Exciting Growth: 18% More Designers at London Fashion Week SS26

Provisional London Fashion Week Schedule Announcement

The British Fashion Council (BFC) has unveiled the provisional schedule for London Fashion Week (LFW) Spring/Summer 2026, which will occur from September 18 to 22 throughout London.

New Leadership at the Helm

This season marks the debut of Laura Weir as the new chief executive of the BFC. The event will showcase an 18% increase in on-schedule designers, both physically and digitally, mirroring Weir’s ambition to propel the “next British fashion era.”

According to the BFC, the September schedule highlights a “bold new era” for both British fashion and LFW, emphasizing Weir’s renewed commitment to cultural relevance, competitiveness, and substantial support for emerging talent.

Focus on Designers

Weir mentioned that the schedule embodies “a designer-first approach” to LFW, aiming to be ambitious, meaningful, and grounded in the vibrant creativity that characterizes London.

This announcement follows her statement at a BFC summer event where she emphasized the necessity of revitalizing London’s fashion scene to draw talent back from Paris, Milan, and Berlin. Plans include waiving show fees for physical presentations and increasing investment to attract international buyers and press.

Noteworthy Designers and Highlights

The initial schedule features prominent names like Burberry, Erdem, Emilia Wickstead, and Simone Rocha. Notably, Roksanda celebrates its 20th anniversary, while Fashion East marks its 25th year.

JW Anderson, a beloved designer, will not hold a traditional show but will instead host a special event on September 19 to celebrate his brand’s evolution into a lifestyle label focused on “objects of elevated craftsmanship,” integrating fashion and homeware.

Emerging Talent at LFW

LFW continues to spotlight emerging designers, such as Conner Ives, returning to the runway alongside cult brands like Chopova Lowena and the recent Queen Elizabeth II Award winner, Patrick McDowell.

Additionally, this season will see Indian designer Anamika Khanna make her debut, along with newcomers Dreaming Eli, Kseniaschnaider, and Rory William Docherty. Notable presentations will also be held by Kyle Ho and Lucia Safdie.

Supporting Emerging Designers

The Department for Culture, Media, and Sport has reaffirmed its commitment to the BFC NewGen show space for the next four years, ensuring ongoing support for emerging talent.

The 2025/26 BFC NewGen program showcases new womenswear brands like Aletta and Ewusie and includes esteemed returning designers such as Aaron Esh and Pauline Dujancourt.

Cultural and Retail Integration at LFW

This September, LFW will emphasize the synergy between culture and commerce through various retail-driven activities. For instance, stylist Harry Lambert is set to launch a ‘Disney x Zara’ collection at Selfridges, while H&M will present a co-ed show featuring its autumn/winter 2025 collections.

This year’s approach promises a much more immersive fashion experience with a focus on vibrant visuals and curated music, celebrating the essence of self-expression.

Other noteworthy designers in the lineup include Bora Aksu, Labrum London, and Temperley London, ensuring a diverse and exciting showcase.