York Fashion Week event to give access to industry experts

York Fashion Week has launched The Creative Exchange – a free business consultancy event designed to support people in the fashion and creative sectors.

The Creative Exchange, set for two days this weekend, promises an opportunity for attendees to spend time with six seasoned professionals from various fashion industry sectors.

Fashion designer Isabelle Randall will be at The Creative Exchange event. (Image: Submitted)

The experienced professionals include fashion designer Isabelle Randall, social media management expert Chelsea Talbot, and brand and marketing consultant Nicky Hayer.

Other experts in the panel are Estee Lauder makeup artist Anthony Frith, photographer Hannah Lunn, and Lacey Wilson, a model booker from Face Model Management.

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Event attendees will participate in ten-minute consultancy sessions where they can seek advice, ask questions, receive feedback, and build industry connections.

The goal is to help propel businesses and creative projects forward with practical advice from professionals with a wealth of real-world experience.

Lacey Wilson, a model booker from Face Model Management, will be at The Creative Exchange event. (Image: Submitted)

Speaking about the event, Nicky Hayer said: “This event is for people at all levels of their career.

“Maybe you’re student planning your next steps, or an established retailer looking to discuss brand growth.

“Perhaps you’re a freelancer wanting to level up your social media or an aspiring model who needs some guidance on how to get started.

“You’ll have ten minutes with each expert of your choice to pick their brains, and it’ll be a great chance to just meet more of the YFW community too.”

The event will take place on Saturday, July 25 from 11am to 1pm at Spark York.

On Wednesday, July 30, Another Brother Café will continue the initiative from 6pm to 8pm.

The Creative Exchange offers a platform where people can gain fresh perspectives, practical guidance, and connections as an extension of York Fashion Week’s commitment to fostering creativity, collaboration, and innovation in the industry. 

The initiative is also aimed at boosting independent businesses, designers, and fashion professionals, supporting local talent. 

The event is supported by York and North Yorkshire Mayor David Skaith and the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority through their High Street Fund.

Mark Bewick, co-director of York Fashion Week, said: “The Creative Exchange is all about making industry expertise more accessible.

“Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, these conversations can provide fresh perspectives, practical guidance and valuable connections.

“We’re excited to bring together professionals from different areas of the fashion industry to share their knowledge with our community.”

As spaces are limited, people are urged to secure their spot as soon as possible through York Fashion Week’s website or social media channels.