Providing a platform for talent is one of the aims of the biennial and popular Fresh Air Sculpture Show that took place in Quenington, near Fairford from mid-June to the beginning of July.

This year, on the last evening of the Fresh Air Sculpture Show, organiser Lucy Abel Smith and her team at Quenington Old Rectory presented the Fresh Fashion Show – a spectacular event, showcasing innovative fashion designs.

Ticket holders for the Fashion Show had the Old Rectory Garden all to themselves to enjoy browsing round the 2024 Fresh Air Sculpture exhibits with a glass of champagne and delicious nibbles before the start of the Fashion Show itself.

The magnificent array of fashion from coats to kimonos, corsets to camisoles, and cardigans to bridal-wear featured inspirational and talented designer/makers and their models parading unique creations down the aisle catwalk of the 12^th century village church of St Swithin’s.

Designer/makers included Clare Walsh, whose textiles were inspired by the beautiful nature in the Old Rectory gardens; and Carole Waller, who has a studio near Bath and brought her Summer collection ‘Clouds’ to the Quenington event. Another Fresh Fashion designer/maker was Ossatura, run by Burford locals Kezia Dubens and Hannah Mills. Their niche piece is corsetry, one example of which was worn by singer-pianist Victoria Canal when playing alongside Cold Play at Glastonbury in July.

Organiser, Lucy Abel Smith said: “We were very lucky to have been blessed with a delightful, summer evening. Thank you to sponsors, The Lakes by yoo and all the loyal supporters who helped us raise funds for the Church of St Swithin’s, a bursary in sustainable textile research and a local hospice.”