With the departure of long-serving CEO Caroline Rush, the British Fashion Council has ushered in a new chapter under the guidance of Laura Weir. Her appointment signals a period of dynamic change, as Weir prepares to implement a comprehensive set of reforms designed to reshape the trajectory of London Fashion Week, ensuring its continued relevance and growth on the international stage.
In a move to significantly alleviate financial burdens and stimulate creative output, the BFC will eliminate fees for designers participating in the official London Fashion Week schedule. This financial relief is complemented by a substantial increase in investment for LFW's international guest program, a critical component aimed at attracting a more diverse array of global designers to the vibrant British fashion scene. These measures are poised to create a more inclusive and economically viable environment for participating brands.
A cornerstone of the BFC's new strategy is the robust support for its NEWGEN designers. For the next three years, these promising talents, including renowned names such as AARON ESH, Chet Lo, and HARRI, will benefit from access to expansive, dedicated show spaces at LFW. Furthermore, all BFC scholarship recipients will receive increased financial assistance, empowering them to produce more sophisticated collections and deliver impactful presentations that truly capture their artistic vision.
The highly anticipated next edition of London Fashion Week, scheduled to run from September 18 to 22, 2025, will be the inaugural showcase for these groundbreaking changes. Fashion enthusiasts, industry professionals, and the global media alike are eagerly awaiting to witness the practical application of these reforms and their impact on the overall dynamism and creativity of one of the world's leading fashion events.