by HELEN MASTERS
There is no doubt that since I wrote my last London Briefs column – ‘The AW20 London Lowdown’ – life has changed for us all.
Like everywhere else in the world, the UK entered lockdown at the end of March and is only now tentatively emerging. UK lingerie stores closed their doors for the longest period we have ever known and as I write, have been open less than a month.
So, what will the future hold?… ...Read more
By HELEN MASTERS
Despite the worst gales and floods we have seen all winter, the lingerie industry came out in force for the biggest UK intimate apparel trade show in the calendar – INDX.
I braved my own way through the adverse weather, arriving 2 hours late thanks to delayed trains , and I have to say I was delighted that I did – once again this fabulous show proved how our industry is now stronger than ever – after weathering a fair few storms of our own in the last few years.… ...Read more
By HELEN MASTERS ~
Britain is rarely out of the news these days thanks to Brexit giving us centre place on the world stage, so what better time to focus on the hottest British indie brands of the moment?
Just in time for Gift season, my latest blog features an expanded Hot List and rounds up my top 5 Indie Brands – this is luxury lingerie and loungewear to die for!
Hot British Brand #1 – TATU COUTURE
Fusing tailoring techniques and ready-to-wear elements into lingerie, Tatu Couture creates ‘timeless works of art for the body’.… ...Read more
By HELEN MASTERS
After what has felt like a slow start here in London, the Great British Summer is finally upon us – and in the chaotic times we are living in, boy do we need it!
As with many other aspects of life, Brits have their own unique take on summer, so I felt it only right to share some great British summer traditions (some stylish – some less so) with my US cousins.
For the low down on how to do the Great British Summer in style – whether you are going high-brow in Henley or casual in Croydon, here is my list of customs to follow (plus a few to avoid) and how to do it in style with the best Brit brands.… ...Read more
By HELEN MASTERS
At a time when all eyes are on Britain – thanks to the imminent arrival of Brexit day… many commentators have been debating what being British is all about and indeed what the British way of life will be going forward. In an attempt to glam up the conversation at a time when many Brits are quite frankly bored or frustrated with the politics of Brexit, I am asking the really crucial question – the one on everyone’s lips: ‘What is British style?’… ...Read more
By HELEN MASTERS
Lingerie – The Ultimate Gift ?? (TIP To Male Readers: This Column Will Solve All Your Gift Buying Headaches! )
My recent columns have explored the themes of love and relationships and of course the difference between US and UK lingerie tastes. They have sparked some interesting comments and debate which inspired me for this next column to look into how the approach to the traditional gift season that is soon to be upon us varies between the UK and the US and, in the spirit of keeping all partnerships happy this Xmas, to unveil my top tips for lingerie gifts this season both sides of the Atlantic.… ...Read more
By HELEN MASTERS
Kai Resortwear
London Swimwear Show
A riot of colour, a plethora of prints & a hot, sunny Sunday afternoon in Marylebone marked the start of the U.K. Show season with London Swimwear Show.
Clearly this show has gone from strength to strength over the last few years and now takes over a large part of the first floor of the elegant Radisson Blu hotel and after spending the day with the creme de la creme of the UK swimwear world, I’m delighted to say that the London swimwear market is alive and kicking with both brands and retailers reporting strong sales, lots of new designers on the scene and a clear investment in technology, innovation, new designs & fabrics from the big-name labels as well as the newbies.… ...Read more
