North East city to host major British Fashion Council event

Fashion Britain, a new initiative launched by the British Fashion Council (BFC), will see Newcastle host a series of fashion-focused events, exhibitions and talks throughout September.

The programme forms part of a wider national celebration taking place across seven UK cities, with more than 1,000 events showcasing British fashion, creativity and culture.

The events celebrate fashion talent from across the UK, helping create new opportunities for designers, students and creative businesses outside of London.

British Fashion Council has announced locations for Fashion Britain 2026. (Image: British Fashion Council)

Among the headline events in Newcastle will be a BFC and ELLE UK designer panel at the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art on Saturday, September 26.

The panel will feature Newcastle-born slow fashion designer Genevieve Devine and Barbour’s Director of Menswear, Ian Bergin – who will discuss how the North East has helped shape their careers.

The event will  be followed up by a networking session designed to introduce more people to opportunities in the fashion industry.

Laura Weir, chief executive of BFC, said: “British fashion has always been shaped by people, their local identities, global perspectives, creative disciplines and the communities that shape culture from the ground up.

“It’s vital that we recognise, celebrate and invest in talent wherever it exists across the UK.

“Fashion Britain is about decentralising fashion by creating stronger pathways for creativity, opportunity and growth in every part of the country.”

Regional partners, including Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, Eldon Square, Fenwick, Newcastle College and Newcastle City Council, will come together over the month to host the events.

Baltic Centre of Contemporary Arts is a partner of this years Fashion Britain events in Newcastle. (Image: Agency)

Pam Smith, chief executive of Newcastle City Council, said: “We can’t wait to turn our city into a catwalk during a fashion-focused week.”

Fashion Britain will also feature Future Heritage – a project created by Eldon Square in partnership with Newcastle College and Fenwick that will challenge 80 students to create original pieces inspired by Newcastle’s heritage.

Winning designs will be showcased at Grainger Market before later going on display at Fenwick Newcastle.

Ian Bergin said: “From our beginnings in South Shields Marketplace to our continued commitment to craftsmanship and community, the region has shaped who we are as a brand.

“Fashion Britain is a brilliant opportunity to spotlight the creative energy and talent that exists outside London, and we’re proud to be part of a programme that champions the North East’s contribution to British fashion and culture.”

Genevieve Devine added: “I grew up in Newcastle and began my journey as a fashion designer at Northumbria, so I have a very deep affection and creative connection to the area.

“There is a real wealth of talent and diversity of thought that isn’t always given a voice when it comes to the discussion around British fashion, so it’s fantastic to see the North East’s incredible creativity be championed and supported.”

Fashion Britain launched with a goal of creating long-term opportunities for fashion talent across the UK – helping connect designers, retailers, educators and cultural organisations while supporting local creative economies.