Ever attended an intimate apparel trade show?

It's part of my job, covering lingerie and swimwear trends and brands. Most of the ones I've visited are held in windowless and cavernous venues as long as a football field. It's an exhausting experience, whether you are a brand, buyer, lingerie blogger or member of the press. More than once I've left a show frustrated that I didn't get to see a particular label or talk to more designers.

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Dessous London means to change that model. They're hitting the refresh button on most of the traditional aspects of designer intimate apparel trade shows. First, they held their recent two-day event (July 19th and 20th) in a bright sunlit showroom. Second, they made it easy for buyers, press, and others to mingle and enjoy their experience. Third, they held a fabulous, intimate cocktail party (sponsored by German brands, Lascana), featuring the talents of UK entertainer, Beau Rocks. Finally, lingerie studies graduates had the opportunity to show off their unique designs to all attendees.

The Show

Intimate apparel brands from both established and up-and-coming labels from all over the world were on display. While many of you might be familiar with Montelle, Kriss Soonik, or Dita Von Teese, you may not have heard of Hot as Hell. Check out the photos, below, to get a better idea of the variety of fashions.

De Montfort University Student Showcase

Another unique aspect of Dessous London was the focus on the future of intimate apparel. They chose to showcase the collections of six recent graduates from world-renowned De Montfort University.

Is there a better way to celebrate prospective lingerie trends and designer talents? Here's hoping that Dessous London keeps innovating and giving buyers, vendors, and others, a great experience.

Have you attended a lingerie or intimate apparel trade show? What do you think of the Dessous London format? Which designers do you like best?