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10-09-2025
Newsletter 10th September 2025
Speakers Confirmed for First Fashion Forward In Leicester
Free Networking & Support Meeting
On Tuesday 30th September from 2pm onwards we invite all Leicester based suppliers, designers and creatives to come along to the LCB Depot where we will host the first Fashion Forward meeting.
Guest Speakers Confirmed for 30th September:
The Fashion Guild & Peter Gallagher-Witham
“AI to 3D to Sales: Transforming Ideas into Profits”
Discover how cutting-edge tools like AI and 3D tech are revolutionising the journey from concept to consumer.
Russell Hammond
“Four Areas That Unlock Growth”
A deep dive into Data, Analytics, Process, and People – and how to optimise each to fuel sustainable growth.
Midori – Affordable eTail Solutions
With Kelly Yiu & Miles Anderson
Learn about scalable, affordable online retail solutions for brands of every size.
Why Attend?
- Connect with Leicester’s fashion network on a monthly basis
- Gain actionable insights from industry leaders
- Explore affordable tech and retail tools
- Learn how to future-proof your fashion business
Date: Tuesday, 30th September 2025 Time: 2:00 – 5:00pm
Location: LCB Depot, 31 Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1
Spaces are limited – Register via eventbrite here
Stakeholders Meeting – ATMF/FEL Leicester
Yesterday, 9th September 2025 at the FTA, Phoenix House, Leicester, key stakeholders from Leicester’s creative and fashion sectors gathered at FTA Phoenix House to discuss ATMF’s successful Forward Fashion bid and explore collaborative opportunities for future growth. Hosted by Jenny Holloway (CEO, Fashion-Enter Ltd / Chair ATMF), the meeting brought together representatives from Phizzical Productions, Create Leicester, Shama Women’s Centre, Wesley Hall Community Centre, and Fashion-Enter Ltd to share insights and align on next steps for meaningful partnership.
Discussions centred on ways NGOs and partners could unite to strengthen Leicester’s creative ecosystem—through job creation, profile-raising, and joint funding applications. Attendees debated the structure of upcoming events, including the pros and cons of one- versus two-day formats and how best to engage business and consumer audiences. Promoting local manufacturers, integrating AI solutions, and making use of resources like ThreadChain were highlighted as practical strategies. Each partner is invited to contribute a wishlist of ideas by 16th September, ahead of the proposed Leicester Made event in March 2026.
Keynote Speaker at Futurescan 6
Futurescan 6 brought together leading voices in fashion and textiles to explore the theme “The Future of Fashion and Textiles Isn’t Coming – It’s Here.” And this morning, 10th September, at De Montfort University, FEL CEO Jenny Holloway was a keynote speaker. Jenny discussed her passion for UK-based manufacturing, particularly in Leicester, and the importance of ethical, sustainable production practices in shaping the industry’s future.
A big thank you to the FTC (Association of Fashion and Textiles Courses)
Free Funding Readiness Workshop for Creative Founders 25th September
Calling all fashion designers and creative entrepreneurs—on Thursday 25th September, a unique opportunity will take place at the FC Designer Workspace in Islington. In collaboration with FashionCapital and supported by legal expert Kevin Withane FRSA, Impact Lawyers is hosting a free, one-day Funding Readiness Programme tailored specifically for creatives ready to scale. Designed to demystify the funding process, the event will equip you with practical legal, financial, and strategic tools to attract investment and grow your business with confidence.
This high-impact day blends legal essentials with creative insight—think fireside chats, pitch coaching, and hands-on support with cap tables, IP protection, and funding strategy. You’ll also gain access to exclusive post-event resources, including a 10% legal discount. Whether you’re preparing for your first raise or exploring alternative funding paths, this programme is your gateway to becoming investor-ready.
Spaces are limited— to register your place go to: Eventbrite Link
Starting Next Week: Inclusive Tailoring Course Launches as Part of Heritage Project
FEL in partnership with Westminster City Archives, is launching a six-week tailoring course for Special Educational Needs (SEN) students as part of the “Threads of Elegance: Conserving the Legacy of Beale & Inman Tailors” project. Starting Friday 19th September at the FC Designer Workspace in Islington, the course will offer hands-on training in industrial sewing, garment construction, and upcycling. This initiative combines fashion education with heritage conservation, celebrating the legacy of historic London tailors while providing inclusive career tasters in the fashion and textile industry.
Repair & Upcycle with Us This Second Hand September
Work on your unique second hand finds with our free, drop-in repair and upcycling session at our shop – FC Designer Collective on Fonthill Road, North London. Held bi-monthly, the next session will take place Tuesday 30th September, thanks to ongoing support from Islington Council. During the drop-in yesterday (9th September) many attendees were altering second hand items and old wardrobe favourites into fit-ready, wearable pieces. We have the equipment and expertise to support you with any repair, alteration or upcycle.
To register your free place tap here.
Connecting with the Community at Belgrave Coffee Morning
On Thursday 5th September, FTA Leicester attended the Monthly Belgrave Coffee Morning at Belgrave Community Centre, organised by the Zinthiya Trust. This regular event brings together local organisations to raise awareness of the support services available across Leicester, from health and wellbeing to personal advice.
We were there to promote our UKSPF-funded courses and Skills Bootcamp Programme, engaging with over 15 individuals about how our training supports mental health, wellbeing, and employability. It was also a valuable opportunity to connect with other service providers, gaining insights we can share with our students as part of their ongoing guidance and support.
Courses Workshops and Masterclasses
Roll-on courses:
Available at all campuses Islington, Haringey and Leicester.
Diploma in Fashion Design and Business
Repair & Upcycling:
30th September – Free Repair and Upcycling Drop-In – FC Designer Collective shop – free
Advice and Support:
26th September – Mastering the Fashion Business Blueprint: Fine-tuning Your Plan for Success – Free masterclass via Zoom 10 – 11- please register and a Zoom link will be sent to you closer to the date
For all course enquiries contact: education@fashion-enter.com or call 0208 809 3311
This Week on FashionCapital…
Rebecca Ryder-Caddy, Associate Professor & Curriculum Lead, Design & Creative Business School of Arts and Creative Industries, Coventry University, reflects on Giorgio Armani’s lifelong fashion legacy.
And Finally…
A big thanks to Just-Style.com and Hannah Abdulla for interviewing FEL Founder, and Chair of ATMF, Jenny Holloway. Published 4th September, the article: ‘Fashion-Enter CEO: Leicester textile makers have everything but the chance’ discussed how UK brands and retailers are missing a valuable opportunity on their very own doorstep.
Until next time, have a great week.
From the Team at FashionCapital/Fashion-Enter Ltd
