This season marks the 40th anniversary of London Fashion Week, and Mark Holgate, Vogue’s Fashion News Director, reflects on his experiences covering shows in London since the ’90s. He reminisces about his first McQueen show in 1995 and being bumped from his first row seat at a Joe Casely-Hayford show for Princess Diana. From the recent London Fashion Week spring 2025 shows, Holgate was impressed by JW Anderson’s show at Old Billingsgate, praising the rigor and focus on silhouette, as well as the energy and soundtrack. He also highlighted the Roksanda show for its beauty and the designer’s tenacity following the fall of Matches.
Chioma Nnadi interviews New Zealand-born, London-based designer Emilia Wickstead, known for dressing celebrities like Lady Gaga and Kerry Washington, as well as being a favorite of Catherine, Princess of Wales. Wickstead reveals that her proudest moments as a designer come when she sees women on the street wearing her clothes, as it signifies success to her. She finds it special and fulfilling to see her designs being worn by real women in everyday settings. Wickstead’s passion for creating beautiful clothing that resonates with women in their everyday lives shines through in her interview with Nnadi.
Holgate’s memories of London Fashion Week over the years highlight the evolution and enduring beauty of the event. From witnessing iconic shows by designers like McQueen to experiencing the excitement of unexpected celebrity sightings, his experiences reflect the magic and excitement of the fashion industry. The transformation of venues like Old Billingsgate into vibrant event spaces adds to the allure of London Fashion Week, creating an immersive and engaging experience for attendees. Holgate’s appreciation for the craftsmanship and creativity of designers like JW Anderson and Roksanda underscores the importance of innovation and vision in the fashion world.
Wickstead’s approach to design, inspired by her interactions with real women, emphasizes the importance of creating clothing that resonates with a diverse range of individuals. By dressing celebrities and royals alike, Wickstead has established herself as a versatile and talented designer capable of creating sophisticated and elegant pieces for a global audience. Her commitment to celebrating the beauty and individuality of women through her designs is evident in her thoughtful and personal approach to fashion. Wickstead’s success in the industry is a testament to her creativity and dedication to creating clothing that celebrates women’s unique styles and personalities.
As London Fashion Week continues to evolve and innovate, designers like Emilia Wickstead and JW Anderson pave the way for a new generation of creative talent. Their dedication to pushing boundaries and challenging conventions in the fashion world inspires others to embrace their individuality and express themselves through clothing. Holgate’s reflections on the past 40 years of London Fashion Week capture the essence of the event’s enduring appeal, showcasing the passion and creativity that define the fashion industry. As designers continue to push the boundaries of traditional fashion, London Fashion Week remains a dynamic and exciting platform for showcasing the latest trends and celebrating the artistry of designers from around the world.
In conclusion, the celebration of London Fashion Week’s 40th anniversary serves as a testament to the event’s enduring legacy and influence in the fashion industry. From iconic shows by legendary designers to the emergence of new talent pushing the boundaries of traditional fashion, London Fashion Week continues to captivate and inspire audiences worldwide. Designers like Emilia Wickstead and JW Anderson embody the spirit of creativity and innovation that defines the event, creating clothing that celebrates individuality and style. As London Fashion Week looks towards the future, it remains a dynamic and influential platform for showcasing the latest trends and celebrating the artistry of designers from around the world.
