Awards season may be well underway, but the gong we get most excited about doesn’t take place in the world of music or film, but rather in fashion. We are, of course, talking about one in which we are deeply invested, the BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund. Since its inception in 2008, the prestigious initiative has boosted the careers of some of the flagship names in British fashion, including Erdem, Wales Bonner, 16Arlington and Chopova Lowena.
Today, the six shortlisted designers for the 2026 edition of the prize have been announced, a list that showcases the brightest and best of names either based – or with a significant presence – in Britain: Aaron Esh, Bianca Saunders, Clio Peppiatt, Knwls, Onalaja and Talia Byre.
“British fashion has always been defined by its creativity and its ability to shape culture far beyond our shores,” says Chioma Nnadi, British Vogue’s head of editorial content. “Supporting our talent is not just a responsibility, it’s a privilege, and this year’s shortlist is a powerful reminder of the depth of imagination and individuality emerging from the UK right now. I’m honoured to co-chair the judging panel and to help champion designers who are forging distinctive paths and strengthening the future of British fashion.”
“This year’s shortlisted designers represent more than the creative strength of British fashion today, they embody the future we are committed to building. Their work proves that when talent is properly supported, platformed and connected to opportunity, UK designers can compete and lead on the global stage,” adds Laura Weir, the British Fashion Council’s chief executive. “At the BFC, our priority is to support and scale emerging talent by creating the platforms, partnerships and pathways that turn creativity into enduring businesses and cultural influence. We are proud to continue our partnership with British Vogue in delivering this, working together to ensure that the next generation of British designers is not only discovered, but sustained.”
Supported by British Vogue and Burberry, the eventual winner of the award – to be announced in May – will receive £150,000 in funding, aimed at helping them to translate their creative ingenuity into sustainable commercial success. They’ll also have access to a comprehensive mentorship and professional services package from the industry’s best, reinforcing the award’s commitment to fostering and supporting the careers of tomorrow’s leaders. With the competition for this year’s prize as strong as it is, your guess as to who’ll be taking it home is as good as ours – make sure to tune back in here in a couple of months to find out this year’s winner.
