British Fashion Rules

2012 is the year of the British fashion designer. It started over the summer when Stella McCartney was appointed creative director of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games (she’ll be overseeing the design for the performance wear, the village wear and a retail range that will be available to the public). It marks the first time that a high-end designer has designed sportswear for the Olympic Games – but certainly not a first for McCartney who has been designing Adidas by Stella McCartney since 2005. She also created the dresses worn by players at this year's Wimbledon tennis championship. 

A few days ago when the Queen released her New Year’s honours list, four of our fashion industry’s finest were recognised, a distinction that should not be overlooked. Lulu Kennedy, founder of the Fashion East initiative, which nurtures emerging designers, was awarded an MBE for her services to the fashion industry. Other honourees included shoe designer Emma Hope, Links of London founders – and husband and wife duo – John Ayton and Annoushka Ducas. Biba founder and designer Barbara Hulanicki, best known for her celeb clientele in the ‘60s as well as her recent collaborations with Topshop and George at ASDA, was awarded an OBE.

In February we can look forward to the debut of Alexander McQueen's diffusion label, McQ, at London Fashion Week. Another LFW designer, Kinder Aggugini, has been commissioned to design the costumes for the English National Ballet’s performance of 'The Rite of Spring' in March. And come May, Ballgowns: British Glamour Since 1950 will open at the Victoria and Albert Museum (19 May 2012 – 26 January 2013).

Get ready for British fashion to shine even brighter.

Get a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the Team GB by adidas by Stella McCartney video here: