Young designers don’t have it easy. Breaking fashion can come at a cost, both financial and personal, and it requires a small army of pattern cutters, studio managers, researchers and publicists to get things moving.
To help, the British Fashion Council and GQ launched the BFC/GQ Designer Fashion Fund in 2013. Offering a cash prize, as well as mentorship from fashion industry leaders, the once-yearly fund has thus far been awarded to Priya Ahluwalia, founder of eponymous label Ahluwalia, Samuel Ross of A-Cold-Wall*, Craig Green, E Tautz and Christopher Shannon to take their brands to the next level.
Last year’s winner was the vibey north London-based, Scottish-Jamaican designer Nicholas Daley, who was awarded the prize thanks to his unique mix of deconstructed suits in exploded tartans alongside oversized cricket jumpers, peg leg fisherman trousers and voluminous tie-dye tees.
Applications for the 2023 BFC/GQ Designer Fashion Fund are now being accepted. The winner will receive a substantial lump sum and invaluable advice and mentoring from the industry’s finest talents. Any hopeful applicant’s collection should consist largely of menswear, men’s accessories or unisex clothing. The entries will be judged by a panel comprising of industry insiders.
Feeling inspired and have a brand that’s ready for lift-off? You have until 13 January 2023, with a shortlist and eventual winner to be announced later in the year during London Fashion Week in June.
Enter now at britishfashioncouncil.co.uk.
