British designer Gareth Pugh will return to London Fashion Week

February 2015 will see the return of London Fashion Week alongside Gareth Pugh, who will be making his first appearance on the capital’s catwalks for seven years. Showcasing collections for autumn/winter from designers and design-houses, London, along with New York, Paris and Milan, hosts one of the “big four” fashion weeks across the year. The annual event, organised by the British Fashion Council, last year celebrated its 20^th anniversary. 

One of the most exciting announcements for LFW 2015 is the return of Gareth Pugh to the London stage. He is known for showing in Paris, but last year took his collection to New York. His appearance this season is a significant anniversary for the designer, marking ten years since he emerged as a new talent on the alternative Fashion Week hosted by club Kashpoint in the capital. Originally from Sunderland, having taken his Art Foundation course, Pugh then completed his training at St Martin’s College.

In 2008 he was named by The Independent as Britain’s newest star designer, with comparisons being drawn with fashion icons Vivienne Westwood and the late, great Alexander McQueen. His previous work styling Kylie Minogue and Marilyn Manson demonstrates the breadth of his creative flair; his catwalk shows combining the feminine with the nightmarish. Collaborations with the V&A, Moët, Lexus and Browns Focus all add towards an impressive portfolio. Lady Gaga is a fan of his signature inflatable pieces, having appeared wearing one to perform the title track of her Artpop album at a launch event in 2012. Pugh’s exploration and take on clubwear contrasted with his unique approach to luxury sets the tone across his collections.

Gareth Pugh at London Fashion Week is set to be one of the hottest tickets of the week, scheduled for 21^st February at 8pm. The venue is being kept a secret, but he promises it’ll be “a big surprise”. Celebrating his ten years in fashion, it’s bound to be spectacular: his designs are characterised by dramatic shapes with surreal and sinister elements.

Emma Pugh
Photo: Ambra Vernuccio

London Fashion Week runs from 20^th – 24^th February, for more information visit here.