Midlands Fashion Awards Blog
MIDLANDS FASHION AWARDS 2016 ANNOUNCES DEADLINE FOR DESIGNER APPLICATION
The ninth annual Midlands Fashion Show and Awards has announced its deadline for designer applications: 31st May 2016.
The MFA, which was launched in 2008 by Birmingham-based Jenny Eason, recognises and celebrates the exceptional and emerging talent in the fields of fashion design, fashion styling and make-up artistry in the Midlands. The annual competition provides an outlet for new, emerging and independent designers and creative talents to present their work, providing a platform to launch their collections to the industry.
Previous winners and finalists have gone on to showcase at London Fashion Week, New York Fashion Week while others have gone on to showcase at the pre-Oscars Fashion Show for The Stars in Hollywood, Los Angeles.
Jenny Eason, Founder of Midlands Fashion Awards comments; “We are looking forward to the 2016 show being our biggest and best yet. Each year, the standard of entrants gets stronger and the fact that some of our previous winners have gone on to such incredible success is testament to the need for a showcase such as Midlands Fashion Awards. This year, we look forward to applications from across the region, including Birmingham, Coventry, Leicester, Nottingham and Derby. But applicants should be prepared to wow us…”
2015’s Young Designer of the Year, Georgia Richardson comments; “Since winning Young Designer of the Year, I have had a great response from the media resulting in interviews and features in magazines, BBC Hereford and Worcester and the Daily Mail Online. Since MFA, I have launched my own company called Fourth Generation selling handmade, made to measure dress range. The website goes live very soon at www.fourthgeneration.uk.com”.
The high profile catwalk event and competition plays host to high end retailers, fashion influencers, fashion editors, bloggers and journalists and is attended by an audience of 300 visitors from across the UK and beyond.
MFA is actively seeking category and headline sponsors for the following category awards:
Independent Designer of the Year
Emerging Designer of the Year
Young Designer of the Year (final year fashion students graduating in 2016)
Accessory Designer of the Year
Aspiring Stylist of the Year
Aspiring Make-up Artist of the Year
The Midlands Fashion Awards 2016 will be held Friday 7th October at the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, CBSO Centre, Berkley St, Birmingham B1 2LF. For more information on how to submit your application or to sponsor one of the categories, visit www.midlandsfashionawards.co.uk
March 15, 2016
THE MIDLANDS FASHION AWARDS 2015 - FASHION CAPITAL REVIEW
Thank you to Fashion Capital for this fabulous Midlands Fashion Awards review.
Last Friday night (16th October 2015) a selection of Midlands based fashion and accessories designers showcased their creations at a glamorous evening reception hosted by Adele Roche and Chiara Glorioso with a special appearance from The Neales.
Now in its seventh year the annual event acts as a much-needed platform for up and coming designers from the region to gain recognition and to network within industry.This year’s awards were judged by a committee of fashion experts, with Jenny Eason, Midlands Fashion Awards founder & managing director, Kim Stephens, Retail Marketing Manager at Resorts World Birmingham, Luke Roper, Managing Director at Luke 1977, Lisa Shepherd, Managing Director at Lisa Shepherd Salons, Andrew Riley, Editor in Chief at Style Birmingham Magazine and renowned make-up artist Jules Cardozo-Marsh all sitting on the panel.
Jenny Eason, founder and managing director of the Midlands Fashion Awards commented:
“2015 marked the seventh consecutive year for the Midlands Fashion Awards, and each year I’m completely blown away by the talent and creativity of the finalists, it really is just getting better and better! Previous participants have taken their work everywhere from Fashion Week to the Oscars, so this is just the start of the journey and I can’t wait to see what this year’s finalists can do.”
October 24, 2015
MIDLANDS FASHION AWARDS ANNOUNCE 2015 WINNERS
Friday 16 October brought fashion and glamour to the CBSO Centre, Birmingham with the seventh consecutive Midlands Fashion Awards; celebrating the wealth of fashion design creative across Birmingham and the Midlands. An impressive catwalk show hosted by TV presenters Adele Roche and Chiara Glorioso, followed by a glittering awards ceremony and a special performance from Britain Got Talent stars, The Neales, ensured MFA 2015 was the biggest and best so far.
Category finalists showcased their collections on the catwalk to an audience of the Midlands’ fashion finest alongside an expert panel of judges including Jenny Eason, Creative Director & Founder of Midlands Fashion Awards; Holly Ryland-Jones, Resorts World Birmingham; Luke Roper, Creative Director at Luke 1977; Lisa Shepherd, Managing Director at Lisa Shepherd Salons; Andrew Riley, Editor in Chief at Style Birmingham Magazine; and renowned make-up artist Jules Cardozo-Marsh.
The standard of talent this year was set higher than ever with each individual designer showcasing their clothes on the catwalk before the winners were revealed. Maurice Whittingham was crowned Independent Designer of the Year; his winning collection influenced by the culture and architecture of Spanish city, Barcelona. Georgia Richardson’s futuristic warrior inspired pieces were a hit with the judges, earning her the title of Young Designer of the Year. Wrapping up the design category winners was Sarah Woodward, who received Emerging Designer of the Year for her vibrant asymmetrical compilations. All of the design category of these winners will be featured in an exclusive Style Birmingham shoot, propelling their fantastic collections into the spotlight. Other award winners on the night included Rachel Warrilow taking home Best Accessory Designer of the Year and Gabrielle Hunt winning Best Make Up Artist of the Year, earning herself a year of one-to-one mentoring from professional make-up artist and MFA judge, Jules Cardozo-Marsh as part of her prize.
Jenny Eason, Founder and Managing Director of the Midlands Fashion Awards said:
“I’m truly amazed at the creativity and talent that was showcased at MFA 2015. This year marks our seventh consecutive awards ceremony. There is really no other opportunity in the Midlands for young designers to show their collections, that is why we are so proud that we have been able to provide a platform for them to flaunt their work. With previous participants taking their work every where from Fashion Week to the Oscars, we look forward to watching this year’s stars as they embark on their next in the fashion industry.”
This year’s Midlands Fashion Awards also supported local charity LoveBrum, the movement working towards a better Birmingham, which saw the auction of prizes including a full colour makeover worth £400, at Lisa Shepherd Salon Birmingham, a wardrobe detox with Styling You, and two box seats at a Blues game.
ENDS
Media enquiries
For all media enquiries, contact EAST VILLAGE. on 0121 227 4696
Tara Tomes Nicole Gauntlett
[email protected] [email protected]
07966 884 659 07801 240 048
Notes to editor:
Winners:
INDEPENDENT DESIGNER OF THE YEAR WINNER
Category Sponsor: Irwin Mitchell Solicitors
Winner: Maurice Whittingham
EMERGING DESIGNER OF THE YEAR WINNER
Category Sponsor: Sponsored by Style Birmingham Magazine
Winner: Sarah Woodward
YOUNG DESIGNER OF THE YEAR WINNER
Category Sponsor: Sponsored by Graziosa
Winner: Georgia Richardson
BEST MAKE-UP ARTIST OF THE YEAR WINNER
Category Sponsor: Co Sponsored by Jules Cardozo-Marsh and CULT51
Winner: Gabrielle Hunt
October 27, 2015
MIDLANDS FASHION AWARDS 2015 IS FAST APPROACHING
Fashion Week might be over in New York, Paris, London and Milan, but with the Midlands Fashion Awards 2015 just around the corner, Birmingham is the hottest spot for emerging talent in the industry right now. Hosted by TV Presenters Jamie Roche and Chiara Glorios, the glittering awards ceremony takes place on Friday 16th October at the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, CBSO Centre. With an impressive catwalk show and a special performance from Britain’s Got Talent stars The Neales, this isn’t one to miss
The Midlands Fashion Awards celebrates the talent and creativity of Birmingham and the Midlands region, in the following categories: Independent Designer of the Year, Emerging Designer of the Year, Young Designer of the Year, Accessory Designer of the Year and Make-up Artist of the Year. With six designers showcasing in each category, the Midlands Fashion Awards 2015 will see eighteen cutting-edge designers exhibit a collection on the catwalk to the style savvy audience and industry expert judges. The panel includes Jenny Eason, Creative Director & Founder of Midlands Fashion Awards, Kim Stephens, Retail Marketing Manager at Resorts World Birmingham, Luke Roper, Managing Director at Luke 1977, Lisa Shepherd, Managing Director at Lisa Shepherd Salons, Andrew Riley, Editor in Chief at Style Birmingham Magazine and renowned make-up artist Jules Cardozo-Marsh.
As part of the prize, design category winners will be featured in an exclusive Style Birmingham shoot, putting their collections in the spotlight. In the year following the October awards ceremony, make-up artist and MFA judge, Jules Cardozo-Marsh, will mentor the successful Make-Up Artist of the Year. The winner will accompany and assist Jules on professional shoots, benefiting from her direction and experience. This will allow them to build a portfolio of work and a network of invaluable industry contacts.
Alongside the stunning catwalk show, VIP ticket holders will enjoy a sparkling reception with a glass of fizz on arrival, courtesy of drinks sponsor Marmalade, and exclusive goody bags by sponsor Lisa Shepherd Salon Birmingham.
Fashionistas attending this year’s Midlands Fashion Awards can also support local charity LoveBrum, the movement for a better Birmingham, by taking part in a prize auction. Prizes include a full colour makeover worth £400, at Lisa Shepherd Salon Birmingham, a wardrobe detox with Styling You, and two box seats at a Blues game plus so much more
General tickets are priced at £20 with VIP tickets for £38, both of which include access to the official after party at Marco Pierre White, The Cube. Hold on to your ticket or MFA2015 wristband to redeem a complimentary glass of Laurent Perrier Champagne on arrival.
All tickets can be purchased online at www.midlandsfashionawards.co.uk
October 6, 2015
FINALISTS ANNOUNCED FOR MIDLANDS FASHION AWARDS 2015
Following the official launch at the MFA Independent Designer Catwalk show earlier this month at the Hyatt Regency, Birmingham, finalists for this year’s Midlands Fashion Awards 2015 have been announced. The glittering awards ceremony is set to take place on Friday 16th October at the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, CBSO Centre, with a special performance from Britain’s Got Talent stars The Neales.
This year’s Midlands Fashion Awards will be supporting LoveBrum, the movement for a better Birmingham, with a charity raffle including prizes donated by LoveBrum supporters and ambassadors. Among those contributing are event sponsors Lisa Shepherd Salons, Graziosa, Alan Sharman Agency, Jules Cardozo-Marsh and Style Birmingham.
Focusing on recognizing, inspiring and promoting the wealth of talent within the Midlands, the Midlands Fashion Awards bring the fashion creatives and the fashionistas together for a night of glitz and glamour. Jenny Eason, Founder and Managing Director of the Midlands Fashion Awards said:
“2015 marks the seventh consecutive year for the Midlands Fashion Awards, and each year I’m completely blown away by the talent and creativity of the finalists, it really is just getting better and better! Previous participants have taken their work everywhere from Fashion Week to the Oscars, so this is just the start of the journey and I can’t wait to see what this year’s finalists can do.”
Independent Designer of the Year, Emerging Designer of the Year and Young Finalists will showcase a collection in womenswear, menswear, haute couture or eveningwear, revealing what to watch for SS16 or AW16. In addition, the Accessory Designer of they Year finalists from the MFA Independent Catwalk Show will exhibit their designs to guests before facing final judging by a panel of industry experts. Meanwhile, finalists in the Make-up Artist of the Year category will be mentored and assessed as they are given the opportunity to assist in the production of the catwalk show.
August 20, 2015
MFA INDEPENDENT DESIGNERS CATWALK SHOW
Midlands Fashion Awards
Independent Designers Catwalk: 7th August 2015
As you may know from following my blog; I work in Birmingham which is the closest big city to me, and therefore the fashion events that I typically go to are in and around Birmingham.
The Midlands Fashion Awards is an event I am particularly fond of and love to support (based in the city centre), as I have helped with the organisation of the event previously and so I know that the people behind it are truly passionate about supporting all different types of people trying to forge their way in the fashion industry. It is not just fashion designers that the organisation provides a platform for but it is also models, photographers, bloggers, makeup artists, magazines and the list goes on.
Jenny Eason, the founder of the organisation, wished to show that fashion design talent is not solely located in London and should be celebrated throughout the UK and she has truly been successful in achieving this objective. Starting with a catwalk to help fashion graduates in the city in 2008 has now become a celebration of fashion from all different angles with international designers also having the opportunity to showcase.
The main event will be later in October (tickets now available online at www.midlandsfashionawards.co.uk) with the pre-show Independent Designers Catwalk being the subject of this blog post.
Independent designers that have already established a brand or boutique were able to showcase with a wide variety of designers revealing their collections from local boutiques to international fashion brands.
August 15, 2015
MIDLANDS FASHION AWARDS LAUNCH FOR 2015 WITH INDEPENDENT DESIGNERS CATWALK SHOW
Fashionistas get ready; the Midlands Fashion Awards is back for 2015! Officially launching on Friday 7th August with the Independent Designers Catwalk Show at the Hyatt Regency Birmingham. The seventh consecutive Midlands Fashion Awards will be held on Friday 16th October at the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, CBSO Centre, Birmingham.
As always the Midlands Fashion Awards aims to recognize, inspire and promote the wealth of talent within the Midlands, while the Independent Designer Catwalk Show sees designers from across the UK showcase their designs. Demand for which grew as a result of the continued interest from unbelievably talented designers who aren’t eligible to take part in the Midlands Fashion Awards.
Jenny Eason, founder and Managing Director of the Midlands Fashion Awards said:
“Previous participants have gained valuable experience and have had considerable success as a result of the MFA, so it's great that we can extend this opportunity beyond the Midlands, without distracting from the main awards. I’m truly amazed by the creativity and talent of the applicants each year, from the Midlands and beyond, and 2015 is no different.”
As well as an impressive catwalk show and an opportunity to network with the Midlands fashion finest, guests will have the chance to browse a variety of stalls from the regions best boutiques before taking their seats to the fabulous catwalk show featuring luxury independent fashion brands: Reece Curtis-Walwyn, SANDRAVIEIRA, Elvira & Lee Couture, Anthi G, Boo-Couture, Viola Poni, and Monday Boutique. Tickets are priced at £25, and include a glass of fizz on arrival as well as a selection of cocktail snacks.
Finalists for the Best Accessory Designer of the Year category will also be in attendance, showcasing their designs to guests and a judging panel of industry experts. While finalists in the Best Make-up Artist of the Year and Best Fashion Stylist of the Year categories will assist in the production of the fashion showcase, working alongside the designers to create the final looks for the catwalk. Finalists will be mentored and assessed throughout the process by industry professionals who will go on to choose a winner from each category. All winners will be announced at the Midlands Fashion Awards in October.
While this year, designers and creatives alike will also be given the opportunity to build and strengthen their brands using social media with an exclusive EAST VILLAGE. workshop.
Taking place from 5-6pm, prior to the catwalk show, the social media workshop will teach designers how to effectively use social media for their business. Tickets cost £55, which includes entrance to the Independent Designers Catwalk Show.
Tickets can be purchased online at www.midlandsfashionawards.co.uk
ENDS
For all press enquiries and sample requests, contact EAST VILLAGE.
[email protected] or 07966 884 659
[email protected] or 07766 504 621
Website: www.eastvillageagency.com
Twitter: @EastVillageLife
Facebook: East Village – The Lifestyle Agency
May 27, 2015
SANDRAVIEIRA
What has influenced your decision to follow a career in fashion?
Since I was a child it has always been a distant dream of mine to make my mark on fashion by creating pieces that transmit my perspective on female sensuality. Due to several hardships and complications in my life, I had to put my dream on hold - but it never left my mind. Fortunately destiny brought me to Australia where I decided to finally follow my childhood dream by graduating in Applied Fashion Design and Technology.
How do you prepare yourself for the competition you will face within the industry?
I know the fashion industry is a hard and competitive industry to get in to, but the secret to success is to believe in what you are doing, and working hard towards your goals everyday.
Describe your style in one sentence.
My brand SANDRA VIEIRA presents a casual-chic style of clothing for day-to-day use for a successful and sensual woman with an exquisite and cosmopolitan taste.
August 4, 2015
BOO-COUTURE
What has influenced your decision to follow a career in fashion?
An overwhelming desire to make women feel good. It was also a personal battle to overcome an inherent feeling of self-doubt; an anxiety at 'not being good enough". The personal fulfilment I feel from seeing women exude inner confidence in my clothes is such a reward; I cannot imagine any other career giving me so much pleasure!
How do you prepare yourself for the competition you will face within the industry?
My preparation is a trust in myself, to listen to women and give them exactly what they want and need. One step at a time, not necessarily seeing other designers as competition, but more 'like-minded people' with a different approach to mine, but looking for the same end goal.
August 3, 2015
REECE CURTIS-WALWYN
What has influenced your decision to follow a career in fashion?
Design for me started as a hobby, which I enjoyed during my Fashion & Textiles lessons at secondary school. The design process to final garment made me want to exceed with my skill. I knew fashion was the direction I had to go in, and I’m glad I did!
How do you prepare yourself for the competition you will face within the industry?
Within any industry you face competition; you have to be mentally prepared for all the challenges that come your way. As an individual you have to stay focused and true to the values that you stand for as a brand. If your company has the ability to process these values, this is fuel to make all things possible.
Describe your style in one sentence.
A womenswear clothing brand focusing on creating distinctive, tailored clothing through colour balance, highlighting empowered feminine styles for professionals.
July 30, 2015
VIOLA KALE
What has influenced your decision to follow a career in fashion?
Since I was 11 years old I was interested in Fashion, because my mother used to be a local designer back in Africa sewing for the local communities. I used to help her cut fabrics and hand stitch garments.
How do you prepare yourself for the competition you will face within the industry?
I will prepare myself by being different and working hard on my designs, making everyone feel and look beautiful.
Describe your style in one sentence?
My style is elegant and classic.
Describe your collection, what/whom were your muses?
My collection is womenswear collections, very simple and chic. Coco Chanel and Alexander McQueen inspire me, as both designers use gold and black fabrics in their collections. Black and gold in my opinion are timeless, and are my favourite colours.
June 30, 2015
MIDLANDS FASHION AWARDS ANNOUNCE 2014 WINNERS
Friday 24 October brought fashion and glamour to the CBSO Centre, Birmingham with the sixth consecutive Midlands Fashion Awards. Recognising the wealth of fashion design creative across Birmingham and the Midlands region and celebrating with a glittering awards ceremony. Hosted by ITV Central presenter Genelle Aldred and sponsored by Resorts World Birmingham, MFA 2014 was the biggest and best so far.
Category finalists showcased their collections on the catwalk to an audience of the Midlands fashion finest alongside an expert panel of judges. Including Founder and Managing Director of the Midlands Fashion Awards, Jenny Eason, Fashion Writer and Journalist at Style Birmingham Magazine, Elle Sixsmith, Communications Manager at Retail Birmingham, Kim Stephens, Founder and Managing Director of Frock on Vintage, Pam Cheema and Luke Roper, Founder and Managing Director at Luke1977.
Judged on their creativity and style, the following winners were chosen from each category:
INDEPENDENT DESIGNER OF THE YEAR FINALISTS
Category Sponsor: SadeRose Boutique
Opulance by Beverley White
EMERGING DESIGNER OF THE YEAR FINALISTS
Category Sponsor: Chiltern Railways
Michael Wallace
YOUNG DESIGNER OF THE YEAR FINALISTS:
Category Sponsor: SIXTYNINE Degrees Magazine
Kamilla Jones
BEST ACCESSORY DESIGNER OF THE YEAR FINALISTS
House of Harrie Hattie
BEST MAKE UP ARTIST OF THE YEAR FINALISTS
Category Sponsor: Jules Cardozo-Marsh
Lian Young
BEST STYLIST OF THE YEAR FINALISTS
Category Sponsor: Selfridges
Shirley Whysall
Lisa Shepherd Salons, Alan Sharman Agency, Jules Cardozo-Marsh and ShoppinginBirmingham.com supported the Midlands Fashion Awards 2014, while Ladies Fighting Breast Cancer were selected as the chosen charity, raising a total of £254 from the raffle towards their #1MillionAppeal.
November 8, 2014
RESORTS WORLD BIRMINGHAM SPONSOR MIDLANDS FASHION AWARDS 2014
Midlands Fashion Awards 2014 announce Resorts World Birmingham as headline sponsor for this years’ event. Set to take place on Friday 24 October at the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, CBSO Centre, Birmingham, the Midlands Fashion Awards 2014 will be the biggest and best so far.
Due to open in spring 2015, Resorts World Birmingham will be the UK’s first integrated destination leisure complex. Located at the NEC it will offer visitors a unique and diverse offer under one roof including a 51 unit outlet shopping centre to 11-screen IMAX cinema, a four star boutique hotel and spa, restaurants and bars, a casino and conference and banqueting centre.
Now in it’s sixth consecutive year, the Midlands Fashion Awards recognises and celebrates the wealth of fashion design creatives and talent across Birmingham and the Midlands region. With award categories that reflect the experience level and chosen field of the finalists, sponsors for which include:
INDEPENDENT DESIGNER OF THE YEAR FINALISTS
Sponsored by SadeRose Boutique
EMERGING DESIGNER OF THE YEAR FINALISTS
Sponsored by Chiltern Railways
YOUNG DESIGNER OF THE YEAR FINALISTS:
Sponsored by SIXTYNINE Degrees Magazine
BEST MAKE UP ARTIST OF THE YEAR FINALISTS
Sponsored by Jules Cardozo-Marsh
BEST STYLIST OF THE YEAR FINALISTS
Sponsored by Selfridges
Jenny Eason, founder and Director of the Midlands Fashion Awards, said, “it’s great to have so many great brands on board this year. Supporting local designers and helping to make the Midlands Fashion Awards 2014 the best year so far.”
Tickets for the 2014 Midlands Fashion Awards are on sale now via the MFA website: www.midlandsfashionawards.co.uk
ENDS
For all press enquiries contact EAST VILLAGE.
[email protected] or 07966 884 659
[email protected] or 07766 504 621
Website: www.eastvillageagency.com
Twitter: @EastVillageLife
Facebook: East Village – The Lifestyle Agency
September 7, 2014
WIN TICKETS TO THIS YEARS MIDLANDS FASHION AWARDS
Midlands Fashion Awards is once again hosting its fabulous fashion awards in the heart of Birmingham. This year the annual fashion awards will be held on Friday 24th October at the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, CBSO Centre, Birmingham. The event is a key date on the fashion calendar for anyone with an eye for cutting edge style.
We are offering one lucky winner a pair of VIP tickets to attend this year’s Awards. To be in with a chance to win follow us @MidlandsFashion then email [email protected] with your name, address quoting MFA 2014 for your chance to win 2 VIP tickets to attend this year’s event, it’s a fashionista's dream come true!
VIP Experience includes:
2 VIP tickets to the Midlands Fashion Awards
Drinks reception
Canapés
Front row seating at the fashion show
Goody Bag
Rules
- Entry is open to residents of the UK and Republic of Ireland except employees (and their families) of Midlands Fashion Awards.
- To enter you must be aged 18 or over. Proof of identity and age may be required.
- The prize is as stated and is not transferrable to another individual and no cash or other alternatives will be offered.
- The winner will be selected randomly and will be notified within 7 days of the competition end date.
- Reasonable efforts will be made to contact a winner. Failure to respond or failure to meet the eligibility requirements may result in forfeiture of the prize.
- If we are unable to contact the winner of the prize, the organisers reserve the right to offer the prize to the next eligible entrant drawn at random.
- We reserve the right to amend or alter the terms of this competition.
- Only one entry per person.
- Entry deadline 1st October 2014.
September 7, 2014
PRESS RELEASE - MIDLANDS FASHION AWARDS 2014 LAUNCH WITH NATIONAL FASHION SHOWCASE
Friday 8 August saw the official launch of the 2014 Midlands Fashion Awards, with the MFA Fashion Show at Fazely Studios, Birmingham. Designers from across the UK showcased their latest collections on the catwalk, while finalists in the Best Accessory Designer of the Year, Best Make-Up Artist of the Year, and Best Stylist of the Year categories were judged ahead of the main show. With category winners to be announced at the 2014 Midlands Fashion Awards, on Friday 24 October at the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, CBSO Centre, Birmingham.
Now in it’s sixth consecutive year the Midlands Fashion Awards 2014, recognises and celebrates the wealth of fashion design creatives and talent across Birmingham and the Midlands region. Sponsored by Resorts World Birmingham, this year is set to be the biggest and best so far and is not an event to be missed for anyone with a hint of fashionista about them.
August 19, 2014
SUPER SOIREE
I am finally back on the fashion scene and am very pleased to bring you my first event write up for summer 2014 (yes I know it is almost autumn!).
A fashionable organisation, that I have been part of and have followed for some time now, held their 2014 pre-show event on 8th August, which was a lot of fun! The Midlands Fashion Awards, which just gets better and better, hosted a successful networking event in the heart of Birmingham's most edgy and fashionable district, Digbeth. The night was filled with talented accessory designers, creative fashion collections and fabulous make-up artists, along with some yummy chocolate truffles which always puts a smile on my face.
August 23, 2014
PRESS RELEASE - Midlands Fashion Awards Presents The MFA Fashion Show & Annual Fashion Networking Soiree
The Midlands Fashion Awards (MFA) have announced the first MFA Fashion Show will be held alongside the Pre-Show Networking Soiree on Friday 8th August at Fazeley Studios, Birmingham. The event will also act as the official launch of the 2014 Midlands Fashion Awards, to be held on Friday 24th October at the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, CBSO Centre, Birmingham.
A long-standing MFA tradition, the Pre-Show Networking Soiree gives those involved the opportunity to connect with fashion designers, stylists, bloggers and other industry professionals. Guests also have the chance to browse and buy unique designer pieces from a variety of stalls before they take to their seats for the catwalk. Where emerging national designers will showcase their latest collections in the MFA Fashion Show, to be presented by TV Presenter, Adele Houghton.
June 12, 2014
PRESS RELEASE - Fashion showcase launched for National and International Designers
This August will see a new showcase for national and international designers take place, as part of the 2014 Midlands Fashion Awards. The MFA International Fashion Showcase has been launched after an influx of interest from designers who were not eligible for the main Midlands Fashion Awards but had talent that deserved recognition from the industry.
February 7, 2014
Midlands Fashion Talent needed for the 2014 Midlands Fashion Awards
CALL OUT FOR THE MIDLANDS' NEW AND EMERGING FASHION TALENT AS THE MIDLANDS FASHION AWARDS 2014 LAUNCH
February 6, 2014
The Future is Brighton
An introduction to the Birmingham based designer, Nicola Brighton.
October 31, 2013
Ania Marie Rozanowska
Taking the initials from her first, middle and last name; the label ‘AMR’ is born. Created in awe of ‘Timeless Exploration and Craftmanship’ in female aesthetics, Ania Marie Rozanowska offers the finest intricacies of craftsmanship, using movement and structural shape, combined with feminine transparency as a formula for her signature style. The Polish born native is an exceptional talent, and should welcome a long and prosperous career for expressing the freedom of innovation.
The graduate with honors’, from the University of Glamorgan, collection entitled ‘Dimension of Infinity’ has rocket her name and work with admiration in a single breath of unbounded space, time and quantity and 3D structure succinct in the principle of symmetry. The fashion fantastical uses the finest silks and bespoke platinum skins dosed in hues of black and white – timeless and forever classic – taking the purity of white to evoke the essence of innocence and invite the mind into a world of make-believe.
September 19, 2013
Midlands Fashion Awards 2013 hosted by ITV Presenter Lucy Kite
The annual Midlands Fashion Awards are back with all roads leading to the Penthouse at the Loft Lounge, Bromsgrove Street on Friday 11th October, the event will be hosted by ITV Lucy Kite.
Finalists will compete for a featured spread in Style Birmingham Magazine and SIXTYNINEDEGREES Magazine, together with opportunity to attend business workshops and seminars courtesy of mentoring service Fashion Angel. The judging panel comprises the Editor-in Chief of Style Birmingham Magazine, Andrew Riley, founder and Managing Director of the Midlands Fashion Awards Jenny Eason, founder and Managing Director of Rees Bradley Hepburn and founding member of Young British Designers Debra Hepburn, PR Manager at ShoppinginBirmingham.com, Kim Stephens and fashion expert Alison Dewy who is Managing Director at Fashion Angel.
Tamara Joseph talks to us about her success since winning the Independent Designer Category at the Midlands Fashion Awards 2012
On a personal level, what inspires you in terms of style?
My biggest inspiration comes from the support from my Fiancé’, Family and friends. Secondly; – Life, What I see, a collaboration of what stylish people are wearing, TV/film. I often go to bed and can’t sleep because I have so many design ideas, prints and surface patterns running around in my head but I love it, I love the buzz I get from ideas and planning them out on paper and fabric the next day.
What is it about the fashion industry that you are/were drawn to when you started out?
As mentioned above, I have had this dream since I was little girl. I remember watching both My Gran and Mum make things that looked like top branded clothing. My Mum taught me to sew, and I used to make my own patterns from old news papers and a marker pen. My Gran was more into the textiles side, although she could make clothes and had initially taught my Mum. Crochet, knit, Trupunto, you name they had it made between them. I am glad I also got blessed with the creative genes.
June 5, 2013
2012 finalists Lisa Gibson updates us on her progress since taking part in the Midlands Fashion Awards 2012
The talented Lisa Gibson, one of the finalists for the Young Designer Award 2012, has dropped by to give us a little overview on what she has been up to since last year’s award ceremony. She also tells us what has inspired her collections what she thinks about the new categories for 2013.
What made you apply for the Midlands Fashion Awards in 2012? I thought the awards would give me a great opportunity to showcase my designs and get my brand noticed by a wider audience.
What was the inspiration behind your collection for the event? For the collection, I was experimenting with knit, along with that I took classic shapes and added elegant knitted panels with sequins and exciting knitted beads.
What have you learned from the experience? I have learned that you have to take every opportunity to showcase your work as there are so many talented people around.
What are your goals for the near future? My goals are to continue with my designs and get my work noticed more across the country and become a bigger brand.
What have you achieved since the awards? I have pursued my designing; my work is being noticed more so this has inspired me to enter my work into more catwalk events.
Have you had interest in your designs since the awards, and if so what has come of these interests? Yes I have had lots of interest in my designs; I have had boutiques approach me to sell my products and lots of positive feedback from followers on social network sites.
Have you got any new collections in the pipeline or designed any since the show? Yes I do have a new collection in the pipeline which I am excited about and hoping to showcase it in the next MFA awards.
What do you think about the awards expanding to stylists and makeup artists? I think it’s a great idea. It gives other people a chance to showcase their work and I think makeup artists and stylists need to have their talent showcased more as they are becoming increasingly recognised.
June 3, 2013
Lisa Shepherd Press Release - She's got it! - with credentials
For Lisa Shepherd, there is no doubt that your salon's distinguishing wow! factor will come from your colour service. A great cut and gorgeous styling will give head-turning results, but it's the colour you use that adds the magic, and brings out the true fabulousness of the look.
"Giving a head of hair pitch perfect colour to suit the client will really make the most of the shape, texture condition and movement in a cut and style," says Lisa. "It's like being a magician - using different shades, application techniques and depth of tone are the spells we weave to produce a very personal and flattering finish."
Named British Hairdresser of the Year 2005 (the only colourist to have claimed this prestigious title), Lisa is a member of the Hall of Fame as well as Fellowship for British Hairdressing's Hair Ambassador 2007. In fact 20 years working in the hairdressing industry and 20 national awards add up to a whole heap of colour knowledge and understanding!
April 21, 2013
Lisa Shepherd Press Release - Katie Mulcahy
At just 27 years old, Katie Mulcahy has already mapped out a career that many can only dream of. No stranger to winning awards, Katie kicked off her hairdressing career by winning the L'Oreal Talent Spotting title in 2006 and was finalist for Wella Trend Vision in the same year. The following year she moved on to become L'Oreal iDartist. Then in 2009, Katie hit a career pinnacle as she won a place on the amazing F.A.M.E Team and picked up the "One to Watch" award at Creative Head's Most Wanted Awards.
"2009 and 2010 were incredible years for me - and being part of the F.A.M.E. team really shot me forward in my career - giving me amazing opportunities to work with some of the best people in the industry and to learn so much" says Katie. Six years ago, Katie joined the Lisa Shepherd Salons Groups in the position of stylist at the newly opened Lisa Shepherd Birmingham under the watchful eye of the leading lady herself, Lisa Shepherd and soon became an integral member of the Lisa Shepherd Art team. Lisa says: "Starting a new job in a brand new salon can be difficult, but Katie was an asset right from the word go! I could see her passion and enthusiasm for her job and her clients absolutely love her!"
Call for Young, Emerging, Independent and Accessories Designers, Make-up Artists and Stylists
The Midlands Fashion Awards (MFA) is an annual fashion event held in Birmingham with the aim to recognise, inspire and promote the wealth of talent within the Midlands.
Our aim is to offer a platform for emerging fashion and design talent into the highly competitive fashion arena. Over recent years the awards have grown in caliber and we have seen a significant increase in the number of applicants wishing to take part. In turn this has led to an increase in attendance and press and media coverage.
February 28, 2013