LBFW “extremely impressed” with debut show

The first edition of London Bridal Fashion Week has come to a close and the organisers are hailing it a huge success, with exhibitors and visitors alike stating they were “extremely impressed” with the bridal industry’s newest showcase.

The three-day event, held at London’s iconic Old Billingsgate, showcased more than 80 bridal collections from designer and premium labels from around the world, including Ellis Bridals, Charlie Brear, Anoushka G, Wendy Makin, Belle & Bunty, Ritva Westenius, Benjamin Roberts, Freya Rose, and Watters. The showcase also hosted a new talents sections featuring Arga & Arga and Aya Couture.

Commenting on the inaugural show, LBFW director Alejandra Campos said:“Exhibitors and partners raised the bar and contributed to what made the inaugural edition of LBFW one that has truly shaken up the industry.

“The feedback from buyers and press has been overwhelmingly positive. I can proudly say that LBFW is now a successful reality and we cannot wait to see everyone at LBFW 2016.”

The launch of LBFW has been positively received with the event attracting buyers from the UK as well as international markets including the US, Japan, Germany, Australia, Canada, France and Belgium. In addition the show was attended by a broad selection of the world’s trade and consumer media.

London Bridal Fashion Week debut receives positive response

Exhibitors have praised the quality and layout of the show as “excellent” with many noting that the event was a great chance to meet up with existing clients as well as discover new high-quality stockists.

British designer Charlie Brear said: "The first LBFW turned out to be a huge success. We were thrilled with the level of International buyers who attended and the service given to us from the whole team. Our stand was constantly busy with both press and buyers attracted to our brand and encouraged by LBFW."

As well as brands unveiling their 2016 bridal collections, there were also a number of new launches with Barcelona-based fashion house YolanCris using the showcase to debut its new couture capsule bridal collection, while bridal accessories designer Nymphi Designs launches its new collection of boleros, alongside its existing line of bridal accents including veils, headpieces, collars, belts and cuffs. London-based footwear designer Freya Rose introduced her new shoe style, the T-bar ‘Perdita’ sandal.

With regards emerging trends bridal separates seem to be having a moment, with Charlie Brear’s collection getting a lot of attention from both press and buyers at the showcase. The catwalk shows also revealed appliqué lace and flowers, along with beading, layering and use of illusion fabric to create nearly nude panelling, as well as statement gowns with either plunging necklines or low backs. There were also a number of bold coloured dresses aimed at the non-traditional bride.

A date has yet to be announced for the 2016 edition, but the organisers said that it will definitely be returning next year.

Images: London Bridal Fashion Week