London Fashion Week (LFW) 2025, held from September 18 to 22, showcased a vibrant mix of female-led creativity, celebrity appearances, and artistic inspiration. From TV presenter Prue Leith’s bold catwalk debut to Romeo Beckham’s runway moment and Lucy Bronze’s front-row presence, the event was a unique blend of fashion, culture, and star power. Here’s a closer look at the highlights, designers, and trends that made this season unforgettable.
1. A Star-Studded Event
London Fashion Week 2025 drew an eclectic mix of celebrities, setting it apart from other global fashion weeks. Notable moments included:
- Prue Leith’s Catwalk Debut: The 85-year-old Great British Bake Off judge turned heads at the Vin + Omi: Dysphoriana show, strutting in a striking red dress made from a repurposed RAF parachute. The design duo, known for their avant-garde and eco-conscious creations, highlighted sustainability with this bold piece.
- Romeo Beckham’s Runway Moment: The 23-year-old son of David and Victoria Beckham made his LFW debut at H&M’s show at 180 Strand, wearing a black leather jacket and cargo pants. The event, attended by over 700 guests including model Emily Ratajkowski, featured a performance by singer Lola Young.
- Lucy Bronze’s Front-Row Seat: The England footballer attended the Richard Quinn show, adding a sporty flair in a floral dress with a beaded choker.
- Jerry Hall’s Theatrical Role: The iconic model played a “diva psychic” in a short play by Laura Waldren for jewellery brand Completedworks, showcasing LFW’s flair for blending fashion with performance art.
These appearances underscored LFW’s ability to attract diverse talents, from culinary stars to athletes and nepo babies, creating a cultural melting pot.
2. Female Creativity at the Core
Unlike the male-dominated fashion scenes in Milan and Paris, LFW 2025 was defined by female designers who led the weekend’s headline shows. Key designers included:
- Simone Rocha: Known for her playful take on femininity, Rocha presented a collection featuring bows, pearls, and lace, twisted to challenge traditional gender norms. Highlights included chunky Croc sandals with diamante straps and a rose-printed cardigan over a sequined bra top. Rocha emphasized staying in London, saying it allows her to put on her best show.
- Emilia Wickstead: Inspired by photographer Robert Mapplethorpe’s intense and romantic portraits, Wickstead’s collection balanced edgy and elegant. Choker-wrapped silk ribbons replaced leather bondage straps, while double denim and hand-painted florals nodded to the 1970s Chelsea Hotel vibe. Wickstead also dressed the Princess of Wales for a state visit and actor Marisa Abela for her wedding.
- Roksanda Ilinčić: Celebrating 20 years as a designer, Ilinčić drew inspiration from sculptor Barbara Hepworth. Her collection featured sheath dresses with cut-out shapes and cocoon coats resembling Hepworth’s organic sculptures. Dramatic leather fringing reflected the River Calder near Hepworth’s Wakefield museum. Ilinčić’s survival after near-administration in 2024 highlighted her resilience.
- Edeline Lee: As a headline act, Lee contributed to the matriarchal theme, though specific details of her show were less prominent in coverage.
These women showcased London’s reputation for bold, creative, and forward-thinking fashion.
3. Artistic Inspirations
LFW 2025 was deeply rooted in art, with designers drawing from cultural icons:
- Barbara Hepworth at Roksanda: Ilinčić’s collection paid homage to Hepworth’s monumental sculptures, translating their organic forms into innovative silhouettes.
- Robert Mapplethorpe at Emilia Wickstead: Mapplethorpe’s intense portraiture inspired Wickstead’s romantic yet edgy designs, moving away from her usual “buttoned-up” aesthetic.
- Cultural Commentary at Simone Rocha: Rocha’s use of feminine symbols like ribbons and pearls challenged regressive gender norms, aligning with progressive fashion trends.
These artistic references elevated the collections, connecting fashion to broader cultural narratives.
4. Sustainability and Innovation
Sustainability was a recurring theme, reflecting London’s forward-thinking ethos:
- Vin + Omi’s Eco-Conscious Designs: Prue Leith’s parachute dress exemplified the duo’s commitment to repurposing materials for avant-garde creations.
- Oxfam’s Second-Hand Runway: Oxfam hosted a show for “Second-Hand September,” featuring celebrities like Sam Ryder and Katie Piper modeling pre-loved clothing, promoting sustainable fashion.
- eBay’s Endless Runway: Curated by Amy Bannerman, this show highlighted pre-loved designer pieces from brands like Acne and McQueen, emphasizing the growing appeal of resale fashion.
These initiatives showcased LFW’s leadership in sustainable practices, appealing to eco-conscious consumers.
5. Unique Venues and Atmosphere
LFW’s shows took place in iconic London locations, adding to the event’s allure:
- 180 Strand for H&M: The opening show drew a massive crowd, blending high street fashion with celebrity glamour.
- St Cyprian’s Church for Dreaming Eli: The debut show of this brand used the historic church as a dramatic backdrop.
- Royal Horseguards Hotel for Barrus: The “7 Hills, 7 Heals” show featured Lady Amelia Windsor and others, enhancing the regal ambiance.
- Battersea Power Station and Royal Opera House: These venues provided striking settings, reinforcing London’s reputation for creative showmanship.
6. Challenges and Resilience
Despite its vibrancy, LFW faces challenges. New British Fashion Council CEO Laura Weir noted the impact of Brexit, COVID, and the rise of Milan and Paris as luxury hubs, which have drawn designers like Victoria Beckham away. However, Weir aims to restore LFW’s economic and cultural significance, with a parliamentary debate in September 2025 highlighting its importance.
7. Why London Stands Out
LFW’s blend of creativity, diversity, and accessibility sets it apart. Unlike the more commercial New York Fashion Week or the luxury-driven Paris and Milan, London thrives on its reputation for innovation and inclusivity. The presence of figures like Prue Leith, Romeo Beckham, and Lucy Bronze, alongside female designers and sustainable initiatives, underscores its unique appeal.
8. Looking Forward
As LFW concluded on September 22, 2025, its impact lingered. The event’s focus on female leadership, sustainability, and cultural fusion positions it as a vital force in global fashion. With designers like Rocha and Ilinčić staying loyal to London, and new talents emerging, LFW continues to prove it’s “hard to beat.”
