What Now For LFW Following the Queen’s Death?
This article was originally published on September 8 and has since been updated.
Fashion brands and retailers across the world have joined in mourning today following the death of Queen Elizabeth II on Thursday.
Selfridge’s and Liberty closed the doors of their London stores on Friday as a mark of respect, while YSL, Burberry, and Raf Simons have confirmed the cancellation of various SS23 events, the latter two of which were due to present at London Fashion Week next week.
Following news of the Queen’s passing last night, the British Fashion Council released a statement that read: “London Fashion Week is a business-to-business event, and an important moment for designers to show their collections at a specific moment in the fashion calendar, we recognise the work that goes into this moment.
“Therefore, shows and presentations of collections can continue, but we are asking that designers respect the mood of the nation and period of national mourning by considering the timing of their image release.”
At the time of writing, Burberry hasn’t confirmed whether the show will be rescheduled, although the BFC has recommended non-essential events (like parties, dinners, etc.) should be postponed as a further mark of respect.
While many shows at London Fashion Week – which will run between September 16-20 – may still go ahead, those set to commence on the day of the Queen’s funeral (which is yet to be confirmed) “will need to be rescheduled,” according to the BFC.
With news of the Queen’s death still less than 24-hours old, news relating to London Fashion Week is still evolving. This story will be updated as it develops.