Burberry, Lulu Guinness Stella McCartney, and the late VivienneWestwood are just a few of the iconic British luxury fashion designers. Many lesser known British fashion brands are worth checking out. We’ve rounded up 20 of the best British fashion brands which you’re sure to love.
List of Best Luxury British Fashion Brands
Whether you’re a fan of classic British style or more contemporary looks, these luxury British brands all have great quality and unique design in common.
1. Afina London
Oxana Famina, a British designer who lives in Mayfair in London, created the luxury swimwear brand Afina London in 2016.
These pieces are designed to flatter women’s figures and come with removable pads for extra support. The range also has a practical side, as it is made from chlorine-resistant and UV-resistant fabric. It is double lined and comfortable.
2. Chinti Parker
Anna Singh and Rachael Wood are the cousins behind Chinti and Parker. In 2009, the two cousins founded the womenswear brand that has become one of London’s most popular fashion brands. Specialising in knitwear, the company works with the very finest wool mills.
They have a vibrant Hello Kitty collection and some very comfortable leisurewear. Chinti and Parker is available in 180 stores in 27 countries.
3. Alexander McQueen
Alexander McQueen, a British fashion designer who is considered influential and iconic, was born in 1992. He founded his brand in 1992 and became famous for his avant garde, unconventional and theatrical runways.
His designs merged expert tailoring and exquisite craftsmanship with a bold, macabre, almost romantic aesthetic. McQueen was inspired by Victorian gothic romance, as well as decay and darkness.
He pioneered technology on the catwalk, including his famous spray-painted dress and his chessboard catwalk. McQueen’s dramatic silhouettes featured sharply nipped waists, towering shoes, and lavish embellishments.
Sarah Burton, who succeeded him as creative director after his tragic death in 2010 continues his legacy. The Alexander McQueen brand remains one of Britain’s most revered and influential luxury fashion houses.
4. CoCo VeVe
Ria has created a contemporary British fashion brand named after Amelie, CoCo and Verity. The collection is made in the UK either by in-house manufacturers or small batch local manufacturers.
Ria is a master of prints. She creates many herself. CoCo VeVe aims to create a timeless wardrobe that you can style in many different ways.
5. Vivienne Westwood
Vivienne westwood is one the most influential and iconic British luxury fashion labels. The late designer began her eponymous label in the 1970s and was one of the pioneers of punk fashion.
She is credited for bringing new-wave and punk fashions to the mainstream. Her designs are noted for their rebellious attitudes, which incorporate historical references and tartans.
Westwood’s punk aesthetic transitioned over time into elegant tailoring and traditional British styles with a twist of edginess and subversion. Her menswear collections introduced the “underwear as outerwear” trend in the 1980s.
Anglomania is a diffusion line that offers a range of luxury products, including ready-to-wear and accessories.
6. Elliot Rhodes
The London-based creator of Luxury Belts And buckles has been around for 14 years. All their belts are handmade in the UK and they have a huge selection of designs – over 500 leather straps and 800 buckles.
They are particularly popular with those who don’t take a regular size, as they cut the belt to your size for a truly bespoke fit. The interchangeable system allows you to easily change buckles.
Elliot Rhodes is an excellent example. It can be worn with a variety of buckles, giving it a completely different look. This woven leather belt has a two-tone colour scheme of gentiane and tan.
Elliot Rhodes offers a wide range of leather products, such as wallets, belt storage boxes and passport covers. They have stores in Covent Garden and St Christopher’s Place in London, as well as in Osaka, Japan and are stocked in many other countries worldwide. You can also purchase online at www.elliotrhodes.com.
7. Erdem
Erdem is one of our favorite British luxury clothing brands. It’s known for its florals and ornate prints. Since launching in 2005, Erdem Moralioglu has scooped many awards including the British Fashion Council/Vogue Fashion Fund award in 2010.
His clothes are well-known for their quality and comfort. The brand can be found in more than 170 top-tier retailers and online.
8. John Smedley
John Smedley, a British luxury label, is known for its knitwear for both men and women. The company was founded in 1784. In fact, their Derbyshire factory is the world’s oldest manufacturing base that has been continually operational.
Marilyn Monroe, The Beatles, and Audrey Hepburn have all worn their clothing. Their Royal Warrant has been granted by Her Majesty’s Queen Elizabeth II.
They have a luxury store in Brook Street, Mayfair, since 2000. Their merino sweaters and polo shirts are perfect for men.
There’s also a wide range of women’s knitwear, from dresses to sweaters, skirts and capes. This wool snood is sure to keep you warm during the winter months.
9. Le Kilt
If you’re interested in UK luxury brands combining heritage with modern design, then Le Kilt will be right up your street. Le Kilt is a British fashion house that was founded in 2014 by Samantha McCoach. It has reimagined a traditional Scottish kilt.
Samantha was inspired by her grandmother who used to make kilts, and created garments that combine tradition with modernity. Le Kilt clothing in the UK is made using sustainable methods and sold globally.
10. Mih Jeans
Made in Heaven, the original British denim brand, was launched in 1969 as a well-established London clothing brand. This was also the first denim company in Europe to introduce the flared style.
Chloe Lonsdale relaunched her godfather’s brand as M.i.h Jeans in 2006. The jeans are a celebrity favourite because they have great leg lengthening capabilities and focus on fit.
11. Tramp in Disguise
Tramp in Disguise, the luxury clothing brand, produces unique digital prints. Sini Moilanen, the founder of this high-end British fashion brand, is a genius.
She was born in Finland but has been living in the UK for over ten years. Sini’s feminine yet youthful designs have an inimitable sense of style.
12. Needle and Thread
Needle and Thread, a British high-fashion brand that launched in 2013, has become a favourite of British fashionistas. The ornate pieces, embellished with sequins and lace, are perfect for celebrations and evening wear.
One of the most popular British designer brands, you’re sure to receive compliments wearing these designs!
13. Pam Weinstock London
Pam Weinstock has a reputation for producing high-quality home accessories. She designs her products from photographs she takes on her travels.
Pam’s sarongs, silks and pocket squares are all very eye catching. Her interiors range features beautiful cushions, diffusers and candles.
14. Paul Smith
One of the most famous British luxury fashion brands, Paul Smith specializes in vibrant patterns. Sir Paul Smith founded the label in 1970. It is known for its colorful designs, and most importantly, its stripes.
Whilst there’s a strong focus on menswear, the brand also make stylish womenswear and home accessories. According to Paul, ‘you can find inspiration in everything’ and that certainly comes through in his designs.
15. Perseverance London
Founded by Eudald Luis in 2016, Perseverance London takes inspiration from the Victorian era with a contemporary twist. Featuring delicate lacework and colourful designs, the pieces will take you easily from day to evening.
16. Rixo London
One of the hottest fashion brands right now, Rixo London was created by Henrietta Rix and Orlagh McCloskey. The best friends are both passionate about vintage style and have reimagined ’70s designs with a modern edge.
The hand-painted prints, which flatter every figure, and their star prints are particularly popular.
17. Self Portrait
Established by Central Saint Martins graduate Han Chong, Self Portrait has gained a cult following for its feminine designs. Self Portrait is a popular UK brand, loved by celebrities and royalty such as the Duchess.
The collection features a wide range of styles, from the Azalea signature dress to sophisticated jumpsuits.
18. Siobhan Molloy
Siobhan Molliy, an alumnus of the Manchester School of Art, launched this British luxury clothing brand in 2015. It has a fun sense of style. Siobhan says ‘Designing my own brand is something I have always dreamed of doing. I am passionately committed to what we’re creating. I am extremely excited about our plans for our line to be extended to become a popular British lifestyle brand. I want you to love wearing my designs as much as I love creating them.’
19. Temperley London
Templery London are known for their exquisite evening gowns, occasionwear and other dresses. Alice Temperley MBE, one of Britain’s best clothing brands, founded the brand in 2000.
Alice Temperley is still the leader of Temperley London, and she champions hand-crafted embellishment. Temperley Bridal offers readywear, bespoke and made-to-order designs, as well as Temperley’s readywear collection.
Amber Heard and Kate Hudson are fans of this stylish British brand. There are four stores in Dubai and London as well as over 30 concessions.
Temperley London has been awarded the Butterfly Mark by Positive Luxury since 2018, a British fashion brand that is committed to ethical fashion practices.
20. Stella McCartney
Stella McCartney has also become a prominent British luxury fashion label, especially known for its commitment to sustainable practices and cruelty-free products. Stella launched her eponymous brand in 2001 after previously working at Chloé.
Her brand was vegetarian from the beginning, and never used any animal products, such as leather or fur. Her designs have her signature feminine style, with a relaxed and effortless British sense.
The brand also offers children’s wear, lingerie, and accessories. Adidas by Stella McCartney, a collaboration between the two brands that has been going on for years, features sustainable athletic apparel.
21. Burberry
Burberry is a high-end British fashion brand that is known around the world. Thomas Burberry founded the company in 1856. It is still one of the oldest fashion houses in existence today.
Burberry is best known for the signature Burberry tartan/check pattern, which has become one of its most recognized logos. Burberry pioneered the creation of gabardine – a fabric which was breathable and waterproof. It was revolutionary to wear outdoors.
With its distinctive collar, D-ring waist belt and checked lining, the gabardine trenchcoat has become a signature item. Burberry’s classic designs were updated by Christopher Bailey and other creative directors to reflect a more youthful aesthetic, while still maintaining the British heritage sensibilities.
22. JW Anderson
Jonathan Anderson founded JW Anderson in 2008. It is a relatively young but influential British luxury fashion brand. The brand was praised for its unconventional, modern approach to masculinity and feminine fashion.
Anderson’s designs redefine conventional shapes and garment archetypes, transforming the ordinary into something avant-garde. The JW Anderson brand offers men’s and women’s ready-to-wear, accessories and has collaborated with Converse, Topshop and others.
Anderson finds inspiration in art, youth culture, design and his own experiences as a child growing up Northern Ireland. This innovative brand represents the bold, conceptual future of British luxury fashion design on the global stage.
Final Thoughts about the Best British Fashion Brands
The UK is known for its luxury fashion, with each brand having something special to offer. Whether you’re looking for beachwear or work outfits, there’s lots of choice.
British luxury brands such as Burberry, Alexander McQueen and Self Portrait have all created designs that still are coveted today.
In the highly competitive fashion world, they are known to set trends with their superior materials and craftsmanship. The British fashion industry’s relevance will continue to be strong so long as these pioneering labels remain at the forefront.
If you are looking for something classic and sophisticated, or modern and eye catching, then explore the exclusive worlds of British luxury fashion labels! For more inspirational perspectives on style, check out our other style articles, where we’ll keep you up to date with all things fashion!
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