LFW AW25 in review

London Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2025 (LFW AW25) is concluded, and here’s what happened. As ever LFW remains the new designer scene offering a blend of tradition and innovation amidst a backdrop of economic and logistical challenges. This season highlighted the resilience and adaptability of the British fashion industry, with designers exploring new formats and themes to engage audiences.

Key Takeaways

1. Alternative Presentation Formats

 Facing financial constraints and evolving audience expectations, many designers opted for unconventional presentation methods over traditional runway shows. Patrick McDowell hosted an intimate dinner, allowing close interaction with his designs, while 16Arlington and Aaron Esh chose similar approaches to foster personal connections with their audience. From dinners and cocktails to fashion is art presentations, this shift reflects a broader trend towards more sustainable and engaging fashion experiences.

2. Emphasis on Sustainability

The British Fashion Council (BFC) introduced sustainability requirements for participating brands, piloting these standards with Newgen designers. The guidelines, inspired by Copenhagen Fashion Week, mandate the use of preferred materials and the elimination of single-use props. This initiative underscores London's commitment to environmental responsibility in fashion.

3. Celebration of British Heritage

 Designers drew inspiration from British culture and history, infusing their collections with a sense of nostalgia and national pride. Burberry's show at Tate Britain, possibly Daniel Lee's final collection for the brand, featured outerwear and scarves reminiscent of the British countryside. Similarly, SS Daley's collection paid homage to traditional British attire, reimagining classic pieces with contemporary flair, and I couldn’t leave out Paul Costelloe’s country and equestrian British heritage influences on the runway.

4. Inclusivity and Diversity

 A notable focus on inclusivity was evident, with designers like Sinéad O'Dwyer showcasing collections that celebrated diverse body types and ages. This approach reflects a growing movement within the industry to embrace and represent a broader spectrum of identities, challenging traditional beauty standards. Some may argue we have a long, long way still to go. The City Wide celebration events and pop ups gave a sense of democratised fashion and accessibility to an affair that still feels gate kept.

5. Business thinking

BFC and LFW opened a pop-up shop this season, presented by 1664 Blanc at 245 Regent Street. An exclusive archive collection from some of LFW’s most iconic names including; 16Arlington, Bianca Saunders, Conner Ives, CompletedWorks, Helen Kirkum, Johanna Parv, Saul Nash and many more. The space hosted panel discussions, sustainability workshops and customisation stations. 

The Future of London Fashion Week

As LFW navigates economic uncertainties and the aftermath of Brexit, which makes this fashion capital face even more challenges than elsewhere, the event is poised to, rain or shine, (mostly rain), continue its evolution. The adoption of sustainable practices and alternative presentation formats may become more prevalent, offering designers flexible and cost-effective ways to showcase their work.

The BFC's commitment to sustainability and inclusivity suggests that future editions of LFW will prioritize ethical considerations alongside creativity. While challenges persist, London's fashion scene remains a dynamic and influential force, continually adapting to reflect the changing landscape of the global fashion industry with emerging new designers in its epicentre.