As London Fashion Week approaches, Soho and Carnaby Street are once again placing emerging talent centre stage through their continued partnership with London College of Fashion, part of University of the Arts London.

By awarding two rising designers a once-in-a-lifetime studio space in the heart of Soho, this initiative bridges the gap between fashion education and the commercial industry — right on one of London’s most iconic style streets.

Tilda Jonathan and Johanna Boone Win Coveted Soho Studio Spaces

This year’s winners — Tilda Jonathan and Johanna Boone — have been awarded coveted studio spaces on Kingly Street, placing them directly within one of the capital’s most fashion-forward neighbourhoods.

Tilda Jonathan, who won the prestigious Silver Shears Award at Merchant Taylors in March 2025, has recently returned from Paris where she worked with French fashion house Paul & Joe. Her international experience combined with her tailoring expertise made her a standout choice for the judging panel.

Ahead of the Fashion Week shows, judges and students gathered on Carnaby Street to celebrate both the winning designers and the area’s long-standing legacy as a launchpad for creativity, individuality and British style.

A Judging Panel Rooted in Soho Heritage

The 2026 judging panel brought together industry expertise and Soho heritage, including:

• Mark Powell, tailoring veteran who has run his independent business on Newburgh Street for 40 years and championed Soho’s distinct identity alongside (and often in contrast to) Savile Row.

• Catherine Riccomini, Director of Marketing and Communications at Shaftesbury Capital.

• Daniel Poulson, Course Leader for Bespoke Tailoring at LCF.

• Frances Odell, Head of Graduate Futures Consultants at LCF.

Graduates pitched detailed proposals covering sustainability, innovation, business development and long-term growth — key pillars in building a modern fashion brand.

A Proven Launchpad for Fashion Entrepreneurs

Since launching in 2019, the Soho and Carnaby Street partnership with London College of Fashion has delivered tangible results.

Previous winners include:

• Joshua Millard, who has since opened a standalone store at 1 Marlborough Court just off Carnaby Street.

• Sarah Hollebon, who continues to grow her socially driven tailoring business from her studio at 26 Kingly Street.

The initiative provides far more than workspace. Graduates gain access to mentorship, commercial insight and industry-led support — helping them transition from fashion student to independent business owner.

Must-Visit Stores in Soho and Carnaby Street During London Fashion Week

From heritage brands to cult favourites and sustainability-led pop-ups, Soho and Carnaby Street are where London Fashion Week spills out onto the streets.

Here are the key stores to add to your Fashion Week map:

ALOHAS – 45 Beak Street

Spanish footwear brand ALOHAS has opened its first UK store in Soho, introducing an innovative on-demand shopping concept. Try on in-store, order directly, and receive delivery later — a smarter, more sustainable way to shop Fashion Week footwear.

Annie’s Ibiza – 3 Newburgh Street

A-list favourite Annie’s Ibiza brings sun-soaked glamour and free-spirited energy to Soho — a go-to for fashion insiders seeking standout vintage and statement pieces.

Autry – 61–63 Beak Street

Autry’s Soho flagship is the destination for premium trainers with retro appeal — ideal for long days navigating show venues.

Barbour – 29 Carnaby Street

For timeless British outerwear, Barbour’s Carnaby Street store offers heritage design blended with modern styling — a Fashion Week essential.

De La Vali – 36 Marshall Street

Ibiza-inspired label De La Vali brings romantic, expressive womenswear to Soho in a limited pop-up format.

Farm Rio – 1 Carnaby Street

Known for bold prints and vibrant colour, Farm Rio’s Carnaby Street store is perfect for party-ready looks and statement winter brights.

GANNI – 36 Beak Street

Scandi cool meets Soho edge at GANNI’s flagship store — expect playful silhouettes and cult-status designs.

Jimmy Fairly – 10 Foubert’s Place

Parisian eyewear favourite Jimmy Fairly is a Fashion Editor staple — the ultimate finishing touch to your Fashion Week look.

OMNES – 10 Carnaby Street

OMNES’ pop-up champions consciously made womenswear, blending elevated occasion pieces with sustainability-led design.

RIXO – 44 Carnaby Street

Vintage-inspired prints and occasion-ready silhouettes make RIXO a Fashion Week must-stop for effortless femininity.

Where to Eat and Drink Between Shows in Soho

Fashion Week is as much about networking as it is about the runway. Here’s where to refuel between shows:

ALTA

A live-fire restaurant combining seasonal British produce with Spanish influence — ideal for a stylish mid-day pause.

HIMI

Minimal interiors meet Japanese-inspired dishes — think sake, sashimi and serene vibes away from the Fashion Week rush.

Little Violet Door

Designed like a house party, this playful cocktail bar delivers energy, charm and cosy corners perfect for post-show drinks.

Marjorie’s

A softly lit Parisian-inspired dining spot serving natural wine and refined small plates.

Nagare Coffee

Exceptional coffee and laid-back cool — essential for early morning shows.

The Mulwray

A candlelit wine bar above The Blue Posts, offering rare bottles and a moody, refined setting.

The Palomar

Bold, flavour-packed dishes and vibrant atmosphere make The Palomar ideal for long lunches or late-night bites.

The Shaston Arms

A hidden Carnaby Street pub favourite for relaxed post-show pints.

Why Soho and Carnaby Street Remain London Fashion Week’s Cultural Heart

With decades of fashion heritage, independent spirit and a commitment to nurturing the next generation of designers, Soho and Carnaby Street continue to define London’s creative identity.

Through initiatives like the partnership with London College of Fashion, the neighbourhood proves that supporting emerging talent isn’t just symbolic — it’s structural, practical and impactful.

As London Fashion Week unfolds, expect Soho’s streets to become a living runway — blending legacy brands, sustainability-led newcomers and the designers shaping the future of British fashion.