Happy New Year 2024

 

Season's Greetings from All of us at My Fashion Connect Global

The Roanoke Star is situated atop Mill Mountain, which is located in the center of Roanoke, Virginia, USA.  The idea for the Roanoke Star originated in 1949 as a Christmas decoration. The original star was constructed as a temporary exhibit for the holiday season. Due to its popularity and the positive response from the community, it was decided to make the star a permanent fixture.
Photo: Lucia Carpio

 

Fabric Trade Fair: BLOSSOM PREMIÈRE VISION welcomed more than 1,000 visitors in December 2023

The 11th edition of BLOSSOM PREMIÈRE VISION closed on Thursday December 14th, having showcased 74 exhibitors and welcomed 1,086 visitors over two days at the Carreau du Temple in Paris. 

The event - exclusively dedicated to the pre-collections of luxury and high-end ready-to-wear suppliers for the Spring-Summer 25 season - was notable for exhibitors’ presentations of numerous new textiles, leathers and accessories, by the high attendance at workshops for more responsible sourcing, and by visitor quality.

Among the visitors 75% were French and 28% were international trade visitors - primarily from Italy, Belgium, the UK, Poland, Germany, Japan, Spain, the Netherlands, and the US.

This edition was once again based on a selective, high-quality creative offer from international suppliers of fabrics (59), leather (7), accessories (7) and services (1), hailing from France (18), Italy (48), Japan (3), the UK (1), Portugal (3) and Spain (1).

In addition, two workshops led by Ariane Bigot (Associate Fashion Director), held on the first day of the event, were filled to capacity. In recent years, the central role of materials has become even more pertinent. Current environmental challenges have reaffirmed the crucial importance of the choice of materials in the collection development process.

The goal of the workshops was to offer participants the keys to more eco-responsible sourcing by exploring a selection of materials from exhibitors’ collections over the course of two two-hour sessions. Participants expressed their satisfaction and left with a deeper understanding of how to source fabric ethically, said organisers.

Upcoming events are Première Vision New York on January 17 and 18, 2024, then Première Vision Paris from February 6 to 8, 2024.

Trade Fair: Copenhagen Fashion Week set to promote Nordic designers in its AW24 edition

Copenhagen Fashion Week is set to take place from January 29 to February 2, 2024.

Going from strength to strength with an international reach, it will present a total of 31 shows over the  four-day period. 

Backstage at the SS2023 Copenhagen Fashion Week
Image from CFW website @tonyamatyu

While CFW is a draw for established designers such as Baum und Pferdgarten, Henrik Vibskov, Lovechild 1979, Copenhagen-based advanced contemporary brand Ganni and Wood Wood, this AW24 edition will also feature the NEWTALENT showroom, showcasing the collections of four emerging Nordic designers, including CIRCULOSE® recipient Nicklas Skovgaard  who have been part of CPHFW NEWTALENT since May 2023, and Rolf Ekroth, alongside newcomers Alectra Rothschild / Masculina and Stamm. 

The showroom will also feature CPHFW Alumni Latimmier represented by Fashion in Helsinki, as well as MLGA, who is represented by ALPHA.

The CPHFW NEWTALENT showroom located at Etage Projects, Borgergade 15E, 1300 Copenhagen K, will open from January 31 until February 2.

Nicklas Skovgaard will kick off the event as the official opening show on Monday, following the official reception. 

The lineup was approved by the CPHFW Show Committee and CPHFW Sustainability Committee, highlighting the event's commitment to both design excellence and sustainability, aligning with the 18 Minimum Standards set by Copenhagen Fashion Week.

For details of show, events and presentation schedule, click HERE. 

Lifestyle: "Peach Fuzz" art print collection launched, embracing the 2024 Pantone Colour of the Year

Ink & Drop, a contemporary art print company, is launching its "Peach Fuzz" collection, paying homage to the 2024 Pantone Colour of the Year of the same name. 

An abstract print of a peach coloured vintage Rose, in the new Ink & Drop art print collection
paying tribute to Pantone Colour of the Year 2024 - Peach Fuzz

The new collection promises "a seamless fusion of sophistication, vibrancy, and artistic expression," according to Ink & Drop, featuring a curated selection of prints designed to evoke a sense of creativity, timeless beauty and elegance to embrace the trendsetting hue. 

The "Peach Fuzz" Art Print Collection comes in various themes, from abstract compositions to nature-inspired designs, animal portraits and geometric patterns, available in various sizes, to cater to diverse tastes and interior aesthetics.

A modern take on a classic poster named London Flower Market shows clean illustration style and typography.

From one of their popular Animal Portrait series is a quirky Rabbit portrait wearing a jacket in the Pantone colour of the year Peach Fuzz.

 

Whether it's abstract line art illustration or vintage composition, urban art inspired prints, neon prints, tropical posters or animal portraits , there are ample choices to suit different design needs. 

Ink & Drop is a small, family business, with more than 20 years in the creative / design industry.

The imagery is printed onto high quality, 230gsm matt fine art paper, using the latest equipment and archival, fade-resistant inks to create bold artwork.  Bespoke artworks can also be made to specific frame requirements.

Colour Forecast: Peach Fuzz the go-to Colour for 2024

This festive season, be forward thinking and go for dreamy peachy pink shades for your interior décor  to demonstrate that you're ahead of the game.  

Rose Quartz Glass Tree
lit from within by an LED light
from Truffle Tablescapes

You'll be very much on trend as the colour authority Pantone have announced that their pick for Colour of the Year 2024 is Peach Fuzz - (Pantone 13-1023 to be precise) -  a colour described by the colour institute as a comforting hue "softly nestled between pink and orange", chosen to express a yearning for community and coziness so very aptly needed in today's uncertain times.

A hue between pink and orange, this sweet subtle shade in the New Year signals a move towards empathy and understanding. 

From Lust Home, Life's A Peach wallpaper in Peachy Pinks by designer Millie Putland
.  

The soft and inviting colour offers a chance for introspection and healing, "tenderness and communicating a message of caring, community, and collaboration,” says Pantone Executive Director Leatrice Eiseman, emphasizing its capacity to bring comfort and inner peace, impacting our well-being and inner serenity.

Tara Rodrigues, award winning interior designer, founder of TR Interiors and winner of Channel 4’s £250,000 Big Interiors Battle, said: “A revival of peach is long overdue. Peach was once commonly used in interiors but as modernism spread, it lost its place in the contemporary home.

“It’s a soothing warm colour and I love pairing it with rich dark hues of blues and greens to create elegant and bold schemes. It’s a great way to soften a scheme making a home feel warm and inviting. For those that don't love pink, peach is a great compromise in a family home adding a touch of femininity without being overpowering. I'd mix peach into a contemporary kitchen or living room scheme for a warm pop of colour to elevate a space.”

From Jan Constantine, Sequinned NOEL Cushion 

Textile designer Jan Constantine, of Jan Constantine, said: “Peach Fuzz is a really beautiful colour which feels so right for now. It exudes warmth and cosiness, feels safe and is the perfect back drop shade to saturate a room. Its soft tones work perfectly with other warm hues from the same side of the spectrum – pink, terracotta, orange, yellow and red. Peach Fuzz also works well as a dramatic contrast to black and/or cream, hinting back at the most iconic colours of the Art Deco movement.

From Ohpopsi, Riviera Pink Lemonade wallpaper

Hummingbird Rosewood wallpaper from Ohpopsi featuring hummingbirds and lush foliage
in a hand-drawn design to create an elegant and serene design to create a calming haven.

Zoe Eaton, Creative Director at Ohpopsi, said: “Soft and feminine, peach fuzz lifts the spirits. A refreshing tone that will balance any interior space and work with a multitude of different palettes, it’s accessible, friendly and emits an abundance of warmth. It’s a really lovely positive tone and is a colour for everyone!

Art & Culture: Jesse Darling wins Turner Prize 2023

Jesse Darling, who lives and works in Berlin and London, standing among his Turner Prize 2023 installation,
currently on show in Eastbourne's Towner until 14 April 2024. 
Photo: Hello Content

Congratulations to Jesse Darling, winner of the £25,000 Turner Prize 2023, announced this evening at a ceremony presented by musician, creative and broadcaster Tinie Tempah at Eastbourne’s Winter Garden, adjacent to Towner Eastbourne, the gallery that hosts this year’s prize. 

(L to R) Tate Britain Director Alex Farquharson; broadcaster Tinie Tempah; Towner Eastbourne CEO Joe Hill and Turner Prize 2023 winner Jesse Darling at the Awards Ceremony.
Photo: Victor Frankowski, Hello Content

Jesse Darling works in sculpture, installation, video, drawing, sound, text and performance, using a "materialist peotics" to explore and reimagine the everyday technologies that represent how we live.

The other three nominees shortlisted for Turner 2023 are British artist Barbara Walker; Rory Pilgrim, who works between the UK and The Netherlands; and London-based Swedish artist Ghislaine Leung.

The jury commended all four nominated artists for their distinct and affecting presentations. Together their varied practices, so well represented in their Turner Prize presentations, are grounded in the realities of the world today, often giving voice to themes of uncertainty and vulnerability. Their work brings immediacy to the issues they respond to, realising these themes in powerful and unexpected ways.

Installation view of Jesse Darling's creation at Towner Eastbourne, 2023. Photo: Angus Mill 
Jesse Darling was commended for his use of materials and commonplace objects like concrete, welded barriers, hazard tape, office files and net curtains, to convey a familiar yet delirious world.
His recent practice encompasses sculpture, installation, text and drawing.

The Turner Prize is one of the best-known visual arts prizes in the world.  It  aims to promote public debate around new developments in contemporary British art. The prize is awarded to an artist born or based in the UK, for an outstanding exhibition or presentation of their work in the past twelve months.

The Turner Prize 2023 jury commended Jesse Darling for his use of materials and commonplace objects like concrete, welded barriers, hazard tape, office files and net curtains, to convey a familiar yet delirious world. Invoking societal breakdown, his presentation unsettles perceived notions of labour, class, Britishness and power.

Installation view of Jesse Darling at Towner Eastbourne, 2023.
Nominated for his solo exhibitions No Medals, No Ribbons at Modern Art Oxford and Enclosures at Camden Art Centre, his presentation for this year's Turner Prize took cues from Towner's coastal location n an installation exploring borders, bodies, nationhood and exclusion.
Photo: Angus Mill 

The members of the Turner Prize 2023 jury are Martin Clark, Director, Camden Art Centre; Cédric Fauq, Chief Curator, Capc musée d’art contemporain de Bordeaux; Melanie Keen, Director of Wellcome Collection and Helen Nisbet, CEO and Artistic Director, Cromwell Place. The jury is chaired by Alex Farquharson, Director, Tate Britain.

An exhibition of the four shortlisted artists is at Towner Eastbourne until 14 April 2024. It is curated by Noelle Collins, Exhibitions and Offsite Curator at Towner Eastbourne. This year’s prize is presented as part of Towner 100, a year-long celebration of arts and culture across Eastbourne and Sussex marking the centenary of Towner Eastbourne. The seaside town is also hosting a wide-ranging cultural programme - Eastbourne ALIVE - encompassing art installations at public buildings in the town and the re-animation of underused spaces through public art, dance and music events. 

Turner Prize 2023 is sponsored by King & McGaw. The education partner is University of Sussex. Turner Prize is supported by Lorna Gradden, Chalk Cliff Trust, The John Browne Charitable Trust and The Uggla Family Foundation. It is also supported in 2023 by Eastbourne Borough Council and East Sussex County Council.  

The prize will mark its 40th anniversary next year, returning to Tate Britain in London for the first time since 2018.

Fashion exhibition: Blenheim Palace UK announces Icons of British Fashion opening in March 2024

Blenheim Palace* in Woodstock, Oxfordshire, England, has announced the line-up of world-caliber designers, fashion houses, and labels that will feature in its biggest exhibition to date, Icons of British Fashion, running from 23rd March until 30th June 2024.

The exhibition will showcase the creative works of  an array of legendary designer names from the past through to the present day, featuring bespoke designs and loans from a Who’s Who of the fashion world emcpassing apparel,  accessories, archival materials, drawings, photography and patterns, all to be displayed amongst the UNESCO World Heritage Site’s own priceless collections.

Confirmed names to be featured in Icons of British Fashion** will include: Barbour; Bruce Oldfield; Jean Muir; Lulu Guinness; Stella McCartney; Stephen Jones Millinery for Christian Dior; Temperley London; Terry de Havilland; Turnbull & Asser; Vivienne Westwood and Zandra Rhodes.

Additionally, Blenheim Palace will be celebrating the 150th anniversary of the birth of Sir Winston Churchill, the renowned British statesman and Prime Minister. Churchill was born at Blenheim in 1874, and the palace has since been closely associated with his legacy.

Blenheim Palace is one of the largest and most famous houses in the country and holds significant historical and architectural importance. 

Kate Ballenger, Keeper of Palace and Collections said: “We are incredibly excited to finally unveil what’s been years in the making; this exhibition will give visitors an insight into the fascinating world of British fashion in such a unique setting. 

“Icons of British Fashion is the first of its kind at Blenheim Palace, and to be able to partner with some of the most widely celebrated designers and brands in the world to bring together a collection of garments, accessories and artefacts is something we’re immensely proud of.”

The fashion exhibition will be the latest spectacle at Blenheim Palace following the Royal Connections, Crowns and Coronets in summer 2023 and contemporary art exhibitions by notable artists Ai Weiwei and Maurizio Cattelan Maurizio Cattelan, to name but a few.

Blenheim Palace, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, is surrounded by extensive parkland and formal gardens designed by renowned landscape architect Capability Brown.  The park includes a lake, wooded areas, and various monuments and follies.

*Blenheim Palace was built in the 18th century, between 1705 and 1722.  It was commissioned by Queen Anne as a gift to John Churchill, the 1st Duke of Marlborough, in recognition of his military victories, particularly the Battle of Blenheim in 1704 during the War of the Spanish Succession.

The palace was designed by Sir John Vanbrugh, an accomplished architect, and it is considered a masterpiece of English Baroque architecture. The design of the palace is notable for its grandeur, symmetry, and the impressive Great Hall.

The palace has been the seat of the Dukes of Marlborough since its completion.

Blenheim Palace, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, is surrounded by extensive parkland and formal gardens designed by renowned landscape architect Capability Brown.  The park includes a lake, wooded areas, and various monuments and follies.

**Admission to the Icons of British Fashion exhibition in 2024 will be free with any valid Blenheim Palace ticket including Palace, Park and Gardens, Park and Gardens, Annual Pass or a Privilege Pass.

All images courtesy of Blenheim Palace

Art & Architecture: Taubman Museum of Art in Virginia, USA launches Swoon

The distinctive design of the Taubman Museum of Art in Roanoke, Virginia, stands out in the urban landscape. Situated in the heart of downtown near the city market area, its location is part of the city's efforts to revitalize and enhance the cultural offerings of the downtown area.

This November, the Taubman Museum of Art has launched Swoon, an exhibition to celebrate the work of contemporary American Street artist and activist Swoon, whose real name is Caledonia Curry.  

Swoon is known for her use of delicate paper cutouts which gives her pieces a distinct and ethereal quality. 

Born in 1977 in New London, Connecticut, Swoon's work is characterized by intricately cut paper portraits and figures that she often wheat-pastes onto buildings and other public spaces. Her art often incorporates elements of mythology, social issues, and personal narratives. 

Swoon studied at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York, where she developed her skills as an artist. Her early works gained attention for their unique blend of street art, activism, and community engagement. 

Swoon's work has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, in both solo and group exhibitions. Over the years, Swoon has collaborated with other artists and engaged in diverse projects. She has worked on large-scale installations, public murals, and community-based art initiatives. Her approach often involves collaboration with local communities to create site-specific and socially engaged artworks.

Blue Panel Star, 2020 - Swoon.
Wood, spray paint, hand-cut paper and silkscreen on
paper.

The artist adopted the name "Swoon" early in her career. The choice of the name reflects the emotional impact she aims to have on viewers with her art, creating a sense of awe or "swooning" in response to the beauty and depth of the work.   The Swoon exhibition is on until March 10, 2024.

As for the architecture of the Taubman Museum, it was designed by American architect Randall Stout (1958 - 2014) and completed in 2008. 

Stout took special care to honour naturalistic elements of the Roanoke geographic surroundings in designing the museum's architecture featuring a striking combination of glass and steel, with a dynamic, angular structure that incorporates both geometric and organic forms, according to the museum literature.

Suspended in the atrium of Taubman Museum of Art is
"Experiment in Gravity"- Alyson Shotz, 2019 - 2023
Punched, painted aluminium trailer skin, stainless steel rings, airplane cable, steel support.

The design is characterized by a series of interconnected, cantilevered boxes that create a sense of movement and openness. The extensive use of glass allows natural light to fill the interior spaces and provides visitors with views of the surrounding cityscape.  

View of Blue Ridge Mountains from McAfee Knob.

The Roanoke Star -
The iconic symbol of 
 the city of Roanoke, Virginia.

The 77-foot glass peak in the atrium recalls the point of the Roanoke Star (above Mill Mountain), and the undulating roofline reflects the Blue Ridge Mountains.

"Dancer" - Betty Branch, 1934
Rosa Portuguese Marble

An associate in Frank O. Gehry’s office before establishing his own firm in 1996 in Los Angeles, Stout was known for his innovative and sustainable architectural designs, often referenced with the influence of Frank O. Gehry and other contemporary architects such as Zaha Hadid and Coop Himmelblau.

Stout specialised in cultural projects, especially midsize museums and cultural facilities. His portfolio includes the clifflike Hunter Museum of American Art in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the Abroms-Engel Institute for the Visual Arts in Birmingham, Alabama, and the Art Gallery of Alberta in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

At his death in 2014, Stout was an associate professor in the architecture school at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

All images by Lucia Carpio.

Textile Trade Fair: Denim Première Vision reports vibrant show in Milan this November

While denim fashion continues to be a staple in our wardrobe, new fabric developments with sustainability hold key to the future of the industry as evidenced in the recently concluded Denim Première Vision trade fair held at Milan's Superstudio Più  on 22 and 23 November.

Organisers hailed the show as a success, reporting 2,322 trade visitors (+15% over the previous November 2022 event) including fashion and accessories brand managers, buyers, designers and production managers who had attended the fair to gather information on innovations in jeanswear and the latest denim developments  for the Spring/Summer 2025 season.

There were 69 exhibitors, of which 69% were denim spinners and weavers, 20% garment makers and finishers, 7% service and technology firms and 4% accessories and component manufacturers who represented 15 countries including Italy, Spain, France, Germany, Turkey, Morocco, Japan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, China, Hong Kong, India, Mauritius, Uzbekistan, and Taiwan.

In addition to providing a comprehensive denim-sourcing offer from the exhibitors, organisers also set up a new edition of the Denim Fashion District where 15 denim brands were featured with innovative developments.

Material science company Recover showcased its new collection, the GRS-certified Reiconics collection, made from Recover's recycled cotton fibre and Spanish cotton.  This was the result of a collaboration with denim manufacturer Evlox and Spanish tech company Jeanologia. The collection of a total of 14 garments showcased how truly circular products can bring value to fashion through a process that implements eco-design, transparency, process measurement, traceability, and scalability. The company said they had data suggesting that 'recycled' is the most sought after keyword in the fashion apparel industry.

Fabio Adami Dalla Val, Denim Première Vision Show Manager, commented: "This new edition of Denim PV was amazing, with a highly qualified visitor base and a palpable excitement in the aisles.  The quality of products presented by exhibitors was of a very high level, across the board, regardless of origins. Denim has enjoyed a prominent spot in the luxury world for some years now, and that trend continues. Whether casual or more sophisticated, denim remains a versatile material that is constantly gaining ground. The denim industry is currently in a state of transition, a perfect reflection of the textile industry’s global aspirations to achieving sustainable, high quality, cutting-edge production."

The fair also included a programme of conferences and talks, fashion seminars for exploring the season’s trends, and special installations and workshops. 

The SS25 denim trends focused on quality, artisanship and meticulously crafted products according to industry experts, with special emphasis put on the beauty of fabrics and colours.  On the other hand, some of the developments appeared at times subtle and other times pronounced, thanks to innovative textures and dyes, said Lorenza Martello, Denim Expert - Première Vision.

Miss Martello said, "We see a certain abandonment of the traditional jeanswear style. Denim is surprisingly diverse, with options ranging from rigorous to creative, thick to fluid, adapted in a variety of styles and featuring more virtuous solutions across all product categories. 

"The search for more sustainable design alternatives has been developing for years, and it’s a movement that continues to grow.  The SS25 denim trends pay particular attention to colour, and you can see that in the use of natural or recycled pigments, and the low-water consumption techniques being adopted. Materials - particularly where they are from - play an increasingly central role in the manufacturing process. The players in our industry want to pair an ethical approach with comfort and style."

Denim Première Vision will return to Superstudio Più on 5 and 6 June 2024 for the Autumn-Winter 25-26 season, followed by 4 and 5 December 2024 for the Spring-Summer 26 Denim trends.

All images from Denim Première Vision website.

Christmas 2023: Annual Winter Light exhibition sets London's Southbank Centre site aglow

As the dark winter nights draw in, London is alight with festive installations that are best enjoyed outside after dark.

Squire & Partners x Southbank Centre Winter Windows 2023 

For one, the Southbank Centre, situated on the bank of the River Thames, a stone's throw from the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, is featuring a series of outdoor artworks from contemporary artists that play with light and colour, at the same time exploring topics at the forefront of society, such as individual and collective identity, the environment and technology.  Also included are five new works for 2023.  

All free to be viewed and enjoyed from now until 7 Januanry 2024.

Jokob Kvist’s Dichroic Sphere 
Image by Christoffer Askman
Courtesy of Southbank Centre

Southbank Centre encourages visitors to follow their map to find the artwork as one wanders around the various venues, terraces and buildings, including the Queen Elizabeth Hall, Royal Festival Hall and Hayward Gallery.

The exhibition features work by David Batchelor, Jakob Kvist, David Ogle, Fred Tschida, Tim Etchells, Leo Villareal, Marinella Senatore, Kendall Geers, Squire & Partners with Oasis Academy Johanna and Denman+Gould with Maeve Polkinhorn.

Illuminating the windows of the Queen Elizabeth Hall is a brand new installation by Year 6 students from local school Oasis Academy Johanna, in collaboration with Brixton-based architecture practice, Squire & Partners. Squire & Partners x Southbank Centre Winter Windows 2023 transforms the drawings produced during workshops into bespoke, winter-themed neon shapes.

Fred Tschida's Sphere
Image by Owen Billcliffe
Courtesy of Southbank Centre

Visitors can encounter Marinella Senatore’s large-scale decorative light sculpture We Rise by Lifting Others and hypnotic, intricate patterns in Leo Villareal’s generative digital installation Cosmic Bloom.  Produced by Outland Art, the work is accompanied by tracks from international electronic music artist Kode9. 

David Ogle's Loomin
Image by Owen Billcliffe
Courtesy of Southbank Centre

Tim Etchells’ intriguing pair of neon light artworks Suddenly (Morning and Night), provide a moment to ponder over the perceived passage of time. Stand in the red glow of Kendell Geers' Hope Is A Four Letter Word (2017), combining language and light to explore power and truth and incite positive change.

Marinella Senatore's Installation as viewed at
Palazzo Strozzi, Florence
Image by OKNO Studio

David Ogle’s fluorescent light canopy Loomin (2020) returns to the South Bank riverside, as well as David Batchelor’s glowing chromatic roof installation Sixty Minute Spectrum (2017), Fred Tschida’s giant rotating orb SPHERE and Jokob Kvist’s glimmering Dichroic Sphere (2020). 

Continuing into the winter months from its summer residency is pocket meadow Haven by Denman + Gould w/ Maeve Polkinhorn, a wildlife sanctuary nestled in the brutalist concrete of the Queen Elizabeth Hall.

Winter Light is curated by Cedar Lewisohn, Curator of Site Design at the Southbank Centre, with Assistant Curators Mark Healy and Madeleine Lynch, and Curatorial Assistant Helena Adalsteinsdottir.

Christmas 2023: The UK’s original festive light trail returns to Kew Gardens in London

The world-famous botanic gardens in London - Kew Gardens - is relaunching "the UK's original feature light trail" this Christmas by showcasing seasonal favourites alongside eight never-before-seen immersive installations, and for the first time, featuring with Brand Partner John Lewis.

New displays include 3m high illuminated flowers, cascading lights suspended from the tree canopy and one of the longest light tunnels to ever feature at Christmas at Kew (15 November 2023 – 7 January 2024.)

Palm House light show at the 10th Christmas at Kew
(c) Raymond Gubbay Ltd, Richard Haughton

Highlights include the iconic Palm House light show where visitors can enjoy a series of light displays -  LED lights ‘float’ and dance on the surface of the adjacent lake.

Since the inaugural Christmas at Kew trail in 2013, this festive event has enchanted visitors with a unique seasonal experience.  This year’s trail is a celebration of nature by night, bringing Kew’s incredible natural architecture to life. 

This Christmas, Kew is asking visitors to do One Small Thing. Illuminated illustrations inspired by the natural world will combine with evocative messaging, encouraging visitors to make a small change and help protect the environment. This mirrors Kew’s mission, to understand and protect plants and fungi for the wellbeing of people and the future of all life on Earth. Since the first festive trail in 2013, the Christmas at Kew team have been looking at ways to deliver a more sustainable light trail, and their 2022 trail used 50% less power than in 2021.

For the first time, Kew’s iconic contemporary art installation, The Hive, will feature in the light trail. At a towering 17 metres tall, The Hive is a striking multi-sensory installation that connects to a real bee colony living at Kew, expressing its life in light and sound created by U.K based artist Wolfgang Buttress. This Christmas, over 1000 LED lights will glow and respond to a new rhythm triggered by a bespoke soundscape.

Lili by TILT

Elsewhere, Lili by TILT, a series of abstract, illuminated flowers that stand at almost 3 metres tall, towering over visitors, makes its UK debut. ArtAV return with Trapezoid, one of the longest light tunnels to ever feature at Christmas at Kew. Along Camellia Walk visitors will wander beneath over 400 colourful cascading lights suspended from the tree canopy, all set against an assortment of neon backdrops.

Moonlight Flowers by OGE Group

Creative studio Pitaya return to Kew with Spark Ballet, 24 lanterns filled with subtly sparkling lights that appear to ‘dance’, and Candles. This brand-new commission sees one hundred candles suspended in the air, magically appearing to float above visitors’ heads. The flickering flames will illuminate tree-lined passageways to create an enchanting festive atmosphere.

With many of Kew’s 12,000 trees and other botanical treasures being accentuated along the route, visitors can wander beneath colourful canopies and bushes draped in seasonal sparkle, experiencing nature from a new perspective whilst treasuring the essential role that plants play in all our lives.

Christmas Cathedral (c) RBG Kew, Jeff Eden

Other returning favourites include Kew’s famous Christmas Cathedral, a twinkling tunnel of light inspired by arched church windows, and a newly designed Fire Garden where more than 300 candles line the path to the Temperate House, the oldest Victorian glasshouse in the world, as flame bulbs create the illusion that this cathedral of glass is glowing from within. 

To add on the experience at Kew, visitors can book a traditional Christmas dinner at The Botanical Brasserie and  Kids favourites can be found at the Family Kitchen & Shop, plus there is a selection of treats from independent street food vendors also available along the route. 

Sandra Botterell, Director of Marketing and Commercial Enterprise at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, said: ‘Christmas at Kew is a magical celebration of Kew’s natural landscape, offering sparkle and festivities during the winter months. With an incredible range of brand-new installations and some returning favourites, this year’s trail is guaranteed to be a seasonal spectacle like no other.’

Rosie Hanley, Director of Marketing at John Lewis, said: 'John Lewis is delighted to be part of this iconic trail which over the years has become a new Christmas tradition for many to enjoy together. As the only brand partner to have ever been integrated into Christmas at Kew, we are excited to unveil our installation for all visitors to enjoy.'

Meanwhile at Wakehurst, Kew’s wild botanic garden in Sussex, Glow Wild celebrates a milestone 10 years. Bringing festive magic and wonder to the South East with 10 new installations and myriad hand-crafted lanterns, this winter lantern trail is not to be missed.

Tickets for Christmas at Kew and Glow Wild are available to purchase at: www.kew.org

Christmas 2023: UK’s Wakehurst gardens open Glow Wild festival with UK's tallest living Christmas tree

Wakehurst* unveils UK's tallest Christmas tree standing at 37m tall
adorned with 1800 energy-saving light bulbs.
Photo: Visual Air © RBG Kew 2023 

As retailers around the country are promoting Black Friday deals (an American tradition after Thanksgiving that falls on Thursday November 23 this year), Wakehurst* gardens in Sussex get off to a festival start for the Christmas 2023 season by unveiling "UK’s tallest living Christmas tree" and open the 10th anniversary of Glow Wild, a festive trail that is brought to life after dark.

Wakehurst* hosts Glow Wild to light up its wild botanic garden, bringing festive magic and wonder with 10 new installations and myriad hand-crafted lanterns. The 2023 edition of the winter lantern trail marks a decade of mesmerising memories and community spirit.
Photo: Visual Air © RBG Kew 2023 

Glow Wild is opened on selected evenings from 23 November 2023 to 1 January 2024,  from 4.30pm to 10pm (last entry 8.20pm), offering various ticket options including flexible tickets.

Wakehurst celebrates its tenth anniversary of Glow Wild, billed as Sussex's ultimate festive trail, featuring a never-before-seen route with brand new installations, and plenty of other surprises, according to Wakehurst's press statement. 

As darkness falls, the gardens are brought to life with beautifully hand-crafted winter lanterns and captivating light installations created by leading artists.

With under 4s going free, Glow Wild is the perfect Christmas sensory experience for little ones and indeed the whole family. This year, Glow Wild celebrates the sublime, inviting visitors to become part of the trail and discover awe-inspiring moments in nature.

Photo: Visual Air © RBG Kew 2023 

During this opening week, Wakehurst offers special ticket promotion plus new flexible ticket offer that allows date swaps and upgrades up to 72 hours before visit in recognition of the strains faced by many during the ongoing cost of living crisis.

Wakehurst has released accessible priced tickets for the opening week of Glow Wild and hopes this, combined with its free tickets for under 4-year-olds, helps families as they prepare for the festive season. The new flexible ticket offer allows bookers to swap or upgrade tickets up to 72 hours before their visit – available for new and existing bookings.

Photo: Visual Air © RBG Kew 2023 

There are lots to do in Glow Wild, including a series of new sessions for adult-only nights, quiet experiences, and relaxed slots adapted for children with special educational needs and disabilities.

Marking a milestone 10 years, this year’s theme invites visitors to reflect on the awe-inspiring moments in the natural world – from epic examples of wildlife to delicate details of plants and fungi. In true Glow Wild tradition, over 1000 lanterns are handmade by local volunteers and community groups, with the tenth anniversary mile- long trail also boasting eight brand new bespoke installations from leading artists.

Photo: Visual Air © RBG Kew 2023 

There is a new interactive experience with Wakehurst’s ‘Starkeeper’ from Long Nose Puppets. Visitors young and young at heart are invited to make a wish on a star to hang in the ‘sky forest’ before they continue their journey. Other friendly faces can be found in giant parading peacock, Percy who give a glowing welcome to all entering the gardens.

In addition there are pop-up stalls throughout the trail offering dwelling points to admire installations whilst visitors can enjoy hot drinks and snacks. Crackling fire pits located close to the Starkeeper form the perfect spot for toasting marshmallows, whilst festive grab and go options can be found under the UK’s tallest living Christmas tree.

Quiet Sessions are available every night at 4.15pm, whilst a series of Relaxed Sessions offer gentle performances adapted especially for children with special educational needs and disabilities. For those looking for the perfect date-night, adult-only slots will run each Friday at 8pm offering a quieter, more intimate experience.

*Wakehurst is affiliated to London's Kew Gardens. It is home to the Millennium Seed Bank, with more than 500 acres of diverse landscapes and plants from across the globe.

Denim Fair: Milan plays host to Denim Première Vision - November 22 - 23, 2023

Come November 22 - 23, Superstudio Più in Milan will be hosting the new edition of Denim Première Vision, a biannual event dedicated to the denim industry, allowing professionals to network and discover the latest on trends, market updates and new developments in eco-responsibility. 

Image: Denim Première Vision

With a Fashion Forum, Talks, seminars, and guided visits, the programme for this edition will revolve around key industry challenges, as the international trade professionals descend onto Milan known as the one of the historic capitals of denim - the birthplace of pioneering brands now ranked among the sector's biggest players.  Organisers of Denim Première Vision review that Milan will be the location not just for this November's event, but also for the upcoming editions in June and November 2024.

Some 69 international exhibitors this November, including weavers, component and accessory makers, garment manufacturers, laundries and finishers - who are set to present their Spring-Summer 25 collections.  They include Advance Denim, Berto, Blue Jeans Lavanderie, Cadica, Calik, Casati, Chottani, Delago, Elleti, Evlox, Fasac, Fashion Art, Foshan Foison Textile, Indigo Textile, Isko, Isko Luxury by PG, Japan Blue, Jeanologia, Kassim, Kilim, Kipas, Kurabo, Kuroki, Montega, Nearchimica, Orta, Outside Denim Lab by Fabritex, Prosperity, Pure Denim, Rajby, Ribbontex, Sharabati, Stella Blu, Tessitura La Colombina, Titanus, Tusa, Zaitex, 496 Lab.

Image: Denim Première Vision

At the heart of the fair is the Fashion Forum where visitors can explore the latest creative trends and sustainable advances for Spring-Summer 25. This 250m2 circular space offers a immersive way to experience the season. In collaboration with Alessio Berto (expert pattern-maker) and exhibitors such as FashionArt (Italian specialist in high-end denim) and Teintures de France (artisanal dyehouse and jeanswear expert), the Première Vision fashion team will be presenting a series of looks inspired by the leading materials for Spring-Summer 25.

With a strong focus on innovation, the fair will cover enhanced recycling innitiatives (using recycled materials such as circulose®, refibra and certain elastomultiesters), natural pigments (such as BioBlack dye obtained from FSC-certified wood waste), regenerative agriculture (aimed at restoring and strengthening natural ecosystems, re-establishing biodiversity, preserving soil quality), according to the organisers.

Michiko Koshino
Image: Denim Première Vision

The Denim Fashion District is a space dedicated to young designers and established denim brands, showcasing never-before-seen capsule collections. To be featured will be Japanese fashion designer Michiko Koshino (whose mother is the celebrated designer Ayako Koshino),  Fade Out Label, Regenes, Daily Blue by Adriano Goldschmied, Stripes of-F Road, Hen's Teeth, Anna Galaganenko, Blue of a Kind, Hnst, Maurizio Massimino, Gimmi Jeans, Leon Emmanuel Blanck.  

For more information on the Denim Fashion District, click HERE.

Image: Denim Première Vision

A full programme of Talks, seminars and guided visits will help trade visitors to analyse and understand the season's trends, and keys information to develop their future collections.

Click HERE for the full programme of talks and seminars.