I’m a bit delayed in writing about this, however here it is eventually… :)

So I attended the Midlands Fashion (MFDA) pre-show Networking Soiree last thursday evening at Sirlings Bar in Birmingham. Having never attended anything like this before I had no idea to what expect, however the Twitter feeds coming through from them MFDA sounded friendly and exciting so I was hoping the event would have the same feel.

I wasn’t wrong.

The event was relaxed and informal, which I believe was a good thing as it helped conversation beyond the obvious pleasantries. The venue was a good choice also – a cool, sophisticated place located just off St.Pauls Square.

One observation I had was that there didn’t seem a huge amount of networking happening – most people seemed to be standing in their known pairs or groups. Now I know it is up to the individuals to network, but as this the first networking event MFDA had held, may be the MFDA reps could have assisted this by moving from group to group, forming associations and introductions? Just to help things along a bit. Just a thought :)

One more little bit of feedback for next years event – a little more structure would have been beneficial – just in the form of announcement of when the short fashion show was about to start. Also as the models walked through some presented information of the designs, the designer and maybe gesture to their presence, if they were there, would have been nice.

All in all it was an interesting and different night. I met with a number of the designers nominated for this years finals – it was encouraging to hear how keen and excited they were.

The MFDA is a good and positive thing. Fashion is a hard industry to breaking to, and what MFDA are offering is that little helping hand for new and aspiring designers in the Midlands, to showcase their work. Also offering them the opportunity to meet with members of the industry – any of whom could prove to be their second step forward in to the fashion business.

One of the finalist in particular, Faye Teresa, a print textile designer, was so humble and appreciative of the opportunity that in my mind, it convinced me that the people at MFDA are doing a good job and that the awards are offering great opportunities.

Very worth while.

I look forward to the main awards on 19th October.

By tickets here: http://mfdafashionshowcase2012.eventbrite.com

MFDA
http://www.myfashiondesigners.co.uk
@MidlandsFashion

Stirlings Bar
www.stirlingsbar.co.uk
@Stirlings_Bar