2025 FESTIVAL
PROGRAMME

Braemar Village Hall

The Festival of Fashion 2025 opened with a compelling in-conversation event honouring the extraordinary creative legacy of Frances Farquharson of Invercauld and Braemar Castle. Her influence across fashion, journalism, high society and enterprise set the tone for a weekend celebrating bold ideas and enduring style.

Lydia Slater, Delphine Bellini and Sonnet Stanfill came together to explore the creative friendship between Frances and Elsa Schiaparelli, reflecting on its ties to the art world and Harper’s Bazaar. The discussion highlighted the continued relevance of Schiaparelli’s radical vision, now reimagined by Creative Director Daniel Roseberry.

Braemar Village Hall

Erdem Moralioglu captivated audiences with an in-depth conversation on his distinctive design language-defined by timeless silhouettes, intricate storytelling and a modern vision of femininity. Joined by Emily Tobin and Leonie Bell, he reflected on his creative influences, his enduring fascination with the female muse, and the importance of craftsmanship in his work.

Guests were treated to a book signing of ERDEM, the first publication devoted to the designer’s world, newly released by Rizzoli.

Braemar Village Hall

Emilia Wickstead shared her remarkable journey through the fashion industry, from her formative years at Central Saint Martins to key roles at American Vogue, Giorgio Armani and Narciso Rodriguez, before returning to London to establish her eponymous label and flagship store.

Guided by Caroline Issa, the conversation explored Emilia’s modern approach to femininity and elegance, and the influences-past and present-that continue to shape her work.

Braemar Village Hall

Kirsty Wark led a thoughtful and energising discussion on Scotland’s emerging fashion talent. Jacqueline Farrell, Katie Braid and recent graduates Cosimo Angiulli and Rosie Baird shared their personal journeys, offering insight into the opportunities and challenges young designers face today.

The panel examined how education, industry support and cultural institutions are shaping the future of Scottish fashion, prompting lively conversation among attendees.

Braemar Village Hall 

Clare Waight Keller offered an intimate reflection on her career, spanning leadership roles at Chloé, Givenchy and Uniqlo. In conversation with Justine Picardie, she discussed the evolving influence of women in fashion and the creative decisions that have defined her approach.

Together, they examined how innovation, accessibility and timeless design continue to shape the modern fashion landscape.

Fife Arms Hotel

Jessica Rose Bird led a dynamic hands-on workshop exploring expressive mark-making and intuitive drawing techniques. Guests experimented with blind contour and gestural drawing while working through a bespoke workbook of Scottish-inspired designs.

Participants of all skill levels enjoyed the chance to explore mixed media, guided by Jessica’s insightful and encouraging instruction.

Braemar Village Hall 

Kristina Blahnik joined Kirsty Wark for an engaging discussion about her leadership of Manolo Blahnik and the brand’s continued global influence. She reflected on key collaborations, the development of the Manolo Blahnik Archives, and the newly launched capsule collection inspired by Marie Antoinette.

The conversation offered a rare look into the creative and strategic world of one of fashion’s most enduring family-run businesses.

Braemar Village Hall 

This insightful panel brought together Nadja Swarovski, Kathryn Sargent and Lynne Coleman to explore the enduring importance of craftsmanship and sustainability in fashion. Through personal stories and professional experience, they discussed the value of natural materials, traditional skills and thoughtful design in shaping a more responsible future for the industry.

Braemar Village Hall

Josephine Steed, Shane Strachan and Kirsty Hassard celebrated the life and legacy of Bill Gibb, whose visionary designs continue to inspire new generations. The event marked the launch of Steed and Strachan’s new book, offering fresh perspectives on Gibb’s creative journey, his Scottish roots and his global influence.

St Margaret’s

Throughout the weekend, St Margaret’s hosted a vibrant showcase of graduate work from Edinburgh, Dundee and Aberdeen. Film footage and garments highlighted the creativity and technical skill of Scotland’s newest design talent.

The display also featured pieces by emerging designers Rosie Baird, Cosimo Angiulli and Daniel Crozier, alongside standout looks from the Edinburgh College of Art’s With Love Halston design challenge, created in partnership with The Nando and Elsa Peretti Foundation.