LFW SS26: Ashish - a dance party of colour, joy and unstoppable movement
After witnessing the sheer extravagance that unfolded at 180 The Strand yesterday, it was clear Ashish's SS26 London Fashion Week show deserved a moment all to itself.
More dance party than traditional runway, the show was an explosion of colour, joy, and movement that completely redefined the catwalk experience. It all began with the first model - or rather, dancer - floating down the runway in a hot pink, chiffon dress, moving with such playful freedom I assumed it was a special opening act. But no - this was the show’s rhythm from start to finish.
Each model followed suit, twirling and grooving their way around the square catwalk before taking their place in the centre, where they remained, gradually forming a growing sea of glitter, sequins, and euphoria.
With a vast and vibrant colour palette, blending chaotic glamour with raw, unapologetic edge, the collection was a celebration of maximalism - drenched in colour, sparkle, and texture - where opulence met grit in true Ashish style.
The show also marked the debut of a new collaboration between Ashish and digital department store Debenhams, unveiled on the runway through five exclusive pieces from the collection.
Ashish is the first designer to be announced as part of the relaunch of 'Designers at Debenhams', a retail initiative originally launched in the 1990s. The programme was among the first to bring high-end fashion designers to the high street, making designer pieces more accessible to a wider audience. Now reintroduced for 2025, the initiative continues to reflect its original ethos: British in identity, inclusive by design, and focused on bringing fashion-forward pieces to everyday wardrobes.
It showcased Ashish’s signature style, crafted for both impact and wearability. Highlights included sequin slip dresses and skirts in fluid, 90s-inspired silhouettes - where minimalist shapes met high-shine embellishment.
Other standout pieces ranged from oversized technicolour coats in rich, saturated rainbow faux furs to psychedelic-printed jersey separates in vivid hues, fusing retro influences with a modern streetwear edge. The full collection will comprise 15 pieces.
Speaking about the collaboration, Ashish said: "There’s something really magical about glamour in an everyday setting. Joining the revival of Designers at Debenhams, a brand that redefined British fashion, is a real honour.
"This collection celebrates joy, inclusivity, and individuality, and I’m proud to see it out in the world."
Other designs for SS26 included reimagined tartan jackets, dresses, and co-ords in a range of bold colourways; a vibrant, striped tassel dress shimmering with glitter; and a show-stealing tinsel-like jacket that sparkled with every step.
Flowing fabrics, tie-dye T-shirts, and sequin cut-out dresses rounded out the collection, adding layers of texture and playfulness to the high-energy runway.
The atmosphere was electric - infectious, even - and by the time the final model boogied into backstage, the room erupted in cheers and applause. Guests leapt to their feet to welcome designer Ashish Gupta, who stepped out to a roaring ovation, beaming as he shared his thanks with the crowd.
Ashish didn’t just present a collection - he staged a celebration of joy, individuality, and community. And in that glittering, euphoric moment, it was impossible not to want to dance too!
