London Fashion Week Opens with Emotional Tribute to Late Icon Paul Costelloe

 London Fashion Week kicked off today, Thursday, February 19, 2026, with a heartfelt tribute to one of its enduring legends: iconic designer Paul Costelloe.

The event, running through Monday, February 23, honors the legacy of the Irish-American designer, who passed away in November at age 80. Costelloe had been a steadfast presence on the London Fashion Week calendar since its launch in 1984, often opening the schedule with his signature romantic, tailored collections that embodied timeless British sartorial elegance. Over four decades, his shows served as a constant amid the evolving—and sometimes shrinking—landscape of LFW, as major names migrated to Paris, Milan, and New York.

This season's opening show by the Paul Costelloe brand is led by his son, William Costelloe, now the creative director. Ahead of the Autumn/Winter 2026 presentation, the label shared on social media: "A new season." The tribute underscores Costelloe's role as a foundational figure in British fashion, bridging generations and maintaining a presence even as the industry has shifted.

London Fashion Week continues to champion emerging talent through initiatives like NEWGEN, which has launched designers such as Simone Rocha, Tolu Coker, and Roksanda. This edition features a robust lineup, with returning names including Harris Reed and Richard Quinn on the catwalk, and Burberry closing the week as tradition holds. The British Fashion Council reports an 11% increase in participating brands, with 90 designers and organizations featured across 41 runway shows and 20 presentations, signaling renewed momentum for British creativity.

The tribute to Paul Costelloe sets an emotional yet celebratory tone for the week, reminding the fashion community of the enduring impact of its stalwarts.