Today, the British Fashion Council (BFC) announces the shortlisted designers for the BFC/GQ Designer Fashion Fund (BFC/GQDFF) 2026. Established in 2013, the BFC/GQDFF recognises and accelerates outstanding British designer businesses. The winner of the 2026 BFC/GQDFF award will receive a £100,000 grant prize, alongside a year-long mentorship with an industry leader, pro-bono legal services from leading law firm Sheridans, and access to a network of specialist advisors tailored to their business needs.
The shortlisted designers are:
CLOTHSURGEON | DERRICK | HARRI | LABRUM LONDON
The announcement follows the recent launch of BFC 2030: Access, Creativity, Growth, the BFC’s new strategy under Chief Executive, Laura Weir. The strategy marks a decisive shift from designer promotion towards more sustained, tangible support, with a focus on deepened investment in designers. Part of the BFC’s redefined Prizes and Programmes, the BFC/GQDFF will play a key role in nurturing creative excellence while strengthening commercial resilience through skills, mentorship and investment.
Laura Weir, Chief Executive, British Fashion Council: “Each year, the BFC/GQ Designer Fashion Fund highlights the strength of British menswear. These designers represent the creative excellence that defines British fashion today. Through the Fund, we are focused on sustained support to help designers build resilient, future-facing businesses. Alongside theteam at GQ, we are proud to support their continued growth and help them develop the skills, connections and resources to take the next step. ”
Murray Clark, Senior Style Editor, GQ: “For twelve years, the BFC/GQ Designer Fashion Fund has been a prime activator for some of the most remarkable names in menswear – and I'm honoured to be co-chairing for the first time alongside Laura Weir. As London Fashion Week continues its ascendancy within the industry, this prize has never been more powerful – or needed – in nurturing our homegrown, next gen talent.”
The winner of the BFC/GQDFF will be determined by a judging panel comprising Laura Weir, Chief Executive, British Fashion Council; Murray Clark, Senior Style Editor, British GQ; Angelo Mitakos, Fashion Editor, British GQ; Lewis Bloyce, Brand Consultant; Rudy Simba Betty, Stylist; Simon Longland, Director of Buying, Harrods; Skepta, Artist and Designer; and Tahir Basheer, Partner, Sheridans.
Previous winners of the BFC/GQ Designer Fashion Fund include BLEUE BURNHAM (2025), BIANCA SAUNDERS (2024), WALES BONNER (2023), NICHOLAS DALEY (2022), AHLUWALIA (2021), A-COLD-WALL* (2019), CRAIG GREEN (2016), E TAUTZ (2015) and CHRISTOPHER SHANNON (2014).
The recipient of the BFC/GQ Designer Fashion Fund receives a grant through the BFC Foundation (Registered Charity Number: 11852152). Established in 2019, the Foundation supports creative talent, from students and emerging designers to established brands, through its Prizes and Programmes.
The BFC extends its thanks to Sheridans, legal partner to the BFC/GQ Designer Fashion Fund, as well as to Paul Smith.