British Fashion has had a long and illustrious history, but it’s one that few people are familiar with. While most people know about the great British designers of old such as Vivienne Westwood, Alexander McQueen and John Galliano; few know why they were so revered. And while most will admit to knowing the British Fashion Council and its flagship event London Fashion Week; again, few know why Britain is still considered the birthplace of modern fashion. So what exactly sets British fashion apart from the rest? And how can we keep it going strong? Let’s take a look at some answers.
The History of British Fashion
The Original Fashion trends seem to have started in Ancient Egypt, Babylon, and China, but the first modern Western fashion industry can be traced back to Paris in the early 19th century. It was Paris that became recognized as the center of Western fashion, and this was partly due to its rich history, culture, and language. These factors helped to establish Paris as the unchallenged center of fashion. Only when London became the capital of the world during The Great Exhibition of 1851, did the fashion world start to take more notice of the British fashion industry. It was this exhibition that saw a lot of the major fashion houses move to London, as they were attracted to the city’s growing status and wealth. London’s fashion industry got a further boost with the arrival of many wealthy American socialites who had fled their country due to the Great Depression. It was these socialites that helped to set the standard for British high society and caused London to eclipse Paris in terms of fashion.
Why is British fashion so revered?
The world has always admired the British for their passion, creativity, and craftsmanship, so it’s no surprise that these are qualities that are also necessary to make great fashion. British fashion has been particularly revered since the 1950s when brands such as Burberry, Aquascutum, and Hardy Amies, really started to make their mark. The British fashion industry has always been one to lead the way in trends, so it’s no surprise that London has been dubbed the new ‘Fashion Capital’. Most of the world’s leading fashion markets are now based in London because it is a global city that attracts people from all over the world.
London Fashion Week
London Fashion Week has been the go-to event for the fashion industry for many years now. The event is designed to showcase the best of British fashion and give designers the chance to network and make connections in the industry. London Fashion Week is held twice a year, once in February and then again in September, and it features a wide range of events that showcase the fashion industry. These events include Designer’s Shows, Trade Show, Branded Retail Show, and the Women swear, Menswear, and Children’s Fashion Awards. London Fashion Week was originally founded in 1939 and has been held at its current location at the iconic Old Burlington Street since 1996. The event is now owned and operated by the British Fashion Council, and is one of the most anticipated events on the global fashion calendar.
British Designers
When looking at the top British designers, it’s hard to ignore the legacy of Vivienne Westwood and Stella McCartney. Vivienne Westwood is considered one of the most influential and important British designers of all time, having made her mark in punk, and then gone on to challenge the world with her outlandish designs. Vivienne Westwood has been the designer for many of the world’s leading brands, but her own brand has become one of the most recognized and famous British fashion brands ever. Stella McCartney is the daughter of Paul McCartney and has become one of the most renowned British designers of all time. Stella McCartney has won numerous awards and has become one of the world’s leading eco-friendly fashion designers.
British Brands
British fashion brands are amongst some of the best in the world. They include iconic brands such as Burberry, Paul Smith, Mulberry, Stella McCartney, Barbour and Victoria Beckham. Many of these brands have created signature items such as the Burberry trench coat which many people own as a wardrobe staple.
Conclusion
British fashion has come a long way since the 19th century, but it is clear that these qualities have never been more important. The world has never been so connected, and with this comes an increased demand for high-quality products. British fashion brands are well aware of this and have proven themselves as some of the world’s most stylish and desirable brands. British fashion is unique, and that is why it has always been so revered. It is a combination of British craftsmanship and a modern design sensibility that has made British fashion what it is today.