Fashion

Queen Elizabeth II makes her fashion week debut at Richard Quinn AW18

#FROW goals

21.02.2018

By Wei Yeen Loh

Queen Elizabeth II makes her fashion week debut at Richard Quinn AW18

Fashion history was made just this evening as it was reported that Queen Elizabeth II attended Richard Quinn’s Autumn/Winter 2018 show on the last day of London Fashion Week to present the designer the inaugural Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design. Making her entrance at the British Fashion Council’s (BFC) show space on 180 Strand, the queen took her seat on the front row (on a lucite chair and a special cushion, no less) before the show started, accosted by BFC’s chief executive officer Caroline Rush.

The monarch was spotted chatting amiably to Anna Wintour, who sat by her left along the front row during the show. Shortly after the models took their final walk, the queen presented the award to Quinn, but not before delivering a brief speech: “It’s a great pleasure to be here in London Fashion Week today. From the tweed of the Hebrides to Nottingham lace and, of course, Carnaby Street, our fashion industry has been renowned for outstanding craftsmanship for many years and continues to produce world-class textiles and cutting-edge practical designs. As a tribute to the industry and all those who have contributed to British fashion I would like to present this award for new young talent.”

 


The award not only recognises an emerging British fashion designer who has shown talent and originality, but also to one who has contributed to the community and/or demonstrated staunch sustainable policies. London-born Quinn holds a B.A. and M.A. from Central Saint Martins, and has honed his skills at major fashion houses including Christian Dior and Richard James. The designer is most known for his use of bold, vibrant prints, and has created a print studio which offers accessible services to students and his peer group of emerging designers.

SHARE THE STORY
Explore More