London Fashion Week got off to a rocky start with the “Cocaine Kate” scandal. However, even the shocking allegations about England’s most recognizable model did not suffice to spoil the exuberant mood prevailing at the shows.

80s fashion icon, Linda Evangelista, immortalized by Richard Avedon and Irving Penn’s iconic images, jumpstarted LFW with a photo call in front of the National History Museum. Looking breathtaking in a corseted bouffant dress, Linda defied Father Time.

Speaking of icons, British phenomenon Vivienne Westwood, widely credited for catapulting London street fashion on to the high fashion runways, made an appearance at the Versace launch party, celebrating the refurbishment of the Italian design house’s store on Sloane Street. Hosting the bash was the infamous “Blondie” Donatella, sister of late Gianni. Having recently completed a stint in rehab, Donatella looked inspiringly vibrant and healthy. Right by her side was long time pal, Elizabeth Hurley, who is rumored to be on the fast track to tying the knot with Indian entrepreneur, Arun Nayar. Also in attendance was music sensation Mariah Carey, who staged a tremendous comeback earlier this year. Dressed in an elegant white Versace dress Mariah seemed to have gotten over the odd phase during which she slashed loaner haute couture gowns to reveal more skin. Given the recent changes in her appearance, attitude, and popularity, the once black listed star is bound to win favor with top designers.

This being the first Fashion Week after the horrible metro bombings in the heart of London, the occasion carried a special significance. And no participant represented the prevailing spirit of peace, unity, and understanding better than Miss England, Hamassa Kohistani. Great Britain’s first Muslim beauty queen, Hamassa, proved to be a lovely ambassador of universal tolerance.

Another remarkable woman, who for many years served as a bridge between the Muslim and Western worlds, was sitting front row at Ghost. Jemima Goldsmith, better known as Jemima Khan, has been warming up to the London scene post the dissolution of her marriage to Pakistani cricketing legend Imran Khan. The stunning mother of two, now dating actor Hugh Grant, looked positively happy and excited while waiting for the show to begin.

Finally, what fashion week would be complete without picketers and protesters? As is their custom PETA members jumped on the catwalk at the end of a high profile show, denouncing the killing of animals for their fur. This time choosing to condemn Julien Macdonald with “Fur Scum” and “Fur Kills” banners, the demonstrators took everyone back to the days Anna Wintour got doused in red paint. Such was the nostalgia that even the gifted designer could not help cracking a smile as the bodyguards wrestled away the unwanted guests.

Much to the media’s dismay Kate Moss, whose Dior and Burberry advertising campaigns still appear in Central London, remained in hiding, missing her friend Sadie Frost’s runway show at the Home House, a members club.

At the end of the day London Fashion Week has an undeniably distinct essence. The eclectic mélange of designers, editors, celebrities, and fashionistas that convene in this cosmopolitan capital to celebrate distinctive style and exquisite clothes, interpret panache with a unique flavor. If you have not already done so, this is the right time to raise your eyes to the modern London horizon. What you will see there is sure to redefine the way you dress.