London Fashion Week 2025: The Designers, The Drama & The Must-Sees
The most stylish week of the year is back! London Fashion Week 2025 has officially kicked off, and despite a slimmed-down schedule, it’s already making waves. From Harris Reed’s jaw-dropping gender-fluid creations to Burberry’s much-anticipated show (and all the fashion industry gossip in between), LFW remains a must-watch event. Let’s dive into what’s happening, who’s showing, and where the fashion crowd will be gathering this season.
Who’s Showing at London Fashion Week 2025?
London Fashion Week has always been a platform for boundary-pushing designers, and 2025 is no different. This season features a mix of established labels and emerging talent bringing fresh energy to the runway.
Harris Reed – The Showstopper
Fashion’s favorite gender-fluid designer Harris Reed is kicking things off in a big way. Known for his Romanticism Gone Nonbinary aesthetic, the Nina Ricci creative director will be showcasing his own label at the Tate Britain art gallery. Expect theatrical silhouettes, grand headpieces, and plenty of drama—this is one of the most electrifying shows on the schedule!
Erdem, Simone Rocha & Richard Quinn – The LFW Staples
The usual London heavyweights will also be gracing the runways, including Erdem’s elegant, floral-inspired designs, Simone Rocha’s ethereal romanticism, and Richard Quinn’s bold, maximalist couture.
Burberry – A Show with Rumors Swirling
LFW closes with Burberry, the heritage brand that has seen some challenges lately. Daniel Lee’s future as creative director is uncertain, and rumors are swirling that Kim Jones (formerly of Dior Men) may be stepping in. Will Burberry deliver the standout show that British fashion needs right now?
Where Is JW Anderson?
One noticeable absence from the London lineup is JW Anderson, as designer Jonathan Anderson is reportedly set to take over Dior. Anderson was named 2024 Designer of the Year, but his skipping both Milan and Paris men’s fashion weeks signals a major shift.
The Independent Designers & Emerging Talent
London is known for supporting young designers, but this year, several have opted out of runway shows due to rising costs. Molly Goddard and Sinead O’Dwyer are missing from the schedule, while Dilara Findikoglu and Conner Ives are scaling back to one show per year. Meanwhile, brands like 16Arlington and Tolu Coker are opting for intimate presentations and dinner parties instead of full-scale catwalks.
Where Is London Fashion Week Hosted?
London Fashion Week events take place all over the city, but the official hub is The Store X at 180 The Strand. This central venue hosts many of the key shows and industry gatherings. Other designers opt for unique locations—like Harris Reed’s Tate Britain showcase—to make a bigger statement.
Who Can Go to London Fashion Week?
LFW may seem like an exclusive affair, but there are ways for fashion lovers to get involved! While most runway shows are invite-only for press, buyers, and celebrities, many designers are offering live streams and digital access. Plus, some brands host public events, pop-ups, and presentations where fans can experience the magic firsthand.
What’s New at LFW 2025?
1. Sustainability is Taking Center Stage
For the first time, designers under the BFC’s NEWGEN programme must demonstrate sustainability standards in their collections. London is following in the footsteps of Copenhagen Fashion Week, which has championed eco-conscious fashion since 2023.
2. Exotic Skins Are Out
The British Fashion Council has officially banned the use of wild animal skins like alligator and snake, following its 2023 fur ban. While this is largely symbolic (since most LFW brands don’t use exotic skins), it signals a shift toward ethical fashion policies.
3. A Shortened Schedule
Compared to last year, LFW is one day shorter, reflecting the challenges facing independent designers. Some are skipping the catwalk entirely due to costs, while others are opting for smaller-scale showcases.
Why London Fashion Week Still Reigns Supreme
Despite challenges, London Fashion Week 2025 is proving that British fashion is still a powerhouse of creativity and innovation. From Harris Reed’s boundary-breaking designs to the mystery surrounding Burberry’s future, there’s plenty to keep fashion lovers intrigued.
One thing’s for sure—whether on the runway, at a secret industry party, or through an exclusive livestream, LFW remains the epicenter of cool, cutting-edge fashion.
