As I write this, it’s hard to believe we are now in 2025 ! Having a little time off allowed me to finally write about LFW which seems ages ago now but just hadn’t had the opportunity to put pen to paper : Liverpool Fashion Week at The Liner Hotel on Lord Nelson Street. Let me take you back & behind the scenes of this exciting show, which took place in October but when revisiting it still feels so fresh in my mind.

Key Takeaways

One of the best parts of Liverpool Fashion Week 2024 ! Seeing new and familiar faces come together—like Katja flying in from Sweden to join the runway magic! ✨

A Personal Milestone: Finally Getting the Recognition Deserved by the Fashion Industry

Getting the Recognition Deserved by the Fashion Industry

Before diving deeper, I want to highlight a significant personal milestone: When I first set up SunSibility I had just graduated from the London College of Fashion and wanted to create a collection that was both practical and functional.  The idea of making sun protection fashionable was paramount.  We are talking about nearly 25 years ago when people’s knowledge and awareness of UV rays was minimal and if you were to have two identical items, one UV protective and one with no rating the average member of the general public would choose the latter. Why? Education and cost. People were just not aware of the effects of UV rays. 

So it became my mission to do just that, combine protection with clothing. My lecturers had told me they wouldn’t support me as they didn’t think it was commercially viable and that’s where my journey began which has always remained my main focus and sole goal.  Designing for those that really needed it I focused on those who were sun sensitive designing with them in mind at every stage. Creating full coverage solutions whilst looking stylish and feeling comfortable making those sunny days easier for those that needed it and so I worked most importantly with customers listening to their every needs. Working closely with those in the medical industry knowing that one day this will cross over and be taken seriously in the fashion industry.

This hasn’t happened over night it has been two decades of sheer hard work dedication and commitment albeit a new beachwear collection it is raising awareness about our classic lines and letting people know about life changing products but also a general beach and resort wear range that was based on my year abroad and just making a fun and wearable line of gorgeous pieces in stunning colours to grace the catwalk and be recognised for that is amazing – finally !! 

All the excitement, nerves, and pride converged at LFW, making this event even more special. Seeing the positive reception, the applause, and the warm feedback reaffirmed that this transition was worth every challenge. I feel like I’ve gone full circle and have proved my lecturers wrong because I always believed there was a place for this !! It’s a wonderful reminder that passion, hard work, determination and never giving up can lead us to places we’ve always longed to be. SunSibility is a one stop shop for UV Protection and we will keep climbing!

Getting Back on Track

Fashion Week

Planning, organising, and then recovering from a fashion show can be all-consuming. Even though Liverpool Fashion Week (LFW) wrapped up several months ago, I’ve only recently found the time to sit down and truly reflect on it—especially since I only had a short time in between Cyprus & Liverpool

Why was this year’s LFW so personal for me? Partly because of the process involved—sketching new ideas, creating patterns, sewing and trimming each garment, and juggling countless behind-the-scenes logistics. But also because The Liner Hotel set the stage in a way that felt both intimate and grand, capturing the spirit of Liverpool’s maritime history and its modern, creative vibe.

Backtracking , Yet so Fresh in My Mind

Looking at fashion

Though time has passed since the show, I’m glad I waited to write this. The distance has given me perspective on what made it such a standout event. There’s a huge adrenaline rush on the day of any fashion show: models scurrying around, hair and makeup teams perfecting their looks, and designers like me hovering backstage making sure every last detail is just right. It’s a mix of nerves and excitement that’s unlike anything else.

The evening itself was crisp, and as guests filtered into The Liner Hotel, the energy felt electric. We’d all put so much work into making this show happen, and it was finally time to share that with an audience. I remember peeking out from backstage to see fashion enthusiasts, local influencers, special guests and a flutter of photographers all gathered in anticipation. In that moment, I realized how important these real-life events still are—especially in a world that’s increasingly digital and hyperconnected.

A Blend of Familiar and Fresh Faces

One of the best parts of LFW was the amazing group of models who took to the runway. We had both returning talents and newcomers who brought their own flair to the show. Katja Ferm, for instance, flew in from Sweden specifically for this event—and she’s represented by Game Changer Talent. It’s incredible that someone would travel that far to be part of a regional show, and her presence underscored how fashion can truly bring people together, regardless of distance.

Meanwhile, the stunning Shannon Hughes—also with Game Changer Talent—was back on the catwalk. She modeled for me in Liverpool last year and also flew to be at our show in Cyprus. Seeing her again made the experience feel both nostalgic and exciting, like a reunion of creative spirits. Rebecca Burshell Liliia Molodetskaya & Lani Diaz three other gorgeous ladies, returned and brought their usual grace and energy to the runway amongst many others.  Alongside them were brand-new models stepping onto the LFW stage for the first time, brimming with the kind of enthusiasm that can’t help but be contagious.

Capturing the Magic: The Photographers

A fashion show wouldn’t be the same without skilled photographers to freeze each moment in time. This year, we were fortunate to have teams from Pennrose Studio, Andrea Santoni and Uncommon People (among others) documenting both the chaos and charm from every angle. They caught those stunning final poses on the catwalk as well as the candid backstage scenes—like a model helping another with a last-minute adjustment, or the gleam in a designer’s eye just as the music starts.

For me, these photos are invaluable. They allow me to look back critically at each design—how it moved, how it appeared under the lights, and how the audience reacted. There’s something about seeing your work captured on camera that makes it feel both permanent and open to future improvement. It’s a record of what was successful and what I can tweak going forward.

The Privilege of Sharing the Runway

One aspect of LFW I never take for granted is the chance to showcase my designs alongside so many talented designers. Fashion can be competitive, but Liverpool Fashion Week tends to foster a genuine sense of community. Much of that supportive atmosphere is thanks to the founder and organiser of LFW—whose vision and dedication make these events possible. We get to celebrate each other’s creativity rather than competing for the spotlight. Standing backstage, I could catch glimpses of other designers’ collections and marvel at the variety—some played with bold colors; others leaned on neutral palettes and interesting silhouettes. International designers featured too along side local artistes including Go Gairy.

Each told its own story. On top of that, we often share resources—borrowing a spare needle here or a steamer there. These small interactions are part of what makes LFW feel like a friendly, collaborative space.

The Hard Work Behind the Scenes

I’d be remiss not to highlight just how much goes into producing a show of this caliber. Months of effort all boil down to a few minutes on the catwalk. From the outside, it might seem like a glamorous affair—models strutting confidently, photographers snapping away—but behind the curtains, there’s a mountain of preparation.

Evelyn, my brilliant dressmaker, was instrumental in helping me craft this season’s collection. We pored over new patterns, examined fabrics, and made adjustments until each garment felt just right. There were days spent primarily hunched over a sewing table, tweaking detailing or ensuring a fit was perfect. And still, alteration is bound to test your nerves just before showtime.

Then there’s the matter of transporting everything to the venue—carefully packing pieces so they don’t crease, labeling them correctly, and making sure nothing gets lost or damaged. But once you see your garments under the spotlight, all the stress is instantly replaced by a deep sense of fulfillment.

The Buzz of the Big Day

The day of Liverpool Fashion Week is an experience like no other. Early in the morning, staff and volunteers arrive at The Liner Hotel to set up. Risers, lighting, and sound checks must be done; backstage areas need to be arranged for quick changes. There’s a palpable excitement in the air—everyone knows that, by evening, the space will be transformed into a high-fashion stage and huge thanks go to ‘Honey’ who literally organises it all backstage now taking a well earned break off travelling round Japan ….

When the models arrive, the pace picks up. Hair and makeup teams get to work, styling each person according to the designer’s vision. Racks of clothes line the hallways, each section marked by designer names and item numbers. A practice run takes place prior to the show and me so happy the playlist I also spent hours over fits beautifully 

Meanwhile, backstage staff dart around ensuring everyone knows the lineup and timing. It might look hectic (it is!), but everyone has a role, and somehow it all comes together in the end.

Celebrating Liverpool’s Creative Energy

Liverpool is known worldwide for its music scene, but its fashion scene deserves just as much recognition. LFW showcases local talents, draws in international participants, and spotlights a city that’s more than just a cultural footnote. Every time I participate, I feel Liverpool’s supportive spirit—people genuinely want to see each other succeed here.

The city’s maritime history is woven into its present-day identity, and The Liner Hotel captures that blend perfectly. It’s a nod to Liverpool’s past as a major port and a sign of its ongoing evolution into a cosmopolitan cultural hub. Hosting a fashion week in such a space is a reminder that art, commerce, and community can work hand in hand to create something truly special.

The Power of Networking

These shows aren’t just about the runway. They’re also about networking—an opportunity to connect with fellow designers, models, photographers, and industry professionals. From potential collaborations to forging lasting friendships, the atmosphere at LFW fosters connections that can lead to exciting new ventures. In my experience, attending post-show events or simply chatting backstage often sparks ideas that become reality down the line.

Reflecting on the Challenges

Every show has its share of hiccups. A model might miss a fitting, or a garment might not drape the way you envisioned it. Some challenges are last-minute—like a sudden change in the running order or a small malfunction with an accessory. Still, the camaraderie among everyone involved usually smooths over any bumps. People step in to help fix zippers or lend a spare pair of shoes, or underwear. There’s a sense that we’re all in it together.

Personally, I remember struggling with a few garments that needed extra adjustments just minutes before the show. It was nerve-wracking, but after a few deep breaths and a quick conversation with my team, we tackled it and out went the girls! That’s the kind of moment that demonstrates why these shows are a testament to resilience as much as they are to creativity.

A Heartfelt Thank You

A fashion show like LFW involves so many moving parts. Beyond the designers, models, and photographers, there are countless others who deserve recognition—stylists, makeup artists, stagehands, event coordinators, hotel staff, lighting technicians, and volunteers. Each person’s contribution is crucial to making it all run smoothly.

Special thanks to the founder and organiser of Liverpool Fashion Week Amanda Moss for orchestrating such a marvelous event. Without their dedication and vision, none of this would be possible. I’m immensely grateful to Game Changer Talent for bringing incredible models like Shannon and Katja to Liverpool, adding that extra spark to the show.

I also want to acknowledge the vital role of family and friends who offer unwavering support. Having them show up on the big day—cheering from the audience or helping backstage—means more than words can express. On this particular evening, having close friends and family there made it all the more special, reminding me that this career path, with all its challenges, is worth every ounce of effort.

Our Stay at The Dixie Dean Hotel

Amid the hustle of fashion week, my “girl squad” ( My mum who has always been my biggest supporter both my sisters and my eldest daughter & niece) and I found time to enjoy ourselves by staying at The Dixie Dean Hotel. We actually booked The Caves, which turned out to be such a fun and memorable experience. 5 Jacuzzi’s in our room sounds glamorous which it was and a real treat & expensive (which it wasn’t at all … totally affordable and ideal for big groups) so much fun!. It was the perfect spot for some quality girl time in between the fittings, rehearsals, and the big night itself. There’s nothing like a little relaxation—and a lot of laughter—to take the edge off before a major show!

Lauren’s Journey

I want to give a special mention to Lauren, who started with me while she was still in school. She’s now working in Manchester as a costume designer for TV and film studios, and her story is a testament to how doors can open in the most unexpected ways. She came by to watch the show, and it was such a proud and heartwarming moment for both of us. Seeing someone who got their start in your circle go on to build a thriving career is incredibly fulfilling—and I’m so glad she could be there to cheer us on.

Looking ahead 2025


Angeli Jackson

With Liverpool Fashion Week behind me, I can now look ahead to 2025 with heightened enthusiasm. My next post albeit a little belated will delve into everything that happened in 2024, and believe me, there’s a lot to cover. But for now, I want to soak in the lessons and joys from LFW: the successful collaboration, the moments of chaos that led to triumph, and the sheer fun of seeing my designs walk the runway again.

2025 feels like it’s brimming with potential. The positive energy from Liverpool Fashion Week and Cyprus is fueling these ideas, and I can’t wait to see where it all leads.

Personal Highlights and Gratitude

I can’t wrap this up without acknowledging some personal highlights:

Most importantly, seeing my long-anticipated transition from the health/medical beauty field to the fashion realm recognized and celebrated was a personal triumph I’ll never forget.

Final Thoughts

Liverpool Fashion Week was a prime example of how fashion, community, and creativity can come together to produce something that resonates long after the spotlights dim. From the rush of show day to the reflective calm afterward, LFW is a microcosm of what I love about this industry: Ever-evolving, and deeply rewarding when everything comes together.

As I gear up for a final overview —an in-depth recap of the entire year—I carry forward the lessons and memories from this event. The relationships formed, the designs shown, and the challenges overcome will all serve as building blocks for what lies ahead. And with 2025 beginning, I’m filled with optimism. I hope you are too.

Thank you for following along on this journey. If this post has piqued your interest in Liverpool Fashion Week, I encourage you to keep an eye on future editions. Whether you’re a designer, model, photographer, or simply a fashion enthusiast, there’s always something magical happening in Liverpool’s creative scene. Here’s to more runway moments, more collaborative triumphs, and an absolutely dazzling 2025!