fashion – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

New name for St James Quarter

**Charles Jeffrey reveals full programme for Westfield Days: The Sound of Style at Westfield St James Quarter**

11-20 September 2026 | Westfield St James Quarter

To celebrate the launch of Westfield St James Quarter, officially renamed on 10 September 2026, acclaimed Scottish designer Charles Jeffrey returns home for an immersive ten-day takeover as part of Westfield Days: The Sound of Style.

Presented in partnership with the British Fashion Council, the programme forms part of Fashion Britain, a nationwide initiative celebrating the designers, communities and cultural influences shaping British fashion today.

Born in Scotland, Charles Jeffrey is internationally recognised for blending design, performance, music and culture into a distinctive creative vision.

Returning home for the takeover, he brings that world to Westfield St James Quarter across three experiences: an exclusive Listening Room built from his own archives and soundscapes; the PUNK FLEA MARKET, a limited-time shop of archival pieces, accessories and exclusive products; and a full programme of talks, workshops and live performances spanning fashion, music and culture. The entire programme is curated by Jeffrey himself and features some of the most exciting, emerging names.

A particular highlight will see Jeffrey in conversation with Kirsty Hassard, Senior Curator at V&A Dundee, in a talk introduced by the British Fashion Council’s Laura Weir. The conversation will explore the role research plays in shaping Jeffrey’s collections, Scotland’s rich fashion history and its influence on contemporary design, and the importance of recognising the creative talent to have come out of Scotland.

The talk will connect directly to V&A Dundee’s current Catwalk exhibition, which traces the stories, designers and cultural influences that have shaped Scottish fashion’s place on the global stage.

Guests can also expect a vibrant mix of experiences throughout the programme, including intimate one-to-one tarot card readings with the incredibly gifted Jade Mordente, an inspiring dance workshop with acclaimed choreographer Ivan Blackstock – known for his work on Beyoncé’s Brown Skin Girl music video – and a specially curated pop-up Vinyl Lounge from local tastemakers, Umbrella Vinyl.

Charles Jeffrey said: “I’m looking forward to celebrating the people, places and cultural influences that continue to inspire my work on home turf here in Scotland and am delighted to have the opportunity to create something that feels immersive, playful and open to everyone.

“This programme is about showing how I work – the music, the references, the people I collaborate with – and putting it all in one place for ten days.

“There’s something for everyone, whether that’s catching a gig, digging through the PUNK FLEA MARKET or just spending an hour in the Listening Room.”

Anne Ledgerwood, Estate Director at Westfield St James Quarter said: “Charles Jeffrey is one of Scotland’s most exciting and dynamic creative voices, and there’s no better way to mark this new chapter for Westfield St James Quarter than with a programme built around his work.

“Ten days of music, fashion and ideas, right in the heart of Edinburgh- we want people to come and experience it for themselves.”

What’s On: The Full Schedule

Highlights across the ten-day takeover include:

Friday 11 September

10:00am – Charles Jeffrey’s Listening Room – step inside Jeffrey’s personal archive of music and memory, through curated soundscapes and exclusive content.

11:00am – Vinyl Lounge with Umbrella Vinyl – independent record store Umbrella Vinyl will be selling curated vinyl featuring a selection of the music that inspires Charles Jeffrey

3:30pm – Bikini Body: Live at The Sound of Style – electrifying five-piece Bikini Body bring their irresistible collision of post-punk, dance music and percussion to Westfield St James Quarter

5:30pm – Charles Jeffrey LOVERBOY x V&A Dundee: Scottish Fashion in Conversation – Jeffrey joins V&A Dundee curator Kirsty Hassard, introduced by the British Fashion Council’s Laura Weir, to discuss research, Scottish fashion history and V&A Dundee’s Catwalk exhibition.

Saturday 12 September

10:00am – Self-guided LOVERBOY Exhibition – explore Jeffrey’s LOVERBOY archive at your own pace.

12:00pm – Live Music from Her Picture – an intimate live performance from one of Scotland’s most exciting emerging artists, Her Picture is the public confessional of singer Anny Tahaney, whose honest and thought-provoking songwriting is bewitching listeners in Scotland and beyond.

2:30pm – Fashion, Movement & Theatre with Ivan Blackstock – a workshop exploring the crossover between fashion, dance and performance.

Sunday 13 September

10:00am – Fashion Photography Workshop: Creating the Narrative with Claudius Ricketts – a hands-on workshop on building narrative through fashion photography.

12:00pm – Love Your Body Dance Workshop with Ivan Blackstock – a dance workshop celebrating body confidence and movement.

2:00pm – Charles Jeffrey LOVERBOY: Life Drawing Workshop – life drawing inspired by Jeffrey’s own creative process.

4:00pm – Charles Jeffrey’s Listening Room

Monday 14 September

10:00am – Self-guided LOVERBOY Exhibition

12:00pm & 3:00pm – Charles Jeffrey’s Listening Room

Tuesday 15 September

10:00am – Self-guided LOVERBOY Exhibition

12:00pm – Charles Jeffrey’s Listening Room

1:15pm – MAC Cosmetics Make-up Workshop – a make-up masterclass from the MAC Cosmetics team in Boots.

3:00pm – Lucia & The Best Boys x Neptune Studios: Petals and Frequencies – an autumn equinox bouquet making workshop while listening to Lucia & The Best Boy’s new album, Picking Petals.

Wednesday 16 September

2:00pm – Talk: Tarot, Fashion & Identity with Jade Mordente – a panel discussion on tarot’s connection to fashion and identity.

2:45pm – Tarot – Find Your Archetype with Jade Mordente – a workshop on finding your tarot archetype.

3:45pm, 4:00pm, 4:15pm, 4.30pm, 5.30pm & 5.45pm – Tarot Readings with Jade Mordente – one-on-one tarot readings.

Thursday 17 September

10:00am – Argonaut Books x Charles Jeffrey Bookshop Pop-Up – independent bookstore, Argonaut Books, will be selling a curated selection of books including some of Charles Jeffrey’s favourites and with an LGBTQ+ focus.

10:00am – Charles Jeffrey’s Listening Room

3:00pm – DJ Miss Mixtape: LGBTQ+ Sounds – DJ Miss Mixtape spins an LGBTQ+ focused selection of records.

Friday 18 September

10:00am & 1:00pm – Charles Jeffrey’s Listening Room

5:00pm – Ray Laurél – performance from Ray Laurél, where the listener finds solace and security in tales centring an identity in flux, tales of unbridled desire & a yearning for the Divine.

Saturday 19 September

10:00am – Charles Jeffrey’s Listening Room

1:30pm – DJ Set: DJ Lu – An energetic set to soundtrack your shopping experience at Westfield St James Quarter.

3.00pm – Cocktail Making Masterclass by The Alchemist – shake, stir and sample during an interactive mixology workshop

Sunday 20 September

2:00pm – Pippa Blundell: Live at The Sound of Style – Experience Pippa Blundell’s captivating blend of folk storytelling, ambient sound and classically influenced vocals.

3.30pm – Natural Lacquer Workshop with Moleskine – Discover the beauty of East Asian lacquer art through a contemporary marbling experience

Proceeds from any ticketed workshops or masterclasses across the takeover will be donated to the Equality Network, which works for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) equality and human rights in Scotland and has been home to the Scottish Trans Network since 2007.

For the full programme and to book onto ticketed workshops, visit Eventbrite.

WESTFIELD St James Quarter? Maybe showing my age here, but to me it’ll always be St James Centre! – ED.

VIEVE brand coming to The Centre Livingston next month

CENTRE MARKS ITS 50th ANNIVERSARY THIS YEAR

Nine years after thousands of beauty fans flocked to The Centre, Livingston to see Scottish beauty star Jamie Genevieve at a live make-up masterclass, her beauty brand VIEVE is now coming to the shopping centre, which is a full-circle moment in her incredible journey from a make-up artist to an international beauty entrepreneur.

Back in 2017, Jamie was already a major name in the beauty world, sharing make-up tutorials in her own relatable, down-to-earth style with around 800,000 Instagram followers, and close to half a million YouTube subscribers.

Since then, she has built an impressive loyal fanbase around the world, with over two million Instagram and YouTube followers and partnered with various global brands, including L’Oréal Paris.

She has also collaborated with MAC on a special-edition lipstick, which led to her launching her very own product range in 2020, attracting high-profile fans including Claudia Winkleman, Dua Lipa and Nicole Kidman and opened her own store in Glasgow in 2024.

Her collection is also available in retailers like Space NK and Sephora.

Although Jamie, who has just welcomed the arrival of her second child, won’t be appearing at The Centre, Livingston this time, her team of Pro Makeup Artists will be on hand to give people expert advice to help find their perfect shade and try out their award-winning products. Shoppers who spend £99 will also be invited to take part in a ‘Spin the Wheel’ competition to win lots of beauty treats.

The VIEVE ‘Tour de Face’, which is part of a Scotland-wide tour, will only be in the shopping centre from 10^th – 13^th September, located in front of New Look.

It also forms part of a 50^th anniversary Fashion & Beauty event taking place in the shopping centre on the 12^thand 13^th, to help raise funds for its Charity Partner CHAS, (Children’s Hospices Across Scotland), which provides specialist palliative care and support to children with life-shortening conditions and their families.

Shoppers will have the opportunity to get a free mini colour analysis and Autumn/Winter style tips from resident stylist Leigh Maybury, located in front of M&S, with donations optional for CHAS, and check out some iconic styles dating back the last five decades.

There will also be model scouting and live music with tunes from the past 50 years, and some lucky shoppers will be in with a chance of winning prizes in the ‘Guess the Fashion Year’ quiz.

Patrick Robbertze, Centre Director at The Centre, Livingston said: “The arrival of the VIEVE beauty brand at The Centre, Livingston feels like a very special full-circle moment, going back to when we welcomed Jamie into the shopping centre nine years ago.

“Her live make-up masterclass will go down as one of our most incredible and well-attended events of all time, with people travelling as far as Newcastle and Aberdeen to meet her.

“It feels even more extra special for us as we mark our 50^th anniversary to have her team join in our 50^thanniversary celebrations at our Fashion and Beauty Event.

“Shoppers can not only get beauty tips but also an insight into Autumn/Winter fashion trends with our fantastic resident stylist, Leigh Maybury, and a colour analysis. They can also check out some outfits which were trending over the past 50 years and enjoy live music too with tunes covering each decade.”

The Centre, Livingston, which is owned by LCP UK, part of M Core, one of Europe’s leading, privately owned commercial property development and management companies, has over 150 stores and restaurants, spanning one million sq. ft. and welcoming over 15.8 million visitors a year.

These include M&S, Flannels, H&M, MINISO, Søstrene Grene, Flying Tiger, the country’s largest JD Sports store, Nando’s, Wagamama, Wingstop and the first ArrowHeadz store in Scotland.

National Museums Scotland launches public call out ahead of major new fashion exhibition

nms.ac.uk/FashionOdyssey

National Museums Scotland is launching a public call out for personal stories and garments by Jean Muir, Bill Gibb and Zandra Rhodes. A major new exhibition, A Fashion Odyssey (1 Jul – 12 Nov 2028), will explore the work of these trailblazing British designers in the centenary year of Muir’s birth.

It is hoped the public can help locate treasured garments by these designers and share memories and photographs from those who wore and loved their clothes. There is particular interest in stories that demonstrate the impact of Muir, Gibb and Rhodes in Scotland. Members of the public are encouraged to get in touch with the exhibition’s curators by emailing fashion@nms.ac.uk.

The exhibition will examine the personal design identities of Jean Muir (1928 – 95), Bill Gibb (1943 – 88), and Zandra Rhodes (1940 – ).The designers were brought together in the ‘Odyssey’ room in Fortnum & Mason London in 1970.

Between them they shaped a modern concept of fashion that embraced imagination, identity, innovation and difference. These designers provided an alternative version of what fashion could be at the dawn of the 1970s, a moment of pivotal societal change and a time of political activism and liberation.

A Fashion Odyssey: Jean Muir, Bill Gibb, Zandra Rhodes will bring the trio’s work together again, almost 60 years later. It will reveal how these British iconoclasts presented the public with choice, rather than following the fashion of the day, how their individual design statements were enthusiastically embraced by actresses, artists and pop performers, and how they continue to inspire and influence a new generation of designers.

Georgina Ripley, Principal Curator of Modern & Contemporary Design at National Museums Scotland, said: “Opening just weeks before what would have been Jean Muir’s 100th birthday,

“A Fashion Odyssey will reflect on a pivotal moment in her early career and in the history of British fashion. Reuniting Muir with Gibb and Rhodes will illustrate how each crossed over into the others’ design territories, and how they interpreted themes within fashion in their own unorthodox and individual ways.

“We’re asking the public to help bring this exhibition to life. We know there are beloved garments by these designers hanging in the back of cupboards in Scottish homes, and wonderful stories to be told.”

National Museums Scotland’s internationally significant fashion and textiles collection includes the Jean Muir archive. The archive consists of around 18,000 objects which fully document the design, making, and promotion of her collections from 1962 to 1995.

The collection includes paper patterns, sketches, fabric samples, jewellery and accessories, as well as around 400 finished garments, including some of her personal clothing.

A Fashion Odyssey: Jean Muir, Bill Gibb, Zandra Rhodes
Saturday 1 July – Sunday 12 November 2028
National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF

nms.ac.uk/FashionOdyssey

SOLD OUT! Musselburgh Racecourse confirms another capacity crowd for annual Ladies Day event

Musselburgh Racecourse Ladies Day 080825

Musselburgh Racecourse’s most popular meeting of the year has been confirmed as another capacity sell-out, the East Lothian course has announced.

Ladies Day, in association with Champagne Pommery, will welcome more than 8,000 guests on Friday 7 August, with all hospitality packages and general admission tickets sold out with still more than one week to go.

A packed entertainment programme will see rapper, singer and songwriter Tinchy Stryder join the line-up as a special guest, while top DJ and The Voice presenter Reggie Yates hosts the Ladies Day After Party.

Fashion as always dominates the high-summer occasion, with more than £4,000 in prizes available in the Champagne Pommery sponsored Style Awards to the best dressed racegoers on the day, including the first prize of holiday travel and accommodation to the famous Maison Pommery estate in Reims, France.

Stylish men will also take to the main stage to compete in a new Best Suit Award sponsored by Slater Menswear, while Edinburgh milliner Sally-Ann Provan is supporting the Best Hat Award which is always hotly competed.

Aisling Johnston, Head of Marketing and Business Development at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “Ladies Day continues to be a winner with racegoers of all ages and we are delighted to announce the 2026 edition is sold out.

“By continually investing in the experience, entertainment and fashion elements, we’ve created an event that appeals to both returning visitors and first-time racegoers and the stage is set for another fantastic afternoon of competitive Flat racing on track and gorgeous glamour off track.

“Champagne Pommery returns as our headline partner, reinforcing the premium feel of the occasion, and our guests couldn’t be in better hands for celebrating in style. The course and the grounds are in fantastic shape and our staff are ready to put on another day to remember.”

PICTURES: Alan Rennie and Jess Shurte

Edinburgh College students transform fashion for Cancer Research UK

STUDENTS at Edinburgh College have teamed up with Cancer Research UK on a design project to breathe life into second hand clothes.

The HND textiles class transformed donated jackets, coats, trousers and shoes into new outfits. They were given eight weeks to complete the creations that are now on show in the charity’s shop at Raeburn Place, Stockbridge.

Each student was given a brief to come up with an outfit that could form part of an adaptive fashion range that proved stylish, functional and accessible.

Adaptive fashion is clothing designed to be on trend while including features that make dressing easier and more comfortable, including for people with disabilities.

Edinburgh College curriculum team manager, Kim Gunn, said: “We have seen some amazing transformations. “This project showcases exactly what can be done with imagination, creativity and flair.

“I’m proud of the students, of their focus on sustainability and their enthusiasm. It’s been great to collaborate with Cancer Research UK. So many families are touched by cancer so it’s a charity close to all our hearts.”

HND student Calder Ferguson, 35, designed a two-piece skirt and top by combining a dark windbreaker, a pair of blue leggings and a high-vis vest.

His focus was on creating an eye-catching outfit that would make dressing easier for someone with limited mobility. He was inspired by a student he met while on work placement in Brazil.

Calder said: “The client has low finger dexterity so magnet closures and an elasticated waistband were chosen to avoid fiddly fastenings.

“I’ve really enjoyed working on the project and it’s great to see the outfits on show in the shop. I lost my uncle to brain cancer and I know so many families are affected by the disease. It’s good to be able to give something back.”

Freyja Lavender, 19, from Portobello, created a maternity outfit by repurposing a trench coat, a pair of men’s trousers and summer hiking shoes.

Freyja said: “The outfit is designed to make the wearer feel confident, sleek and comfortable all the way through their journey with pregnancy and I hope they’d be able to wear it after the baby was born too.

“Sustainability is important. There are so many clothes already out there in the world. It’s much better for the environment to repurpose clothes rather than buying new clothes all the time. We have a responsibility to do everything we can to protect the environment.”

Mature student Sandra Cameron of Edinburgh made an adaptive garment, specially designed for people with dementia.

The outfit was in memory of her mum, Lily Bathgate who died from dementia in March 2025. It was created using a handbag, shoes, jacket and trousers.

Sandra said: “Dementia robs people of so much of their personality and dignity. “My mum was a vibrant lady who loved colour.

“The clothing items I was given were dark so the first thing I wanted to do was put colour back in by dyeing them. I used magnetic buttons to make the outfit as accessible as possible.”

In Scotland, around 34,800 people are diagnosed with cancer every year*.

Cancer Research UK has been at the heart of the progress that has already seen cancer survival in the UK double in the last 50 years.

Money raised in the charity’s shops helps scientists find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat the disease – to bring about a world where everybody lives longer, better lives, free from the fear of cancer.

Cancer Research UK shop manager, Suzy King, said: “We’re excited to showcase these designs in our Stockbridge shop.

“The students have shown creativity turning donated items in to something special.”

Last year Cancer Research UK spent more than £38m in Scotland on some of the UK’s leading scientific and clinical research.

For more information about Cancer Research UK’s shops, visit: www.cruk.org/shops or follow @CRUKShops on Instagram. 

Primark celebrates 50 years in Scotland with a ‘wee nod’ to loyal Scots

‘Preemark’ signs and window displays appear overnight in all 21 of the retailer’s stores across Scotland.
Scottish shoppers can enjoy the rebrand from today until Sunday 24^th August as the retailer marks 50 years on the Scottish high street this summer.
The celebrations were inspired by Primark’s viral Instagram post earlier this year, designed to settle the debate once and for all on how to pronounce its iconic name.

Scottish shoppers will hardly believe it when they see it today as Primark finally relents on one of its biggest brand debates after 50 years.

To mark 50 years of Primark on Scotland’s high streets in style with both customers and colleagues, the retailer is tipping its hat to celebrate with a ‘Preemark’ rebrand, which has appeared in all 21 of its Scottish stores overnight.

The full ‘Preemark’ store takeovers are now live in Hamilton, Edinburgh Princes Street and Glasgow’s Argyle Street, alongside fun ‘Preemark’ themed window activations in its remaining 18 Scottish stores up and down the country.

Scots can enjoy the retailer’s significant milestone in every store until Sunday 24^th August. The celebrations are a ‘wee nod’ to how most Scots pronounce the popular brand name as ‘Pr-EE-mark’.

This comes after the retailer tried to settle the debate about how to pronounce its brand in an Instagram post that went viral earlier this year. The ongoing speculation ranges from how most people know it, ‘Pr-EYE-mark’, to ‘Pr-AYE-mark’ and the favoured Scottish ‘Pr-EE-mark’.

Gavin O’Reilly, Area Manager for Primark Scotland West and Cumbria, who currently oversees Primark’s first store in Hamilton, Scotland, said: “Our loyal Scottish shoppers have been instrumental to our success over the last 50 years, so we thought it was high time we acknowledged it in true Primark style.

“It’s a proud moment for all our stores to be celebrating our milestone together with a fun ‘Preemark’ nod, which is simply what we know our Scottish shoppers and colleagues are calling us every day anyway!”

‘Pree-marking’ half a century in Scotland

Daily Record – 1979 – to credit Reach PLC Download

Today, Primark has 21 stores covering over 755,000 sq. ft of retail space across Scotland’s much-loved towns, city centres and retail parks, and employs over 2,637 retail colleagues nationally.

From day one, Primark was a hit with Scottish shoppers who initially queued up for its “unbeatable” opening offers in its first store in Hamilton, during the summer of 1975, including women’s tweed coats for £9.50, printed crepe blouses for 99p and briefs for 25p.

Across menswear, V-neck Shetland sweaters were sold for £2.85, poly-cotton shirts for 99p and socks for 23p. Children’s clothing highlights included slacks for 99p, ‘car coats’ for £1.99 and pinafore dresses for £1.65.

Over the years, some of its most popular products in Scotland include velour tracksuits – popular in the early 2000s – as well as a gold sequin dress and Saltire beach towels. Made exclusively for Scottish shoppers, the retailer has produced a line of Scottish pyjamas, Edinburgh-themed t-shirts from £3.00 and more recently its Scotland Euros t-shirts.

From its first and smallest store in Hamilton at just 9,300 sq. ft to the largest store on Edinburgh Princes Street, covering 73,900 sq. ft with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle, Primark has continued to grow in size and scale. Its in-store experience has evolved to now feature beauty studios, nail salons and a wide choice of destination cafes – including its popular evolving cafés in Edinburgh and Braehead.

Over the past three years, Primark has invested over £20 million in its stores which includes significant upgrades to stores in Clydebank, Hamilton, Stirling and Irvine so far this year. It has also introduced self-service checkouts and its popular Click & Collect service to all stores in Scotland.

Now every Primark shopper can access the full range, ordering online and collecting more easily and conveniently from their local store in just two days. Looking ahead, the retailer has confirmed it plans to invest a further £9 million in its Scottish stores over the next two years as it reaffirms its commitment to Scottish retail.

Kari Rodgers, UK Retail Director at Primark, said: “The high streets and fashions have changed a lot over five decades in Scotland, and Primark has been there every step of the way.

“As we’ve evolved to meet this change in demand, our commitment to offering people great quality clothing at affordable prices is stronger than ever. There is such pride in our stores in Scotland and our customers feel it too, so it’s fantastic to be celebrating such an important milestone together.

“Over the last three years we’ve invested more than £20 million in our stores across Scotland and we’ve a further £9 million planned over the next two years to improve our stores and support the future of Scottish retail.”

Across the UK, Primark operates 197 stores, including 21 in Scotland, and employs 30,000 colleagues. Meanwhile, 2.3 million people every week cite Primark as the main reason for visiting their local high street, and for every £10 spent in a Primark, shoppers spend an additional £3.60 which produces a positive economic ripple effect for local high streets*.

Picture – Chris Watt Photography 07887554193 info@chriswatt.com www.chriswatt.com Preemark Edinburgh

Timeline of Primark’s stores in Scotland

August 1975 – Hamilton, 29 Quarry Street, ML3 7AW
June 1995 – Motherwell, 20-26 Brandon Place South, ML1 1RB
September 1999 – Clydebank, Unit 2, 117 Sylvania Way, G81 2RR
March 2001 – Stirling, Goosecroft Road, FK8 2EA
April 2001 – Braehead, Unit 1a, Braehead Shopping Centre, G51 4BS
May 2001 – Aberdeen, 152 Union Street, AB11 6BH
June 2001 – Dundee, 40 High Street, DD1 1TU
April 2002 – Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, G2 3ER
April 2003 – East Kilbride, Unit 4, Plaza Shopping Centre, G74 1LW
June 2006 – Ayr, Unit 8, Taran Walk, Kyle Street, KA7 1TU
September 2006 – Argyle Street, Glasgow, G2 8AG
October 2006 – Park Head, Glasgow, G31 4EB
October 2006 – Inverness, 16-18 Bridge Street, IV1 1HG
November 2006 – Greenock, Oak Mall Shopping Centre, PA15 1JW
December 2006 – Dunfermline, 127-137 High Street, KY12 7DR
March 2007 – Irvine, Unit 46, Rivergate Centre, KA12 8EH
November 2010 – Perth, 134-148 High Street, PH1 5UH
December 2011 – Livingston, The Centre, EH54 6HR
December 2011 – Edinburgh Princes Street, The Centre, EH54 6HR
December 2015 – Fort Kinnaird, The Centre, EH54 6HR
December 2024 – Glasgow Fort, G34 9DL

Putting on the Style at Musselburgh Racecourse Ladies Day

More than 8,000 glamorous racegoers enjoyed a sun-kissed start to the weekend at Scotland’s most stylish race day.

Musselburgh Ladies Day, in partnership with Champagne Pommery, rolled out the red carpet for another sell-out event combining horseracing and high fashion, which was rounded off with an After Party hosted by DJ and former JLS band member Marvin Humes.

The Style Awards fashion show, sponsored by Tiger Lily Boutique and hosted by River City star and BBC Scotland present Grant Stott, drew huge crowds around centre stage as the best-dressed ladies and gents competed for more than £6,500 in prizes.

Winner Erika Paterson (TOP, CENTRE)was judged to be the best attired and returned home to Peterhead with a £5,000 trip to France to visit the Champagne Pommery Domaine, £1,500 in spending money and a voucher for Tiger Lily Boutique.

The judging panel for the Best Hat Award, sponsored by Sally-Ann Provan Millinery, included the first winner of TV’s hit show The Traitors, Meryl Williams.

The judges put their faith in winner Jayne Kirk from Dundee who collected a £300 voucher for Sally-Ann Provan Millinery, a bottle of Champagne Pommery and a cut, colour and styling session at Edinburgh’s Charlie Miller Salon.

Musselburgh Racecourse Head of Marketing, Aisling Johnston, said: “Everyone makes a huge effort for Ladies Day and that was borne out again this year with many stunning racegoers taking the opportunity to dress to the nines.

“So many of our Ladies Day guests return year in year out and that is great testament to the popularity of the event which has sold out for more than 20 years, but we are not complacent and always try to freshen things up and improve the offering.

“Erika was a worthy winner of the Style Awards but the lovely thing is the effort that all racegoers have gone to dress up for the day. It was a hugely successful day and we can’t wait to do it all over again in 2026.”

PICTURES: Alan Rennie / Jess Shurte

New £30,000 Grants available to support creative industry careers in Edinburgh

Amazon launches the Regional Creatives Fund, offering multiple grants of up to £30,000 for charities in Edinburgh and around the UK which focus on upskilling people for careers in creative industries.

Grants are available for charities in Edinburgh which run programmes aimed at boosting skills and increasing access to creative industry careers in gaming, publishing, fashion, film, advertising, TV, and music.

The fund is open for applications today from single charitable organisations and consortiums in Edinburgh and across the UK. Applications close on 31^st August 2025.

Amazon today launches the Regional Creatives Fund, offering grants of up to £30,000 to UK charities that develop creative industry career pathways.

The Regional Creatives Fund is open to organisations in Edinburgh and across the UK that help underserved communities access careers in publishing, music, gaming, film, TV, fashion, advertising, and more.

Applications are open now here.

The aim of the Regional Creatives Fund, which aligns with the Government’s recently announced Creative Places Growth Fund, is to increase access to careers in the creative industries for people from underserved communities.

The fund is open for applications from single charitable organisations and consortiums based in the same region that are currently running impactful skills projects and are seeking additional funding to scale, sustain, or innovate their efforts.

Applications for up to £30,000 can be made by individual organisations that meet eligibility criteria, while consortium applications for up to £100,000 are also available. Regional Creatives Fund grants will give charities with existing creative upskilling programmes the flexibility to address their most pressing needs.

Applications are open for small to mid-size organisations who are registered charities in the UK[2]. Applicants must currently be running a programme that focuses on upskilling people from underserved communities for careers in creative industries.

Increasing access to creative industries

Creative Access, the UK’s leading inclusivity organisation in the creative industries, defines underserved communities as a population proven to be under-represented in the sector.

A study from The Sutton Trust, the UK’s leading social mobility charity, shows that many people, particularly those who identify as ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, neurodivergent individuals, and people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, continue to face significant barriers to entering and progressing in the UK’s creative industries.

Research released by The Sutton Trust found that younger adults from working-class backgrounds are four times less likely to work in the creative industries compared to their middle-class peers. Data from Arts Council England shows only 9% of the creative workforce identifies as disabled, compared to 22% of the general working-age population.

Unique, pro bono Amazon support

In addition to financial support, the Regional Creatives Fund will also use Amazon’s network of creative industry professionals to offer charities pro bono upskilling programmes for their organisations as well as their beneficiaries – including mentoring, work experience, placement opportunities, and digital training.

Support will be provided by creative minds from Amazon Music, Prime Video, Amazon Games, and more.

Applicants must be able to demonstrate that the fund will be used to expand or continue an existing, impactful programme. Examples of programmes that a Regional Creatives Fund grant can be used for include funding for placements in game development studios, music production training, and portfolio development for future advertising creatives.

Grants will be awarded by an independent judging panel. The panel includes senior leaders from Amazon, The National Theatre, the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee, Help Musicians, and Music Minds Matter.

Funding applications will be assessed across five key areas. Strong proposals will reflect the fund’s spirit with energy, optimism, and a clear creative purpose; deliver real impact through skills, access, and industry links; show a smart, achievable plan with confident delivery; centre inclusion by amplifying underrepresented voices; and build on existing programmes to grow what’s already working.

More information on the judging criteria is available here.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: “I want every young person to have the opportunity to build a successful career within the creative industries, which is one of this country’s greatest assets.

“Whether it’s in film, TV, gaming, fashion or music, we have so much homegrown talent and I am delighted that the Regional Creatives Fund will help shine a spotlight on that right across the country helping people contribute to our national story.

“Alongside our Creative Industries Sector Plan this new fund will help to support growth in these fast-growing sectors by preparing the next generation of creatives to tell our national story on the world stage.”

Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, Chair of the House of Commons Culture, Media and Sport Committee and RCF Board Member added: “The creative industries are one of the UK’s greatest success stories, but for too long access to careers in this sector have been limited by social and economic barriers.

“Amazon’s Regional Creatives Fund is exactly the kind of initiative we need – offering substantial grants and practical support to help level the playing field.

“By supporting local charities with both funding and industry expertise, this programme will help unlock creative talent across our communities and ensure the UK’s creative sectors truly reflect the diversity of our society.”

“Amazon has been a passionate supporter of creative industries in the UK for many years and the Regional Creatives Fund will supercharge that support in Edinburgh and across the country,” added Paul Firth, Director, Global Music Industry, Amazon Music.

“The aim of the Regional Creatives Fund is to help charities amplify the reach of existing programmes that support pathways to careers in the creative industries. We understand talent is everywhere, but access isn’t, and we’re working to change that. Through the Regional Creatives Fund, we want to help create a future where creativity belongs to everyone.”

Amazon has invested over £4.2 billion in the UK’s creative industries since 2010, with over 2,000 people permanently working across our Film and TV, music and audio, books and publishing, fashion, and gaming businesses, and supporting 16,000 additional jobs.

Amazon’s creative industries footprint extends across the entire UK: from acquiring the historic Bray Film Studios in Berkshire last year, which will house the production of the next season of Citadel; to the long-term contract with Shepperton Studios for exclusive use of new state-of-the-art production facilities at the Surrey studios where The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power is currently filming; Guy Ritchie’s Young Sherlock in Wales; Harlan Coben’s Lazarus in Manchester; productions at First Stage Studios and Leigh Studios in Edinburgh; and multiple productions on location in and around London such as the live action movie Masters of the Universe.

The Amazon Literary Partnership has been awarding grants to inspiring non-profit literary organisations, writing centres and community engagement programmes groups since it was first launched in the UK six years ago.

While each has a different focus, all have a shared goal of uplifting and offering opportunities to aspiring writers at any stage of their creative journey, and empowering those from underrepresented communities to experience and contribute to the magic of storytelling through the written word.

Amazon Music is committed to expanding access to UK music talent through a series of targeted initiatives. Partnerships with organizations including the BRIT Trust, Amplify, and the Association for Independent Music support new creative professionals entering the industry.

The Step-Up Fund, a collaboration with the Featured Artists Coalition, will launch its fourth year in 2025. This fund provides financial support to emerging independent artists by offering development grants.

Since its inception, Step-Up has distributed £250,000 to more than 30 UK musicians, including both bands and solo artists across multiple genres. These grants enable artists to fund new recordings, touring costs, marketing campaigns, PR activities, video production, and content creation.

As part of its global strategy to shape a more inclusive audio-storytelling industry, Audible is partnering with multiple institutions in the UK to support creative development programmes, from funding scholarships and classes at the London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art (LAMDA), to sponsoring the Barbican Young Poets Program and Women’s Prize for Fiction Discoveries Programme.

To find out more about the Regional Creatives Fund, visit:

https://www.aboutamazon.co.uk/news/community/amazon-regional-creatives-fund

Great British Sewing Bee judge installed as Chancellor and forensic scientist honoured at QMU graduation ceremony

Today (7th July ’25), the designer, entrepreneur and TV judge, Patrick Grant, was officially installed as the Chancellor of Queen Margaret University (QMU), Edinburgh at the University’s graduation ceremony.

Patrick, who became a household name following his appearances as a judge of BBC One’s ‘The Great British Sewing Bee’, was joined by Carol Rogers, Scotland’s leading forensic scientist. Carol, who is best known for her work on serial killer Peter Tobin’s case, was awarded an honorary degree for advancing the field of forensic science, particularly in relation to investigations of sexual offences across Scotland.

Both Patrick and Carol joined 2000 students, families and guests at an impressive ceremony in Edinburgh’s Usher Hall.

Patrick Grant

A prominent figure in the British fashion industry and founder of the social enterprise Community Clothing, Patrick Grant is an advocate for sustainability and building strong communities through entrepreneurship.

Brought up in Edinburgh, he has developed an international reputation as a champion of UK textile manufacturing, supporting local communities while producing high-quality, long-lasting garments. His book ’Less’, published in 2024 and a Sunday Times Bestseller, details his commitment to reducing consumption and embracing circular, regenerative fashion.  

Over the past two decades, Patrick has built a distinguished career in the fashion industry – working with global brands including Cartier, Rolls-Royce, BMW, Barbour, and Alexander McQueen, and always advocating for craftsmanship and quality.

He revitalised Savile Row tailor Norton & Sons, relaunched men’s tailoring brand E. Tautz – winning Menswear Designer of the Year at the British Fashion Awards – and led Debenhams’ most successful designer collaboration with Hammond & Co.

In 2015, his passion for British manufacturing resulted in the rescue of Blackburn-based clothing factory Cookson & Clegg.

This experience inspired him to launch Community Clothing in 2016, a pioneering initiative that earned him widespread recognition for revitalising the UK garment industry. Community Clothing’s makes and sells UK clothing at a fraction of the price of premium brands, and has a strong focus on sustainability, job creation and building local economic prosperity.

Patrick has also become a familiar face on television. In addition to the ‘The Great British Sewing Bee’ (nominated for a BAFTA in 2022), he presented the award-winning documentary ‘Coronation Tailors: Fit for a King’, appeared on BBC Radio 4’s ’Desert Island Discs’, and won BBC One’s ’Celebrity Mastermind’.

He has written for a variety of publications, including The Financial Times, The Times, The Sun, The Daily Mail and GQ.

Sir Paul Grice, Principal of Queen Margaret University, said: “Patrick has had a meaningful and hugely impactful career as a designer, entrepreneur, writer and sustainability champion.

“His work resonates with the University’s strong social justice ethos, and our commitment to building strong communities and acting as a force for good. His passion for combining entrepreneurialism, skill and people-focused thinking to create thriving communities aligns with QMU’s purpose of shaping a better society through teaching and research.”

Carol Rogers – Forensic operation lead – Major Crime (Sexual Offences)

As National Lead Forensic Scientist for Sexual Offences with the Scottish Police Authority’s Forensic Services, Carol Rogers has advanced forensic science, bringing justice to countless victims of sexual offences.

As one of the most respected experts in her field, Carol has dedicated over two decades of her life to the meticulous and often harrowing work of forensics. Working in major crime, she has led forensic investigations in numerous major cases, including murders and serious sexual offences.

Recently, her work was highlighted on the BBC Scotland crime documentary ‘The Hunt for Peter Tobin’ where she discussed the painstaking investigation of the serial killer’s crime scene – work which led to his successful conviction.

Carol’s expertise in blood pattern analysis, body fluid analysis, damage interpretation, and DNA interpretation has been instrumental in solving some of Scotland’s most notorious crimes.

Her ability to provide expert testimony in court has been crucial in securing convictions and ensuring perpetrators are held accountable, bringing closure to victims and their families.

Sir Paul Grice, Principal of Queen Margaret University, said: “We cannot underestimate the impact that Carol Rogers’ progressive work has had on the profession of forensic science, and on the thousands of individuals and families’ lives affected by crime.

Her leadership of teams has helped set standards in forensic services, and her work has been pivotal in advancing forensic techniques and methodologies, ensuring the profession evolves and improves.

She has also drawn on her expertise as a forensic scientist and expert witness, working on cases from “crime scene to court”, to assist Queen Margaret University in the development of its PgCert Advanced Forensic Practice.

“Launched in 2021, this specialist course enables already experienced forensic practitioners to work at an advanced level in Police Custody and Sexual Assault Referral Coordination Services (SARCS).”

Sir Paul concluded: “In the year that we celebrate Queen Margaret University’s 150th anniversary, we are honoured to have two such inspirational individuals at the first of our three 2025 graduation ceremonies.

“We are delighted to officially install Patrick Grant as our new Chancellor, and to recognise Carol Rogers dedication and unwavering commitment to justice with the honorary degree of Doctor of the University.”

Edinburgh STYLE is back bigger than ever for 2025

From 28^th – 30^th March, St James Quarter will play host to an enviable line-up of style talks, fashion shows, beauty masterclasses and more

Edinburgh STYLE will return to St James Quarter this March; bigger, bolder, and more stylish than ever before. Edinburgh STYLE 2025 will bring exciting new partners, including Pat McGrath Labs and W Edinburgh.

Set to be a vibrant celebration of fashion, design and creativity, guests can expect unmissable masterclasses, expert speakers, fashion shows and live entertainment.

Edinburgh STYLE weekend with W Edinburgh

For the first time, Edinburgh STYLE will offer a weekend package, with a two-night stay at W Edinburgh. The weekend tickets, with prices starting at £918, include exclusive access to STYLE workshops with industry luminaries, front row seats at two fashion shows, pop-up gigs, and a very special drinks reception with the Grazia team, plus VIP speakers and so much more. It’s the perfect gift for fashion-forward mums this Mother’s Day.

Book your experience here: https://www.marriott.com/offers/edinburgh-style-weekend-experience-off-154179/ediwh-w-edinburgh

Edinburgh STYLE Line-up

W Edinburgh guests and weekend ticket holders will be able to attend an incredible line-up of events across the three days, including talks from some of the UK’s fashion industry leaders and commentators.

Ex-American and UK Vogue contributing editor and novelist, Plum Sykes, will divulge some of her industry-leading knowledge; and Navaz Batiwalla – aka Disneyrollergirl – will discuss how style has influenced her career, from fashion editor to one of the first internationally recognised bloggers, to writing two ult-a stylish tomes.

Scotland’s own Iain R Webb, writer, curator and Professor of Fashion & Design at the renowned Kingston School of Art, will share his unrivalled insights into the evolution of fashion, trends and style.

CEO of Harris Tweed, Margaret Ann, will provide a unique insight into the Brand’s recent Dior partnership, and share how Harris Tweed Hebrides takes a design-led approach to collaboration and partnership. Timorous Beasties, Pam Hogg and more are also confirmed to share their stylish secrets across the weekend.

Alongside the activity at W Edinburgh, the Quarter’s Level 3 the Essential Edinburgh STYLE Lounge will play host to FREE workshops and masterclasses led by top industry insiders from some of the City’s most-loved fashion and beauty brands.

Because this year Edinburgh STYLE is being embraced by our neighbours at Multrees Walk and George Street, shoppers will be able to enjoy a wide range of in-store experiences at over 50 brands.

Susan Hewlett, Brand and Marketing Director at St James Quarter, said: “Edinburgh STYLE has been a key event for St James Quarter for the past four years, continuing to evolve with additional experiences and new collaborators. We are delighted to be joined by a new line-up of partners in 2025, who will add exciting new elements, as well as having our friends from Grazia return for a third year.

“From the ultimate fashion weekend at the W Edinburgh, to amazing shopping experiences around the Quarter, through Multrees Walk and down George Street; along with fashion talks, beauty masterclasses, runway glamour and more, – what a way to welcome spring and spoil mum! STYLE is always around the Quarter.”

Download the St James Quarter app or follow on social media for updates, sneak peeks, and more information on how to get involved in Edinburgh STYLE 2025.