London is set to reconnect with the buzz of the runways this February, as it hosts a new edition of its Fashion Week, whose schedule promises to be both dense and highly symbolic. Between long-awaited returns and emotionally charged farewells, the British capital will unveil the Autumn Winter 2025/26 collections over nearly a week of creative encounters.

Running from Thursday 19 to Monday 23 February, the event will feature a total of 46 physical runway shows, complemented by 15 presentations. The final day will also spotlight digital creativity, with 19 online projects led by a new generation of designers.

The season will open with Paul Costelloe, presenting a collection conceived before the passing of its founder. A respected figure in Irish and British fashion, and once closely associated with Princess Diana, the designer passed away last November at the age of 80. The show will serve as a discreet yet solemn tribute.

At the other end of the calendar, Burberry will bring London Fashion Week to a close with a highly anticipated show. The iconic British luxury house once again entrusts the creative direction to Daniel Lee, tasked with infusing a contemporary vision into the brand’s heritage.

Among the highlights of this edition is also the return of Joseph, absent from London’s runways for seven years. The brand will present the second collection designed by Mario Arena, recently appointed creative director. Julien Macdonald will also make his comeback, five years after his last appearance on the official schedule.

London’s fashion regulars will be well represented, with names such as Erdem, Simone Rocha, Richard Quinn and Harris Reed, all loyal to a Fashion Week renowned for its boldness and eclectic spirit.

Some absences, however, will not go unnoticed, notably that of J.W. Anderson, long considered one of the week’s defining moments. The Northern Irish designer is now focusing on transforming his label into a lifestyle brand, while continuing his role as artistic director of Dior in Paris.

Beyond the established houses, London retains what truly defines its identity. Fashion Week remains a powerful breeding ground for emerging talent, particularly graduates from Central Saint Martins, the London College of Fashion and Loughborough University. International buyers and fashion editors will once again flock to graduate shows and collective platforms, starting with Fashion East, often cited as one of the most influential talent incubators in contemporary fashion.

FM