Whether it was the models sucking in their cheeks, the organisers gasping for air, or the audience’s fevered anticipation, you could almost feel the room holding its breath as it awaited the headline event of this year’s St Albans Fashion Week last Friday.

The Cathedral Catwalk Show was once again a spectacular showcase of local labels, big brands and tenacious young talent.

It was the third in a trio of shows that included a sumptuous 1930s-styled Luxe Show at the Porsche Centre Hatfield and a Luxury Wedding Event at Hatfield House, and one of more than 20 events held during the week, which attracted 2,000 people to the city for fashion and beauty events, workshops, masterclasses, pop-up boutiques, a Super Shopping Saturday and a charity swap shop.

On the night, the glamorous crowd who sipped on bubbly included Julia Yule, executive editor of Glamour magazine and Tom Pellereau, winner of The Apprentice in 2011.

For the event, the beautiful nave of the landmark building was transformed into the UK’s longest indoor catwalk. The models strutting down it were all local as well, and the gentle cheers of encouragement from family and friends in the 800-strong audience broke down the sometimes icy layer that can prevail over a fashion event and gave it a decidedly Gok Wan feel.

While the outfits in the first half were all oozing glamour, with burgundy faux fur gilets, swishing beaded gowns and leather-look leggings, none of the models would have looked out of place walking down St Albans’ streets. The collection from independent vintage boutique Little Viking was a highlight, with a sequinned, hippie harem look a particular favourite.

But it was in the second half that imagination really took flight with students from Oaklands College and the University of Hertfordshire sending their models down the catwalk in billowing black capes fastened across the shoulders in a slightly bondage style, wispy gowns made from layers of chiffon and feathers and dresses with rubbery sculpted sleeves.

Local young designers were also celebrated with collections by Marley Eliza Hart, Naomi Tuffrey and Emma Hughes, whose cleverly-structured, tasselled knitwear was a delight.

Students also had the chance to volunteer behind the scenes, with everything appearing to go off without a hitch and, despite the delayed start, the sold-out show, with its mix of sleek and fluff fun fashion was an unmitigated success. Bring on 2015!

  • Students and young designers can still enter the St Albans Fashion and Beauty Awards, which take place in January. Details: info@stalbansfashionweek.com