al•ter•na•tive: (ôl-tûr n -t v, l-)

Existing outside traditional or established institutions or systems.

Espousing or reflecting values that are different from those of the establishment or mainstream.

I went to Alternative Fashion Week (AFW) for the first time last year; it was its 15th birthday, and I was pleasantly surprised by the event and the very high standard of work by all of the designers.

AFW came into being as a counterbalance to London Fashion Week (LFW). It was concieved as an event by Alternative Arts, their aim was to fill the gap left by LFW by giving a platform for new young models and oftentimes overlooked emerging designers.

Alternative Fashion Week is held over 5 days every year and showcases more than 70 designers’ collections, underneath the glass roof of the newly refurbished Spitalfields Traders market. All of the shows are free and open to the public.

My favourite designer's collection this year were the beautiful screen printed dresses by Olivia Grogan. Unfortunately the ‘Poster Kids’ of alternative fashion design Pretty Pervy didn’t show a collection this year. I definitely hope to see them next year or any time soon.

For any aspiring models and designers interested in being involved in Alternative Fashion Week, please contact: info@alternativearts.co.uk

Showcase your Genius

Bedroom Genius

All photos taken by Mr Man