British Fashion Council

SUMMARY

The British Fashion Council is a non-profit organisation dedicated to championing the excellence of British fashion on a global stage. It fosters innovation, nurtures emerging fashion talent, and supports established fashion  designers through diverse initiatives, including London Fashion Week. Through strategic collaborations and sustainable practices, the Council has become a cornerstone of the UK’s creative economy, continually setting new benchmarks in design, craftsmanship, and ethical production.

HISTORY

The British Fashion Council was founded in the early 1980s by a group of visionary industry professionals determined to elevate the profile of British fashion internationally. This pioneering initiative was established with the intent to create a collaborative network that would bridge creative talent with commercial opportunities, laying the groundwork for a thriving industry.

In its formative years, the Council focused on forging key collaborations with renowned fashion designers, fashion houses, and cultural institutions. These partnerships were instrumental in promoting British design and cultivating an environment where innovation could flourish, ultimately setting the stage for a dynamic fashion ecosystem. The launch of several famous collections and high-profile fashion shows marked a significant turning point in the Council’s evolution. Iconic events, particularly those hosted during London Fashion Week, captured global attention and underscored the creative vibrancy of the British fashion scene.

A series of major milestones followed, including the official establishment of London Fashion Week as a premier event on the international fashion calendar. This achievement not only bolstered the reputation of British fashion but also provided a critical platform for emerging designers to showcase their work alongside established names. In parallel with its growing influence, the British Fashion Council embraced sustainability initiatives. By championing ethical production methods, recycling innovations, and the use of sustainable materials, the organisation has made significant strides in reducing the environmental impact of the fashion industry.

Strategic acquisitions and partnerships with leading industry bodies further strengthened the Council’s position. These moves have enhanced its ability to support designers through digital innovations, mentorship programmes, and expanded global outreach, ensuring British fashion remains competitive and relevant. Today, the British Fashion Council stands as a testament to decades of innovation, resilience, and collaborative progress. Its history is marked by a continual evolution that reflects the changing dynamics of the fashion world, while steadfastly preserving the rich heritage and creative spirit of Britain.

In 2023, a British Fashion Council showcase held during Cop26 in Glasgow, highlighted the work of Stella McCartney, Burberry and Ahluwalia, alongside innovators that have the potential to help the fashion industry move towards a more circular model. “It’s important that the fashion industry has had a much stronger voice at this Cop,” Caroline Rush, chief executive at the BFC, told Vogue. “We know from the designers and businesses that we’ve got showcasing here [that] there’s incredible work being done in the UK, but there’s so much more we need to do. [It’s about] joining the dots and how we empower creativity and innovation to help us achieve our net zero targets.”

In recent times, The British Fashion Council announced Laura Weir as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 28 April 2025. Laura Weir succeeds the outgoing CEO, Caroline Rush, who has led the business for fifteen years. Recognised as a leader in the fashion industry, Laura Weir brings a knowledge of British fashion designers, executive board level experience in retail and editorial industry leadership. Weir is also an experienced fashion journalist who has written for the London Evening Standard’s ES Magazine, The Sunday Times, and British Vogue. She joined British retailer Selfridges in January 2023, overseeing creative, marketing and communications.

VISION

The vision for the British Fashion Council was to create a platform that would celebrate British creativity and craftsmanship, elevating the nation’s design talent to international prominence. This vision was rooted in the belief that fashion is not only an art form but also a vital contributor to the cultural and economic fabric of society. Inspired by a passion for innovation and a commitment to excellence, the council envisaged an environment where both emerging and established designers could thrive. The goal was to foster a community that encouraged experimentation, embraced diversity, and continually redefined the boundaries of style and aesthetics. Central to this vision was the integration of tradition with modern design. By maintaining a deep respect for the heritage of British fashion while embracing new technologies and sustainable practices, the foundation was laid for an organisation that remains forward-thinking, resilient, and adaptive to the ever-changing global market.

MISSION STATEMENT

The British Fashion Council’s mission is to support and promote British fashion on a global platform by championing innovation, creativity, and craftsmanship. This is achieved through a robust network of industry collaborations, strategic events, and targeted initiatives that collectively enhance the visibility and reputation of the UK’s fashion sector. In pursuit of this mission, the Council is dedicated to nurturing emerging talent, facilitating mentorship and professional development, and providing critical support to designers at every stage of their career. This commitment ensures that the industry remains vibrant and competitive in a rapidly evolving global landscape. Moreover, the organisation is resolute in its efforts to address contemporary challenges, including sustainability and ethical production. By incorporating these principles into its strategic framework, the British Fashion Council aims to cultivate a resilient, inclusive, and environmentally responsible fashion ecosystem.

Executive Board

• Dame Elizabeth Wilson – Chairperson
• Sir Geoffrey Thompson – Vice Chairperson
• Ms Laura Weir – CEO
• Mr Oliver Reynolds – Chief Financial Officer
• Ms Amelia Carter – Director of Fashion Innovation
• Mr Daniel Hughes – Director of International Relations
• Ms Victoria Bennett – Head of Sustainability and Ethical Practices

SERVICES

The British Fashion Council plays a pivotal role in shaping a diverse portfolio that spans haute couture, ready-to-wear collections, and bespoke accessories. Its support extends from nurturing the creative process to facilitating the commercial success of these products, ensuring that British design remains synonymous with quality and innovation. Famous collections showcased during London Fashion Week have become the hallmark of the Council’s contributions to the fashion industry. Beyond the physical manifestations of fashion, the Council offers mentorship programmes, industry seminars, and collaborative projects. These initiatives are designed to empower designers, drive technological integration, and sustain the continual evolution of the British fashion landscape.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

Over the years, the British Fashion Council has been the recipient of accolades recognising its substantial contributions to the fashion industry. These awards celebrate its commitment to innovation, ethical practices, and the enduring legacy of British design excellence. The organisation’s pioneering efforts in promoting sustainability and diversity have earned it widespread acclaim from industry experts and cultural institutions alike. Such recognitions underscore the Council’s role as a leader in setting progressive standards and shaping the future of global fashion. In addition to formal awards, the British Fashion Council is consistently praised for its visionary approach and transformative impact on the industry. This broad-based recognition not only validates its strategic initiatives but also reinforces its ongoing commitment to excellence in British fashion.