Dame Prue Leith may have announced her departure from The Great British Bake Off, but the television personality demonstrated she is far from slowing down as she confidently took to the runway for the Vin+Omi show during London Fashion Week on Tuesday. The 85-year-old baker and judge returned to modelling for the designer, practicing her catwalk at The Art'otel in Hoxton ahead of the presentation.
Star-Studded Front Row Support
Bake Off host Alison Hammond, 51, and former presenter Matt Lucas, 51, joined Prue's husband John Playfair on the front row, ready to cheer her on. The supportive audience added to the lively atmosphere as Prue prepared for her moment in the spotlight.
Fashion Statements and Rehearsal Energy
Prue rocked a statement newspaper shirt paired with a bold red blazer, matching trainers, and her signature quirky glasses during rehearsals. She put on an animated display before changing into her evening look: an orange patterned suit with a dramatic pink ruffled shirt. Her hair was styled into a quiff with flowers artfully arranged, showcasing her playful fashion sense.
Bake Off Departure Details
Prue announced she was stepping back from Bake Off in January, and it has since been confirmed that Nigella Lawson will take her place, joining co-judge Paul Hollywood when the new series begins filming in April. The TV chef, who replaced former judge Mary Berry in 2017, explained her departure in an interview with The Spectator.
Prue reflected on her nine-year tenure, stating: 'I have been dithering for years about when to stop judging The Great British Bake Off. When I joined nine years ago, I thought, since I was in my mid-seventies, that I'd be lucky to manage two years.'
Reasons for Leaving
She highlighted that a recent getaway to Madagascar convinced her it was time to move on, expressing a desire for more summer holidays. 'I suddenly realised that if I don't give up Bake Off, I'll never again have a holiday in the south of France, in Italy, in Spain, or even in Cornwall or Scotland,' she said.
Prue added that she wants to 'reorganise my life a bit' and ideally 'work in winter and play in summer.' Despite enjoying the job and the supportive atmosphere of the Bake Off tent, she felt that at 86, it was time to 'jump before I was pushed.'
Nigella Lawson's Response
Nigella Lawson admitted to feeling daunted by filling the shoes of two 'great dames' but expressed excitement about the role. In a statement, she said: 'I'm uncharacteristically rather lost for words right now. Of course it's daunting to be following in the footsteps of Prue Leith and Mary Berry before her, great dames both, but I'm also bubbling with excitement.'
Fashion Week Highlights
During the Vin+Omi show, designer Omi was seen giving Prue directions during rehearsals, ensuring her catwalk met the vision for the presentation. Prue posed for snaps with the designers, showcasing her vibrant orange suit and pink shirt ensemble. This appearance follows her previous fashion week outings, including a pink satin paint-splattered coat last year and an edgy leather look in September 2024.
Alison Hammond complemented the event in a green dress and coat, adding to the celebratory mood. The collaboration between Prue and Vin+Omi highlights her continued engagement in creative industries beyond baking, proving her versatility and enduring appeal in the public eye.
