The third edition of Harrogate Fashion Week, which ran from 28-29 July, once again proved a hit with both buyers and exhibitors, firmly establishing itself as a must attend event on the fashion buying calendar.
The show had its largest number of exhibitors yet, with over 80 leading brands offering a high-quality selection of carefully curated womenswear, accessories and footwear.
The event provided an effective platform to network with the buyers who attended from across the country, with particular representation from the North of England and Scotland. Exhibitors reported a large number of repeat visitors from previous shows, with one returning buyer placing orders for their seven shops! Commenting on the show's success, Carol Capener, of Carol C Collections, said, "We wrote two and a half times more business than the previous show, and reactivated six old accounts." Mandy Barr, of leading occasionwear agency Mandy Barr Fashions reported, "Exceptional trade over the two days; 10 new accounts opened". Footwear made a stronger impact this season, with brands such as Legero pleased with their decision to exhibit. "The people we invited came, and we picked up other business from buyers who had seen us on the HFW website," said Marcus Baker, of Legero. "For us it's important to have these events so that we can reach all our existing and potential customers in relaxed surroundings, without feeling too pressured."
Harrogate Fashion Week is organised by Sarah Moody, Wendy Adams and Stephen Dixon, all who have extensive experience in the fashion exhibition industry. Commenting on the show, Sarah said: "The show had a really positive feel, and it was noticeable that exhibitors are picking up not just new business, but reactivating dormant accounts as well. This season we asked, Helen, our Marketing Consultant, to go round the stands and talk to exhibitors about what they liked and didn't like, and it was gratifying to note that, in virtually all cases, exhibitors felt that the ease of showing in Harrogate, and the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff, contributed to a positive overall experience. We want to make Harrogate Fashion week an easy, enjoyable and profitable experience for our exhibitors and it seems we are achieving that. Harrogate Fashion Week will return for its fourth edition from 26-27 January 2020.
Exhibitor bookings are now being taken, please contact sarah@harrogatefashionweek.com. Buyer registration will be opening in the coming weeks, please check our website www.harrogatefashionweek.com for the latest information.