The credit crunch was no-where to be seen at London Fashion Week this season.

At a time when many markets are feeling the pinch, this week showed that fashion is stronger than ever.

For one whirlwind week in September, the whole city buzzed with excitement and there were smiles all round.

A far cry from the sombre mood of Autumn Winter ‘08, this London Fashion Week certainly kept its chin up. This was reflected in the trends, with bright pastels providing a breath of fresh air.

The week was buzzing with speculation over London’s schedule being cut to just four days in February. The ‘Daily’ cued a collective sigh of relief as it was announced that next year would run at five days.

PPQ kicked off the week with a playful collection of micro-shorts and mini dresses in bright sorbet colours. The front row was scattered with London’s brightest young things.

On Day Two we caught up with Paul Smith after his show at Claridges, where he told us that the credit crunch wasn’t denting his profits, and he was opening up new stores around the world.

On Day Three Erin O’Connor was holding court on the runway before the Christopher Kane show.

A real design highlight came from masters of print Basso and Brooke, on Day 4.
Their S/S collection showed intricate, origami inspired pattern cutting.

The grand-dame of British fashion Vivienne Westwood pulled in the A-list crowd on Thursday, everyone from Kate Moss to Pamela Anderson attended. Vivienne’s signature draping and tailoring was carried down the runway in style by familiar faces Alexa Chung, Daisy Lowe, and model of the moment Jourdan Dunn

The Issa show brought out the big guns backstage and front row. Pat McGrath did the makeup and Edward Enninful styled he show. The front row was peppered with princesses along with a posse of Delalls and English rose Rosamund Pike.

Naomi Campbell’s appearance on the runway stole the show and lent Daniella’s collection that extra-special something.

The Off schedule shows are such a big part of London Fashion Week, and shows like Steve J & Yoni P, Felder Felder and Qasimi represented what London is famous for, new and exciting design talent.

London showed that fashion’s spirits are far from crushed. Roll on February!!!