TradeGala at the Drapers Independents Awards 2019
Last week TradeGala was proud to accompany the City Goddess and Goddiva teams attending the Drapers Independents Awards in their role as sponsors and enthusiastic supporters of the independent fashion industry. The awards celebrate the very best independent fashion retailers and brands across the UK and Ireland, and are a wonderful opportunity to meet the teams behind the brands and enjoy a luxurious event in stylish company.
Along with a delicious meal and free-flowing wine and champagne, we were treated to an inspirational speech by Alex Schlagman – founding partner of savethehighstreet.org, and one of the competition judges. Alex spoke about the difficulties that the retail sector is experiencing at the moment – difficulties which are often most keenly felt by boutiques and independent brands – but reassured the audience that staying true to a strong vision and providing high-quality products were the secrets to lasting success. This sentiment was echoed by Hilary Cookson who collected the lifetime achievement award on behalf of the legendary womenswear shop Mareen Cooksoon, founded by her mother and successful for over 40 years.
But on to the awards themselves. Competition was fierce and the judges (some of the most influential names in the independent sector) must have had a difficult job of choosing the winners. In such a competitive industry, merely being nominated is a great honour, however the lucky few winners will surely enjoy the warm glow of recognition that comes with being recognised as the top of their field.
City Goddess was proud to sponsor the Womenswear Independent of the Year Award which was deservedly won by Iris – a versatile and stylish brand which covers everything from basic linen t-shirts to beautifully cut, sophisticated dresses, jackets, evening wear and accessories - all with the signature chic and easy to wear style that defines the Iris collection.
All in all, a fabulous day was had by all. The fashion industry clearly faces challenges, but the brands and retailers who attended and supported the event are clearly dedicated to offering the best to their communities and customers.
To find a full list of nominees and winners you can visit the Drapers International Awards page. We’re already looking forward to the 2020 event!
Written by: Amber Domenech Patey
