Children in Need’s Designer Pudsey Collection launches in Selfridges

BBC Children in Need has launched the eagerly anticipated 2012 Designer Pudsey Collection, which has seen over 30 of the biggest names in fashion design use their creative flair and remarkable talents to inspire their own unique 28 inch version of Britain’s best loved Bear.

Louis Vuitton, Victoria Beckham, Prada, Gucci, Alexander McQueen and Giles Deacon are just a few of the coveted designers who have submitted a creation to the collection which this year was curated by LOVE Editor Katie Grand.

The whole collection will be exclusively exhibited in the London & Manchester Selfridges Stores from 24 October until the 14 November 2012, before being auctioned to raise funds for the charity.

To visit the auction, visit bbc.co.uk/pudsey.

The iconic Pudsey has been recreated in an array of different fabrics from suede to Swarovski crystals; in a rainbow of different colours; from silver to blue, and in a variety of different styles; from Gucci’s equestrian Pudsey, to Burberry’s English Gentleman’s Pudsey. Each Designer Pudsey is completely unique and will allow fans of both the Bear and the designers the opportunity to own a piece of fashion history, and gain an insight into trends for 2013.

Anya Hindmarch, Paul Smith and Selfridges have also created 10 inch limited edition Designer Pudsey’s, which will be sold exclusively in Selfridges from 24 October 2012.

Katie Grand, Curator of the 2012 Designer Pudsey Collection, says: “I was honoured to curate this fantastic collection, and have had such fun working with the designers on all of their amazing designs, BBC Children in Need is an incredibly worthwhile cause, and one which myself and all of the designers involved in the collection are privileged to support.”

Alannah Weston, Creative Director, Selfridges and Co, says: “Selfridges is delighted to support such a purposeful and creative project. It is wonderful to see such remarkable talent helping this most worthy of causes.”

Sarah Monteith, Director of Marketing and Fundraising, BBC Children in Need, says: "We are absolutely elated to have such prestigious designers turn Pudsey into a fashion icon once again. And to have Selfridges exhibit this one-off collection, allows everyone to view a piece of fashion history. A truly inspirational fundraising initiative.”