London Fashion Week runs Friday, September 14 to Tuesday, September 18 but you can head over to the city a few days earlier for a few rounds of shopping and enjoy great meals at nearby restaurants. The Spring 2013 collections will be revealed then; use this guide to plan your trip when you're heading to London Fashion Week 2012:
Attending London Fashion Week Events
The official show schedule won't be announced until July 2012 but the lineup typically includes presentations, a salon show, and designer showcases. London Fashion Week (LFW) is one of the world's biggest fashion events and attracts European and international designers for talks, runway shows, and social events. You can see the official show schedule in July. The event is held at Somerset House in the City of Westminster. You can get to the exhibition from the Strand or the Embankment entrances. The closest rail stations are: Charing Cross, Blackfriars, and Waterloo. The closest tube stations are: Temple, Covent Garden, Charing Cross, and Embankment.
Where to Stay
Strand Palace is one of the closest hotels to Somerset House. It's located in the heart of the West End and is a modern, stylish destination with a choice of Club and Executive rooms. Enjoy amenities including 24-hour room service, complimentary Wi-Fi, and on-site dining options. You'll be within walking distance of the Fashion Week events and also within easy reach of other Central London attractions.
If you're looking to splurge, book your room at The Savoy Hotel. This iconic hotel boasts a champagne bar and rooms with views of the River Thames. You'll be treated like a royal at this elegant hotel that has catered to high-profile guests and celebrities throughout its history.
372 Strand
London, WC2R 0JJ
+44 (0)20 7836 8080
Strand
London, WC2R 0EU
+44 (0)20 7836 4343
Where to Eat
If you're in the mood for a gourmet meal, head to Tom's Kitchen right in Somerset House for foie gras, steak sandwiches, or just a classic fish and chips platter. This has become a popular destination for Saturday brunch but can be a great place to enjoy some people-watching in between London Fashion Week events.
Thai Square is located within walking distance of Somerset House and Fashion Week events, an attractive destination to enjoy traditional Thai food and "mainstream" Thai dishes. Whether you're in the mood for a spicy green curry or a Thai version of pizza, you can treat your palate to some delicious ethnic fare at this popular eatery.
229-230 Strand
Charing Cross WC2R 1BF
+44 (0)20 7353 6980
Tom's Kitchen at Somerset House
Somerset House
Strand, London, WC2R 1LA
+44 (0)20 7845 4646
Where to Shop
Topshop is located less than half a mile west of Somerset House. Head here for some of the latest trends, London streetwear fashions, and designer-inspired accessories.
Don't miss the chance to visit Nicole Farhi's boutique store in Covent Garden. It's also within walking distance of Somerset House and houses some of the season's hottest fashions and housewares.
Catch a bus to Knightsbridge so you can spend a few hours shopping at Harrods, the world-famous department store that caters to well-heeled travelers. Head here to shop for luxury beauty goods, designer handbags, the latest fashion collections, and indulge in some gourmet desserts in the grand food hall.
60 -64 Strand
London, Strand WC2N 5LR
+44 (0)20 7839 4144
11 Floral Street
Covent Garden
London, WC2E 9HD
+44 (0)207 497 8713
87-135 Brompton Road
Knightsbridge, Greater London SW1X 7XL
+44 (0)20 8479 5100
Sources:
London Fashion Week - Official Website
Fashionologie - New York London Fashion Weeks Agree September 2012 Date Change
