Before the speeches there was time for a quick look around the 2 floors that made up the exhibition. A few pieces caught my eye including the jewellery for animals and some surprising knitwear.

I was impressed by the use of structure in many of the designers work including the stunning knitwear by Sandra Backlund and jet black beauties by Helena Horstedt. Backlund smashed her way into the fashion scene in France 2 years ago, her knitting technique is so advanced that she cannot contract work out to manufacturers and creates every single made to order garment herself. The shapes and silhouettes she creates are completely new and the sections of cut out areas combine to create a wholly fabulous look.

Helena Horstedt's pieces are very technically skilful and hundreds of pleats and fold are used to make huge statement pieces that combine accessories, geometry and fashion. The item displayed was a dress with a headdress that wasn't exactly ready to wear but looked like fun and showed us that Sweden do have some fashion knowledge for us.

The main room filled up slowly and the atmosphere became more electric. The Crowned Princess of Sweden was gracing us with her presence and the audience couldn't wait! Before then there were an assortment of other speeches from Julia Coate – CIPS, Elisa Mann – Southwark Mayor, Parin Bahl – NCPE and Dennis Nothdruft – Fashion and Textiles Museum Curator.

The Princess took to the Floor after a glowing report from every other speech maker. She was dressed in modest but gorgeous satin top and satin black trousers. She was a lot nicer that you'd expect of a Princess – not too regal and stuffy but effortlessly elegant, everyone in the room couldn't help but be captivated by her slightly accented English.

After the ribbon was cut and the exhibition declared open the drinks kept flowing and the building was crammed with people admiring and/or criticizing the work.  

Thank you to Kirstin Sinclair For Photos