Anderson triumphs again as stars shine, speeches inspire and music lifts a dazzling London night

Jonathan Anderson has cemented his place among fashion’s most influential names after winning Designer of the Year at the Fashion Awards for the third year running. The Northern Irish designer, already a major force in contemporary fashion, collected the prize at London’s Royal Albert Hall in what observers described as a landmark moment. It also marked his first win in the role of creative head at Dior, adding an extra layer of significance to an already remarkable achievement.

The ceremony, attended by an eclectic mix of fashion icons, music stars and actors, unfolded against a backdrop of rain outside and glamour inside. Despite the drizzle, the blue carpet teemed with high profile guests, from Lily Allen and Kylie Minogue to Sharon Stone, Ncuti Gatwa and the Traitors’ duo Celia Imrie and Cat Burns. Ellie Goulding made one of the most memorable entrances of the night, debuting her pregnancy in a cut out gown that immediately grabbed attention.

Inside the venue, the atmosphere remained both celebratory and emotional. As Anderson accepted his award, the audience acknowledged the scale of his achievement. Three consecutive wins place him firmly in the Fashion Awards history books. Industry watchers noted the significance of his transition to Dior and the influence he is already exerting there, describing his latest accolade as “monumental”.

Other major awards of the night reflected the depth of talent in British fashion. Grace Wales Bonner secured British Menswear Designer of the Year for the second year in a row, reaffirming her status as one of the most compelling creative voices in menswear. Sarah Burton, whose work has long been admired for its elegance and craftsmanship, claimed the womenswear honour.

Perhaps the most moving moment came during the Model of the Year presentation. Anok Yai, emotional as she addressed the crowd, delivered a message that resonated far beyond the fashion industry. “To all the little black girls watching me right now, your colour is not a curse,” she said. “You are more powerful than you can imagine.” Her words drew a standing ovation and became one of the defining moments of the ceremony.

Music played a central role throughout the night, underscoring the connection between fashion and artistic expression. Singer Raye electrified the room with a performance of her hit “Where Is My Husband!”, while Tems brought a soulful intensity that left the audience captivated. Little Simz, honoured with the Cultural Innovator Award, used her acceptance speech to pay tribute to her younger self, acknowledging the personal journey behind her creative evolution.

The evening also showcased the creativity and playfulness that define modern fashion. Attendees arrived in outfits that ranged from sleek couture to whimsical pieces, including backpacks shaped like sheep and bold, bare chested looks. The diversity of styles highlighted the industry’s ongoing appetite for reinvention and self expression.

As the awards drew to a close, host Colman Domingo thanked the crowd and hinted at an after party worthy of the spectacle that had just unfolded. His sign off  “but from me it’s goodnight”  echoed across the hall as the ceremony ended, even though many guests were already anticipating the celebrations ahead.

For Anderson, Wales Bonner, Burton and the other honourees, the night marked another step in careers defined by vision and innovation. For the wider industry, it was a reminder of fashion’s cultural power  its ability to inspire, provoke and celebrate artistry on a global stage.