What was the event?
On Sunday 15 September, more than 500 attendees including fashion buyers, press and a celebrity-studded front row, sat in the audience to get a sneak peek at the designer’s latest catwalk show as part of London Fashion Week. The fashion event featured an unusual appearance from the Capital Children’s Choir, while guests were encouraged to tweet before they eat.
How did the event unfold?
Set within the historic Grade II-listed building, a white-walled space acted as the blank canvas for the Manchester-born fashion designer’s latest event. Forming part of London Fashion Week, Matthew Williamson was among the design elite showcasing his latest collection for next year’s spring/summer season, featuring intricate embroideries and abstract graffiti-style prints.
Quirkily-dressed singer Paloma Faith, British actress Sienna Millar and American socialite Olivia Palmero all took a seat at the show, which included DJ duo Cat’s Eyes – a new project from Faris Badwan of The Horrors. This alongside a group of 25 girls from the Capital Children’s Choir opened the show with their own rendition of Untrust Us by Crystal Castles.
Guests were also treated to #OHMW chocolate lollipops encouraging them to ‘tweet before you eat’, which achieved a strong social media pick for the brand.
On the spot: Robin Scott-Lawson, creative director and owner, MBC
What was the format of the event and can you describe your role in organising it?
My Beautiful City led on the organisation of everything for the fashion show, from location sourcing, to lighting, security, sound, set build and backstage management, including hair and make-up. We have worked with Matthew for four years and have built a close relationship with him and his team. Each London Fashion Week we are given an insight into the season’s inspiration so we can source a location that will amplify and compliment the collections aesthetic.
Were there any challenges in organising the event?
Every fashion show has it challenges and involves highly-pressured situations, particularly on the day, but glad to report this show went smoothly and to plan.
How did you make this event different from the other fashion events and parties you worked on?
No two shows MBC produce are ever the same with venues, sound, lighting and seating layouts all uniquely curated to meet the designers needs and brief.
What elements of the event worked well in your opinion?
The venue’s location worked perfectly for confirming an extremely strong guest list as well as for acting as a clean, blank canvas for us to work from.
Behind the scenes
Organiser
My Beautiful City
020 7836 5000
www.mybeautifulcity.co.uk
Venue
Saatchi Gallery
020 7811 3070
www.saatchigallery.com
GSP Venues Ltd
02089689331
www.gsp-uk.com/venues
Suppliers
True Staging
www.truestaging.co.uk
Nice and Secure
niceandsecure.com
Renegade Lighting
www.renegadedesign.co.uk
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