Fashion in Britain

British designers

Almost every nation in the world argues that it's home to the world's best fashion, but the proof is in the pudding - just look at some of the fantastic British fashion designer's that have come from our fine shores:

John Galliano

This brilliant British designer graduated in design from London's most prestigious fashion school St Martin's College of Art & Design with a collection inspired by the French Revolution. He then started his own label, and was named British Designer of the Year in 1987, 1994 and 1995.

In 1995, he was appointed designer at Paris couture house Givenchy, where his controversial designs shocked the fashion world. 2 years later, he left Givenchy to become designer of legendary fashion house Christian Dior, where his irreverent and extravagant designs have changed the face of modern fashion.

Vivienne Westwood

A teacher turned fashion designer, Westwood is one of the most influential and recognisable British designers of the past 20 years. She began designing and selling clothes in her shop, 'Let it Rock', on the Kings Road in 1971. Her designs became closely linked with the punk explosion, and in 1981, her first London collection, put her firmly on the fashion map as an original and unusual design talent.

In 1983 she became the first female British designer to grace the Paris catwalks since Mary Quant in the 1960s. Westwood's quirky anti-establishment style won her the British Designer of the Year title in 1990 and 1991, and an OBE for her services to fashion.

Alexander McQueen

McQueen is one of the most controversial British designers around, and his sharp, contemporary signature tailoring makes him one of the most influential. Born in the East End of London, McQueen left school at 16 for an apprenticeship with Saville Row tailors Anderson and Shepherd. At 20, he applied to St Martin's College of Art & Design, and although he had no formal education, he was accepted immediately on the strength of his portfolio.

After graduating, McQueen developed a reputation for controversy, and was nicknamed 'the hooligan of English fashion'. In 1996, he succeeded John Galliano as head designer at Givenchy, where he continued to indulge his rebellious streak. He was named British Designer of the Year 4 times between 1996 and 2003 and has been awarded a CBE. McQueen's hard work has paid off - he's now Creative Director for Gucci.

Stella McCartney

Like many of Britain's fashion greats, Stella attended St Martin's College of Art & Design. Her graduation collection was modelled by Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell, making it front-page news. In 1997, she followed in the footsteps of Karl Lagerfeld when she was appointed chief designer of Paris fashion house Chloé.

In 2001, she resigned from Chloé to join forces with Gucci. Stella's a supporter of PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) and doesn't use fur, silk, lambs wool or leather in her designs.

Matthew Williamson

Williamson is another graduate of St Martin's College. While doing work experience for the likes of Marni, Georgina Von Etzdorf and Monsoon, his beaded bags and scarves caught the eye of fashionistas like Kate Moss and Amber Valletta.

In 1996 he launched his own label, and Kate Moss, Jade Jagger and Helena Christensen modelled at his debut London Fashion Week show. In 2005, he launched his own perfume range, and in 2006 he took over as Creative Director at Pucci.

Julien MacDonald

Born in Merthyr Tydfil in Wales, Julien did a degree in Fashion Textiles in Brighton, and a MA in Knitwear at the Royal College of Arts. His flamboyant dresses were soon noticed all over the fashion world, and Karl Lagerfeld quickly signed him up to design knitwear for Chanel.

After he graduated, Julien set up his own company, and in 2000, at the age of 28, he was appointed chief designer at Paris couture house Givenchy, replacing Alexander McQueen. In 2001, Julien was named British Designer of the Year, and in 2006, he was awarded an OBE for his services to fashion.