London Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2023: Three Designers Who Shone Amid Mourning
The British Fashion Council voiced profound sorrow following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, leading to a revised London Fashion Week for Spring/Summer 2023. Both Burberry and Raf Simons opted to cancel their presentations, with no events taking place on September 19, the date of the funeral. Among the standout collections was JW Anderson's surreal display on September 16, which featured a dress made of a concave mirror and outfits adorned with digital imagery. Christopher Kane made his return with a collection inspired by biology, beginning with a moment of silence and showcasing designs in transparent vinyl and floral motifs. Richard Quinn, who was honored with the Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design in 2018, commenced his show in somber hues, incorporating heavy black lace and veils to resonate with the national sentiment.
Key facts
- The British Fashion Council expressed devastation over Queen Elizabeth II's death.
- London Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2023 was reorganized after the Queen's death.
- Burberry and Raf Simons canceled their shows.
- No presentations were held on September 19, the day of the funeral.
- JW Anderson showed on September 16 at a Soho game arcade.
- Anderson's collection included a concave mirror dress and a T-shirt with condolence poster text.
- Christopher Kane returned to the runway for the first time since 2020.
- Richard Quinn opened his show with 22 looks in mourning colors.
Entities
Artists
- JW Anderson
- Christopher Kane
- Richard Quinn
- Raf Simons
Institutions
- British Fashion Council
- Burberry
- LVMH
- Loewe
Locations
- London
- Soho
- United Kingdom