5 ways to experience Bristol's fashion scene

Style lover? You’ll feel right at home in Bristol, says local fashion blogger Gina Jones. 

Image - Bristol Fashion Week by Charlotte Stone/The Mall at Cribbs Causeway

As the South West’s biggest shopping destination, Bristol has an incredible fashion scene and there’s always something going on for those with an interest in the sartorial side of the city. Here are five stylish activities you might want to try while you’re here… 

1. Get in the FROW at Bristol Fashion Week

London, Paris, Milan, New York… Bristol?! Yes, that’s right, just like all those internationally acclaimed cities, Bristol has its very own Fashion Week. The city’s biggest style event returns to The Mall at Cribbs Causeway from 28 September – 2 October, with 17 catwalk shows showcasing the best of this season’s high street fashion. Presented by British fashion designer Henry Holland and TV stylist Mark Heyes, the shows feature trends to suit every age, budget and size. All guests receive an exclusive goody bag and can enjoy fabulous pampering beauty treatments and style advice in the Bristol Fashion Week Pamper Zone. Buy tickets online at mallcribbs.com.  

Image - Fix Up, Look Sharp models Rebecca Rose Robinson, Kieron Dunne and Ella Riggs by Alistair Campbell

2. Fix up, look sharp

Want to pick up something unique and locally made? Bristol based label Fix Up, Look Sharp is made up of a team of talented local designers who upcycle and customise vintage clothing, with all proceeds going to cancer charity CLIC Sargent. This creative and diverse team bring out a new collection every season and host regular events and pop-ups across the city. Visit the CLIC Sargent shop on Gloucester Road or check out their website for details of what they’re up to right now.   

3. Make your own

Fancy yourself as a fashion designer or just want to pick up a few tips to customise your own outfits? Bristol Sewing School offers a range of short courses and evening classes where you can learn everything from bra making, to pattern cutting and even how to make your own winter cape. Located in Staple Hill, the school is run by Emma Hawkins, who has been dressmaking for over 20 years and has made costumes for the Bristol Light Opera Company and Bristol Hippodrome. Book online here. 

Image - Lou Lou's Vintage Fair by Gina Jones, BristolFashionista.com

4. Rummage for vintage fashion Love a bargain?

Lou Lou’s Vintage Fair returns to Bristol on 17 September, with 80 stalls of vintage fashion, homewares and collectables nestled in the historic Passenger Shed at Temple Meads. Relax in the traditional tearoom, watch a live performance on stage and even get pampered in their retro beauty salon. Buy tickets online here. 

5. Go street style spotting

Bristolians are an eclectic bunch – you’ll see a wide range of styles worn across the city, depending on where you look. If you’re into street style photography, some great hotspots to check out include Stokes Croft, Gloucester Road, Clifton Village and North Street. The good news is that they’re also home to some stylish bars and restaurants, so you’ll always find somewhere to sip a cool drink while you check out the style scene.  

For more on the local fashion scene check out Gina's blog, BristolFashionista.com.