Picking up tips from the experts will be an important part of visiting Pulse – taking place at London’s Olympia from May 13-15 – with British designer Sophie Conran among the keynote speakers who will be sharing their wisdom on a broad range of topics. Alongside Sophie, the impressive line-up includes speakers from Not On the High Street, Heals, the V&A and Save The High Street.
Looking ahead to 2019, four key trends have been identified: the hyper-feminine Candied; Library, a retro 1970s feel that blends the past with the present; the homespun, handmade contemporary Crafted, and Inner Balance which is spiritual and serene.
Top: Candied, among four new trends that will be unveiled at Pulse. Shown is jewellery from Esoteric London.
Brand new to Pulse 2018 will be the Jewellery Emporium, which will bring a unique selection of unseen Jewellery designers together at the show. Other highlights include Makers, an edit of products from talented new designer-makers; the edited Fashion; Brands, featuring new launches from leading brands showcased in one buying location, and Found, a sector dedicated to bringing buyers never-seen-before international brands.
New products, brand launches and Christmas collections will be at the heart of the show.
“We are continuously on the hunt for talented new designer-makers and exciting new UK and international brands, making it easy for retailers to discover those unique gems, mid-season,” says Pulse’s show director Louise Morris. “It’s the place to shop the next big trends, the next best sellers and the stand out products that will really enhance a store’s offering and keep them one step ahead.
Additionally, could visitors to the University of the Arts London’s (UAL) feature at Pulse discover the next Stella McCartney, James Dyson or Sir Terence Conran? The university will be presenting a hand-picked preview selection of design products by emerging designers, created by 13 of its students and alumni. Many have never exhibited at a trade show before, making UAL’s stand the place to discover the names to watch in design.
The stand will feature a diverse range of products from fashion accessories and stationery to prints, furniture and household products. Selections were based on the commercial viability and creativity of their products.
“Our partnership with Pulse provides UAL students and graduates with a platform to launch their businesses to the world, making our stand the place to discover exciting up-and-coming designers,” said Vicky Creevey, enterprise & events manager, careers and employability at UAL. “We support our students and graduates with business guidance throughout the process, so taking part is an important learning curve that prepares them for trade and retail.”
The 13 chosen design businesses are part of UAL’s prestigious network of alumni, which includes: Sir Terence Conran, James Dyson, Margaret Calvert, Neville Brody, Susan Williams-Ellis, Tatty Devine’s Harriet Vine and Rosie Wolfenden and Stella McCartney.
Elsewhere at Pulse, talks and workshops will be taking place at ShopTalk covering topics such as how to build an Instagram community that buys, and PR on a budget.
Visit www.pulse-london.com
