Thursday Roundup fuk@lfw s/s 07

A day of contrasts. First off, we decided that we would accept our invitation to Fashion Fringe and bring you coverage of this design competition. The venue was City Hall and, we assume because Tom Ford is chairing the judges, the security was verging on silly.

Photos: Judith Erwes

Originally we were told our photographer wasn't allowed in - then we were granted access. Our reporter Bianca Donnelly though had to explain to staff that she really couldn't walk through the radiation security device because she is pregnant, it took a bit of convincing (!) but they did concede. The presentation was due to kick off at 12.45pm. After viewing 10 outfts by the four worthy finalists somewhere around 2pm, we were then asked to go to another part of the building where we waited whilst the judges deliberated.

We really thought that 6 7/8 stole the show but when the winner was finally announced, it was Gavin Douglas. Nice one geezer, congratulations we wish you the best. A PR lady told us that we weren't allowed to take pictures of Tom Ford because "all photographs of Mr Ford have to be approved."

Serious.

Don't know what they're going to do about all those people snapping him on their phone but luckily we weren't there to worship at the feet of Ford, we went to see the work of the designers who have been grafting for months and months on their 10 outfits, in the hope of proper funding and mentoring and to have a collection available on Yoox.

Meanwhile, Philip Normal's electroclash fash bash was an inspiration. We tracked down a dinky theatre in SW7 where milliner Noel Stewart showed his second ever LFW show. Noel has worked with Stephen Jones and designs for Roksanda and Erdem and he kindly took the time out before the show for a little chat.

Over at The Vauxhall Fashion Scout, Katazyna delivered a beautifully-constructed collection with a wicked 50s rock'n'roll soundtrack. Then it was Ms Laura Lees in da house. From the ranch to the road - a really buzzy show, great music, a crowd of enthusiasts and Laura Lees at her best to date imho.

We've also have Junky Styling and Ashley Isham reports coming up..

Wish: Vespas with Bar Italia Scooter Club members helping us out with rides from shows so we can cover more.