Textile Trade Fair: Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris from 1 to 3 July at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles

The Paris Olympic Games, set to begin on July 26, 2024, will not affect access for visitors or exhibitors at the Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris trade shows, which will be held from July 1 to 3, 2024, at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, according to the organisers.

While the Games will start three weeks after the textile and apparel trade shows, they will coincide with a busy tourism season. Therefore, visitors to the fair are advised to plan ahead and book their accommodation and flights early to secure the best rates. Messe Frankfurt France, the organizer of Apparel Sourcing Paris, has arranged on-site concierge services to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

To maximize convenience and buyers' attendance, Apparel Sourcing and Texworld Paris, along with related trade fairs Avantex and Leatherworld, are organized by Messe Frankfurt France. These events are held at the same location, on the same dates, and offer free entry upon presentation of professional credentials.

Over a thousand exhibitors from major sourcing countries will present their latest inspirational products sought by buyers and designers to build their collections for 2025-2026. This season's show will highlight suppliers of innovative products and solutions for high-performance and sustainable fashion.

Asia, a key player in the textile industry, will have a predominant presence at Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris.

This year, Messe Frankfurt France is supporting the National Museum of Asian Arts - Guimet in Paris, particularly the exhibition dedicated to the Tang Empire (618-907), which runs until February 2025. This cultural sponsorship aims to showcase the cultural, artistic, and textile richness of an empire that was open to the world from the Middle East to Central Asia.

For the first time, a pavilion featuring yarn producers from China, India, Pakistan, and Taiwan will be set up, co-organized with Yarn Expo, a Shanghai show in the Messe Frankfurt portfolio.

Leatherworld, the platform dedicated to leather sourcing, will feature a South African pavilion with a high-quality range of products. This area will also host a Leather Trends section curated by Italian publisher Edizioni AF, focusing on design processes and material choices used by Italian accessories and footwear manufacturers.

New features are expected in the Avantex innovations area, including exclusive partnerships with the IFA Paris fashion design school, the TCBL association, and the TUV Rheinland certification body. These collaborations will showcase cutting-edge solutions in sustainable fashion and textiles, offering opportunities for expert discussions.

Additionally, Texpertise Econogy, the sustainable economy approach developed by Messe Frankfurt, will guide visitors in their sourcing decisions. Building on its successful launch in the February show, the upcoming event will continue to promote sustainability with exciting features and provide a platform for green pioneers.

Louis Gérin and Grégory Lamaud, artistic directors of Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris, have produced a trend book titled "IMPERFaiCTION", for the Autumn-Winter 2025-2026 season, tthe focus for this July's show, exploring the limits of humans in confronting the potential of AI, and proposes a poetic reading of their imperfections.

Based on the cross-referencing and analysis of emerging signals detected in the artistic, economic and societal fields, the two artistic directors are putting forward a "wardrobe" under four inspiring themes for fashion designers. Pattern design boards grouping the color universes around 3 "star colours", the looks and silhouettes staged for each creative universe specifically aiming at the trends for Autumn-Winter 2025-2026.

To download the IMPERFaiCTION trend book, click HERE. 

All photos taken from Texworld  Apparel Sourcing Paris - July 2023 edition

Fashion Trade Fair: Ukraine's design brands to be showcased in Milan Fashion Week in June

Amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the nation's fashion industry faces unprecedented challenges. Yet, a beacon of hope emerges through Angel for Fashion, founded by Jen Sidary, a key figure in Ukrainian fashion before the war broke out two years ago. Sidary is continuing her efforts to support Ukrainian brands by orchestrating a showcase of Ukrainian designers at Milan Fashion Week for the second consecutive season.  This platform provides an opportunity for these designers to present their creativity and resilience to fashion buyers from around the globe.

GUNIA PROJECT, OMELIA, NOVITSKA, THEO, and HVOYA

Building on their recent successes in New York and Paris, Angel for Fashion will present the latest creations of seven Ukrainian designers in Milan unveiling their Spring/Summer '25 pre-collection. From June 17 to 21, 2024, the showroom at Corso Venezia 59 will display men’s and women’s apparel, shoes, accessories, and homeware.

Returning to Milan Fashion Week, Angel for Fashion introduces newcomers like Hvoya, known for its meticulous craftsmanship; Theo, redefining modern fashion with minimalist yet impactful designs; and Novitska, a womenswear brand creating timeless, high-quality clothing for special occasions. The other featured brands—Gasanova, Gudu, Omelia, and Gunia Project—each have unique stories, blending tradition, innovation, and resilience into their collections. Their designs, inspired by the strength of Ukrainian women, highlight eco-conscious creations promoting sustainability. 

GUDU and GASANOVA

Presenting the theme "WALK INTO NEWNESS,"  the collections offer a glimpse into the dynamic fusion of hues and artistic expression of the Ukranian designers, embracing a fusion of traditional and contemporary influences, according to Angel for Fashion. The showcased collections encapsulate a rich tapestry of colours, reflecting both individual artistic visions and collective cultural narratives. Each hue is meticulously chosen to evoke a specific mood, convey a distinct message, or celebrate a particular theme, ultimately contributing to a captivating mosaic of colour exploration.  

From the serene whites and earthy tones of Gasanova's collection, symbolizing the harmony of nature and the enduring beauty of femininity to the bold interplay of stark blacks, rich browns, and vibrant reds in GUDU's offerings, underscoring a commitment to pushing the boundaries of contemporary fashion, the spectrum of colors presented is as diverse as it is captivating.

HVOYA's "Beauty In Chaos" collection introduces a burst of brightness with bright yellows, deep blues, and soft pastels, inviting viewers to embrace the allure of randomness and the beauty of unconventional design. Meanwhile, Novitska's lively explosion of electric blues, vivid pinks, and sunny yellows harks back to the spirited ambiance of the 70s and 80s, capturing the essence of carefree summer days.

HVÓYA's latest spring-summer footwear collection, "Beauty In Chaos," at Milan Fashion Week. This collection designed by Maria Simich-Moiseenko explores the beauty of randomness and chaos, revolving around asymmetrical shapes, with designs crafted like works of art.  Each piece reflects the brand's dedication to creative experimentation and craftsmanship, involving collaborations among shoemakers, knitters, and jewellers.

Omelia's "Fervent Heart" collection, combined with deep reds, warm oranges, and classic denim blues, is a nostalgic yet forward-thinking tribute to sustainability and craftsmanship. Similarly, Theo's sophisticated palette of muted beiges, pale pinks, and patinated blues, punctuated by bold blacks and whites, reflects a minimalist yet gender-neutral approach to contemporary fashion. Completing the ensemble, Gunia Project's focus on earthy greens, rich browns, and natural hues highlights the beauty of traditional Ukrainian crafts while championing sustainability and eco-consciousness in modern fashion.

Angel for Fashion has become a symbol of resilience and solidarity during the ongoing conflict. By providing a decisive stage for Ukrainian designers to showcase their talent internationally, Sidary emphasizes: "Celebrating the creativity and resilience of Ukrainian designers is not just about fashion; it's about standing in solidarity with a nation facing adversity. Through these showcases, we're highlighting their talent and offering a lifeline of support and hope amidst these horrific times."

The showcase celebrates the rich tapestry of Ukrainian culture through a diverse array of styles.  Ukraine's fashion and textile industry bridges its rich cultural heritage with modern innovation. From traditional embroidery to contemporary design, Ukrainian fashion reflects the country's history, challenges, and aspirations.

Through angelforfashion.com, the website supports Ukraine's fashion industry by ensuring that purchasing from Ukrainian designers directly contributes to their livelihoods, paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future for the Ukrainian fashion community.

Craft Exhibition: "The Architecture of Nature: Geometry, Structure & Space at the Garrison Chapel, Chelsea Barracks

London Craft Week maybe officially over for 2024 but there is still time to enjoy The Architecture of Nature: Geometry, Structure & Space at The Garrison Chapel, in Chelsea Barracks, running until May 27th 2024.

The exhibition of geometric structures on display were built as part of a recent course offered by The King's Foundation School of Traditional Arts, which explores traditional craft techniques. 

The Architecture of Nature: Geometry, Structure & Space delves into the distinctive geometry found in nature and its influence on philosophical thought, scientific theories, and art and architecture throughout history, featuring immersive three-dimensional polyhedral structures created in a geometry workshop.

Through these impressive polyhedral structures, the exhibition investigates how patterns in nature and space manifest, demonstrating how geometry shapes art, craft, and the rhythms and structures of life—from towering buildings to the delicate symmetry of flowers. 

The exhibition also explores the symbolism of geometry and its connections to philosophical and scientific theories, referencing the works of Plato, Leonardo da Vinci, and Johannes Kepler.

Photos by Lucia Carpio

Flower Show: Retro Bedding Brand Weirdstock Featured at James Whiting's Award-winning RHS Chelsea Flower Show Display

You might wonder why a bedding brand is at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. The fact is, the ethical and sustainable bedding brand Weirdstock is prominently featured at an award-winning stand. It is nestled within the stunning, gold medal-winning display "Verdant Visions" by James Whiting at the Houseplant Studios section, sponsored by family history website FindMyPast.

The Verdent Vision exhibit by James Whiting at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024 featuring
joyful retro bedding from Weirdstock.

Johanna Haughey-Lewis, founder of London-based Weirdstock, designed the bedding and fabric featured in the exhibit and collaborated with James Whiting to transform the botanical bedroom space into an immersive retro dreamscape. This unique collaboration perfectly marries joyful retro style with modern comfort and sustainable practices, embodying the philosophy at the heart of the Weirdstock brand.

This year marks the award-winning designer James Whiting's third appearance at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show with a new exhibit in the Houseplant Studio category.

"Verdant Visions" reflects Whiting’s passion for sustainable indoor green design. The exhibit takes visitors on a nostalgic journey through the defining soundtracks, bold designs, and vibrant tropical houseplants of the 1970s. Whiting drew inspiration from the fond memories of classic houseplants grown by his grandparents and his parents' love of 70s music.

Designed to evoke a teenager's bedroom from the 70s, the exhibit also includes coverage of RHS Chelsea from that era. Whiting remarks, “Storytelling with plants, interior design, and music are my passions. I hope to reignite a love for staple retro houseplants that are sometimes overlooked in favour of flashy new varieties.” He adds, “Partnering with Findmypast to create this immersive space has opened doors to a wealth of intriguing information. Their extensive archive has provided real insight into this period, allowing me to relive moments from the decade of disco, flares, and Spider Plants!”

"We're thrilled to be part of James' incredible vision," says Weirdstock's Haughey-Lewis. "Verdant Visions captures the essence of a nostalgic 70s haven, and our bedding complements that perfectly. We believe everyone deserves to experience that feeling of pure comfort and joy in their own bedrooms, and with Weirdstock, they can achieve that while supporting ethical and sustainable practices."

Weirdstock's vibrant and bold retro designs are made in GOTS-certified organic cotton and offer eye-catching style and hotel-quality comfort.

Specializing in organic cotton bedding with bold, retro-inspired prints, Weirdstock's designs blend vintage style with modern quality, all while maintaining a minimal environmental impact. Each product is crafted to be fun and uplifting, bringing a touch of 1970s eclecticism into a joyful home.

Photos courtesy of Weirdstock

Photography Exhibition: The King's Gallery in London unveils new exhibition showcasing the stories behind 100 years of iconic royal photographs

The King’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace in London, recently renamed from its dedication to the late Queen Elizabeth II, has launched a new exhibition - "Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography" -   that traces the evolution of royal portrait photography from the 1920s to the present day. 

Featuring over 150 items from the Royal Collection and Royal Archives, the exhibition showcases vintage prints—original works produced by photographers—most of which are being displayed for the first time.

This never-before-seen image shows four royal mothers – Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Margaret, Princess Alexandra and The Duchess of Kent – holding their newborn babies.  It was taken by Princess Margaret’s photographer husband Lord Snowdon as a personal token of thanks for Sir John Peel, the royal obstetrician who delivered all four babies within two months in 1964. Shown with it at "Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography" is a handwritten letter from Princess Margaret to her sister, asking her ‘Darling Lilibet’ to sign a print as a souvenir of an extraordinary two months of delivery’.

Highlights of the exhibition,  include an unseen family photograph marking the birth of four royal babies as seen above, as well as the Queen Mother’s personal copy of her daughter’s Coronation portrait, and the earliest surviving color photographic print of a member of the Royal Family. 

Cecil Beaton’s charming 25th-birthday portrait of Princess Margaret,
dressed in an evening gown with her dog Pippin in her lap.

Andy Warhol's portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.

Alessandro Nasini, curator of the exhibition, stated, "The Royal Collection holds some of the most enduring photographs ever taken of the Royal Family, captured by celebrated portrait photographers from Dorothy Wilding and Cecil Beaton to Annie Leibovitz, David Bailey, and Rankin. Alongside these beautiful vintage prints, which cannot be on permanent display for conservation reasons, we are excited to share archival correspondence and never-before-seen proofs that provide visitors with a behind-the-scenes insight into the creation of these unforgettable royal portraits."

Visitors can see in the Portraits Gallery Paolo Roversi’s memorable 40th-birthday portrait of The Princess of Wales, in which Her Royal Highness’s dress and pose bear a striking visual resemblance to an 1864 portrait of Alexandra, Princess of Wales by Franz Xaver Winterhalter from the Royal Collection, which is hung nearby.

Among the standout pieces is the earliest surviving color photographic print of a member of the Royal Family. It features Princess Alice, Duchess of Gloucester, on her wedding day in 1935, captured by Madame Yevonde, a pioneer of color photography and a champion of women photographers.

Unreleased wartime images by Cecil Beaton will be on display for the first time, demonstrating how King George VI and Queen Elizabeth used photography to project a sense of stability and hope for the nation. Beaton photographed the Royal Family over the course of six decades and was chosen as the official photographer for Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation in 1953. Visitors will see a contact sheet of proofs from the Coronation sitting, alongside a note from Martin Charteris, the Queen’s Assistant Private Secretary, recommending to Prince Philip which images should be sent as personal mementos to the Royal Family and Maids of Honour. The photograph subsequently sent to Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, signed by Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip and Cecil Beaton, will also be on display.

Photographs taken during sittings to mark royal birthdays through the decades will be among the highlights of the exhibition. These include Cecil Beaton’s charming 25th-birthday portrait of Princess Margaret, dressed in an evening gown with her dog Pippin in her lap, and a previously unseen contact sheet by Norman Parkinson showing the late Queen and Princess Margaret laughing and talking together during a sitting to mark their mother’s 80th birthday.

Innovations in colour and digital photography between the 1980s and 2020s revolutionised the medium, ushering in a new sense of experimentation and playfulness. Bold and colourful examples on show will include Rankin’s 2001 photograph of a smiling Queen Elizabeth II, superimposed against the Union Flag; Polly Borland’s Golden Jubilee portrait of the late Queen set against a glittering gold backdrop; and Andy Warhol’s 1985 portrait of Her late Majesty, sprinkled with diamond dust to make it sparkle in the light.

"Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography" runs until October 6 2024, at The King’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace.  The exhibition’s free multimedia guide, narrated by Dame Joanna Lumley, features contributions from royal photographers Hugo Burnand, Rankin and John Swannell. Visitors will hear Burnand’s behind-the-scenes account of taking the official Coronation portraits of Their Majesties The King and Queen on 6 May 2023 – from cycling to and from the Palace to avoid roadblocks and getting soaked in the rain in the process, to doing dress rehearsals right up until the moment the Gold State Coach arrived back at the Palace from Westminster Abbey.

All images courtesy of Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2024.

Design, Lifestyle and Interiors: Clerkenwell Design Week returns to host international brands May 21 - 23 2024 in London

In the heart of bustling London, Clerkenwell stands as a tranquil hub in the east, boasting a vibrant community of creative enterprises and architects. Renowned as a global design epicenter, this enclave, identified by its EC1 postcode, holds profound significance for the creative industries. With its abundance of design showrooms, studios, and galleries, Clerkenwell is poised to host its Design Week from May 21 to 23, 2024.

Duffy London at the historic St John's Gate of the Order of St John with their latest installation for Clerkenwell Design Week 2024, building on their recent collaboration with Berlin-based designer Orsi Orban. 
Gatekeepers is inspired by organic forms found in nature.
Photo by Lucia Carpio

In celebration of Clerkenwell's diverse design community, Clerkenwell Design Week (CDW) orchestrates a distinctive platform. Showcasing leading interior brands and emerging talents, CDW promises over 600 showroom events, 11 curated exhibitions, captivating installations, as well as informative discussions, design hotspots, fringe events, culinary delights, and more. 

Spread across the district's exhibition venues, the event curates a global array of furniture, lighting, textiles, surfaces, accessories, and product design, solidifying its status as the UK's premier design festival.

Clerkenwell's allure lies in its fusion of historical heritage and contemporary flair. Characterized by cobblestone streets, repurposed warehouses, and industrial edifices transformed into modern workspaces and galleries, the district exudes an inspiring ambiance.  Exploiting this charm, the festival utilises diverse venues, from the subterranean House of Detention showcasing lighting brands to the lively Clerkenwell Green hosting contract furniture displays. St. John's Square becomes home to Elements, spotlighting architectural hardware, while St. James's Church and the Order of St. John exhibit British and international luxury collections, respectively. Introducing the Goldsmiths' Centre this year, the festival expands its focus to commercial and workplace interiors.  There will also be special dedicated spaces for displaying collections by Danish, German and Italian designers and brands.  

From innovative farming by-product designs and the renaissance of natural stone and wood to AI-crafted cocktails and industry discussions on neurodiversity, this year's event sees the most extensive programme to date, according to organisers.  As in previous events, organisers will provide a design trail map for visitors to follow at the Farringdon train station.

Among the new collection launching at CDW is Fritz Hansen at its Cowcross Street showroom in a special feature titled 'Inviting Workspaces’ displaying furniture and accessories from designers including Jaime Hayon and Jørn Utzon.

At its Great Sutton Street showroom, Domus will present a colourful exhibit of tile designs created by Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby to celebrate their 10-year collaboration with its brand partner Mutina.

In the British Collection (St James’s Church), SCP will launch a new Peonia armchair by Wilkinson and Rivera, a low-lying sculptural armchair made at a specialist factory in Norfolk, using 100% natural and sustainable materials. Meanwhile, Another Country will showcase its new ‘Series Five’ furniture inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement.

At Detail at the Order of St John, Omexco will unveil three new ranges, including the Archipelago design crafted from Capiz shells and shimmering mica minerals. While Arte presents its new Lani collection, featuring hand-crafted designs inlaid or embroidered with rattan and raffia, Kasthall will return with its new Vichy collection, a modern interpretation of the classic gingham pattern. 

Wallpaper design studio Erica Wakerly has teamed up with Sixteen3 to debut a new fabric collection, which will be shown at the latter’s Bastwick Street showroom as part of a pop-up that examines the evolving nature of workspaces.

Joining CDW and the neighbourhood for the first time is British lighting manufacturer J. Adams & Co, launching its new St John Street showroom just in time for the festival. Collaborating with tile expert Solus, the in-house team has repurposed materials from the site and factory offcuts to create stunning terrazzo tiles and worktops. Also new to the festival is Pooky Lighting, showcasing its new collection of rechargeable lights at Light at House of Detention.

CDW continues its tradition of championing emerging talent, spotlighting a diverse range of newcomers this year. Showing at Platform (70 Cowcross Street), Selfish Customs collaborates with local makers in East Anglia, repurposing farming by-products such as raw fleece, reed and barley straw to create unique homeware. Visitors can explore the studio’s creations alongside Colombian art historian-turned-designer Manuela Cabrales, who is launching shawls, trousers and handcrafted lamps using materials like lotus fibre and orange peels. Also featured is Barcelona-based Isabel Francoy's La Sobremesa collection, which blends wicker weaving and glassblowing with modern design.

Historically an industrial hub renowned for craftsmanship, Clerkenwell has metamorphosed into a thriving creative nexus, drawing architects, designers, and artisans. Its strategic proximity to other creative hubs like Shoreditch and the West End, coupled with excellent transport links, enhances its appeal to professionals in design and fashion. Furthermore, the district's vibrant culinary scene, replete with trendy cafes, bars, and restaurants, fosters a dynamic social milieu, enriching the creative community's experiences and inspirations.

All photos by Lucia Carpio 

Gardens and Lifestyle: Hartley Botanic launches new Victorian inspired Greenhouses and water butts at Chelsea Flower Show, London

As temperatures rise and sunny days approach, we all look forward to spending more time outdoors. Even when the weather is unpredictable, it's wonderful to have a place to relax while staying dry and enjoying the garden. With the opening of London's RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024, there are plenty of inspiring ideas and examples to enhance our English summer experience

At the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, exhibitor Hartley Botanic, located at Trade Stand No. 142, is  is launching a new range of four contrasting greenhouses, all set against an inspiring yet traditional Victorian English garden theme, reflecting the growing demand for grander Victorian glasshouses.

The Victorian Manor, measuring 8 meters long and 4 meters wide, is the largest glasshouse Hartley Botanic has ever brought to the flower show. This grand structure reflects a growing trend for larger, more opulent Victorian-style greenhouses among customers. Designed for entertaining, it features a partitioned workspace and a built-in storage area. Celebrating the opulent English gardens of the Victorian era—a period known for pioneering gardening "under glass"—the Victorian Manor Glasshouse showcases simple elegance with a minimal material palette. Romanticizing traditional English gardens, the planting overflows with vibrant colors, spilling over paths. The design's structural simplicity includes a formal hedge, topiary, two feature multi-stem trees, and paths leading into each glasshouse.

Tom Barry, CEO of Hartley Botanic said; “Achieving an elegant and traditional garden aesthetic is an aspiration for many customers, and often a driving force in their decision to invest in a luxury Hartley Botanic Greenhouse. The Victorians certainly knew how to create beautiful and opulent planting schemes and we see customers recreate this look in their Greenhouses today, especially those within our Victorian range.

Nearby, a Patio Glasshouse on display is perfect for small gardens and balconies. The Wisley 8 Grow and Store Greenhouse, part of the Heritage Range, features a practical partitioned internal storage area. This greenhouse, with a historically-inspired design based on an original Hartley Botanic model, is powder-coated in bronze.

The Opus Glasshouse in dark bronze is the most contemporary structure on display, featuring concealed engineering and expansive glass-to-ground windows that maximize light and architectural style.

Powder-coated in dark bronze, the Opus is filled with colorful orchids. Reflecting quintessential Victorian opulence, the vibrant orchids are complemented by non-flowering plants such as ferns. Visitors will embark on a tropical journey through this glasshouse, immersing themselves in the striking vibrancy of the orchids on display.

A newly launched range of elegantly designed water butts is making its debut at the trade stand. These handmade aluminum water butts, available in both large and small sizes, feature a unique design that combines a clean shape with curved legs, offering a refined and stylish finish.

The 2024 Hartley Botanic trade stand has been designed by Landscape Architect Rachel Sampson (BA(Hons) Dip. CMLI) and built and planted by Stewart Landscape Construction.

All images from Hartley Botanic.

Flowers and Culture: RHS Chelsea Flower Show May 21 - 25 features gardens to address contemporary and environmental challenges

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is considered the world's most renowned flower and gardening exhibition, held annually on the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea in London. Organized by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), it is a significant event in the British social calendar and attracts visitors from around the globe.  It is always a delight to witness the amazing talent of both seasoned garden designers and emerging talents, 

Running from May 21 to 25, this year's event no doubt will captivate the senses and imaginations of both connoisseurs and amateurs alike, featuring the finest in flowers and plants. 

Charity "Project Giving Back" is sponsoring St James's Church's garden at Chelsea Flower Show in support of The Wren Project and help the Church raise £20m to rejuvenate the historic, Wren-designed church, and particularly to restore its Piccadilly garden.  The ‘Imagine the World to be Different’-themed garden designed by Robert Myers at Chelsea will be a reflective space where nature takes centre stage. Calm, contemplative and uplifting, it will offer a refuge for humans and wildlife.  
Image from St James's Church website.

This year, the featured gardens will address several pressing and contemporary issues in horticulture, including environmental challenges such as flooding and drought, and urban biodiversity. Themes of wellbeing and gut health will also be explored, with a focus on plants that benefit both internal and external microbiomes.

While there are eight main show gardens at this year's RHS Chelsea Flower Show, 15 of the gardens will be supported by Project Giving Back, an initiative which allows charitable organisations to exhibit at the Chelsea Flower Show. This raises the profile and platform of the charities, whilst ensuring the diversity of the show itself. 

Project Giving Back will support several large show gardens, along with some Sanctuary and All About Plants gardens, all emphasizing a strong legacy focus. These showpieces are designed to transform into teaching gardens and community spaces post-exhibition. One notable garden, themed "Imagine the World to be Different," supports the Wren Project of St James's Church in Piccadilly, London. This garden encourages visitors to cherish the earth and each other, highlighting the role of gardens as spaces for healing and contemplation while celebrating the rejuvenating qualities of urban green spaces.

A magnificent Magnolia tree graced the front court yard of St James's Church, Piccadilly, in early spring 2024.
Photo by Lucia Carpio.

The visibility of St James's garden at the show aims to help raise £20 million for the restoration of their historic, Wren-designed church and its Piccadilly garden. Designed by Robert Myers, this Chelsea garden will form the basis of a restored, accessible space where approximately 300,000 people from all walks of life seek tranquility and inspiration annually. The Wren Project aims to enhance St James's environmental activities and social outreach, supporting individuals experiencing homelessness, refugees, asylum seekers, and those persecuted for their sexuality or identity.

Central to the garden design is the architecture of Wren’s church, featuring an arched window. A new structure designed by artist Ivan Morison will house the Caravan Drop-In and Counselling Service, eventually relocating to the restored Piccadilly garden along with plants from the show garden. Robert Myers draws inspiration from London’s pocket parks and historic churchyards like St James’s, which have endured wartime scars yet symbolize resilience and regeneration. The woodland-style planting focuses on textural foliage with splashes of color, incorporating wild plants like chickweed, speedwell, and vetch, known for their resilience and regenerative qualities.

St James's Church hopes its Chelsea garden will be a reflective space where nature takes centre stage. Calm, contemplative and uplifting, it will offer a refuge for humans and wildlife.

Chelsea shops and eateries celebrate Chelsea Flower Show
with their own displays during the floral exhibition.
 Photo by Lucia Carpio

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show infuses excitement and vibrancy into the Chelsea and Belgravia neighborhoods, where retailers, commercial properties and eateries create equally splendid displays to celebrate the premier flower exhibition, creating a festive atmosphere.

Chelsea in Bloom 2024’s theme is ‘Floral Feasts’, celebrating two of the things Chelsea is most famous for – botanical heritage and fabulous food, promising a feast for the eyes, with inspiration taken from culinary favourites and memorable foodie scenes and characters across film, literature, history and art.

The Duke of York Square in Chelsea.  Photo by Lucia Carpio.

The elegant residential development of Chelsea Barracks, across the street from the Chelsea Flower Show, will simultaneously host a Spring Fair from May 22 to 25. The event will transform the beautiful garden squares into a lively hub featuring shopping, talks, seminars, and excellent food and drink. At the heart of the Spring Fair, an artisan market will offer a series of talks and clinics in partnership with House & Garden, with editors engaging in conversations with leading figures from the worlds of design and horticulture.  On May 24, the garden clinic will feature House & Garden’s garden editor Clare Foster discussing horticultural topics with RHS Chelsea Flower Show gold medal winners Jo Thompson and Tom Massey. 

Sophisticated and elegant gardens at the Chelsea Barracks residential development. Photo by Lucia Carpio.

The Fair will also showcase stalls by independent makers and brands such as Sharland England, The Oxton Liqueur Company, and Gaze Burvill, providing stylish shopping opportunities. Networking and garden talks will take place at The Campaner, while the Louise Rowe talk will be held at The Garrison Chapel. Tickets must be booked in advance.

Craft and Sustainability: Repurpose, reuse adnd repair craftsmanship showcased at Selfridges during London Craft Week

Selfridges’ new permanent RESELFRIDGES destination in the Accessories Hall at its London Oxford Street location offers a unique opportunity to explore unusual gifts, keepsakes, and collectables. During London Craft Week, visitors can witness artisans, makers, and innovators using creativity and craftsmanship to repurpose, reuse, and repair unwanted items and waste materials.

Throughout the week, May 13 - 19 2024, visitors can purchase a select range of unique pieces and observe demonstrations of specialist craft techniques and innovative new methods of making.

Emily Frances Barrett

One featured artist is Emily Frances Barrett, a jeweller who transforms lost or found objects into beautiful multidisciplinary jewellery and art pieces. 

Emily Frances Barrett

Emma works with discarded treasures, whose scars reveal glimpses into the past, finding beauty in everything from forgotten jewels to discarded buttons.

WYP PYM

WYP PYM - Waste Yarn Project with Celia Pym - is a collaboration between Siri Johansen, co-founder of the Waste Yarn Project, and textile artist Celia Pym. They explore playful, resourceful design and celebrate slow craft through handmade knitted clothing and accessories.

Allday Goods is a kitchen knife company that repurposes plastic waste destined for landfills into lifelong products. Their mission is to raise awareness and encourage a rethink of our relationship with waste.

Tessa Silva

British-Brazilian artist Tessa Silva examines the impact of material use on society by creating delicate, one-of-a-kind art objects from milk proteins.

Inspired by the medieval history of her hometown, London, Ciara Bowles combines ancient techniques with vibrant colors to create timeless jewellery pieces. Her work emphasizes ethical production and craftsmanship using reclaimed and recycled materials.

Blast Studio

Blast Studio, based in London, excels in transforming leftover coffee cups into futuristic furniture and architecture. They use 3D printing technology to turn discarded waste into sustainable furniture and interior products, such as lampshades and containers.

Anabela Chan, a fine jeweller, champions laboratory-grown gemstones, blending sculptural designs with science, and Lucie Gledhill creates unique jewellery from recycled metals using traditional techniques and chain-making, exploring material relationships through low-tech design approaches and a slow creation process.

Finally, the King’s Foundation offers specialist training programmes in heritage and craft skills. At Selfridges, shirts donated by Turnbull and Asser were embroidered by graduates using expert embroidery techniques.

Photos by Lucia Carpio

Craft and Culture: Kuwait's Sadu heritage and craft highlighted through contemporary designs at London Craft Week 2024

Despite the pressures of modernity, Sadu culture remains a vibrant part of Kuwait’s cultural landscape. Modern designers and artists draw inspiration from traditional Sadu patterns, incorporating them into contemporary art, fashion, and design.

This fusion of old and new ensures that the rich heritage of Sadu continues to evolve while maintaining its historical essence. This is evident in this week's London Craft Week, hosted by the Kuwait Embassy in London, under the title "Beyond the Loom: Contemporary Sadu Expressions." The event, held under the auspices of the Al Sadu Society, highlights the society's recent efforts to preserve this cultural heritage of Kuwait.

The Sadu culture in Kuwait is deeply rooted in the Bedouin traditions of the Arabian Peninsula. "Sadu" weaving is practiced by the Bedouin tribes, where portable and practical items were essential for a nomadic way of life.  Sadu is particularly known for its vibrant geometric patterns and the use of camel and goat hair. 

Seetah Al-Marni presents Sadu Scarfs each measures 325 x 31 cm boosting striking Sadu patterns. 

Further research has revealed that the Sadu culture in Kuwait is deeply rooted in the Bedouin traditions of the Arabian Peninsula. The term "Sadu" refers to a traditional form of weaving practiced by the nomadic Bedouin tribes, particularly known for its vibrant geometric patterns and the use of camel and goat hair. This cultural heritage plays a significant role in the social and economic life of Bedouins and has been preserved and celebrated in Kuwait.

In 2011, the traditional weaving of Al Sadu was inscribed on the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding. This recognition highlights the importance of the craft and the need to preserve it in the face of modernization.

A selection of home and fashion items featuring Sadu weaving techniques, as well as  hand-crafted jewellery,in silver band in gold, silver and enamel were among the exhibits at  "Beyond the Loo:  Contemporary Sadu Expressions."

The exhibition at the Kuwait embassy during London Craft Week tells a story of cultural continuity and artistic innovation through crafted art produced by Kuwaiti artisans.  Much of the crafts shown involve Sadu weaving, a craft that involves using a ground loom, and the techniques have remained largely unchanged for centuries.  The weavers, mostly women, create intricate designs that often incorporate symbolic motifs representing their environment, such as desert landscapes and animal tracks.

The modern designers and artists showcased have meticulously incorporated traditional Sadu patterns into their designs, creating a seamless blend of old and new for a contemporary lifestyle, with remarkable results.

Muneera Al-Sharhan presents Hayakom, a Sadu seating set

Muneera Al-Sharhan's Hayakom, is a seating set with cushions in striking geometric Sadu patterns and vibrant colours, handcrafted, adapted and reimagined for modern living, "interpreting Sadu weaving in a way that suits her needs and surroundings, adopting a playful approach to its creation. " 

Kawthar Al-Saffar presents Crisscross Trays,

Kawthar Al-Saffar presents Crisscross Trays, designed "to elevate the intricate skill of master weaver Mutaira's Sadu without appropriation of her original process."  These sculptural trays add three dimensional framing to Mutaira's rectilinear textiles.  Made by both dual-casting and Sadu weaving which have high limitations, informing the design to produce unique objects that personify the inherent beauty of these local constraints.

Laila Al-Hamad presents Tital

Laila Al-Hamad shows Tital a set of incense burner made in marble and sandstone, known in Arabic as mubkbar, apparently one of the few objects that has survived the test of time.  The idea was to create a handmade piece that combined the useful and the beautiful, allowing one to connect to the ritual and the object, the material and the form, and most importantly to the handmade nature of craft.

Ali Al-Yousefi presents Forest of Shapes 

Ali Al-Yousefi presents Forest of Shapes inspired by the Shajara pattern, the central and most elaborate pattern of Sadu textiles.  Ali's unique 3D printed game Forest of Shapes invites users to participate in the Sadu process.  This game interprets the tactile component of Sadu weaving and combines it with the forms of the Shajara pattern, allowing users to create shape after shape using multi-coloured blocks.

Muneera Al-Sharhan presents Sadu Collection silver jewellery

Also show off Sadu traditional patterns to great effect are hand-crafted jewellery,in silver by Muneera Al-Sharhan and in gold, silver and enamel by Farah Bastaki, as well as incense burners in marble and sandstone by Laila Al-Hamad and in gold brass by Hussein Al-Rushaid.  Hanadi Al-Marzouk presents a selection of Sadu cups in ceramic.  There is also a Sadu bench by Manal Al-Maimouni made in wood with woven wool detailing.  Husam Al-Rushaid presents a "pyramid" item made in black iron while Alia Al-Fares presents Aljazi, a collection of travertine natural stone columns.

Farah Bastaki presents "Yalmah" jewellery in gold, fine silver and enamel.

Hussein Al-Rushald presents Sadu incense burner in gold-brass.

Hanadi Al-Marzouk presents Sadu cups in ceramic.

Manal Al-Maimouni presents Sadu beanch in wood with woven wool detailing.

The exhibit at the Kuwait embassy demonstrates that the Sadu culture in Kuwait exemplifies the resilience and creativity of the Bedouin people.  It represents a rich tradition that bridges the past and present, ensuring the preservation and celebration of Kuwait's cultural heritage for future generations.

All photos by Lucia Carpio