London Fashion Week AW25: The Shows That Stole the Spotlight
Bold designs and visionary trends defined the season.
Fashion Week AW25 has come and gone, but this season felt quieter than usual. With major names like JW Anderson, Karoline Vitto, Victoria Beckham, and Molly Goddard sitting it out, some questioned whether LFW still holds the same creative energy it’s known for.
Despite the muted atmosphere, a handful of designers still delivered standout moments, from theatrical runway presentations to unexpected creative choices. The event still lived up to its reputation as the most creative and cutting-edge of all four major fashion weeks. Here’s a look at some of the shows that made an impact.
Harris Reed
London Fashion Week opened with Florence Pugh making a dramatic return to the catwalk for Harris Reed’s show. She delivered a theatrical performance in a black sheer sculptural gown, featuring a hooded cowl neckline and striking wing-like shoulders.
The runway show embraced a predominantly monochromatic palette, with dramatic black silhouettes gradually giving way to bold cobalt blue and gold accents. The designs were defined by exaggerated shapes and intricate structural details, blending avant-garde artistry with a punk-inspired edge, while also incorporating elements of Victorian fashion.
Dilara Findikoglu
Dilara Findikoglu’s show was a captivating fusion of whimsical and gothic influences. Titled Venus from Chaos, the collection drew inspiration from the Roman goddess Venus, serving as a powerful ode to unfiltered feminine power and liberation.
The show’s storytelling was particularly striking in the unconventional use of materials, most notably in Look 23, where the model, embodying Venus herself, was draped in cascading ginger hair that covered her chest, back, and thighs. Rather than simply wearing a garment, she became part of the look, transforming fashion into performance art.
Throughout the collection, contrasts played a central role, delicate lace and flowing fabrics juxtaposed with the raw strength of snakeskin, leather, and corsetry, reflecting both softness and power. Findikoglu also collaborated with Converse, reimagining classic Chuck Taylors to seamlessly blend her dark, romantic aesthetic with streetwear edge.
Richard Quinn
Take a trip to winter wonderland with Richard Quinn, seamlessly merging set design with fashion. The designer recreated a snow-covered London Street, complete with street lamps and a townhouse, setting the perfect stage for his collection.
The looks paid homage to old Hollywood glamour, with 1950s-inspired silhouettes reminiscent of Dior’s New Look. But the nod to the past didn’t stop at fashion, Quinn’s casting also embraced nostalgia, with 75-year-old Penelope Tree, an iconic model from the 1960s, gracing the runway.
As snow gently fell on the catwalk, Quinn presented a largely monochromatic collection, punctuated by bursts of yellow, pink, and green. Feminine and romantic, the collection featured his signature floral prints and bow motifs, with elegant gowns, cinched waists, and full skirts evoking a timeless charm.
Burberry
London Fashion Week closed with Burberry with a star-studded show at the iconic Tate Britain, amidst swirling speculation about Daniel Lee’s future at the helm of the British heritage brand. The Autumn/Winter 2025 collection was a love letter to the British countryside, featuring a palette of earthy neutrals and luxurious fabrics such as wool, leather, and velvet, all while maintaining an air of quiet luxury. The classic Burberry check made subtle appearances throughout.
The runway celebrated British talent, blending fashion icons with acclaimed actors. Longtime Burberry muse Naomi Campbell graced the catwalk alongside a cast of celebrated British actors, including Richard E. Grant, Elizabeth McGovern, and Lesley Manville.
And if that wasn’t enough to steal the spotlight, a knight in shining armor certainly did. A playful nod to Burberry’s equestrian heritage, the knight was spotted sitting front row, mingling with celebrities such as Nicholas Hoult and Orlando Bloom, even posing for selfies. The unexpected moment quickly went viral, cementing the show as one of the week’s most talked about events.