Particle.news
Download on the App Store
3 ARTICLES
·
2mo ago

London Fashion Week Opens With Larger Schedule and Rising Press and Buyer Turnout

Lower show costs with a bigger international guest program signal the BFC’s bid to restore global reach.

Image
London Fashion Week will pay tribute to iconic designer Paul Costelloe who died in November, and had been a stalwart of the British captial's catwalks since the show was launched in 1984
Models show off designs by British-Nigerian designer Tolu Coker at London Fashion Week in February last year
Image

Overview

  • The BFC reports 90 designers on the Fall/Winter 2026 schedule, including 41 runways and 20 presentations, with brand presence up 11%, press up 36% and buyers up 17% year over year.
  • The council has again waived show fees and doubled investment in its international guest program to draw emerging labels and overseas attention.
  • Opening day featured a public tribute to the late Paul Costelloe, with the house now led creatively by his son, William Costelloe.
  • A new 180 Strand showcase tied to NewGen spotlights alumni and emerging designers such as Ahluwalia, Aaron Esh and Nicholas Daley to connect talent with press and buyers.
  • Legacy and returning names including Joseph under Mario Arena, Temperley and Julien Macdonald are on the slate, Burberry will close Monday, and reports conflict on whether JW Anderson will present.