ELEVENPARIS set to rock up on London’s Carnaby Street

 

 

Parisian label ELEVENPARIS are celebrating their 10th anniversary, and to mark the occasion are opening their first UK store on London’s Carnaby Street.

Renowned for their edgy advertising campaigns starring rock family legends, this Spring Summer 13 unveils the iconic rock daddy Lenny Kravitz alongside rising star from the catwalks, Charlotte Free.

Strong collection themes run high each season including American Youth, Stockholm Syndrome and Berlin Calling which are inspired by music, art and underground cultures from different eras and cities; ELEVENPARIS is set to shake things up in arguably one of the best fashion capitals of the world.

Born in 2003, the underground Parisian label creates a seamless merger between a sophisticated aesthetic and an urban culture edge. Renowned for their audacious t-shirt prints, washed sweatshirts, denim pieces and leather jackets complete their full line of apparel for both men and women. It’s all about being young, reckless and fun!

Buyer confidence in A/W13 shows as exceptional business is written at Pure London

Pure London, organised by i2i Events Group, closed its doors yesterday following three days of good business as high calibre buyers and retailers attended from across the UK and overseas. Now in its 33^rd season, the show is one of Europe’s leading transactional exhibitions, making it an excellent barometer for how retail is fairing in the current climate. A buoyant, confident mood was reported at the show with positive feedback from both exhibitors and retailers alike.

 

The 'who’s who’ of fashion buying attended Pure London, including many retailers found on this year’s Drapers Inspiring Indies shortlist, and winner ‘The Dressing Room’. Key independent retailers such as Anne Furbank, Attic, Black White Denim, Diffusion, Doodie Stark, Lewis Yates, Love KR, M&Co, Okeefe, Richmond Classics, and AB10 were joined by etailers such as ASOS, Amazon, Figleaves, and BrandAlley. This season saw an increase in department store buyers with the likes of Fenwick, Harrods, Harvey Nichols, House of Fraser, Debenhams, Selfridges and Hoopers, whilst the high street was out in force with names including Author, Berties, Dune, Joy, Mango, Monsoon, New Look, Next, Oasis, Office, Top Shop, Urban Outfitters, and Warehouse all visiting the show.

 

‘It’s been great to see so many new and diverse brands, I thought I was coming to see brands I already stock, but there is such a great atmosphere, buzz and excitement at Pure London, that I picked up a new jewellery brand and niche clothing brand, who I want to keep under wraps.  Pure London is a great platform to discover new and exciting brands, I can see them in their studios but it is great to see them next to each other.’  Enthused Sarah Clare, Owner of What Sarah Did, Hertfordshire.

 

Exhibitors reported plenty of orders being written by quality retailers from all sectors. Fiona Freeman, Production Co-ordinator of womenswear brand Darling, commented; ‘We have had an amazing show; it has been consistently busy across the three days and we have taken lots of good orders. This season has been a lot better for us than the last, we have all really enjoyed being at the show, there is a great atmosphere.’

 

 

 

 

This season over 1,000 brands were presented including directional fashion, footwear and accessories. Underlying the importance of Pure London on the international buying calendar, the show played host to buyers from Europe including France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, and as far afield as Hong Kong, Japan and Australia. Mark Ashton, Managing Director of Little Mistress, commented; ‘The reaction to our new collection has been really strong. We came with a target of signing 60 new accounts for Little Mistress and we achieved 75% of that figure by the end of the first day. New accounts have been opened in new international markets including South Africa, Spain, Cyprus, Belgium and Luxemburg.

 

Pure London focuses on bringing key international retailers and brands to the show and this season presented 320 international labels, a year on year increase of 6%. Amongst these were 63 French brands, 35 Italian brands, 49 Spanish, 12 Portuguese and 18 German.  An international team is now in place headed by International Sales Director, Hans Stoter, with representatives in key markets including France, Germany, Spain, Portugal and Italy.

 

Footwear saw a big increase in interest from buyers as Pure London now presents the strongest and most directional offering of branded footwear in the UK. Brands included Kat Maconie, Melissa, French Connection, Hudson Shoes, J Shoes, Moda In Pelle, and Julian Hakes.

 

The feedback from the floor was overwhelmingly positive. Claire Bank, Managing Director of Moda in Pelle, commented; ‘We have attracted a lot of new buyers both from the UK and internationally, our collection has been received really well. We have had an excellent show and love the expansion and new layout of the Gallery Level, it works perfectly with our brand and our positioning.'

 

While Alex Chupin of K By Karston stated, ‘This is our first time at the show; we love the environment and atmosphere. We have had lots of great interest with quality buyers, we can’t fault Pure London.’

 

Kelly Baker, Assistant Buyer of Dune Group, commented, ‘We come to the show each season and today we are on the lookout for accessories. Pure London is a brilliant resource for us; right on our doorstep and fantastic for new ideas and inspiration.’

 

Buyers and retailers visit Pure London to write orders and source new collections, but are also using the show as a vital live resource for business advice. Over 50 hours of insight from 75 top industry experts was showcased over three stages. Speakers included Julie Deane, Founder of The Cambridge Satchel Company, British designer Zandra Rhodes and CEO of People Tree Safia Minney, Richard Pollin, Head of Business at Google, and James Barnett, Production Coordinator of Selfridges.

 

In particular there was an increased interest in ‘clicks and bricks’ with a hunger for knowledge of online retailing. Draper’s Editor in Chief, Caroline Nodder, chaired a discussion panel about ‘The Future of the independent fashion market’ on Sunday to a full theatre, while David Walter, CEO of Little Black Dress, discussed the importance of staying ahead online to an audience on Monday.

 

Deryane Tadd, Owner of award winning store The Dressing Room, St Albans, commented; ‘We have had appointments with existing brands and have written orders. We always come to Pure London to have a look for new brands and to see what is out in the market. The seminars and content at the show are amazing!  As an indie I can’t always afford to take time out to go to seminars, Pure London offers great business advice and product all under one roof.’

 

Jan Shutt, Owner of Sunday Best in Rossendale, commented; ‘Pure London is a great venue to catch up with some inspirational indies and share notes as networking is such an important part of any business. By listening to others it can give you an indication of what’s hot and what’s not!’

 

Taking the show forward, the Pure London team has seen a restructure to bring additional expertise into a strong retail portfolio, which includes Pure London, The Jewellery Show, Jewellery Show London, Spring Fair and Autumn Fair. New appointments include Louise Young, Managing Director of Retail, Julie Driscoll, Portfolio Director for Fashion and Jewellery, and Katie Nicholls, Brand Manager for Fashion and Jewellery. 

 

Julie Driscoll, Portfolio Director for Fashion and Jewellery, commented; ‘We have had a fantastic show! It is an exciting time for Pure London. We are listening to buyers and exhibitors and held focus groups on-site on what we can do to make this the best show in the market. I look forward to implementing the feedback and taking Pure London forward for seasons to come.’

 

Pure London is set to take over London Olympia once again this August for its Spring/Summer 2014 edition. From the 4^th-6^th August 2013, over 1,000 brands will be welcomed to the show as they debut their latest collections for S/S14.

Good Results at the InStyle Best of British Talent Party

The evening of Wednesday 30th January saw Good Results attend the annual InStyle Best of British Talent party on the rooftop of Shoreditch House in association with Lancome and Avenue 32.

We sipped delicious cocktails and champagne courtesy of Disaronno and Tanqueray and mingled with stars such as Molly King, Matt Smith, Leah Weller, Grace Woodward, Jack Whitehall and Homeland's Damian Lewis.

We were especially loving the monochrome theme throughout - even the dance floor had been transformed to follow suit - as did Marina Diamandis's floor length dress!



The evening continued with stars such as James Corden making a fashionably late entrance.

 

Our January blues were well and truly gone after such a fabulous evening - Thanks InStyle!

 

 

 

DRAGONS’ DEN TEAM ON THE LOOK OUT FOR THE NEXT BIG THING AT PURE LONDON

 

Each season, Pure London welcomes thousands of successful businessmen and women whose expertise can be found across all levels of the fashion industry. This February, the Dragons’ Den team will be paying a visit to London Olympia on the lookout for hopeful entrepreneurs. Over a 1,000 brands will be on show at Pure London from high-end womenswear and launching lingerie brands to handmade accessories and niche young fashion designers for the team to browse.

The hugely successful BBC programme, which features five of the most successful and commercial brains in the UK, is in need of fresh, innovative ideas for their 11^th series. Following the style of previous series, entrepreneurs will be given the chance to pitch their business ideas to the Dragons with the hope of receiving expert advice and a valuable investment. Whether focused on the business, sales or design aspects of a company, Pure London will undoubtedly be bursting with potential candidates in need of a helping hand from the notorious Dragons.      

 

For brands and entrepreneurs looking for investment and wishing to pitch their idea to the Dragons, further information on how to apply can be found at www.purelondon.com/dragonsden

Eleven Paris SS13: Lenny Kravitz and Charlotte Free

 

He's one of the world's most famous rock stars. She's the supermodel everyone wants. The former, Lenny Kravitz, has personified and redefined an international 'cool' attitude for over 20 years, also mixing various musical genres in his 10 albums to make his own sound, showcasing his influences and influencing others in return. The latter, Charlotte Free, has quickly established herself as the new revelation of modeling, crushing stereotypes. Between this 19-year-old punk-like, Neo-Kate Moss, Los Angeles native and American musician, a modern Jimi Hendrix, the chemistry is natural.

 

It is with this strong modern vision that Eleven Paris has decided to launch it's Spring/Summer 2013 marketing campaign, with the collaboration of these leading iconic figures.

 

In order to create a balance between novelty, cultural diversity, and retro references, the photoshoot took place in Miami- crossroads of Cuban, Haitian and Afro-American communities. Under the burning Florida sun, modern art, cinema, literature, pop culture and glitzy Art Deco flourishes. For a good part of the day, Lenny and Charlotte posed in front of a decaying old home; the cosmopolitan spirit of the collection immaculately fit the spirit of the city.

 

An energetic attitude comprised of urban colours perfectly defines the term 'modern' in the world of Eleven Paris.

 

 

 

www.elevenparis.com

 

Photo credit: © Renaud Corlouër

 

Pure London: Young Fashion Preview

Pure London: Young Fashion Preview

10th-12th February 2013

London Olympia

Pure London’s Young Fashion section will this season house a selection of over 200 brands from feminine party pieces to edgy fashion-forward streetwear. The very best home grown and international branded fashion labels will showcase their A/W13 collections and short orders for S/S13.

Returning with their latest collection, Glamorous will be adding bold touches to some key trends with a feast of sequins, colour-block denim, sheer panelling, casual luxe and tie-dye. Incorporating pastel tones of blush and grey marl into their key pieces, Glamorous will be presenting a mixture of cut-out, printed and sequin dresses as well as contrast sleeve bomber jackets. Also compiling the unexpected is The Style London, who will be merging eras and drawing inspiration from 1950’s vintage styles and futuristic aesthetics. Whilst utilising new shapes and innovative fabrics, The Style London will be featuring exotic, vibrant colours across their collection. The attention will lie within the detail for their pieces, which will boast everything from digital floral prints, to studs, delicate metallic lacing and modern romantic lines. The Style London will be also showcasing their key pieces on the Young Fashion catwalk.

Returning for a second season will be Mr Gugu & Miss Go, who will be exhibiting a range of exciting catsuits, playsuits and sweaters, each featuring full photographic prints based on the fascinating colours of nebulas. Exploring a slightly surreal theme is Obscure Couture, who will be debuting at Pure London with their S/S13 and A/W13 collections. Themed ‘Fake Believe’, the collection incorporates elements of fairytale rock and glamour with an edge; from rain macs, to leather-trim tutus, glitter slogan tees and metallic biker jackets with pastel hair extension detailing, Obscure Couture proves to live up to its name with their selection of surprising creations. Their A/W13 collection switches from girly to dark and sultry, with fur, leather, mesh and velvet integrated into embellished biker jackets, knits and evening dresses.

Emilyandfin have intertwined classic vintage silhouettes with modern styling for their S/S13 collection by using playful soft lines and feminine detailing such as gathered raglan sleeves, pleated waistlines, intricate buttoning and appliquéd bows. Their collection draws upon patriotic imagery of all things British and will showcase luxurious fabrics with ditsy florals, polka dots, and 1940-50s inspired prints. Also reflecting on iconic silhouettes from the last century is Miss Patina, where soft romantic lines are used across a range of reworked classic styles. The collection includes lace overlay shifts, delicate embroidery, camisole-style tops and bohemian pleated dresses. Miss Patina have opted for a pastel colour scheme to accompany their vintage aesthetics, with dusky pinks and pale blues being incorporated into timeless florals and subtle animal motifs. Hell Bunny are showcasing bright, exotic colours for their retro-inspired S/S13 collection, which will include 1950’s style petticoat dresses, circular skirts and high-waisted shorts and playsuits. Their prints will range from Hawaiian tropical to French Riviera floral, with a subtle 50’s rock edge.

Exhibitors presenting an array of fabulous dresses include the likes of Ruby Rocks, The Pretty Dress Company, and Ruby Prom. Drawing inspiration from around the world, Ruby Rocks have created the prints, textures and colours for their collection based upon tropical rainforests, tribal prints, woodland magic and English country gardens. Likewise, The Pretty Dress Company have chosen striking colour schemes and daring prints for their collection, which will include a variety of high-neck dresses, strapless styles, full skirts and floor-length gowns. As an added touch, the dresses will feature sequin embellishments, oversized bows, peplums, lace cut outs, and retro animal prints. Ruby Prom will present a metallic-based collection, perfect for girls looking to make a statement at their prom with either a thigh-high split or dipped hem dress. For a vintage twist, Ruby Prom will be working lace into their pieces to create a high-end couture look.

Returning to the show Little Mistress goes prim and proper for their initial 2013 injection; the 1960’s are in focus for their first offering of the season with a hint of the 1950’s silhouette. Added texture and detail through feminine appliqué, cutwork, embellishment and monochrome stripe sequin to rework old classics. The 1950’s is reflected through the fit and flare with the bold, statement colours. Oversized embroidery and crochets are key to detailing seen in scalloped edge panels and used throughout designs.

Mark Ashton, Managing Director of Little Mistress commented "Little Mistress exhibit at Pure London twice a year as we believe it is the only show that caters for a younger audience. Pure London is vital for Little Mistress, it’s our perfect opportunity to expose the brand and offer the buyer a chance to soak up what we are all about!" Also showcasing in the Young Fashion section in February will be Forever Unique, Danity, Iron Fist, Maggie + Me, Numph, Traffic People and Sugarhill Boutique, amongst many others.

 

Kurumba Maldives Veli Spa announces new couples' spa treatment!

 

Kurumba Maldives Veli Spa has announced a new destination spa treatment for couples called 'Spa Under The Stars'

As the first private island resort in the Maldives, Kurumba boasts beautiful gardens, palm-finged white sandy beaches and all the idyllic attributes of paradise. It now welcomes a new spa treatment to Veli Spa, perfect for those on a romantic getaway or relaxing honeymoon. 

The treatment has been inspired by some key elements of the Maldives, incorporating local products and natural resources. A unique bathing ritual with a local Maldivian Sarong called a Feyli is used whilst watching the sun set over the Indian Ocean. This is followed by a unique cowrie shell massage using local hand pressed Coconut oil. The cowrie shell is historic in the Maldives as prior to tourism, the main export earners were fishing and the trade of cowrie shells. The coconut oil is purchased from a local Island named Fuvahmulah, located in the Nyaviyani Atoll and is made by both local men and women.

 

The treatment is completed with the modern touches of champagne and chocolate dipped fruits, served to compliment the tranquil journey whilst enjoying the stars on bean bags on the beach.

Sales and Marketing Manager Leah Haguisan stated; “this new treatment highlights the ongoing commitment by Kurumba to offer its guests an inspiring and a complete Maldivian experience. Our team is always looking at ways to seek historic Maldivian traditions and use within our experience. The concept of the resort provides our guests with a choice of enriching experiences that allow a renewed appreciation of life”.