#LondonIsOpen

 

Theresa May welcomed the fashion industry to Number 10 ahead of the first LFW under her role of Prime Minister last Thursday. May told guests, who included, Vogue editor, Alexandra Shulman, Vivienne Westwood and the British Fashion Council CEO Caroline Rush, "British fashion is of huge importance to our country, contributing £28 billion to the UK economy.

Along with editors and designers, May also welcomed apprentices, graduate trainees and scholarship winners who are just beginning their careers in fashion.

"The Government I lead will do everything we can, including providing the right investment in training and skills, to help everyone, whatever people's backgrounds, to go as far as their talents can take them," May said. "From our home-grown start-ups to international fashion houses - every business in the industry will play a major role in ensuring we make a success of Brexit."

Last week, BFC's Caroline Rush said "we have a point to prove to our guests that the vote to leave the EU doesn't mean we're going to end our international partnerships and collaborations."

"People want to know if London feels different. We need to send them a clear message that London is open to outsiders and the UK is a place of business opportunity," Rush says.

 With the support of London mayor, Sadiq Khan, the BFC launched its #LondonIsOpen campaign. Khan reiterated Rush and May's optimism about the industry as LFW kicks off.

"London Fashion Week begins today, showing that London is open to the world and is an international leader of creativity and entrepreneurship," Khan said last week. "There's a fantastic range of designers and talent on the schedule this season - the London fashion scene has never been more diverse."