I've never been one for trainers. Yes, I own some, but I pick what I like, that I can work out in, which also just happens to go with my exercise ensem of any given day. In short, I'm a shameless girly-girl, who goes with what looks cute, but is also functional. I am aware however, that there is a legion of people out there, who collect sneakers, or creps, the way that I collect Music. It's not just a love of fashion - crep styles are a cultural way of life.
That's why when I learned of Fresh Laces, the Sneaker and Lifestyle Fair taking over the Dray Walk Gallery, off Brick Lane for 5 days straight, I decided it was high time I extend my education. The event's second outing, Nathan Massiah and Llwellyn Daniel provided an opportunity for specialist buyers, boutiques and sellers to trade in a welcoming, friendly environment, full of good food, good music, and most importantly of all for an East London event nowadays - good vibes...
Far more than every kind of sneaker you can imagine; urban fashion, ink and jewellery were also on offer at one-off, discount prices.
Jujus (preferably unique) by Miss Vaitea was my first welcoming stop. Decked out in her Adidas 3-stripes, looking like she either stepped fresh off of a Missy Elliot video, brought the best of EPMD-style 80's hip hop to the present under her Kangol hat, or both; the Italian-native introduced me to her handmade plastic and metal-plated designs, that stood out favourably from every other brand in the building.
Nori and Neal of Dimension London in Shepherds Bush were next. As I got an up close look at what a rent deposit looks like when you use it to cover your feet, as opposed to your entire being; I overheard pre-orders and requests being taken from some gents in dire want of some limited edition designs. It was then I realised just how serious a business trainers, or creps really is. These guys were not playing around! Friendly and welcoming of a newcomer who knows nothing about the Industry, and vaguely recalls something about air bubbles once upon a time - the Dimension London representatives were a prime example of the inviting undertone throughout the entire event.
I'm not ashamed to admit the Elisha Francis London stand was my favourite stop in the room. With a table decked out in absolutely gorgeous handmade jewellery and accessories in a variety of luxurious-looking, wearable materials; for a moment I had to remind myself that I was not back at my first stop on my London Jewellery Week tour. In addition to the beautiful pieces, I was honoured to have met and chatted with the lovely and humble designer herself who, I was surprised to hear only recently finished University! Definitely one to watch, look out for more from the gifted Ms. Francis and her very talented team here on the blog very soon!
Dexter Simms, founder of clothing label Mula Cake, used the event as the perfect platform at which to launch the new brand. With everything from Snapbacks to printed tees and accessories; I was taken with the only stand I saw showcase baby sneakers in an adorable variety of sizes, styles and colours. If the selection I saw were anything to go by, methinks I will have some very stylish nephews in the not too distant future...
New friends Urban Revival LDN - whom regular readers may recall I first encountered at last month's StreetFest - were the ones who actually put Fresh Laces on my radar, so it was only right that I stop by to say Howdidoo. As charming and entertaining as ever, it was a pleasure to run into such an entrepreneurial team again; especially when they make hand-crafted, wooden, beaded accessories look good!
As you heard from Mr Massiah himself; the next Fresh Laces event will be coming to a place near you soon. In the meantime, be sure that you don't miss out - stay tuned to the brand's Social Media Catalogue below...
For more photos from the event, be sure to head on over to the ESP Facebook Page. Since you'll be there anyway, why not throw a Like on the count and stay connected?!
Were you at the Fresh Laces Fair? Which brands or activities were your highlights? Let me know in your usual spotlight below...
Until next time!
ES :)
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| The lovely Miss Vee was kind enough to hand-pick some pieces for Yours Truly - with thanks again! |
Nori and Neal of Dimension London in Shepherds Bush were next. As I got an up close look at what a rent deposit looks like when you use it to cover your feet, as opposed to your entire being; I overheard pre-orders and requests being taken from some gents in dire want of some limited edition designs. It was then I realised just how serious a business trainers, or creps really is. These guys were not playing around! Friendly and welcoming of a newcomer who knows nothing about the Industry, and vaguely recalls something about air bubbles once upon a time - the Dimension London representatives were a prime example of the inviting undertone throughout the entire event.
 |
| Nori and Neal repped well for Lock'd. Dimension London... |
I'm not ashamed to admit the Elisha Francis London stand was my favourite stop in the room. With a table decked out in absolutely gorgeous handmade jewellery and accessories in a variety of luxurious-looking, wearable materials; for a moment I had to remind myself that I was not back at my first stop on my London Jewellery Week tour. In addition to the beautiful pieces, I was honoured to have met and chatted with the lovely and humble designer herself who, I was surprised to hear only recently finished University! Definitely one to watch, look out for more from the gifted Ms. Francis and her very talented team here on the blog very soon!
 |
| I was in awe of Elisha's wide crystal necklace pictured above (right)... |
Dexter Simms, founder of clothing label Mula Cake, used the event as the perfect platform at which to launch the new brand. With everything from Snapbacks to printed tees and accessories; I was taken with the only stand I saw showcase baby sneakers in an adorable variety of sizes, styles and colours. If the selection I saw were anything to go by, methinks I will have some very stylish nephews in the not too distant future...
 |
| These baby kicks from Mula Cake were too cute for words! |
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| Urban Revival LDN have quite the celebrity following; see the Facebook album for a look at some of their fans... |
New friends Urban Revival LDN - whom regular readers may recall I first encountered at last month's StreetFest - were the ones who actually put Fresh Laces on my radar, so it was only right that I stop by to say Howdidoo. As charming and entertaining as ever, it was a pleasure to run into such an entrepreneurial team again; especially when they make hand-crafted, wooden, beaded accessories look good!
As you heard from Mr Massiah himself; the next Fresh Laces event will be coming to a place near you soon. In the meantime, be sure that you don't miss out - stay tuned to the brand's Social Media Catalogue below...
For more photos from the event, be sure to head on over to the ESP Facebook Page. Since you'll be there anyway, why not throw a Like on the count and stay connected?!
Were you at the Fresh Laces Fair? Which brands or activities were your highlights? Let me know in your usual spotlight below...
Until next time!
ES :)
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