As I step into my final season as CEO of the British Fashion Council, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary moments I’ve witnessed over the past 16 years. Some of these stand out as truly iconic, like sitting beside the late Queen in 2018 as she presented the inaugural Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design to Richard Quinn. Her presence at that show and in the designer showrooms underscored the immense power of visibility. A single endorsement—whether from royalty, a celebrity, or a global influencer—can transform a brand’s trajectory overnight.
British fashion is not just an industry; it is a cultural force. It acts as an industrial lever and soft power for the UK, with influence extending far beyond the catwalks. Those in positions of prominence must understand the importance of their presence and the tangible impact of their support.
Memorable moments and London fashion week’s unique magic
Over the years, I have been privileged to witness so many defining moments. From blagging my way into an Alexander McQueen show in the 1990s without a ticket to seeing Hussein Chalayan’s mesmerising table dress, the passion and creativity of British fashion have never ceased to amaze me.
London Fashion Week has always been a melting pot of innovation—sometimes chaotic, often rebellious, and always thrilling. Some shows evoke pure joy and theatrical exuberance, like Anya Hindmarch’s playful presentations, while others bring unexpected magic, such as when Prince jumped onto Matthew Williamson’s catwalk or when Alison Moyet’s powerful rendition of Only You filled the air at Burberry’s show in Kensington Gardens.
Beyond the collections themselves, London Fashion Week offers a stage to showcase the beauty and dynamism of our capital city. This season, the venues are as varied as ever, with Labrum showing at Arsenal FC, Simone Rocha at Alexandra Palace, Burberry in Hyde Park, and Harris Reed at the Tate Modern. These moments remind us why London remains one of the most inspiring cities in the world.
Street style and the energy of the city
London’s street style is just as influential as what happens on the runways. Our city’s ability to set global trends is unmatched, thanks to its diverse cultures and unique vibrancy. Often, you’ll see the impact of a fashion show the very next day as people incorporate fresh designs into their everyday wardrobes. But London’s fashion scene isn’t just about making a statement—it’s also about political and cultural expression. Fashion has always been a reflection of society, and nowhere is that more evident than in the way Londoners dress.
Of course, what happens behind the scenes at London Fashion Week is just as exciting. From unexpected celebrity appearances—like Grace Jones strutting down Philip Treacy’s runway—to the frantic backstage scrambles for missing shoes, the energy is palpable. Every season, the city is filled with models dashing between venues, often hopping onto motorbikes to make it on time, and long queues outside venues add to the electric atmosphere.
The evolution of the fashion industry
As I prepare to step away, I am struck by how far the industry has come and how much further it has to go. Fashion has always thrived in adversity, and this moment is no exception. London Fashion Week is more than a showcase—it is a global platform that drives business, promotes talent, and reaffirms London’s status as a cultural powerhouse. Every Londoner should take pride in this.
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While household names like Burberry, Erdem, and Roksanda continue to shine, emerging designers also play a vital role in shaping the industry’s future. Keep an eye on BFC NEWGEN talents and Fashion East designers, as well as rising stars like Harris Reed and SS Daley, who are redefining modern fashion.
Keeping London’s fashion industry strong
Despite the industry’s resilience, we face significant challenges. Trading conditions remain difficult, and designers need more support to sustain their businesses and push creative boundaries. Now, more than ever, we must rally together—press, buyers, stylists, and fashion enthusiasts alike—to celebrate, support, and invest in British fashion.
The UK government must also recognise the economic and cultural importance of the fashion industry. Thanks to funding from the Department for Business and Trade and the GREAT Campaign, we are bringing influential buyers and tastemakers to London—people with real spending power who can make a difference. However, this kind of backing needs to continue.
London’s reputation as a fashion capital is built on a foundation of fearless creativity, risk-taking, and a world-class education system that nurtures emerging talent. But talent alone is not enough. Financial, commercial, and cultural support are crucial to ensuring that London remains a global leader in fashion.
This is a pivotal moment. If we act now, we can secure London’s place at the forefront of global fashion for years to come. London has always set the agenda. Let’s keep it that way.
