A few weeks ago I attended the launch of West Coast Cooler’s AW18 Fashion Week. The Belfast Fashion Week is definitely the biggest showcase of fashion in Northern Ireland and I was delighted to be invited along to the Press Launch for the first time.
The foyer of the Fitzwilliam Hotel was jam packed with lots of eager eyes as the hottest trends for the coming months was to be revealed. We saw lots of print, colour and clashing – everything I love.
Every one knows that animal print is a massive trend right now, but you can also expect to see lots of check, bright colours and clashing prints over the Autumn and Winter.
Speaking about this season’s key trends, FASHION WEEK Director Cathy Martin commented: “This season there is a focus on texture as fabrics in burnt oranges and mustards take the shape of chunky, over-sized knits layered over pretty pleated dresses as seen at Balenciaga.
“High-shine fabrics are also key with updated trench coats in glossy and metallic finishes. Think 1980s in terms of colour and finish. Staying in that decade, Chanel showed off power dressing at its shows and the high street has followed suit with bold trouser suits in strong colours.
“There will also be lots of print clashes as feminine florals marry with checks and stripes to give a whole new meaning to the term bohemian chic – with splashes of fringing, Western style!”
But rounding up the launch event, Cathy took some time to get serious about fashion and retail here in light of recent events.
“Retail is a massive employer in Northern Ireland and fashion stores form a key part of our city landscape, but it is suffering many blows of late. We cannot fail to mention the Primark fire this week and its devastating effect on employees there as well as in surrounding businesses, so I would urge people to enjoy the city and shop locally if they are making shopping purchases in the coming weeks and months.”
Tickets are on sale now for October’s fashion shows, make sure and get your tickets as soon as possible. The main runway event will take place at St. Anne’s Cathedral on Friday 19 October and style proceedings will continue over the weekend.
Ticket and Schedule info
Tickets are available to purchase at Visit Belfast on 02890246609 or online via the links at www.belfastfashionweek.com
For reserved seats, corporate orders and groups of four or more, the BFW team can take direct bookings – just call 02890421509 or email cathy@cmprireland.com.
The Big F Word 