Imagine a show that showcases all things chocolate, including stunning outfits made from and inspired by chocolate. Yes, you read that right. Salon du Chocolat, the world’s largest chocolate show, launched its first ever London edition from October 18 to 20. After a successful tour of over 23 countries, the renowned show melted hearts at the National Hall at Olympia. The show included exhibits from U.K.’s top chocolate companies and international brands, demonstrations from acclaimed chocolatiers and chefs and spectacular chocolate sculptures. The highlight of the event was the chocolate fashion show featuring beautiful outfits made entirely of chocolate. Mark Tilling, master chocolatier and resident tutor at Squires Kitchen and four-time winner of the U.K. Chocolate Masters, showcased his chocolate-sculpting talent by creating a chocolate cocktail dress. Chocolate makers from four different continents participated in the prestigious 2013 International Chocolate Awards World Final. Renowned chocolatiers and chocolate companies included Artisan du Chocolat, Lindt Excellence, Demarquette, Toot Sweets Chocolates, Fruitful Blooms, On Café, Christophe Roussel, Iain Burnett – The Highland Chocolatier and Les Sucreries de Mélodie. Notable designers included Graduate Fashion Week 2013 winner Lauren Smith, award-winning English heritage milliner Vivien Sheriff and British designer swimwear brand Bikini Fling.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PAUL WINCH-FURNESS