Where fashion meets fearless creativity.
London Fashion Week has always been the breeding ground for daring creativity, where designers push the boundaries of what fashion can be. From avant-garde artistry to romantic elegance, the runways of London have given us unforgettable moments that left an indelible mark on the fashion world. Let’s take a look back at some of the most iconic shows that not only captured the spirit of the city but also redefined the runway with their bold, brilliant, and breathtaking designs.
١. Apujan’s Spring/Summer 2022
Apujan’s Spring/Summer 2022 show took place in an atmospheric venue that perfectly complemented the designer’s signature blend of storytelling and fashion. The venue was transformed into a surreal dreamscape, with soft lighting, celestial projections, and a space-age ambiance that mirrored the collection’s futuristic theme.
The setting felt almost otherworldly, as models glided down the runway against a backdrop that evoked both the cosmos and a library, nodding to Apujan’s fascination with literature, fantasy, and the concept of time. The immersive environment heightened the sense of wonder, making the show feel like stepping into a fashion-forward fantasy novel.
٢. Rejina Pyo SS22
Rejina Pyo made waves literally with her SS22 ready-to-wear show at the iconic London Aquatics Centre. The futuristic venue, originally designed by Zaha Hadid for the 2012 Olympics, became the perfect backdrop for a playful yet elegant runway. Pyo invited Team GB divers Emily Martin, Josie Zilling, and Robyn Birch to open the show, merging fashion with sport in an unexpected yet seamless collaboration.
Models in vibrant swimwear and sleek ruched dresses glided along the pool tiles, their bright looks contrasting beautifully with the industrial, sleek architecture of the space. As they ascended the concrete diving boards, the collection felt like a perfect blend of practicality and modern artistry immersing the audience in a setting that echoed the very essence of summer.
٣. David Koma SS22
David Koma’s Spring/Summer 2022 collection dazzled not only with its striking designs but also with the unconventional venue—a tribute to the late Zaha Hadid at the London Aquatics Centre. Set against the sleek, modern architecture of the space, Koma’s collection celebrated the transformative power of water, with models walking across a wet, tiled catwalk that mirrored the fluidity of his garments.
Inspired by the aerodynamic sensibility of aquatics, Koma’s designs paid homage to both fashion and architecture. Sharp, sculpted lines and geometric shapes echoed Hadid’s architectural brilliance, with each look embodying a synergy between form and function. The collection drew your eyes outward, emphasizing the visual harmony between the clothing and the futuristic venue, making it an unforgettable ode to London’s design heritage.
٤. House of Holland SS20
House of Holland’s Spring/Summer 2020 show, titled “Dance The Pain Away,” was a playful, rave-inspired escape from the looming shadows of Brexit. Held at The Dairy near King’s Cross, the show was an eccentric fusion of ’70s disco meets ’90s rave, offering a vibrant counter to the political uncertainty of the time. Despite delays from a prior show, the crowd basked in the sweltering heat wave, the setting punctuated by a sleek silver sphere art installation that served as a dramatic focal point.
The Dairy venue’s contemporary yet adaptable design mirrored Henry Holland’s eclectic collection perfectly. The space, known for hosting fashion events, was transformed into a colourful haven of playful, rebellious energy, capturing the essence of both the collection and its surroundings. With its blend of historical charm and modern adaptability, The Dairy added a layer of intrigue to the already electric atmosphere, complementing Holland’s bold vision for SS20.
٥. Erdem SS23
Erdem’s Spring/Summer 2023 collection was an ode to preservation and cultural heritage, and what better place to bring that vision to life than the British Museum? Held in the museum’s iconic courtyard, the models glided between its grand stone columns as the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the scene. The venue’s monumental architecture provided the perfect neutral backdrop, allowing Erdem’s intricate floral designs to take center stage.
Inspired by the work of museum conservators and art restoration, the collection was a thoughtful reflection on the importance of preservation—both of art and fashion. Erdem himself spent time with conservators at the British Museum during the design process, making the show’s location feel deeply personal and thematically fitting. The haunting orchestral soundtrack echoed through the colonnades, creating a moody, immersive experience that contrasted beautifully with the delicate fabrics and floral prints, making the entire event a masterful blend of fashion, art, and history.
٦. JW Anderson SS18
JW Anderson’s Spring/Summer 2018 show was set against the backdrop of the historic Yeomanry House in Bloomsbury, London, a Grade II listed building with a rich history. The venue’s distinctive red brick exterior and spacious drill hall provided a dramatic contrast to Anderson’s modern, avant-garde designs.
The collection was showcased on a raised white catwalk that wove through the drill hall, while guests were seated on simple white benches along the runway. The stark, bright lighting highlighted the contrast between Anderson’s contemporary fashion and the building’s traditional architecture. This setting not only underscored the collection’s themes of uniforms and workwear but also created a striking visual narrative, merging historical context with cutting-edge fashion.
٧. Molly Goddard SS20
The Molly Goddard Spring/Summer 2020 show took a refreshing turn from the conventional, choosing the Seymour Leisure Centre in Marylebone, London as its venue. Known for her penchant for unexpected settings, Goddard’s choice of this local leisure centre perfectly reflected her playful and unconventional approach to fashion.
In a space typically associated with everyday activities rather than high fashion, the models strutted down a minimalist white runway, placing the emphasis squarely on the vibrant, voluminous creations. The juxtaposition of the mundane with high fashion added a layer of intrigue and charm to the presentation, making it a memorable and unique experience.
٨. Natasha Zinko SS20
Natasha Zinko’s Spring/Summer 2020 show was held in a vibrant, eclectic venue that perfectly mirrored the high-energy spirit of her designs. The location was an urban space known for its gritty, streetwear-inspired aesthetic, contributing to an atmosphere of rebellious creativity. With its raw, industrial charm and bold decor, the venue set the stage for a show that felt more like an impromptu street style parade than a traditional runway presentation.
The space was characterized by its exposed brick walls, minimal furnishings, and a dynamic layout that encouraged movement and interaction. This unconventional setting enhanced the collection’s playful chaos, with its neon accents and oversized silhouettes taking on a life of their own in the unconventional environment. The venue’s fusion of urban edge and artistic flair made it the ideal backdrop for Zinko’s avant-garde vision, turning the runway into a vibrant celebration of street-inspired fashion.
