The ELLE Style Awards have long been a celebration of excellence in British fashion, an event which I have admired from afar for years. This year, I was lucky enough to experience it firsthand as an ELLE COLLECTIVE member — and it was nothing short of a dream come true. I felt incredibly fortunate to be able to share this experience with my plus one; my fashion-loving mum. It was truly a full-circle moment as growing up she had always nurtured my own love for fashion and art.
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This year the awards were celebrated with an intimate dinner at Sessions Arts Club — a rustic and romantic venue, lit up by candlelight and the flashes of cameras. The tables were adorned with rich, autumnal bouquets and fruits, each place set with a menu and gifts: I was thrilled to open a stunning Mejuri initial charm and a Grace De Monaco perfume, which now holds a cherished place on my vanity at home.
As I sat down for the evening, after a champagne and canapés drinks reception, I found myself surrounded by vibrant guests from all corners of the fashion industry – sharing starters and wine with knitwear designer and legendary Central Saint Martins lecturer Berni Yates, author and activist Aja Barber and formidable designer Jawara Alleyne. I learnt about their careers, experiences, and how each of them hopes to bring innovation and change to the fashion industry. From discussions on sustainable advancements to the importance of supporting young talent, I felt hopeful for the future of the industry, and excited about my own burgeoning career. Their passion for what they do was truly infectious.
The dress code of the night was British Fashion, and the attendees did not disappoint. They honoured an array of British designers ranging from 16Arlington to hand-knitted pieces by Central Saint Martins students. Each attendee, celebrities and designers alike, brought their unique flair and personalities with them.
The dinner commenced with a heartwarming speech from Editor-in-Chief Kenya Hunt, who announced the ELLE Generation Next bursary, an initiative which will support a young rising designer. I have been fortunate enough to be mentored by the ELLE team this year as part of the Generation Next scheme. Their dedication to nurturing upcoming creatives in the fashion scene is admirable. I’m looking forward to watching the impact this bursary will have in empowering young designers.
By the end of the night, I found myself leaving more excited and inspired than ever. As someone just stepping into their fashion career, the insights I left with were truly invaluable; as a member of the ELLE COLLECTIVE community, I’ve loved attending events and getting to know the ELLE team as well as the other members. The evening was not only a celebration of British fashion, but a celebration of what lies ahead.
ELLE COLLECTIVE is a new community of fashion, beauty and culture lovers. For access to exclusive content, events, inspiring advice from our Editors and industry experts, as well the opportunity to meet designers, thought-leaders and stylists, become a member today HERE.