BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund 2026 shortlist announced
The British Fashion Council (BFC) has shortlisted Aaron Esh_ Bianca Saunders_ Clio Peppiatt_ Knwls_ Onalaja_ and Talia Byre for the BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund (BFC/VDFF) 2026.
Launched in 2008_ the BFC/VDFF has previously championed designers_ including Conner Ives_ Chopova Lowena_ and Richard Quinn_ and aims to “identify and support outstanding British fashion businesses_” through a grant prize_ bespoke mentorship and professional services.
The fund criteria look for designers who excel in design and also have “strong business acumen_” explains the BFC_ while also encouraging brands to think strategically about the three pillars of the Institute of Positive Fashion - environment_ people_ and community and craftsmanship.
The winner of the 2026 prize will be announced in May_ and they will be awarded 150_000 pounds in funding to help translate their creativity “into sustainable commercial success within the global fashion ecosystem”.
Commenting on the shortlist_ Laura Weir_ chief executive of the British Fashion Council_ said in a statement: “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.”
Aaron Esh_ Bianca Saunders_ Clio Peppiatt_ Knwls_ Onalaja_ and Talia Byre shortlisted for BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund 2026
The BFC/VDFF is part of the BFC Foundation_ which brings all the BFC_s charitable initiatives under one umbrella to support the continued development and success of British fashion. This year_s judging panel is chaired by Weir and Chioma Nnadi_ head of editorial content at British Vogue.
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 BFC/VDFF receives support from British Vogue and Burberry.
Other winners of the accolade include 16Arlington_ Bethany Williams_ Wales Bonner_ Molly Goddard_ Mother of Pearl and Palmer//Harding_ Sophia Webster_ Mary Katrantzou_ Nicholas Kirkwood_ Christopher Kane and Erdem.