Fashion East unveils new show format and line-up

Fashion East, the non-profit initiative that nurtures emerging young designers, has announced a new show format and its spring/summer 2013 line-up. This season, Fashion East is moving to a new venue in the heart of St. James,

where the initiative will host a salon show as well as static presentations. The line-up features newcomers Claire Barrow and Ryan Lo, who have been selected to showcase their debut collections, and Maarten van der Horst will be returning for a third season.

University of Westminster graduate Claire Barrow, known for her hand-painted designs on leather, and 22-year-old Hong Kong-born Ryan Lo will be displaying their work as static presentations, while Maarten van der Horst will be hosting a salon show.

The project, which is run by Lulu Kennedy, continues to be supported by Topshop for the 19th season, and this season Fashion East also welcomes on board Toni & Guy Hair Meet Wardrobe as a new sponsor, who will work alongside long-term make-up partner MAC.

Director Lulu Kennedy MBE commented: “I love an unusual venue and 50 St James, with its various spaces, provides the perfect place to shake up our format. Ryan and Claire’s wonderful detailed work will be displayed in presentation rooms, while Maarten takes over the salon space for his final show with us. All three are brilliant!”

This season's line-up was picked by Fashion East's panel of leading industry figures, including Brix Smith-Start, stylist and owner of Start Boutique; Hugo Scott, head of European operations at Marc Jacobs; and Sarah Mower, US Vogue contributing editor; under the direction of Kennedy.

Launched in 2000, Fashion East has kick-started the career of a number of London Fashion Week designers including Jonathan Saunders, Roksanda Ilincic, Richard Nicoll and Gareth Pugh.

Image: Ryan Lo wearing Ryan Lo