A Guide To London Fashion Week AW26

Organised by the British Fashion Council, London Fashion Week is one of the most influential moments in the global fashion calendar. Taking place every February and September, it brings together catwalk shows, presentations, showrooms and cultural events across the capital, showcasing more than 250 designers from Britain and beyond.

Known for its experimental spirit and ability to launch global talent, LFW continues to be a vital platform where creativity meets commerce.

When Is It?

London Fashion Week AW26 runs from Thursday 19 to Monday 23 February 2026.

Where Is It?

Events take place across London, from landmark venues and galleries to purpose-built show spaces and designer studios, with 180 The Strand once again serving as a key hub.

Can Anyone Go?

London Fashion Week is a mix of invite-only shows and public-facing experiences. While catwalk shows are typically reserved for industry insiders, many designers livestream their collections or release films shortly after. The BFC’s City Wide Celebration also opens up Fashion Week to the public through talks, pop-ups and immersive experiences.

London Fashion Week AW26: Schedule Highlights

For AW26, the BFC continues its designer-first approach, waiving show fees for designers on the physical schedule and doubling investment in its Guest Programme to attract international press, buyers and cultural tastemakers.

This season’s schedule follows a three-part rhythm:

• Global names with international influence

• London Fashion Week favourites

• The next generation of emerging talent

  
  

Returning to the calendar are British icons Burberry, ERDEM, Emilia Wickstead and Richard Quinn. They’re joined by acclaimed names including Conner Ives and Patrick McDowell, alongside Fashion East alumni and a strong NEWGEN cohort.

Day-by-Day Highlights

Thursday 19 February

Traditionally a quieter opening day, Thursday has expanded this season with a full daytime and evening schedule. Highlights include runway shows and presentations from Paul Costelloe and Harris Reed, setting an expressive tone for the week ahead.

Friday 20 February

The busiest day of the week sees over 20 daytime shows. Expect strong momentum from 16Arlington, Patrick McDowell, Bora Aksu and Fashion East, alongside presentations from some of London’s most directional labels.

Saturday 21 February

Saturday opens with catwalks from Selasi, COMPLETEDWORKS and Labrum London, while cult favourites Chopova Lowena and Talia Byre host presentations.

Sunday 22 February

A powerhouse day featuring Edeline Lee, ERDEM and Emilia Wickstead, before the evening closes with a theatrical show from Richard Quinn — always one of the week’s most anticipated moments.

Monday 23 February

The final day wraps up physical shows with Di Petsa, John Richmond and Conner Ives, before London Fashion Week traditionally concludes with Burberry.

Online Shows

Digital presentations are consolidated on Monday 23 February, running from 10am to 2.15pm.

DiscoveryLAB and NEWGEN designers take the morning slots, followed by a curated selection of international and experimental designers later in the day.

BFC NEWGEN & DiscoveryLAB

BFC NEWGEN

NEWGEN remains one of the most important talent incubators in global fashion. Supported designers receive financial backing, mentoring and showcasing opportunities, with the NEWGEN Show Space returning to 180 The Strand for AW26.

DiscoveryLAB

DiscoveryLAB also returns, offering an immersive platform where fashion intersects with music, art, photography and performance. Select presentations will be available to view online throughout Monday.

Sustainability Takes Centre Stage

AW26 marks a pivotal moment for sustainability at London Fashion Week. In partnership with Copenhagen Fashion Week, the BFC has introduced a new Sustainability Requirements framework, beginning with the NEWGEN cohort.

Designers must now meet Minimum Standards across 18 key sustainability criteria to remain on the official schedule — a significant step towards systemic change within the British fashion industry.

City Wide Celebration

Fashion Week isn’t confined to the front row. The BFC’s City Wide Celebration runs alongside the shows, offering public access to pop-ups, shopping experiences, panel talks and cultural activations across London.

Explore

For the full London Fashion Week AW26 schedule and event listings, visit londonfashionweek.co.uk.