Kemi Badenoch Attends London Fashion Week, Supports British Fashion Industry

Kemi Badenoch, the UK's Secretary of State for Business and Trade, was among the notable figures at the first-ever Marks & Spencer fashion show held at London Fashion Week. The event, which took place at the Design Museum in Kensington, marked a significant moment for the historic British retailer as it joined exclusive brands like Burberry, Erdem, and McQueen on the fashion week schedule.

Badenoch, dressed in a teal tailored trouser suit, spoke about the significance of the British fashion industry. "British fashion is such a key and booming part of the economy – it employs so many people," she stated after the show. "I came here to support the industry. And now of course I'm ready to go shopping."

The M&S show, coinciding with the brand's centenary year, presented a "see now buy now" collection that was made immediately available for purchase. The collection aimed to balance high-fashion appeal with affordability, with half of the items priced under £50. The event featured a diverse range of models, including prominent figures from the 1990s fashion scene such as Kirsty Hume, Erin O'Connor, and Jodie Kidd. Lennon Gallagher, son of musician Liam Gallagher, also walked the runway.

Attendees at the show included a mix of celebrities, influencers, and fashion press, with figures like Dame Joan Collins, Katherine Jenkins, Ian Wright, and Jamie Redknapp present. The collection showcased a variety of pieces, from casual wear like khaki trousers and sweaters to more statement items such as a faux-fur trench coat described as comparable to luxury brands but at a fraction of the cost. Models showcased outfits including an ivory cape-shouldered dress and a black sequin slip dress.

The reviewer noted that the show felt sophisticated and comparable to events on the Paris or New York fashion week schedules. The M&S presentation was seen as a move to solidify the brand's position as a forward-looking fashion name, while maintaining its accessible appeal to a broad customer base.