20 October 2009

The British Fashion Council has announced that the British Fashion Awards 2009 (BFA’s), supported by Swarovski, will take place on 9th December 2009 at The Royal Courts of Justice, WC2.  These are the industry’s most prestigious awards and are voted for by leading fashion directors and editors from the UK’s media and design fashion retailers. The evening is attended by over 500 industry leaders, celebrities, designers, retailers, models and journalists to celebrate the best of British fashion.  

This year the British Fashion Awards will close the British Fashion Council’s 25th anniversary celebrations. The event recognises the most influential people in fashion today and will celebrate the reputation and development of British fashion over the last 25 years.

There are 11 awards that will include the 25th Designer of the Year, Menswear Designer, Model, Designer Brand and the Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator.

An international panel of fashion opinion formers will also decide which designer has been the most influential throughout the course of their career and should receive this year's award for Outstanding Achievement in Fashion Design.

Having been title sponsor of the BFA’s for four years, Swarovski is once again supporting two awards which recognise and financially reward emerging design talent with the Swarovski Emerging Talent Awards for ready to wear and for accessories.

Caroline Rush, Chief Executive of the British Fashion Council said “Throughout the year fashion opinion formers from around the world look to British designers for inspiration. The British Fashion Awards recognise the best of this design talent and creativity.”

Nadja Swarovski, Vice President of International Communications said: “Swarovski is pleased to continue its support of the British Fashion Awards – a platform of recognition and a celebration of the best of British Fashion. As the industry continues to be a leader in nurturing innovative and unique design talent, Swarovski is proud to aid this progression, and this year we are delighted to once again support two awards: The Swarovski Emerging Talent Award – Ready to Wear and The Swarovski Emerging Talent Award – Accessories.”

For press enquiries, please contact:

Gemma Ebelis gemma@britishfashioncouncil.com  

Kitty McGee kitty@britishfashioncouncil.com

+44 (0)20 7759 1999

Editors notes:

1. The 2009 British Fashion Awards will be the 25^th ceremony.
2. Last years winners were: