UKFT hosts first ever fashion show at 'House of Commons'

The event, hosted by Damian Collins MP, Chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Fashion and Textiles, also marked the launch of UKFT’s 2013 manifesto, which called for Government support on skills, education and training, at the same time as renewing its commitment to exports and UK manufacturing.

UKFT is the most inclusive UK fashion and textile industry network, and represents over 2,500 companies throughout the UK including designers, manufacturers and retailers.

UKFT’s event brought together industry leaders and MPs to see the latest collections from the next generation of British design talent Recognising that young people are the future of the industry, UKFT’s Manifesto asked the Government to get behind a campaign to educate fashion and textiles graduates on the basics of running a business, as well as a new mentoring programme to help start-up designer businesses.

UKFT also called for continued assistance for apprenticeships in the fashion and textile industry.

This follows on from UKFT’s recent initiatives including its University Seminar Series, the UKFT Live Project in partnership with the University of Westminster and the organisation’s sponsorship of the first ever UKFT Textile Edge Prize at the National Science & Engineering Association's Big Bang Competition, opened by David Cameron and Vince Cable this year.

At the same time, UKFT praised Government and UK Trade & Investment, the organisation set up by Government to support exporters, for its renewed commitment to the fashion and textile industry under the Tradeshow Access Programme, with an enhanced programme of events and increased grants.

John Miln, CEO of UKFT said: “Trade show support is vital to get fashion and textile companies to have the courage to look at new markets and shows. We asked, the Government listened and we are very pleased with the result.”

With regard to the launch of the Graduate collections at the House of Commons, Miln said “We are delighted that fashion design has reached the House of Commons. This is an important first step in bringing together Government and designers as they launch themselves into business and become the future of this great industry.”

Damian Collins MP said: “The UK boasts some of the finest young design talent in the world and we were delighted to celebrate their creativity at the House of Commons last night. Along with UKFT, we are committed to showing continued support for nurturing and developing the future stars of the UK fashion industry.

UK Fashion and Textile Association