London Fashion Week: bell boys, bags and ponies at Hill & Friends

A model walks the runway for Hill & Friends at London Fashion Week. Courtesy British Fashion Council

Mulberry’s former creative director Emma Hill launched the first collection of her own accessories label Hill & Friends at a cheerful breakfast event inside the timeless Claridge’s hotel.

As guests snacked on biscuits, eggs and strawberry milk shakes, male models dressed in bell boy outfits roamed the room and showcased Hill’s leather bags. The standout pieces include a pastel green satchel and a mini neon pink handbag.

All handmade in a factory in Somerset, the bags are practical as they are pretty, featuring luxe linings and functional detailing. They come at great prices, too — starting from £625 (Dh3,565).

“I wanted to design not only the product but also the culture and processes involved,” Hill said about her decision to launch her own brand. “No exploitation, no short cuts, no waste, no greed and absolutely no time for egos.”

As soon as two Shetland ponies closed the show — yes, really — the label's website Hill&Friends.com went live for business. The bags will also be sold on Net-a-Porter.com.