The British Fashion Council (BFC) has just revealed the seven talented designers who have been shortlisted for the prestigious BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund 2023. The names in the running are 16Arlington, Awake Mode, Ahluwalia, Alighieri, Completedworks, Pīferi and Supriya Lee, each of whom has demonstrated exceptional creativity and innovation in their collections, which consist primarily of women’s wear and/or women’s wear accessories.
Supported by British Vogue, Burberry, and Paul Smith, the fund sets strict criteria for applicants, who must align with the Institute of Positive Fashion’s three pillars: environment, people and community, and craftsmanship. Brands must also meet the Institute’s Minimum Standards, which encourages them to think strategically about their impact on the world.
The winner of the fund will receive a generous cash prize, as well as pro-bono business mentoring and professional services. The aim is to support their growth and contribution to both the British and global fashion industry.
A judging panel consisting of industry leaders such as BFC’s CEO Caroline Rush, British Vogue editor-in-chief Edward Enninful, designer and model Alexa Chung, and the Financial Times fashion editor, Lauren Indvik, will interview the shortlisted designers. The winner will be announced in May.
In a statement, Rush said, “Congratulations to all the shortlisted designers. We were amazed by the incredible breadth of talent each of the designers displayed. Coming out of London Fashion Week, London has reaffirmed itself as the city for creativity and innovation, and each of these brands so perfectly exemplifies that talent and fighting spirit that the UK is known for. We are incredibly grateful to our funders for allowing us to continue to secure the pipeline of creative talent here in the UK.”
