Celebrating British Luxury at The Walpole Awards 2018

A celebration of the prevailing strength of the British luxury was the theme of the night at Walpole’s 2018 British Luxury Awards. Hosted in The Dorchester, the iconic setting was the perfect backdrop for the night’s festivities. Wearisma’s Founder and CEO Jenny Tsai and Charlotte Weston who heads up Insights & Analytics were in attendance alongside industry giants and spirited newcomers.

Walpole Chief Executive Helen Brocklebank gave an impassioned welcome speech on the inventiveness of the industry, that served to instill a sense on pride in the room stating that; “British luxury, the arts and culture in the UK make such a massive contribution to the global reputation of the country and it seems more important than ever to celebrate the innovators, inventors and creatives who help to make Great Britain famous all over the world.” The night was carried along by host Jason Isaacs as the winners announcements came streaming in. With an impressive 40-year long career Manolo Blahnik was presented with the ‘Legend’ award by Model Yasmin Le Bon. The iconic footwear designer happily accepted his award which recognises ‘outstanding individual achievement in and contribution to the success of British Luxury’.

Presented by one of their 2018 speakers; June Sarpong, Cliveden Literary Festival won the Wearisma sponsored ‘Cultural Contribution’ Award. The critically acclaimed literary festival held in the prestigious Cliveden House had only just wrapped up it’s sophomore event in September. Their speedy ascent can be attributed to the work of founder Natalie Livingston and co-founder Catherine Ostler.

Other winners on the night included Belmond who secured the ‘British Luxury Brand of the Year’ award. CEO Roeland Vos picked up Belmond’s award from model Jodie Kidd who hosted the brands ultimate equestrian safari in Botswana earlier this year. This victory is particularly notable as Belmond was the first ever hospitality company to be nominated in this category. The night would have been a resounding success for Belmond’s Michelin Star Chef and owner of Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons, Raymond Blanc who was in attendance and also celebrating his 69th birthday.

After such a spectacular night we are excited to announce that Wearisma have partnered again with Walpole for The State of British Luxury Influence breakfast happening next week in what promises to be an insightful and eventful morning.