Scoop closed its SS27 edition on a high this week after transforming London’s Olympia National into an immersive circus-inspired buying destination that combined premium fashion with theatrical design, trend insight and a landmark celebration of Italian fashion.
Underpinned by the theme Scoop Comes To Town, the show floor came to life with big-top cafés, carnival mirrors, floral installations, trapeze-inspired displays and live performances – creating a colourful backdrop as fashion buyers explored more than 200 new collections from the UK, Europe and beyond.
Independents including Hoopers, The Dressing Room, Iris, Pamela Shiffer, Sisters, Cream, Biscuit and Anya were among those attending, with buyers using the three-day event to place orders, reconnect with suppliers and discover emerging brands.
A major highlight of this season’s edition was Scoop’s partnership with the Italian Trade Agency (ITA), which brought the show’s largest-ever collective of 32 Italian brands to Olympia. The showcase featured labels including Whyci Milano, Avant Toi, Carbotti, Fiorentini + Baker, Nine, Pasotti, Pour Moi Maglieria Italiana and 120% Lino, supported by networking events and a dedicated Discover Italian Design Style Spotlight.
Aine Corcoran of Sybil in County Louth said she had travelled to London specifically to explore the Italian collections. “Scoop always has lots to offer, it continuously brings something new. I love the mix of the accessories, clothes and there’s always a nice atmosphere. I come every season, but for SS27 I’ve come predominantly for Italian fashion. I think it works very well in Ireland, both colour-wise and their sizing seems to relate to the Irish well.”
Becky Furbank, owner of Anne Furbank in St Neots, was equally impressed by this season’s showcase: “Scoop is always so well laid out, so light with plenty of space and the atmosphere reflects onto the designers; everyone is so happy and engaging. I’ve come to see a few designers before we book showroom appointments, and have found a couple of new brands too.”
Alongside buying appointments, visitors attended a programme of trend presentations and industry talks. Fashion stylist, former Selfridges buyer and Financial Times fashion columnist Anna Berkeley hosted daily Style Spotlights, highlighting key SS27 trends including delicate lace, vertical stripes, textured fabrics and comfort-led footwear. Meanwhile, Behind The Curtain – an exclusive conversation with the womenswear buying team at Galeries Lafayette – gave attendees the opportunity to hear how they identify emerging designers and balance creativity with commercial performance.
Karen Radley, founder of Scoop, comments: “What has stood out most this season is the time buyers have spent with the collections. They’ve taken time to explore collections, ask questions, write orders and discover designers they may not otherwise have found. That thoughtful approach has always been at the heart of Scoop.”