A nostalgic journey into the late 2000s fashion scene awaits visitors at the Lower Stable Street in Kings Cross, London, as the WE ARE YOUR FRIENDS: BACKSTAGE LFW exhibition opens its doors this week to mark the 40th anniversary of London Fashion Week (LFW).
The free outdoor showcase features imagery displayed in light boxes by fashion photographer Rebecca Zephyr Thomas, taken in 2007 and 2009. These behind-the-scenes photographs offer a glimpse into pivotal moments in British fashion history, highlighting the quirky, rock ’n’ roll spirit that defined the era – from the iconic faces of Agyness Deyn and Alice Dellal to the rebellious energy embodied by Ash Stymest and Luke Worrall.
Thomas’ photographs capture raw moments of creativity and spontaneity, delving into the backstage world of Fashion East and Giles Deacon’s ’00s runway shows. “These photos show my starting place, shooting on 35mm film in a very documentary manner,” she says, reflecting on her early days as a photographer covering LFW. “Now I’m actually pleased that I was shooting the models in their own clothes, as it shows a real slice of the backstage chaos in all its glory, and what real people were wearing off duty.”
Thomas’ work is deeply rooted in youth culture and subcultures. Her photography series – including What Would Julia Do, focusing on London’s club culture royalty Princess Julia – offers visual narratives of London’s nightlife and fashion scene. This exhibition is no different, paying homage to the pioneering spirit of Fashion East, the talent incubator founded by Lulu Kennedy in 2000. Fashion East has nurtured leading names such as Simone Rocha, Nensi Dojaka and Kim Jones.
WE ARE YOUR FRIENDS: BACKSTAGE LFW is a testament to the enduring legacy of London’s fashion scene. As visitors immerse themselves in these archive images, they’ll be reminded of the creativity and vibrant energy that define the spirit of LFW.
We Are Your Friends: Backstage LFW by Rebecca Zephyr Thomas is on display along Lower Stable Street, King’s Cross, London, until 1 April 2024
Pia Brynteson is Digital Editor for Service95
Image Credits: House of Holland LFW 2007; Agyness Deyn, House of Holland LFW 2007; Ash Stymest; Raquel Zimmerman, Backstage at Giles; Mariacarla Boscono, Backstage at Giles; Alice Dellal, House Of Holland LFW 2007. All Images © Rebecca Zephyr Thomas, We Are Your Friends Archive
