Magazine Articles - The Expo

The Expo - 2007

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The Xpo is the showcase for designer leather and latex, unique corsetry, club couture, beautiful burlesque, funky accessories and footwear, elegant lingerie and sensual art. Over the two days, the cream of the world's alternative designers and retailers come together to provide a unique shopping experience - and one of the best adult social events of the London calendar.

The Xpo provides a contained, safe and private environment for all genders (no cameras are allowed except for official photographers). If you want to dress up before you go out to mingle, shop and socialise (this is entirely optional, but adds to the spectacle), there are changing rooms - and cloakrooms and bag-stores so you can enjoy the Xpo experience unencumbered by luggage.

Apart from the various bars and food venues for meeting and snacks, there's a Pamper Zone where visitors can get a manicure, a massage, test cosmetics and even get a temporary tattoo - and this year there will be make-up and hairdressing available too. There is a programme of free demonstrations and workshops throughout the two-day event - Esinem (www.esinem.com) will be demonstrating some of his skills in Japanese rope bondage, and other titillating talents - with details available of his courses and shows. Among the inclusive entertainments are fashion shows, photographic shoots, and the fabulous chocolate fountain - and resident DJs will be playing chilled housemusic throughout the day.

With so many people buying on the net, this is a great opportunity for 'handson' shopping - the widest selection of clothing, corsetry, toys, equipment, footwear, and more - including prints, books and artwork in the gallery area.

The Cafe Bar is open until late on both evenings, and is an ideal place to meet up before going off to other weekend events - the Torture Garden Party or the Rubber Ball. The Barbican Exhibition Centre is just five minutes' walk from the Barbican tube station, with plenty of parking close by - and traffic in the centre of the City is quiet at weekends.