Jonathan Anderson Wins Designer of the Year Award for Third Year in a Row at Fashion Awards in London

Dior led the 2025 Fashion Awards with Jonathan Anderson claiming the Designer of the Year title for a third consecutive year, while Delphine Arnault was honored with a Special Recognition award for her remarkable impact on global fashion and her dedication to nurturing emerging talent.

The evening, hosted by Colman Domingo and sponsored by Pandora, featured performances by Raye and Tems. The star-studded guest list included Cate Blanchett, Sharon Stone, Gwendoline Christie, Sienna Miller, Kim Cattrall, Mick Jagger, and Rita Ora.

Major Designer Wins

Sarah Burton, newly appointed at Givenchy, received the British Womenswear Designer award. Known for her tenure at Alexander McQueen, Burton impressed with her fall 2025 debut, showcasing dramatic hourglass coats, geometric baby doll silhouettes, and sharp triangular gowns. Cate Blanchett presented the award, praising Burton for her talent, kindness, and originality.

Grace Wales Bonner earned the British Menswear Designer award for her label, which blends art, film, and African diaspora influences. Wales Bonner, soon to join Herms as menswear creative director, is known for combining classic tailoring with textured embellishments and cross-cultural inspiration.

The Vanguard award, celebrating forward-thinking British design, went to Dilara Fndkolu. The Turkish-born designer, famous for her dark, Gothic, and punk-inspired creations, dedicated the award to misfits and rule-breakers, emphasizing London as a hub for unconventional creativity.

Jonathan Andersons Third Consecutive Win

Three-time champion Jonathan Anderson, creative director at Dior and his eponymous label JW Anderson, earned the top prize for his transformative work across both houses. Wearing a velvet jacket adorned with shamrocks, Anderson became the first designer to secure this honor three years in a row, albeit at different labels. He expressed gratitude to the British Fashion Council and to Arnault for her support and inspiration.

Delphine Arnaults Special Recognition

Delphine Arnault, chairman and CEO of Christian Dior Couture, received the award for her visionary leadership and commitment to fostering talent. Laura Weir, BFC CEO, highlighted Arnaults influence on the industry and her dedication to nurturing creativity and education. Arnault emphasized the significance of supporting future designers shaping fashions global future.

Additional Award Highlights

• Brunello Cucinelli received the Outstanding Achievement Award.
• Tania Fares earned a Special Recognition for her work with the BFC Fashion Trust over 15 years.
• Lulu Kennedy and Raphaelle Moore were acknowledged for 25 years supporting emerging talent through Fashion East.
• Rei Kawakubo, Adrian Joffe, and Dickon Bowden were honored with the Isabella Blow Award for their contributions to Dover Street Market.
• Anok Yai won Model of the Year, reflecting her high-profile campaigns and runway appearances. She highlighted her journey as a refugee and inspired others with her message of resilience.
• Celebrity stylist Sam Woolf received the Pandora Style Moment of the Year Award.

Fashion Awards and the BFC Foundation

The Fashion Awards also serve as a key fundraiser for the BFC Foundation, which supports students and emerging talent through scholarships, mentorships, and design competitions. Foundation programs include the BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund, BFC/GQ Designer Fashion Fund, BFC Newgen, and the BFC Fashion Trust, along with BA and MA scholarships.

Author: Sophia Brooks