Every August, the fashion industry all but closes its doors for a tacitly agreed summer hiatus. Out-of-office replies are a given and envy-inducing Instagram posts, inevitable. But come September, when calendars fill once more and schedules snap back into place, there’s a distinct charge in the air. The energy is tangible. And it arrives just in time for fashion week.
As the city that launched the careers of Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood and John Galliano (to name a mere few), London has earned its bragging rights. This season is no exception. Expect fresh names – Indian designer Anamika Khanna will make her LFW debut, while adaptive fashion brand Unhidden will give an inaugural standalone presentation – alongside returning favourites, from Roksanda celebrating the brand's 20th year, to Burberry’s customary closing act.
We spoke to the industry's top editors, writers and bona fide fashion insiders to decipher exactly what they’ll be wearing this LFW, and where to get the look right here on Bond Street.
Joshua Sims
Former editor of British style magazines Arena Homme Plus and The Face
‘Men – and I mean normal men here, not fashion-industry men – need to wear more colour. Summer is a reminder of how drab the country can be the rest of the year, and how men have a duty to the national mood to break free of the same old navy and grey. Put on some pink. It won’t hurt.’
Francine Heath
Freelance fashion content editor and contributor to Porter and Vogue
‘There is something so playful (and, dare I say, forgiving) about getting dressed for London fashion week – this is the city of punk, after all. Taking a style risk here is likely to pay off, but you still need to consider colours and silhouettes that work for you. As much as I adore Gucci and Chanel, when attending London fashion week I like to wear British brands.’
‘Victoria Beckham and Stella McCartney both excel at incredible suiting. Their tailoring is modern, feminine and never without flair. I particularly love the rich “raisin” shade of this blazer and trouser co-ord by Stella. Plus, they’re both tailored using RWS-certified fibres, meaning the wool is fully traceable and has been produced to the highest ethical, environmental and social standards.’
Edwina Langley
Freelance journalist who has contributed to The London Standard, Grazia, AnOther Magazine and Stylist
‘I used to spend way too much time planning my outfits for LFW but the more I attended, the more I realised that what works for me are practical pieces that suit multiple situations: shows, backstage, interviews and afterparties. Generally, I feel most comfortable in trousers; Etro has a cropped pair in stretched cotton which I have my eye on, and I also like Akris's Chris pants in granite blue. To match, Chloé has some beautiful blouses in store – the gathered ruffle top and gathered blouse in crêpe de chine and lace, specifically.
Back in the day, I wouldn't dream of setting foot anywhere near fashion week without my favourite Jimmy Choos but I'm older now and my feet can't take all that rushing around on my toes! They might make an appearance at an afterparty, but for daytime, it's trainers all the way: my current pair – electric-blue-and-pink Adidas Handball Spezials – or if I decided to treat myself, Aquazzura's minimalist sneakers.’
Thea Lewis-Yates
Fashion editor-at-large on Manifesto Magazine and contributor to Vogue Hong Kong, among other international titles
‘September LFW always has that back-to-school feeling. Summer is over, kids have started school, and while my gaze, and that of other editors, is firmly fixed on SS26, we’re still enthralled with FW25, as our new treasures get their first outings. I’ve worn mary jane shoes since preschool, and my love for them hasn’t waned. Chloé’s delicious five-strap Janis style is utter perfection, especially in beautiful burgundy leather. Miu Miu is always a dream, but in recent seasons my fondness for the brand has become borderline obsessive. Its Prince of Wales-check grey pleated midi skirt gives the perfect collegiate mood for September, paired with satin ballet pumps and preppy layering. I’ve had my eye of Toteme’s T-Lock bag for some time – given we share an initial, owning one only feels right. Comfort reigns supreme for long days of shows, so Nanushka’s silk maxi skirts, teamed with one of its kitten-soft cashmere knits, flats and sunnies, makes for a super-chic LFW look. Pearl jewellery has become somewhat of a signature of mine, and Bond Street offers the best edit – Valentino, Chanel, Chloé and McQueen all have beautiful pearly offerings.’
Shop your LFW look on Bond Street and get heads turning as you run between shows, sit on the front row or simply soak up the atmosphere of fashion's get together in the heart of London.