Like your fashion with your music and the idea of a festival but without the roughing up? In that case, Vintage at Goodwood, set mid-August in the very chic West Sussex Estate which already hosts the renowned Festival of Speed, might be just for you… Aimed to celebrate five decades of British culture, it will not only feature concerts, but also fashion shows, including the launch of Lily Allen’s new label, the largest vintage fair in the world, pop up shops, art exhibitions, a roller disco, dance classes, burlesque shows and a series of rather glam sleeping options such as yurts, tipis and caravans.
Lily Allen (in red) in front of Goodwood HouseDo we really need one more summer festival? Well, why the hell not, if it comes with a difference, which is certainly the case with Vintage at Goodwood, which aims to become an annual celebration of British cool over the last five decades, thanks to partnerships with The Design Museum, British Film Institute and British Music Experience.
Run from 13th to 15th August in Goodwood Estate, overlooking the Sussex coast, it will be the first event of its kind to combine music, fashion, design and retail, while bringing the idea of glam and comfortable camping: “Vintage at Goodwood will bring something fresh and unique to a summer festival circuit that in many ways has become stale, homogenised and one dimensional, explains Wayne Hemingway, one of its creators. We have carefully curated a celebratory festival that is unashamedly about dressing up rather than down and being comfortable rather than compromised.”
Musically, Vintage at Goodwood should appeal to those interested in musical history, from jazz to punk to pop, with an interesting line up of renowned DJ’s, bands and artists from each decade, as well as contemporary artists whose work owes a debt to these forerunners, from 1960s pop princess Sandie Shaw to hit sensation The Noisettes. Fashion wise, there will be three daily runway shows featuring vintage designers to future trends and the world’s largest vintage market, alongside pop up outlets. “To me the idea of music and fashion being separate is just not possible, one can’t exist without the other, explains Lily Allen said. That is why I’m so excited to have my clothing brand Lucy in Disguise debut in the full hub of this spectacular festival.”
For those who like the idea of a festival but not to sleep in soaking wet tents, Vintage at Goodwood will offer “posh” woodland camping and unprecedented levels of luxury accommodation and facilities available. Be it under beautiful bricks and mortar in the Goodwood Hotel, or bedding down in vintage caravans, Indian tipis or super luxurious tents, all attending will have the opportunity to dress up and not be compromised on comfort.
Verdict: While die-hard Radio 1 listeners should stick to Glastonbury, the Big Chill or Bestival, Goodwood will definitely appeal to those looking for something different, especially if they like a bit of retro glam and musical nostalgia. The concept is definitely fun and interesting, the location is gorgeous and the idea of glam camping as well as a bit of retail therapy are definite bonuses!
Vintage at Goodwood, 13-15 August 2010. For more details and booking please visit www.vintageatgoodwood.com
