Men’s fashion hits £14 billion worth ahead of London Collections Men showcase
The men’s fashion industry is worth more than £14 billion to the British economy, a report revealed today, as one of the biggest menswear showcases in the world opened in London.
The four-day London Collections Men brings leading designers from around the globe to the capital for catwalk shows, events and parties. Its launch coincides with the release of today’s report from the British Fashion Council announcing record figures for the UK industry.
The men’s clothing market grew more than womenswear in 2015 and now accounts for 25 per cent of the UK total.
The figures were released as Mayor Sadiq Khan declared London “the home of menswear”. He said: "We have the world-renowned tailors of Savile Row and we lead the field with our brilliant contemporary designers."
"London Collections brilliantly showcases this unique offer, bringing together the best British brands, independent London labels and up-and-coming talent. In only a few seasons it has established London as a powerhouse of men’s fashion, an industry that is worth £14 billion and growing fast."
"Culture and creativity are in London’s DNA and key to our continued success as a global city."
Ed Vaizey, minister for culture, said: “The creative industries are one of the UK’s greatest success stories, contributing almost £9 million per hour to our economy. UK fashion plays a key role in that success.”
Dylan Jones, editor of GQ magazine and chairman of LCM, said London is “one of the most exciting fashion cities in the world”.
This season’s LCM features 32 catwalk shows, 25 presentations and 55 designers hosting showrooms at arts centre 180 The Strand. Highlights include showcases from Topman, J W Anderson and Grace Wales Bonner and a celebration of 40 years of punk with Paul Smith.
The event, now in its fifth year, will close on Monday with Samuel L Jackson and Dylan Jones’s celebrity karaoke evening.
Men’s fashion hits £14 billion worth ahead of LCMLondon Collections MenBritish Fashion CouncilDylan JonesSavile RowSamuel L JacksonGQ MagazineGrace Wales BonnerSadiq KhanDylan Jones dubs London 'one of the most exciting fashion cities in the world'