London Fashion Week launches its 40th anniversary season on Friday with a city-wide extravaganza, featuring a «Love Letter to London» campaign and a plethora of special events spanning from Selfridges to Number 10 Downing Street.
«London Fashion Week still carries the same spark it did 40 years ago,» remarks Caroline Rush, CEO of the British Fashion Council (BFC), the organizer of LFW. «I continue to be inspired by the designers; they never fail to surprise me. Watching them evolve as both creatives and business leaders is incredibly rewarding. There's a palpable anticipation and energy coursing through the city this season.»
Established in 1984, London stands as the youngest among the «Big Four» fashion weeks, maintaining its youthful rebellious spirit across four decades. It birthed iconic labels like Vivienne Westwood and the subversive Alexander McQueen. Despite the departure of many of the city's renowned labels to Paris or Milan, LFW has become a breeding ground for emerging talent.
«LFW has always been synonymous with creative ingenuity,» Rush explains. «Each show offers a distinct perspective, allowing designers to bring their visions to life. The garments, craftsmanship, models, music, and venues all contribute to this immersive experience. Designers consistently raise the bar, pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo, motivating us to do more.»
Kicking off the Autumn/Winter 2024 season is Harris Reed with an off-schedule show, adding