Fashion / Bristol Fashion
High-end fashion show raises money for Leukaemia charity
The G&F Couture fashion show took place in March at the historic Kings Weston House in Bristol. This haute couture fashion show featured eight independent fashion designers showcasing their work, including local designers Amber Hards Knitwear and bespoke dress designer Mishi May, alongside Bristol-based show organisers Glanville and Fyfe (G&F) Couture who opened the show. There was also a pop-up marketplace that featured Bristol makers including textile jewellery designers Kerris Spencer Textile jewellery, printed silk scarf textile artist Jessica de Salis and ethical local hatters, Milliners Guild.
Designs by Amber Hards Knitwear set the tone of the night. Photography by Ania Shrimpton
A trio of models wear Amber Hards Knitwear. Photography by Ania Shrimpton
In contrast to Bristol’s love of streetwear and festival fashion, the G&F show was a high-end fashion affair featuring classic designers and traditional tailoring with a modern twist. From beautiful couture-style gowns covered in illustrative, textured prints from fashion graduate Claire Tagg to the sparkles and sheer evening wear of Xander Wilds Design, this show was out to prove there is more to high-end, contemporary fashion than off-the-peg gowns and bridal wear.
A twist on couture with this printed gown by Claire Tagg. Photography Ania Shrimpton
Edgy contemporary couture by Xander Wilds Designs. Photography Dominika Scheibinger
“The show was amazing,” says G&F founder and show organiser Sue Fyfe-Williams. “There was such a great atmosphere and team spirit backstage. I had a talented team of supporting creatives, from the fantastic models, committed photographers to the lovely volunteers. Teamwork is vital with large events like the show. Kings Weston House were perfect hosts and the route of the runway was enhanced with beautiful sculptures by Carol Peace.”
is needed now More than ever
Beautiful Sheer gowns by Xander Wilds Design and Bristol haute couture designer MishiMay. Photography Dominika Scheibinger
Mishi May holding the train of her fabulous ruffled gown. Photography Dominika Scheibinger
Sue has just launched the G&F Couture label with her business partner, costume designer Abbie Glanville, who specialises in recreating historical garments from old patterns. Their debut collection is based on a map of Bristol from 1780. “We have already sold the Bristol map palazzo pants from our collection!” says Sue excitedly.
G&F Couture Maps collection including the Maps palazzo pants and a ruffled gown. Photography Dominika Scheibinger
Summery floral gowns by Claire Tagg. Photography Ania Shrimpton
The show was not only a chance to showcase the new collection but also to raise money for a charity that is very close to Sue’s heart. “Bloodwise, the blood cancer research charity, was an easy choice for me as my husband was diagnosed with leukaemia four years ago. Thankfully he is in now in full remission and back to playing football,” says Sue. “The success of his treatment is due to research and I am proud to say we raised £897.43 for the charity.”
Vintage style glamour from House of Sheldon. Photography by Dominika Scheibinger
Floral evening gowns by Claire Tagg and a glitter-patterned gown by Lesley de Freitas. Photography by Dominika Scheibinger
For Sue, creating a platform for many independent designers from Bristol and beyond was always her aim. “I wanted the show to be a celebration of Bristol’s talented fashion designers so I started locally. I also wanted to present a varied show but keep it haute couture. I have been a fashion stylist for eight years and had already worked with many of the designers on published fashion editorials,” explains Sue. “I have included streetwear in other fashion shows but I felt the venue of Kings Weston House suited haute couture. The runway was unusual in that it incorporated two separate rooms and a very large, sweeping staircase, and this enabled a large majority of the audience to benefit from front row seats. Everyone loves the frow!” laughs Sue.
Asymmetrical suit with green top by Sohee Park; feather jacket and silver playsuit by Xander Wilds Design. Photography by Dominika Scheibinger
G&F Couture are aiming to organise a follow-up fashion show in September 2019 and have just been accepted by online platform Not Just a Label, which supports and connects independent fashion designers to a global audience. With a website on the way and the next collection in progress, the G&F Couture team are planning to take over the fashion world, one collection at a time.
Keep up to date about G&F Couture’s upcoming events by following them on Instagram at www.instagram.com/couturegf
Read our Fashion Editor Emma’s blog No Debutante
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