam packed with information with a particularly good article on funding your business too. We also have the new DVD of Profile 6 available too this week and this will be uploaded on to both websites.
The cold snap has brought the shoppers out and last weekend saw a rise in sales especially for M&S, Primark, Debenhams and Next however, interestingly, out-of-town chains such as Matalan are struggling. A Christmas survey from YouGov and KPMG shows that shoppers are actually expecting to spend less than £200 on their festive goodies this year which is almost 30% down on last year. Can you believe this statistic – a vast majority of the buying public have already brought 50% of their Christmas shopping! How did they find the time to do that!
Today we are off on the next instalment of Delivery Day (The Creative Design Process) at Langley Park School for Boys. I can’t believe how well received this six week course has been and how high the calibre of talent is from the students. Today Mel Everett will be passing on her words of wisdom regarding pattern cutting and working towards the creation of two garments. Certificates will be given out today in recognition of the most outstanding mood board to date. Who will win the group award….The Lads, Candy Stripe, Black Rose….the suspense!!
Moodboard by Grace Gardner
Don’t forget to come along to K2C this weekend at St. Olaves College.
Ok that’s it for this week – have a good one. We will be reporting live from Clotheshow next week.
Jenny Holloway
Industry Advisor
London Fashion Forum
