While the New York Fashion Week starts today, the death of the Queen of England will undoubtedly reshuffle the cards for the one in London, scheduled for the end of next week.
While Fashion Weeks were reinstated, in theory, a year ago, a handful of designers had continued to abstain, due to the lingering effects of Covid. But most restrictions are now lifted and a full season begins on September 9 with New York Fashion Week.
London Fashion Week will start on Friday 16 and end on Tuesday 20 September. Raf Simons, Nensi Dojaka, JW Anderson, David Koma, Halpern, Simone Rocha or Christopher Kane have chosen to parade there.
A disturbed program
But the Fashion Week will undoubtedly be disturbed by the death of Queen Elizabeth II. The Kingdom has indeed set up the operation “London Bridge”, a strict and repeated protocol to honor the Queen. This period of mourning must last at least ten days (many say twelve) between the death and the funeral during which many ceremonies will be planned.
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The British Fashion Council said it would join the nation in mourning and follow royal protocol. All core London Fashion Week activities can continue. But all non-essential events, such as parties and openings scheduled in the official program, must be cancelled.
He also added that depending on the date of the Queen’s funeral, the shows taking place on that date will have to be rearranged. “We are deeply saddened by the devastating news of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who dedicated her life to the service of her country. This platinum jubilee year marks her 70 years on the throne. The country will enter a period of official mourning starting today. This period will coincide with London Fashion Week,” the BFC stressed, in a statement, before adding, “Fashion shows and collection presentations can continue, but we ask designers to respect the mood of the nation and the period of national mourning by considering the timing of their images.”
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The Burberry brand has already cancelled its show, scheduled for September 17 “as a sign of respect”. In the wake of the Queen’s death, tributes poured in from the fashion industry. The London Fashion Week website was updated with the message, “It was a great honor in 2018 to welcome Her Majesty to London Fashion Week to launch the QEII Award for British Design, which recognizes British design excellence and its positive impact. Her Majesty’s effortless style, charm and sense of humor were evident, and her passion for supporting young creatives will continue to inspire the next generation.”
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