British Fashion Council unveils shortlist for BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund 2026

The British Fashion Council (BFC) has today announced the shortlisted designers for the BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund 2026.

The six names to make it this time are: Aaron Esh, Bianca Saunders, Clio Peppiatt, KNWLS, Onalaja, and Talia Byre.

The award, which was launched in 2008, aims to identify and support outstanding British fashion businesses through a grant prize, bespoke mentoring and professional services, with the winner awarded £150,000 to help “translate creativity into sustainable commercial success”. The fund is made possible with the support of Vogue and Burberry.

This year’s judging panel is to be chaired by Chief Executive of the British Fashion Council, Laura Weir, and Head of Editorial Content at British Vogue, Chioma Nnadi.

Laura Weir said: “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.

“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.”

Chioma Nnadi added: “British fashion has always been defined by its creativity and its ability to shape culture far beyond our shores. 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.”

The shortlisted designers will be interviewed by the fund judging panel - with the winner announced in May 2026.

Past winners include Connor Ives in 2025, Chopova Lowena in 2024, 16Arlington in 2023, Richard Quinn in 2022, Bethany Williams in 2021, Wales Bonner in 2019 and Molly Goddard in 2018.