The Millennium Bridge will become a catwalk for the day

A blue carpet will be laid over the pedestrian bridge as models show off clothes by five new British designers.

Organisers aim to turn the "notoriously exclusive" week on its head, with young designers taking part and the general public getting a front-row seat.

The event coincides with the Thames Festival free events this weekend.

It brings Fashion Week to the public Jean-Pierre van Lin Peroni

The five young designers, Kirstimairie, Jatin Patel, Chloe Croft, Naomi Givans and Masood Ahmed will show some of their most recent collections, and others designed for a special Collezioni Peroni show.

Peroni spokesman Jean-Pierre van Lin told the BBC organising the show had been a real challenge, but the local authorities had been very helpful.

He added: "It brings Fashion Week to the public and makes the city a fashion destination.

"The Millennium Bridge is going to look like an amazing catwalk filled with designer couture and a tailor-made collection by five up-and-coming young designers."

He added that the bridge itself was a design icon, and having young, fresh designs displayed against the backdrop of historic St Paul's Cathedral should offer an "amazing contrast".

The show runs until 2130 BST, to coincide with the Thames Festival's firework show.

A series of free events has been running along the riverside between Westminster and Tower Bridge over the weekend.