TheFashion Awards, known as the British Fashion Awards until 2016, is an annual ceremony established in the United Kingdom in 1989 to showcase both British and international individuals and businesses who have made the most outstanding contributions to the fashion industry during the year. The ceremony is organized by the British Fashion Council, and is the primary fundraiser for the BFC's Education Foundation; a charity that promotes excellence in design by financially supporting students with the ability and potential to make an exceptional contribution to the fashion industry.
History and notable events
Originally named the British Fashion Awards, the first Fashion Awards ceremony took place on 17 October 1989 and was attended by Princess Diana, who wore a Catherine Walker gown especially for the occasion.
In 2010 four-time winner of British Designer of the Year award, Lee Alexander McQueen received the award for Outstanding Achievement in Fashion Design in recognition for his extraordinary career.
In 2007 the Fashion Creator Award is renamed Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator in honour of Isabella Blow, who died on 7 May 2007. Blow was renowned for her unerring support of British designers and for her contribution to the international fashion industry as a whole.
Current Award categories
Designer of the Year
Recognises an international designer whose innovative collections have made a notable impact on the industry, defining the shape of global fashion.
Accessories Designer of the Year
Celebrates a designer that has proven instrumental in elevating accessories to the forefront of the fashion industry, demonstrating a skill for both creativity and commerce, and establishing their brand as a global fashion leader.
Business Leader
This award recognises the work of a CEO or President of a fashion business who has overseen both creative and commercial success in the past year. With a natural aptitude to nurture both creative talent and commercial growth, the "Business Leader" enables creative freedom alongside financial stability, which in turn generates innovation and excitement within the industry and beyond.
Urban Luxe Award
Celebrating the innovation and influence of a contemporary apparel brand, the recipient of this award has redefined the way "sportswear" is perceived across the globe, elevating "casual" to high end and directional fashion.
British Emerging Talent - Womenswear
Recognising new British womenswear talent, this award celebrates a British-based womenswear or accessories designer who over the last 12 months has had a major creative impact on global fashion.
British Emerging Talent - Menswear
Celebrating emerging talent in British menswear, this award recognises the innovation and creative influence from a British-based menswear or accessories designer, whose collections have gained international attention this year.
British Designer of the Year - Womenswear
Celebrating a British womenswear designer that has been instrumental in innovating and leading women’s fashion over the last year – excelling both creatively and commercially, creating an impressive footprint on the global fashion stage.
British Designer of the Year - Menswear
Recognises a leading British menswear designer who has consistently made a global impact with their innovative and creative designs, shaping the burgeoning international menswear landscape.
Model of the Year
Recognises the global impact of a model, male or female, who over the last 12 months has dominated the industry. With an influence that transcends the catwalk, the Model of The Year has made an outstanding contribution to the industry, garnering numerous editorial and advertising campaigns throughout the year.
Outstanding achievement
The Outstanding Achievement Award celebrates the overwhelming creative contribution of an individual to the fashion industry, who throughout their illustrious career has constantly shaped and reshaped the fashion world through their innovation and creativity. Their influence has reached far beyond the industry, influencing the way the general public perceive and consume fashion. This timeless visionary remains an inspiration to both peers and protégés alike.
Swarovski Award for Positive Change
The Swarovski Award for Positive Change recognises and celebrates brands or individuals who promote the welfare of others and generously use their resources to benefit good causes.
Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator
Recognising the very best innovators and creatives in fashion, this award celebrates invaluable contributions that have changed the entire fashion landscape. With a discerning eye and incessant drive, this creative has brought designers' creations to life and helped create worlds within brands. Their dedication to the craft has attracted legions of fans and the incrediblebody of work has already left an indelible mark on the entire industry.
