Claire Namukolo Raven, CEO of Cheshire Fashion Week.

Sabina Motasem

As my cab stopped in front of Westbourne Grove Church, under a cloudy sky that enhanced its gothic allure, I smiled—ready to experience my third fashion show of London Fashion Week.

When attending events and fashion shows, I always prefer to go alone, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the experience without distractions. Last night, for the first time, I felt like the event was feeding off me rather than the other way around. Organized by the esteemed MVMENT PROJECTS and hosted at the stunning AVAN LOUNGE, the event catered to an Afro-Asian demographic. I arrived with high expectations, drawn in by the allure of the glamour, effective marketing, impressive reputation, and the rapidly growing crowd in attendance.

As I stepped out of my cab, staring at my phone screen in confusion, I couldn’t help but wonder if I had just fallen victim to a scam or an elaborate prank. A sudden blast of icy rain snapped me back to reality—survival instincts first. I ducked into the nearest pub, determined to ask for directions and escape impending hypothermia.

Amid the hype and the crowd’s excitement over such an incredible show, beneath the starry backdrop, there was a moment of vulnerability. We were asked, "Who here has ever felt like their body was 'wrong'?" As hands rose left and right, I found my own arm lifted in the air, even though I no longer shared that same bitterness about myself. I awkwardly avoided eye contact with the same people I’d been laughing and sharing moments of fragility with all day.

Take a determined woman with a powerful message, a vision to create an event that celebrates our bodies and champions self-love. Now, add hours, weeks, and months of meticulous planning: scheduling, Zoom meetings, rehearsals, countless calls, sleepless nights, and a constant emotional rollercoaster – and yes, at times, moments of doubt. Dry the sweat and tears. Then open your eyes to behold the final result:  Fashion Week Yorkshire.

As London Fashion Week comes to a close, the vibrant capital buzzes with a unique energy—a competitive and exhilarating atmosphere fills the air as creatives prepare to prove themselves on a global stage.