Annette Worsley-Taylor MBE sadly passed away yesterday. Annette was a much respected and well known figure in British fashion. A dynamic individual dedicated to supporting talent and building businesses, she was the driving force behind the success of London Fashion Week for many years.
For those of us who knew her well and had the pleasure of working with her, she was an absolute perfectionist, had great wit, charm and didn’t suffer fools gladly. Her interests in the creative industries were diverse from architecture to theatre, although designer fashion and the British fashion industry remained her primary interest.
A quick plotted history sees her supporting fashion design talent from 1974 and was a key part of the British Fashion Council from 1984-2006. Her role as Creative Director of the British Fashion Council and London Fashion Week meant she forged a close relationship with designers, media, retailers, stylists, photographers and models. She launched the first London Fashion Week website, developed seasonal campaigns and oversaw the look and feel of official show venues and exhibitions. The exhibition experience for guests was her priority and remains a founding premise of the BFC attitude to its designer showrooms today.
Annette’s impact on our industry is immeasurable. It is almost impossible to think where we would be today, had it not been for her vision and tenacity over so many years. She will be missed dearly by all of us who knew her and our thoughts go out to her husband Anthony, her family and friends.
With great sadness and in very fond memory
Caroline Rush CBE
CEO, British Fashion Council
26th August 2015