The British Fashion Council (BFC) has officially cancelled the June 2025 edition of London Fashion Week, marking a significant change in the UK’s fashion calendar. This decision reflects a strategic pivot towards more commercially viable opportunities for British designers, particularly through the expansion of the London Show Rooms in Paris.
Launched in 2012 as “London Collections: Men” and later rebranded as London Fashion Week Men’s, the June event was once a prominent platform for British menswear, featuring designers like Alexander McQueen and JW Anderson.However, in recent years, the event has experienced a decline in brand participation and media attention. By 2023, the schedule had diminished significantly, with only a handful of shows and presentations, leading to questions about its continued relevance.
The broader industry trend of merging menswear and womenswear into co-ed presentations has further impacted the distinctiveness of a standalone menswear week. Many brands now prefer to showcase their collections during the February and September editions of London Fashion Week, which cater to both menswear and womenswear audiences.
The financial burden of producing runway shows, coupled with economic uncertainties and the aftermath of the pandemic, has made it increasingly difficult for especially emerging designers to justify participation in the June event.The high costs and logistical complexities have led many to seek alternative, more sustainable ways to present their work.
In response to these challenges, the BFC is redirecting its efforts towards the “London Show Rooms” initiative in Paris, scheduled from June 26 to July 1, 2025. This platform aims to provide British designers with enhanced commercial opportunities by connecting them directly with international buyers and media in a more focused and cost-effective environment.
Caroline Rush, the outgoing CEO of the BFC, emphasized the importance of this strategic pivot, stating that by scaling back to more targeted programs in London and Paris, the organization aims to create strong foundations to amplify the message of British menswear businesses.
The cancellation reflects a broader reevaluation within the fashion industry regarding traditional show formats. Designers are increasingly exploring innovative presentation methods, such as digital showcases, intimate gatherings, and multimedia content, to engage audiences and promote their collections. This evolution signifies a move towards more sustainable and adaptable approaches in the ever-changing fashion landscape.
