Live From London Fashion Week: Your Guide to the Shows, Trends and Celebrity Moments of A/W 26

Tolu Coker opened the week with a surprise front-row appearance from Charles III. Seated alongside Stella McCartney, the King looked on as Tolu Coker unveiled a strong collection of reimagined layering, experimental proportions and a palpable energy, without footwear provided by Manolo Blahnik. With a sharp instinct for the silhouettes London women actually want to wear right now, Tolu Coker is quickly emerging as one of London's buzziest names.

Next up, Harris Reed unveiled his bridal debut. The team’s immediate reaction? Why hasn’t he done this sooner? The category feels tailor-made for Reed’s theatrical sensibility.

Vibrant veils set an irreverent tone, signalling looks far better suited to the cool bride than the traditionalist. With a tightly edited selection of gowns, the collection marked an exciting new realm for Reed to explore.

"Staged like something you'd see at Salone del Mobile, Fiorucci's took over Somerset House's Lancaster Room for its autumn/winter 2026 collection. Flanked by limestone walls, the Italian maison transported us to some mid-century apartment where pool was played, champagne was sipped and conversations were held on the polka-dot sunken couch. Dalmatian print was a real highlight of the collection, as were some feather masks—perhaps an ode to the cherubic wings in the brand's logo—worn by some models, which created a sense of mystery and masquerade. Because it wouldn't be Milan without sighting some animal print, right?" — Ava Gilchrist, SEO Writer Who What Wear

Showcasing his signature floral motifs, Patrick McDowell’s collection was punctuated with punchy pops of royal purple—the very shade we’ve predicted will rise as the colour of the season in the months ahead. Alongside sweeping satin dresses, sheer black separates, and tailored peplum pieces, McDowell delivered a collection brimming with refined beauty.

“Beauty is something I think we need more of. Beauty for beauty’s sake,” he said in the show notes for his Autumn/Winter 2026 collection, The Gaze.

"If you needed any further proof that Polka dots are back on the agenda for 2026, Bora Aksu's layered dresses and sheer trousers were decidedly hot for the spot. Deep into the gothic romance of autumn/winter, tiered skirts and corsetry in gathered lace and puff sleeves were a standout, while vines crept up dresses and hosiery, and poppies bloomed on head-to-toe looks. Melancholy brides in gowns, velvet suiting and pearl headdresses feel like a sure sign that the Wuthering Heights era will reign supreme for the rest of the year. — Remy Farrell, Fashion Editor, Who What Wear

"If I could describe my dream front row set up, this would be it. Pint in hand, Pulp pumping out of the speakers and models propping up the bar.

Sinead Gorey cherrypicked the best of this year’s microtrends and made us want them all: argyle tights, military jackets, bug-eye sunglasses. Models walked the runway in morning-after glam (a.k.a. smudged lipsticks, panda eyes and bed head) wearing Y2k waistlines, low-slung studded belts and all over checks: it’s what indie sleaze wishes it was.

On a dreary London day amidst the velvet stools, beer taps and Brit pop soundtrack, Sinead Gorey actually made us proud to be British." — Megan Story, Social Media Editor, Who What Wear

"The Joseph woman is a cosmopolitan woman, a working woman and, as the brand decreed at the autumn/winter 2026 show, an artistic woman. However, instead of the Charlotte York-type of 'gallerina' you might expect from a brand that stages its first runway show in seven years in The Tanks at the Tate Modern—Think: WASP-y knits, airy cottons and loose pleated trousers—the ensembles were far more structured and sharp. If we were to compare to a fictional Manhattanite, I'd argue that it's Miranda Priestly's wardrobe that served as inspiration. Tailoring and separates served as a key part of this collection, with the tension between both the crux of the range. Slouchy knitwear rendered in creamy white hues were offset by suiting two-pieces in taupe hues. Black leather jackets and pencil skirts melted into chocolate brown fur coats and satin trousers. There were a few dresses, which felt quite bohemian and something that an adherent of the 'desert aunt aesthetic' would wear, given they were fitted out in python prints and pleated sheer fabric. Overall, the collection was a clear nod to the freedom of the '70s and the power suiting of the '80s. However, in 2026, these pieces find new meaning, especially when presented in a brutalist setting and with Berlin techno music." — Ava Gilchrist, SEO Writer, Who What Wear

Staged on the banks of the Thames at London’s storied Tate Britain, Daniel Fletcher’s third show for Mithridate told a meditation on arrival—a figure exploring a new home. Flashes of fur lent drama to body-skimming dresses, while metal accents introduced grit and tension. Confident yet considered, the collection balanced polish with a sense of discovery.

"If Taylor Momsen's pretty reckless aesthetic was a runway show, it would've been Keburia's autumn/winter 2026 collection. Staged inside The Lighthouse Theatre, the venue was transformed into the brand's grungy universe from the moment guests stepped over the threshold—wines on arrival, virtual spiders crawling over the stage, a funeral bouquet displayed in the centre. As for the collection, it was a mix of brocade romanticism and military sleaze, with Napoleon jackets paired with low-rise trousers rendered in botanical prints. Lace bumsters, velour fabric rendered into robes, Elizabethan collars and furs designed to look like raccoon hair also stole the spotlight, which is the perfect tail end to Margot Robbie's Wuthering Heights press tour. Like if Catherine Earnshaw swapped the Yorkshire Moores for smoking cigarettes at some Brooklyn dive bar. Haunting, grimy and a rock'n'roll to a t—especially with the distressed guitars and bombastic drums that soundtracked the show." — Ava Gilchrist, SEO Writer, Who What Wear

After a prolonged hum of moody jazz, Jemina Kiria swanned onto Completed Work's Nobu Hotel stage, draped in a swishing scarf and adorned with the label’s striking jewels. The performance, a faux cooking show, saw Kirk play a washed-up Texas housewife, flounce around with languid theatricality, barking orders at influencer Charriere. A decadent display of the brand’s celebrated jewels, Completed Works’s presentations remain one of London Fashion Week's most eagerly anticipated moments.

"Opening with a spoken word poem that repeated and ruminated on the words “This Is How We Survive”, designer Foday Dumbuya spoke of his Sierra Leone heritage for the Labrum AW26 show. The tailoring, as always, was sleek and sublime—with cinched trench coats, suits and military silhouettes, some in silk and adorned with printed postcard and stamp motifs. The collection’s story, aptly named Threads of Osmosis, centred on identity—celebrated many African cultures and their traditional textiles, and had a heavy focus on weaving. The beauty and accessories were also standout—with traditional African threading on hair and gold painting on the face, and cowrie shells decorating bags and a veiled headpiece." — Rebecca Rhy Evans, Deputy Editor, Who What Wear

Whilst staying true to its contemporary ‘minimalist with a twist’ aesthetic, but taking it up a notch, I’d summarise Toga Archives AW26 as “streamlined with added sequins.” Whilst we saw the usual Toga signatures—sleek tailoring, open shirting, sumptuous silk as well as leather and denim separates, there was also an array of fun textures, prints and accessories that will spark joy in a grey winter. The faux fur, shearling and stone-like organic molten brooches were a particular highlight. — Rebecca Rhys Evan, Deputy Editor, Who What Wear

"Chopova Lowena's A/W '26 collection is still a maximalist celebration of femininity, but this time around the references are little more tongue in cheek. Cindy Lou whimsical blouses are paired with embellished leggings and frilly knickers. Marie Antoinette-esque corsetry with indigo denim and furry knee high boots. Sequined slogan tops and the ubiquitous hardware belts. These are looks designed to turn heads and make a statement, and this season the message is playful escapism. If this eclectic collection of cropped jackets, full skirts and Peter Pan collars is anything to go by, we'll all be layering up our dresses and stacking bevelled accessories over our hoodies by the end of the year." — Remy Farrell, Fashion Editor, Who What Wear

“If you want to romanticise all aspects of your life next season, particularly private bedroom rituals including your dreams and nightmares, consider Masha Popova your first port of call. Nighties, pyjamas, bumster-low jeans, even a dressing gown were slashed or hitched forward to reveal skin and, pretty often, tailored knickers at the back. The A/W '26 collection was titled Intimate Hours, and the overarching sense of decay was loosely drawn from Jim Jarmusch’s gothic romance film Only Lovers Left Alive (2013), with bed head hair and dramatic hair flicks rooted in the ‘70s. As Bree Runway, girl group FLO and fellow London It girls watched on decked out in previous collections, models sauntered around almost as if they’d been awoken by a fire alarm and grabbed their favourite bomber or aviator jacket as they escaped in a hurry. Other details that caught my eye were the mini corset dress (Eat your heart out Wuthering Heights), the psychedelic florals, the oversized crystal jewellery, the bubblegum pink knee-high tights, and the vampire teeth motif printed on jersey tops. It was very cheeky in the best way!” — Felicia Pennant, Senior Fashion and Beauty Editor Branded Content, Who What Wear

"Slinky, slung-low drapery is back at Karoline Vitto, and a flurry of curve models brought the gauzy trend to life. Flocking the runways, a clear 90s and noughts mood ran true. Draped in almost seductive sculptural shapes models wore cleavage baring tops paired with ruffled micro minis, hip baring maxi’s sashaying in the wind and my favourite thong grazing backless dress. A little skin never hurt anyone and this playful display of femininity reminded us that fashion is for all, irrespective of social norms." — Imani-Nia Francis-Tsolaki, Junior Fashion Editor, Who What Wear

“Johanna Parv’s A/W ’26 show had guests reconsidering the way they move through their cities, eventually arriving at the same conclusion: every commute would feel chicer in the power-pieces walking past. Four large screens traced the journeys of the designer’s muses en route to the show—by bike, on foot and via public transport—whilst a seating installation crafted from recycled bicycle saddles, created in collaboration with Selle Royal, underscored the brand’s interest in conscious mobility.

No one does minimalistic multi-functionality better, but there was a newfound intimacy with women’s bodies and a hyperawareness of how they really need their clothes to adapt and transform on the move every day. Forget athleisure sets and track pants (even sneakers) because the tighter-than-usual elongated layers were fluid enough. Many looks had 3D back pockets, or were framed with velcro leather belts that had cut-outs to hold keys. From woollen base layers, turtlenecks, and hood scarves, to the signature Velocity blazer and high-waisted Velocity trousers, to double slit skirts, capris that were actually trousers tucked into tights, and a highlight evening track jacket and maxi skirt outfit with swinging drawstring loops. The colour platter of black, brown, burgundy, dark purple and traffic light red, only doubled down on the wealth-whispering versatility.” — Felicia Pennant, Senior Fashion and Beauty Editor Branded Content, Who What Wear

"Opening a quiet Sunday on the top floor of the opulent Peninsula, Edeline Lee's presentation doubled up as a surprise book launch, a celebration of 15 years of the brand. Thanking her collaborators past and present, Lee's AW26 collection also feels like commemoration of the brands legacy thus far. Always an expert in effortless elegance, you wont find any gimmicks, slogans or novelties in her collections as the focus is always on wearable pieces that will last a lifetime. Soft tailoring, flattering pleats, full skirts and a considered palette are all her signature calling cards (this season burnt orange, deep blues and cream are the heroes), but there were also party pieces like the glittering gold gown I predict we'll see a lot of during awards season, and a caged skirt reminiscent of spring/summer's Circus silhouette. Here's to another 15 years of Edeline's elevated take on female dressing." — Remy Farrell, Fashion Editor, Who What Wear

"The who's who of Britain's literary and arts scene turned out to celebrate Erdem's 20th anniversary show on Day 4 of London Fashion Week. Glenn Close, Helen Mirren, Ben Whishaw, Russell Tovey, Ruth Wilson, Lily James and Keira Knightley—all long-time devotees of the British-based designer—perched front row in London's Tate Britain. The collection, entitled The Imaginary Conversation, was "dedicated to everyone in my [Erdem's] studio."

As well as the Victorian-inspired details the designer is beloved for (high collars, crinoline skirts, lace, embroidery are among his signatures), there was plenty of newness too. A new collaboration with Barbour, featuring heavily embellished capes and outerwear, had its runway debut and did a low-rise pair of wide-leg jeans. Erdem doing the '90s wasn't on our fashion week bingo card, but we're here for it. Another note? Feathers are going nowhere, from feathery-strewn flats, to marabou-trimmed two-pieces." — Jane McFarland, Editor-in-Chief, Who What Wear

For ladies who lunch and get shit done. Emilia Wickstead has long perfected the art of refined, chic wardrobing; for A/W '26, her woman also has places to be. Prim and polished looks came with a twist: knee length kilts were reworked with thigh-high slits; a traditional tweed shift dress was styled over an undone denim shirt. All looks were styled with knee length socks and heavy-duty brogues. No stranger to a knock-out frock, Wickstead's line-up of evening wear leant into volume and colour, from liquid metal brocade to a voluminous train. — Jane McFarland, Editor-in-Chief, Who What Wear

Sportcore is back. (Or did it ever go away?). Simone Rocha used her A/W '26 runway show to hard launch her forthcoming collaboration with Adidas—think cropped bomber jackets, embellished sneakerinas, high-waist pants and more. The front row girlies including Alexa Chung and Paloma Elsesser got to roadtest the collection; the former wore a jacket over a lace slip dress, while the latter teamed her bomber with a black pencil skirt. Elsewhere, Rocha proved that romance isn't dead with her signature brand of subverted femininity: think glorious ribbons, bows, drop-waist gowns and rosettes styled with masculine accents, from embroidered brogues to a thick overcoat.

"3 words: Big Dress Energy. That’s the theme of today. From Simone Rocha’s ribbon-weave satin number this afternoon, to Richard Quinn’s thrilling closing show this evening that offered one perfect gown after another, it’s official: after seasons of skirts and separates being high priority, the not-so humble one-piece is making its return. Of course for Quinn, dresses never left. Embellished, beaded gowns are his signature. Tonight he delivered as he always does, but with added punch. Floral prints, silk draping and pops of colour (the ultraviolet purple was most electrifying) were aplenty. There were also subtle nods to the ‘80s in his collection: drop waistlines, opera gloves, velvet off the shoulder silhouettes and Depeche Mode’s Enjoy the Silence. What more could you want!"—Rebecca Rhys-Evans, Deputy Editor

When a show boasts a guest list that includes the likes of Kim Cattrall and Lila Moss, you know it’s going to be in excess of glamour. But opulence and elegance didn’t just ooze from Conner Ives’ A/W '26 collection, it permeated everything from the grand Claridge’s room the panoply was presented in to moving, to the string-heavy soundtrack that opened with a sample of Sadé. Emulating American traditions of grand balls, the range riffed on motifs of black tie dressing, from velvet crushed gowns that Truman Capote’s swans would’ve scrimmaged over to wear to lunch first, to tuxedo cummerbunds and scarves. Everything was dialled up; floor-length butter yellow coats embroidered with chinoiserie elements, satin shirts worn in reverse to create the illusion of a mock neck, and Hermés-esque scarves wrapped around the waist as a belt. The most breathtaking moment came in the form of the final closing all-white look. Was she a bride or a debutant? Either way, haunting in the serenity and self-assurance she possessed as she sauntered down the runway. In the immortal words of Samantha Jones: F****** fabulous. — Ava Gilchrist, SEO Writer, Who What Wear

Rounding out London Fashion Week, Burberry is set to close the schedule with a star-studded front row. With names like Alexa Chung and Kate Moss in attendance, expectations are in place for a strong finish to the week.