Five fascinating facts about London Fashion Week 

Fashion is very significant to the economy of the United Kingdom. It offers a vast £26bn to the country's economy every year, which is a far more substantial contribution than the food and drink industry (4.1bn). Considering its economic significance, it makes sense that London Fashion Week is held in high regard in the UK. 

The popular clothing trade show is the youngest of the Big Four fashion weeks, with New York, Paris, and Milan starting earlier. New York Fashion Week began very early in 1943, followed by Milan (1958) and Paris (1973). And then, London also appeared on the scene, with its inaugural event happening in 1984. 

Even though it started late, London Fashion Week made great strides in a short time and soon established itself as a highly prestigious event. Every season, it brings in an enormous £269m income, which is far higher than Paris' £58m and Milans' £44.6m. 

London Fashion Week is also second highest in popularity, with the event bringing in 105,000 visitors to the capital. On the other hand, Paris attracts 30,000 visitors while Milan brings 22,500 visitors. 

1- Founder of London Fashion Week 

Annette Worsley-Taylor is regarded as the founder of London Fashion Week. She organized its first event in a West London car park in 1984. 

Worsley-Taylor later received an MBE for services to London Fashion Week. 

2- Margret Thatcher surprised everyone

Fashion shows were not very significant in the UK in the early 80s. They seemed to attract the middle class and didn't appeal to the dignitaries and the higher rank. 

However, the then-British Prime Minister Margret Thatcher surprised all the guests when she attended the 1986 edition of the show and stayed there for the whole week. This way, Margret Thatcher proved the appeal of London Fashion Week for the VIPs as well. 

3-  John Galliano’s Les Incroyables 

London Fashion Week gave a significant boost to the careers of some of the world's best designers. One of the industry's big names, John Galliano, made his debut at London Fashion Week's inaugural event. At the time, Galliano showcased his collection Les Incroyables which earned excellent reviews from everyone. 

Top designers Alexander McQueen and Stella McCartney also owe to the famous British trade show for launching their careers. 

4- Victoria's catwalk debut 

Victoria Beckham's popularity soared after she formed the pop girl group Spice Girls, Melanie Brown, Melanie Chisholm, Emma Bunton, and Geri Halliwell. Besides singing, she also made a big name for herself as an internationally recognized style icon and fashion designer. 

Wearing a pair of tiny satin hot pants, Posh Spice made her catwalk debut for designer Maria Grachvogel. Attendees at the Natural History Museum in South Kensington greeted her appearance with approval and applause, while the media also highlighted her presence at the event. 

5- Naomi's fall 

Naomi Campbell is one of the biggest stars in fashion. The British businesswoman has the distinction of being declared a supermodel of her generation by the fashion industry. 

Naomi's fall during the Vivienne Westwood catwalk in 1993 is regarded as one of the most memorable moments. She lost her footing and took a dramatic tumble on the runway. However, the stunning model still managed to remain graceful and unsmiling.  

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