British Fashion Council and Alexa Chung Celebrate British Creative Talent at The Hoxton, Paris

Attendees:

Alice Temperley, Chloe Reuter, Eftychia Karamolegkou, Emilie Astrom, Erdem Moralıoğlu, Eudon Choi, Eva Al Desnudo, Felipe Sanguinetti, Golan Frydman, Han Chong, Huishan Zhang, Imran Amed, James Vincent, Jamie Wei Huang, Jess Cartner-Morley, Jordan Bowen, Julien Boudet, Justine Picardie, Laura Coulson, Leo Mandella, Levi Palmer, Louis Ghewy, Luca Marchetto, Marta Jakubowski, Matty Bovan, Mia Solkin, Molly Goddard, Nabil Nayal, Natalia Alaverdian, Noor Arida, Osman Yousefzada, Paula Knorr, Phoebe English, Pixie Geldof, Richard Quinn, Roberta Einer, Rosh Mahtani, Ryan Beveridge, Sian Westerman, Simone Rocha, Sonia Szóstak, Sophie Djeral, Stavros Karelis, Teija Eilola, Tim Blanks, Ying Shen, Yu Masui, Zoe Costello

Paris, 28 September – This evening, Caroline Rush, Chief Executive British Fashion Council and Alexa Chung welcomed guests to The Hoxton, Paris to celebrate British Creative Talent during Paris Fashion Week with a cocktail party and music from DJ Oneman. 

Guests were served canapes of Vegetarian Samosas, Chicken Spring Rolls, Wasabi Mimosa Eggs, Tempura Shrimp, Beef Mini Burgers, Truffle Croque Monsieur, and had champagne from Perrier-Jouët, beer from Budweiser and a cocktail selection from Casa Amigos, G’Vine Gin, Ketel One, London Essence and Royal Vermouth.

British Fashion Council Designer Pop-Up Returns to Bicester Village with News of Chinese Extension in 2020

On Tuesday, 8 October, Caroline Rush CBE, Chief Executive, British Fashion Council (BFC), and Desirée Bollier, Chair and Chief Merchant of Value Retail Management, creator and operator of The Bicester Village Shopping Collection, welcomed British fashion designers, members of the press and influencers to celebrate the opening of the British Fashion Council  Designer Pop-up at Bicester Village. 

Guests included Tania Fares and Sian Westerman, Co-chairs of the BFC Fashion Trust, as well as designers Choas, Sophia Webster, Rixo, House of Holland, Racil, Paper London, Hillier Bartley, Camilla Elphick, Holly Fulton, Phoebe English, Preen by Thornton Bregazzi, Huishan Zhang, Alighieri, Teatum Jones, Teija and Born in the Sun. 

The BFC Designer Pop-up, which returns to Bicester Village for a second year, showcases 30 British designer businesses which have been curated by the British Fashion Council and represent the creative and innovative talent found throughout the country. The pop-up offers an unparalleled platform for exposure to fledgling designers, many of whom have never traded in bricks and mortar before, as well as an important introduction for established British brands to the Collection’s discerning international guests.

This year’s line-up includes breakthrough prodigies such as Grace Wales Bonner, Camilla Elphick and Phoebe English, as well as established brands such as ERDEM, Hillier Bartley, Huishan Zhang, J&M Davidson, Mary Katrantzou, Paper London, Preen by Thornton Bregazzi, Racil and Sophia Webster. 

In an exciting statement to the press, Caroline Rush CBE announced that the partnership between the BFC and The Bicester Village Shopping Collection will extend to China in 2020. It will continue to comprise both a pop-up, offering a free trade opportunity in China for its featured designers, as well as the Business of Retail mentorship programme, providing business development expertise specifically tailored to the Chinese market for participating designers. The extended partnership presents an unprecedented opportunity for UK talent to receive support to enter the market and grow awareness of their brands with the Chinese customer.

Bicester Village is open until 8 pm from Monday to Wednesday and until 9 pm from Thursday to Saturday until the end of October. 

Introducing The 2019 New Wave: Creatives

The British Fashion Council is delighted to unveil its 2019 NEW WAVE: Creatives - a list of 100 of the most innovative and inspiring young creative talents from around the world. The dynamic list includes trailblazers from across multiple disciplines from artists, activists, casting agents, commentators, florists, hair and makeup artists, image makers, nail artists, set designers, stylists and writers. 

The NEW WAVE: Creatives will be celebrated at The Fashion Awards 2019 on Monday 2nd December at the Royal Albert Hall in London. 

The list, available on our website here, is a resource for the global fashion industry and highlights London’s position as an international hub of creativity and pays homage to the incredible success of both home-grown and international talent, while celebrating those who play a vital role in the industry’s cultural reputation. The list of 100 names includes talent from over 20 countries around the globe. 

Introducing the 2019 NEW WAVE: Creatives:

ACTIVISTS, COMMENTATORS AND WRITERS

Diet Prada 
Fenn O’Meally
Hélène Selam Kleih
Jason's Closet
Josephine Jones
Liv Little
Sinéad Burke 
Skip Dinner 
Tom Rasmussen
Wilson Oryema

ARTISTS

Angelica Hicks
Chen Man
Jenkin van Zyl
Jon Emmony
Michael Moon
Pierre-Alexandre Fillaire
Rhea Dillon
Stephen Doherty

CASTING

Camilla Tisi
Emilie Åström
Holly Cullen
Madeleine Østlie
Mischa Notcutt
Samuel Ellis
Troy Fearn
FLORISTS
Mary Lennox
Simone Gooch
William Farr

HAIR, MAKE-UP AND NAIL ARTISTS

Ammy Drammeh
Celia Burton
Erin Parsons
Jawara Wauchope
Jenny Longworth
Lauren Michelle Pires
Louis Ghewy
Lucy Bridge
Mei Kawajiri
Sylvie Macmillan
Virginie Moreira

IMAGE MAKERS

Adesuwa Aighewi
Aidan Zamiri
Bogdan Plakov
Campbell Addy
Charlotte James
Charlotte Wales
Davit Giorgadze
Dexter Navy
Eddie Wrey
Eva Al Desnudo
Fan Xin
Felix Cooper
Hanna Moon
Hick Duarte
Hugo Comte
Jesse Jenkins
Jordan Hemingway
Joyce Ng
Keziah Quarcoo
Kristin Lee Moolman
Laura Coulson
Leslie Zhang
Leung Mo
Lia Clay Miller
Mark Kean
Miriam Marlene Waldner
Oliver Hadlee Pearch
Pascal Gambarte
Rafael Pavarotti
Rob Rusling
Ronan McKenzie
Ruth Ossai
Sonia Szóstak
Tania Franco Klein
Theo Sion
Tyler Mitchell
Vitali Gelwich
Vito Fernicola
Yu Cong
Zeng Wu

DIGITAL INFLUENCERS

AMIAYA
Caroline Daur

SET DESIGNERS

Amy Friend
Amy Stickland
David James White
Janina Pedan
Louis Gibson

STYLISTS

Alexandra Carl
Audrey Hu
Fan Qiong
Gary David Moore
Ib Kamara
Jordan Vickors
Leah Abbott
Luke V Smith
Monikh Dale
Nicco Torelli
Sabina Schreder
Solange Franklin Reed
Tati Cotliar
Zoe Costello

The category was introduced at The Fashion Awards in 2018. This year the British Fashion Council asked the voting panel of 2,500 fashion industry insiders from across the global fashion industry to nominate those they believed to be the best young creative talent in today. The criteria was to vote for the most creative new wave of talent across creative disciplines in fashion not including designers and models.  

The Fashion Awards is the main fundraiser for the British Fashion Council, a not for profit organisation focused on promoting excellence in British fashion and supporting the future pipeline of creative talent. 
The British Fashion Council’s work is achieved through a range of charitable initiatives which focus on education, business and mentoring schemes that support talent from school level and emerging designers to fashion start-ups and established brands. In 2018, the BFC raised over £2.3 million for its charities and business support initiatives out of which £1.1 million will be allocated directly to scholars and designer businesses. 

The generosity and commitment of our sponsors is more vital than ever. Please help us by acknowledging our Presenting Sponsor Swarovski and Official Sponsors American Express, Getty Images, Lavazza Coffee and Rosewood London for their support of The Fashion Awards 2019

Nominations for The Fashion Awards 2019 Announced

Today, Wednesday 23rd October 2019, Stephanie Phair, Chair and Caroline Rush, Chief Executive British Fashion Council (BFC) announced the nominations for The Fashion Awards 2019 at a press screening at Soho House, 76 Dean Street.
The Fashion Awards 2019 take place on Monday 2nd December at the Royal Albert Hall, London. The Fashion Awards recognise creativity and innovation in fashion, celebrating exceptional individuals whose imagination and creativity has broken new ground in fashion globally over the past 12 months as well as brands and businesses that have transformed the possibilities of fashion today. The Fashion Awards raise money to nurture future generations of fashion talent. 

Watch The Fashion Awards 2019 Nominees video here.

The Fashion Awards 2019 Nominees are (all listed in alphabetical order)

Accessories Designer of the Year

Alessandro Michele for Gucci
Daniel Lee for Bottega Veneta
Jonathan Anderson for Loewe
Kim Jones for Dior Men
Simon Porte Jacquemus for Jacquemus

Brand of the Year

Bottega Veneta
Gucci
Jacquemus
Loewe
Prada

British Designer of the Year Menswear

Craig Green for Craig Green
Grace Wales Bonner for Wales Bonner
Kim Jones for Dior Men
Martine Rose for Martine Rose
Riccardo Tisci for Burberry

British Designer of the Year Womenswear

Daniel Lee for Bottega Veneta
John Galliano for Maison Margiela
Jonathan Anderson for JW Anderson & Loewe
Richard Quinn for Richard Quinn
Simone Rocha for Simone Rocha

British Emerging Talent Menswear

Ben Cottrell and Matthew Dainty for Cottweiler
Bethany Williams for Bethany Williams
Kiko Kostadinov for Kiko Kostadinov
Phoebe English for Phoebe English
Sofia Prantera for Aries

British Emerging Talent Womenswear

Laura and Deanna Fanning for Kiko Kostadinov
Matty Bovan for Matty Bovan
Phoebe English for Phoebe English
Rejina Pyo for Rejina Pyo
Rosh Mahtani for Alighieri

Business Leader

Alexandre Arnault for Rimowa
José Neves for Farfetch
Marco Bizzarri for Gucci
Marco Gobbetti for Burberry
Remo Ruffini for Moncler

Designer of the Year

Alessandro Michele for Gucci
Daniel Lee for Bottega Veneta
Jonathan Anderson for JW Anderson & Loewe
Kim Jones for Dior Men
Miuccia Prada for Prada

Model of the Year

Adesuwa Aighewi
Adut Akech
Adwoa Aboah
Kaia Gerber
Winnie Harlow

Urban Luxe

Alyx
Fenty
Marine Serre
Martine Rose
Moncler Genius

The winners of each category will be announced at The Fashion Awards 2019.

Stephanie Phair, BFC Chair said: “I would like to congratulate all the nominees of The Fashion Awards 2019. Each and every one of them is being recognised for their creative excellence and innovation. I look forward to celebrating them alongside the rest of the industry from across the globe on the 2nd of December at the Royal Albert Hall.”

The Fashion Awards 2019 invite a global voting panel of 2,500 key members of the fashion industry to put forward their preferences for each award and nominations were made in ten categories with the five brands/individuals receiving the most nominations shortlisted in each, across two rounds of voting. This year’s list of voters is available online. 

Earlier in the year Giorgio Armani was announced as the winner of the Outstanding Achievement Award and Naomi Campbell was announced as the recipient of the Fashion Icon Award. More special recognition awards will be announced prior to the event and celebrated on the night.
Additionally, The Fashion Awards 2019 celebrate the global community of young creative talent by recognising 100 of the most innovative and inspiring young creative talent from around the world as part of the NEW WAVE: Creatives. The voting panel was asked to nominate those they believe to be the best young creative talent of today. Shining a light on this year’s emerging visionaries, NEW WAVE: Creatives includes trailblazers from image-makers, hair and makeup artists, florists, set designers, creative directors, digital influencers and stylists. The final list encompasses 100 names and includes some of fashion’s most exciting and forward-thinking young professionals. The full list is available here.

The BFC is a not for profit organisation focused on promoting excellence in British fashion and supporting the future pipeline of creative talent. The BFC’s work is achieved through a range of charitable initiatives which focus on education, business and mentoring schemes that support talent from school level and emerging designers to fashion start-ups and established brands.

The Fashion Awards act as a fundraiser to the British Fashion Council’s talent initiatives and programmes which promote excellence in design by financially supporting students with the ability and potential to make an exceptional contribution to the fashion industry. In 2018, the BFC raised over £2.3million for its charities and business support initiatives and allocated £1.1 million directly to scholars and designer businesses. 

Please support the next generation of talent by making a donation here. 

Boxes for The Fashion Awards 2019 are now on sale. For more information please email: FashionAwardsBox@britishfashioncouncil.com 

General tickets are available via Ticketmaster.

The generosity and commitment of our partners is more vital than ever. Please help us by acknowledging our Presenting Partner Swarovski and Official Partners American Express, Getty Images, LAVAZZA and Rosewood London for their support of The Fashion Awards 2019.

Caroline Rush, Julia Restoin Roitfeld and Bloomingdale’s Celebrate David Koma’s 10th Anniversary at The Peninsula, New York

 British Fashion Council, Getty, Astrid Stawiarz

Link to download images

Key attendees:
Alana Arrington, Amilna Estevao, Alex Koma, Alexandra Raisman, Barbara Palvin, David Koma, Denise Magid, Elizabeth Sulcer, Jennifer Yepez, Ketevan Gvaramadze, Loree Rodkin, Lynn Faber, Masha Adonyeva, Miira Carestia, Olivia Perez, Olivia Palermo, Patrick Mackie, Sara Sampaio, Masmela, Shea Marie, Tim Wheeler, Tina Leung, Yasmin Wijnaldum

New York, 30 October – This evening, Caroline Rush, Chief Executive British Fashion Council, Julia Restoin Roitfeld and Bloomingdale’s welcomed guests to a dinner at the Clement Restaurant at the Peninsula, New York, to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of David Koma.

Pre-dinner drinks were served on The Peninsula New York's rooftop pop-up: Chalet de Ning, a winter wonderland comprised of two chalet-inspired domes, offering spectacular views of Manhattan's skyline.
The guests were served a menu of Hawaiian Yellowtail Ceviche, New Yorker’s Everything Caesar, Organic Atlantic Salmon, Za’atar Roasted Rack of Colorado Lamb and Petit Fours.

Tracee Ellis Ross to Host The Fashion Awards 2019

Photo courtesy of Tracee Ellis Ross (Adriane Jamison)

The British Fashion Council (BFC) is delighted to announce that The Fashion Awards 2019 will be hosted by award-winning American actress, CEO, and producer Tracee Ellis Ross. The Fashion Awards 2019 take place on Monday 2nd December at the Royal Albert Hall in London and are attended by designers, business and industry leaders, media, retailers, creatives, models and celebrities from across the globe to celebrate extraordinary creative fashion talent. They raise money for the BFC’s charitable and business support initiatives. General public tickets for The Fashion Awards 2019 are on sale and available on Ticketmaster.
Tracee Ellis Ross is best known for her Golden Globe-winning role as Dr. Rainbow Johnson on the ABC comedy series black-ish and playing Joan Clayton on the long-running hit series Girlfriends. For her role as Rainbow, Ross has received numerous individual accolades including winning the 2017 Golden Globe Award and four NAACP Image Awards. She also garnered three Primetime Emmy nominations and two Critics Choice Award nominations. She is an Executive Producer on the ABC comedy series mixed-ish. Tracee recently wrapped production on the Focus Features comedy COVERS alongside Dakota Johnson, which is set for a May 2020 release. 

Born from a legacy of style, Ross is known for her sartorial flair and taking fashion risks with ease and grace. Whether gracing the Emmys red carpet in couture, thanking her shopping habit for her oft-documented street style, or inviting her more than 9 million followers on social media to make fun of her dad sneakers, Ross uses fashion as a mean of self-expression and communication. She not only loves fashion; she has fun with it. 

Ross serves as the CEO and Founder of PATTERN —a haircare brand launched in September, she created for the curly, and tight-textured masses. PATTERN launched in early September and sold out of the majority of items within one day. The brand also helps support organizations and programs that empower women and people of color. 

Ross also uses her voice and vast social influence to advocate for a joyful culture of self-acceptance, inclusivity, and equity across all industries.  As one of the founders of the #TimesUp movement, Ross is actively involved in working towards the goal of creating safety and equality in the workplace. An outspoken supporter for women’s rights, she has become an influential voice in conversations around diversity, equality and female empowerment making her one of the most respected women of our generation. In April 2018, Ross opened the TED Conference, the first black woman to do so, with a powerful speech about the wisdom of women’s fury.

The Fashion Awards is the main fundraiser for the BFC’s charitable and talent support work. The BFC is a not for profit organisation focused on promoting excellence in British fashion and supporting the future pipeline of creative talent. The BFC’s work is achieved through a range of charitable initiatives which focus on education, business and mentoring schemes that support talent from school level and emerging designers to fashion start-ups and established brands. In 2018, the BFC raised over £2.3 million for its charities and business support initiatives out of which £1.1 million will be allocated directly to scholars and designer businesses with the remaining monies building an endowment to secure support for future generations.

The generosity and commitment of our partners is more vital than ever. Please help us by acknowledging our Presenting Partner Swarovski and Official Partners American Express, Bird in Hand, Getty Images, LAVAZZA, Rosewood London and Slingsby Gin for their support of The Fashion Awards 2019.

Sam McKnight to be Honoured with The Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator at The Fashion Awards 2019

The British Fashion Council (BFC) is delighted to announce that Sam McKnight will receive the Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator at The Fashion Awards 2019, on Monday 2nd December at the Royal Albert Hall, London. McKnight will be honoured for his invaluable contribution to the fashion industry, his remarkable effort in changing the role of the session stylist within fashion and for his unique ability to create modern and glamorous looks.

With a career spanning nearly 50 years in fashion, encompassing catwalks, editorial and advertising campaigns, the celebrated hair stylist Sam McKnight has helped shape the global image of renowned brands such as Balmain, Burberry, Chanel, Fendi, Tom Ford and Vivienne Westwood. During his spectacular career, McKnight created iconographic images with some of the world’s most pre-eminent photographers including Craig McDean, Irving Penn and Nick Knight. A regular contributor to British and international Vogues, i-D, Harper’s Bazaar and Vanity Fair, his career further includes styling personal appearances, red carpet events and editorials for iconic celebrities including Cate Blanchett, Emilia Clarke, Kate Moss, Princess Diana and Uma Thurman.

Caroline Rush, BFC Chief Executive commented: “We are thrilled to present the Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator to the legendary Sam McKnight and acknowledge him for his incredible contribution to the global fashion industry. Sam is one of the most important image makers of our time, hugely respected within the fashion community and a source of inspiration for many generations to come. We look forward to celebrating with him and his friends in London in December” 

Originally from Scotland, McKnight moved to London in the early Seventies where he secured a position for Molton Brown, a leading hair salon in London’s South Molton Street. Originally trained as a teacher, McKnight soon started building his name in fashion and gave up salon work to dedicate himself to shoots and shows. While working in London, McKnight was introduced to fashion magazine editor Liz Tilberis and stylist Lucinda Chambers, who were instrumental in hiring him for high-profile editorial shoots. His hard work and dedication to the industry lead to his first editorial shoot with British Vogue in 1977. Since this day, McKnight has built a long-standing relationship with the magazine, styling hair for models and celebrities for over 100 covers. As one of the first session stylists, McKnight has pioneered a career direction and inspired the next generation of talented hair stylists to follow in his footsteps. 

McKnight has won numerous industry awards and participated in various exhibitions that recognise his unique and enduring talent. In 2015, McKnight received the Lifetime Achievement Award at both the Scottish Fashion Awards and Creative Head Awards. In 2016, Somerset House launched Hair by Sam McKnight, a major exhibition celebrating McKnight’s impressive career. The same year, McKnight released his first book: Hair by Sam McKnight (Rizzoli), a hardback anthology of his magazine covers, editorial shoots and personal insights into working at the heart of the fashion industry. June 2017 saw McKnight launch a range of hair products by the same name, Hair by Sam McKnight, in Liberty of London.

The Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator recognises the very best innovators and creatives in fashion, celebrating invaluable contributions that have changed the entire fashion landscape. With a discerning eye and incessant drive, the recipient of the Award has brought designers’ creations to life and helped create worlds within brands. Their dedication to the craft has garnered legions of fans and their incredible body of work has already left an indelible mark on the entire industry. Previous winners of the Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator include Mert & Marcus, Pat McGrath, Nick Knight OBE, Edward Enninful OBE, Lady Amanda Harlech and Professor Louise Wilson OBE to name only a few.

The Fashion Awards is the main fundraiser for the BFC’s charitable and talent support work. The BFC is a not for profit organisation focused on promoting excellence in British fashion and supporting the future pipeline of creative talent. The BFC’s work is achieved through a range of charitable initiatives which focus on education, business and mentoring schemes that support talent from school level and emerging designers to fashion start-ups and established brands. In 2018, the BFC raised over £2.3 million for its charities and business support initiatives out of which £1.1 million will be allocated directly to scholars and designer businesses with the remaining monies building an endowment to secure support for future generations.

The generosity and commitment of our partners is more vital than ever. Please help us by acknowledging our Presenting Partner Swarovski and Official Partners American Express, Bird in Hand, Getty Images, LAVAZZA, Rosewood London and Slingsby Gin for their support of The Fashion Awards 2019.

British Fashion Council Announces Launch of New Membership Programme

The British Fashion Council (BFC) is delighted to announce the launch of its new Membership Programme; an annual subscription and professional network of British designers who are at various stages in fashion business from emerging to established brands. BFC Membership offers access to an online portal of relevant industry news, government updates and insight reports, with the opportunity to attend business development seminars, workshops and events from across the fashion industry, all highlighted in a weekly newsletter.

BFC Members can contribute to the industry through mentoring talent schemes for emerging businesses, share their knowledge and expertise at designer roundtables and commission insight reports. Members can participate in voting for The Fashion Awards, the annual industry celebration and fundraiser for the BFC Foundation, that shines a spotlight on exceptional individuals and businesses that have made significant contributions to the global fashion industry. 

Caroline Rush, CEO commented, “The BFC is moving to a Membership organisation as part of our mission to encourage collaboration and inclusivity, inviting designers to come together in support of the fashion industry’s eco-system. We invite and welcome new Members to join, whose involvement and efforts will enable the future sustainable growth of our industry.” 

The BFC Membership Programme is supported by the Designer Relations team at the BFC and is open to applications from fashion designers as well as direct to consumer businesses who meet the following criteria: have been trading for a minimum of two years, are a registered business with Companies House , produce collections that consists of ready-to-wear and/or accessories , have a product vision set out by a Creative Director and contribute both creatively and economically to the British fashion industry. Membership levels are determined by annual turnover, from Designer Members to Patron Members, encouraging engagement with the industry at all levels of business. 

To apply and for more information, visit the BFC Membership Programme here.  

New Award to be Celebrated at The Fashion Awards 2019

The British Fashion Council is delighted to introduce a new award for The Fashion Awards 2019; the Designers’ Designer Award will be celebrated for the first time this year to coincide with the launch of BFC Membership Programme and spotlight the incredible British designer businesses that have made a global impact in the past year through creativity in product design, campaigns and collaborations that are built upon a firm business foundation. The creativity shown over the past year by the winner of this award is considered to have moved the needle in increasing their positive brand perception in 2019. 

The nominees are (listed alphabetically)

Christopher Kane for Christopher Kane

Jonathan Anderson for JW Anderson

Margaret Howell for Margaret Howell

Roksanda Ilinčić for Roksanda

Simone Rocha for Simone Rocha

The BFC Membership Programme, announced earlier in the week, has been created in support of the BFC’s mission to encourage collaboration and inclusivity, inviting designers to come together in support of the fashion eco-system, with access to a range of benefits and the opportunity to contribute. This community of 80 founding members, comprised of British designers at varying stages of their career, were called upon to vote for this peer to peer award. The winner will be announced at the ceremony on Monday 2nd December 2019 in fashion’s creative capital, London, at the iconic Royal Albert Hall. 

The Fashion Awards is the main fundraiser for the BFC charitable and talent support work, with donations exceeding £1.3m this year. The British Fashion Council (BFC), a not for profit organisation focused on promoting excellence in British fashion and supporting the future pipeline of creative talent. Established in 2019, the BFC Foundation was created for charitable purposes and grant-giving, its work is achieved through a range of charitable initiatives that focus on education, business and mentoring schemes supporting talent from school level and emerging designers to fashion start-ups and established brands. 

The generosity and commitment of our partners is more vital than ever. Please help us by acknowledging our Presenting Partner Swarovski and Official Partners American Express, Bird in Hand, Getty Images, LAVAZZA, Rosewood London and Slingsby Gin for their support of The Fashion Awards 2019.

Last remaining public tickets for The Fashion Awards 2019 are on sale 

Sarah Burton to be Honoured With The Trailblazer Award at The Fashion Awards 2019

The British Fashion Council (BFC) is delighted to announce that Sarah Burton OBE will receive the Trailblazer Award at The Fashion Awards 2019, on Monday 2nd December at the Royal Albert Hall, London. As the Creative Director of Alexander McQueen, Burton will be honoured for some of her most personal and visionary work to date through her narrative approach to the Alexander McQueen S/S20 show and for her extraordinary work in championing UK-wide craftsmanship, highlighting skills important to the brand and essential to the industry. In the past year alone, Burton has drawn on the expertise of the fabric mills of the North of England, Mallon linen and Irish beetling.

Burton has demonstrated a considered and consistent vision for the house, overseeing all aspects including brand image and retail concept; expanding to innovative retail spaces; new global flagship stores; exhibition spaces and educational programmes. This year saw the launch of the educational second floor of the Alexander McQueen flagship store on London’s Bond Street, a ground-breaking and highly innovative retail space. On the top floor, the flagship store hosts a unique community-building experiential space, intended to foster emerging talent and students throughout the UK; Burton founded an education programme which connects universities and colleges from around the country offering students the opportunity to enhance their knowledge of design and craft with the help of members of the McQueen design team. This pioneering approach starts in the UK and will be rolled out internationally in years to come.

Caroline Rush, BFC Chief Executive, commented “Sarah’s empowering and narrative approach to shows and her focus on community and appreciation of craft, technology and British heritage is what has made her one of the most respected designers of our time. Her commitment to sharing her vision and expertise with the future generations of fashion designers has been remarkable. She’s an incredible source of inspiration for many generations to come and we look forward to celebrating with her in London in December”

The Trailblazer Award was introduced at The Fashion Awards in 2018 and is one of the Special Recognition Awards, celebrating the very best innovators and creatives in fashion, whose work in the past year has been a game-changer and has significantly shaped the industry. 

The Fashion Awards is the main fundraiser for the BFC’s charitable and talent support work. The BFC is a not for profit organisation focused on promoting excellence in British fashion and supporting the future pipeline of creative talent. The BFC’s work is achieved through a range of charitable initiatives which focus on education, business and mentoring schemes that support talent from school level and emerging designers to fashion start-ups and established brands. In 2018, the BFC raised over £2.3 million for its charities and business support initiatives out of which £1.1 million will be allocated directly to scholars and designer businesses with the remaining monies building an endowment to secure support for future generations.

The generosity and commitment of our partners is more vital than ever. Please help us by acknowledging our Presenting Partner Swarovski and Official Partners American Express, Bird in Hand, Getty Images, LAVAZZA, Rosewood London and Slingsby Gin for their support of The Fashion Awards 2019.

British Fashion Council and United Nations Office for Partnerships Collaborate on The Award for Positive Change at The Fashion Awards 2019

The British Fashion Council (BFC) is delighted to announce a collaboration with the United Nations Office for Partnerships (UNOP) that will recognise businesses and individuals in fashion that make concerted efforts to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This year, this collaborative initiative will celebrate the Signatories of The Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action, convened and facilitated by the UN Climate Change. In 2018, fashion stakeholders worked to identify ways in which the broader textile, clothing and fashion industry can move towards a holistic and ambitious commitment on climate action and other SDGs. As a result, The Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action (the Charter) was launched at UN Climate Conference in Katowice, Poland (COP 24) with the mission to align the industry with the goals of the Paris Agreement and drive the Fashion Industry to net-zero emissions no later than 2050. Through the Award for Positive Change at The Fashion Awards 2019, the Signatories are to be recognised today, on the opening day of COP25 in Madrid, Spain. This award will recognize their leadership in addressing one of the most urgent issues of our time – climate change.

The United Nations, including the UN Climate Change have encouraged political and industry leaders globally to act on the SDGs. Earlier this year, French President Emmanuel Macron, ahead of the G7 Summit requested that Francois-Henri Pinault, Kering Chair and CEO, spearhead the Fashion Pact, focusing on science-based targets for the climate, biodiversity and oceans - key work that complements the Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action.

Going forward, each year, the BFC, working with UNOP, will recognise those making a distinct impact with the  Award for Positive Change which sits in line with the SDGs.

Caroline Rush, BFC Chief Executive, commented: “This year has been a catalyst to set leadership and industry-wide international collaboration like never before. With the Award for Positive Change, we want to recognise those businesses who mobilised our industry in as little as a year. We know that alongside the signatories of The Fashion Industry Charter, there are many great initiatives globally already in action – and our aim at the BFC is to continue to work in support of the United Nations  in celebrating those that are setting new standards upholding the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.  Celebrating those businesses that have joined the Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action and working collaboratively to find climate solutions is just the start.” 
“Our Office is proud to collaborate with the BFC and support their valuable work on mobilizing the fashion industry as a driver for positive change. By joining forces, we can leverage the creativity and talent of leaders within the fashion industry to make the Sustainable Development Goals a reality. The Charter, as the first initiative to be recognized by the Award for Positive Change, represents the unprecedented mobilization of the fashion industry on SDG13 – Climate Action. In doing so, we hope that others may follow suit, so that success stories are scaled, and commitment is catalysed to promote models and practice that work for people and planet” - Robert Skinner, Executive Director of the United Nations Office for Partnerships. 

All attendees at The Fashion Awards will see the SDGs brought to life through #TOGETHERBAND, a non-profit campaign that champions the SDGs for a sustainable future and is a partnership between sustainable accessories brand BOTTLETOP, the UN Foundation and UBS. The #TOGETHERBAND friendship bands for each Goal made from upcycled ocean plastic and repurposed illegal fire-arm metal will be available to guests on the evening.

The Fashion Awards is the main fundraiser for the BFC’s charitable and talent support work. The BFC is a not for profit organisation focused on promoting excellence in British fashion and supporting the future pipeline of creative talent. The BFC’s work is achieved through a range of charitable initiatives which focus on education, business and mentoring schemes that support talent from school level, and emerging designers, to fashion start-ups and established brands. In 2018, the BFC raised over £2.3 million for its charities and business support initiatives, out of which £1.1 million will be allocated directly to scholars and designer businesses. The remaining money will go towards building an endowment to secure support for future generations.

The Fashion Awards 2019 Winners Announced

The British Fashion Council (BFC) is delighted to announce the winners of The Fashion Awards 2019 which recognise and celebrate creativity and innovation in fashion. Tonight, The Fashion Awards welcomed a global mix of 4,000 guests, including key players from the fashion industry as well as members of the public at the Royal Albert Hall in London, to celebrate exceptional individuals whose imagination and creativity have broken new ground in fashion over the past 12 months; as well as brands and businesses that have transformed the possibilities of fashion today.

The evening, hosted by award-winning American actress, CEO, and producer Tracee Ellis Ross, celebrated sixteen awards, ten of which are put out to vote to an international panel of fashion industry experts, five Special Recognition Awards and a new Designers’ Designer Award, voted for by BFC Designer Members. Each winner was given a unique Swarovski crystal trophy, designed by Welsh artist, Ross Lovegrove. 

The Fashion Awards 2019 Winners

Award for Positive Change: Signatories of the Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action

Presented by: Amber Valetta & Halima Aden

Accepted by: Emmanuel Gintzburger, Alexander McQueen; Gabriele Maggio, Stella McCartney; José Neves, Farfetch; Stefan Seidel, Puma; Thierry Andretta, Mulberry and Wolfgang Blau, Condé Nast

Brand of the Year: Bottega Veneta

Presented by: Rosie Huntington Whiteley

British Emerging Talent Menswear: Bethany Williams for Bethany Williams

Presented by: Rita Ora & Liam Payne

British Emerging Talent Womenswear: Rejina Pyo for Rejina Pyo

Presented by: Bel Powley & Gugu Mbatha Raw

Special Tribute to Karl Lagerfeld 

Presented by: Dame Anna Wintour and Lady Amanda Harlech

Urban Luxe: Fenty

Presented by: Tyler, the Creator & Janet Jackson

Business Leader: Remo Ruffini for Moncler

Presented by: Shailene Woodley

Fashion Icon: Naomi Campbell

Presented by: Sir Jony Ive

Accessories Designer of the Year: Daniel Lee for Bottega Veneta

Presented by: Karen Elson 

Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator: Sam McKnight

Presented by: Emilia Clarke

Designers’ Designer Award: Christopher Kane for Christopher Kane

Presented by: Kylie Minogue

Trailblazer Award: Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen

Presented by: Naomi Campbell

British Designer of the Year Menswear: Kim Jones for Dior Men

Presented by: Miguel & Kaia Gerber
Accepted by Donatella Versace

British Designer of the Year Womenswear: Daniel Lee for Bottega Veneta

Presented by: Emma Roberts

Model of the Year: Adut Akech

Presented by: Pierpaolo Piccioli & Edward Enninful

Designer of the Year: Daniel Lee for Bottega Veneta

Presented by: Naomi Watts 

Outstanding Achievement Award: Giorgio Armani

Presented by: Julia Roberts & Cate Blanchett

Alongside all the celebrated awards, NEW WAVE: Creatives 2019 were given special mention by BFC Ambassador for Positive Fashion Adwoa Aboah. The category was introduced at The Fashion Awards 2018 to celebrate the young global creative community. The NEW WAVE: Creatives 2019 represent 100 of the most innovative and inspiring young creative talents from around the world. The list highlights London’s position as an international epicentre and pays homage to the incredible success of both home-grown and international talent; while celebrating all those who play a vital role in the industry’s cultural and creative reputation. To find out more about NEW WAVES: Creatives please click here.

As well as recognising designers and industry leaders, The Fashion Awards celebrated raw creativity by hosting the Central Saint Martins, The White Show as part of this year’s ceremony. Each year the new intake of BA Fashion students is asked to create a design presented in white. This extraordinary collection is usually presented as an internal show. This year, for the first time, The White Show was brought to the Royal Albert Hall, recognising and celebrating the first creative steps of the next generation of fashion talent from all over the world, brought together in fashion’s creative capital, London. The BFC also sponsored The White Show through enabling the college to provide the students with sustainably sourced white fabrics to realise their vision. Little Simz opened the show and performed two tracks, Venom and Jealous, with The White Show.
In celebration of Mr Giorgio Armani’s Outstanding Achievement award, Mr. Armani presented an Armani Privé couture catwalk show to the guests as a gift to The Fashion Awards 2019 and invited long-time collaborator and music icon Eric Clapton to play the evening out. 

Music producer Fat Tony DJ’d at the after party.

The Fashion Awards is the main fundraiser for the BFC’s charitable and talent support work. The BFC is a not for profit organisation focused on promoting excellence in British fashion and supporting the future pipeline of creative talent. The BFC’s work is achieved through a range of charitable initiatives which focus on education, business and mentoring schemes that support talent from school level, and emerging designers, to fashion start-ups and established brands. In 2018, the BFC raised over £2.3 million for its charities and business support initiatives, out of which £1.1 million will be allocated directly to scholars and designer businesses. The remaining money will go towards building an endowment to secure support for future generations.

Please support the next generation of talent by making a donation here. 

The generosity and commitment of our partners is more vital than ever. Please help us by acknowledging our Presenting Partner Swarovski and Official Partners American Express, Bird in Hand, Getty Images, LAVAZZA, Rosewood London and Slingsby Gin for their support of The Fashion Awards 2019.