The 14 British Designers & Brands Defining Celebrity Style and Footwear Fashion

While European design houses often dominate the fashion narrative, their British counterparts have carved out a unique and increasingly influential space in recent years.

With a royal seal of approval, many of these brands are probably already on your radar. Whatever your aesthetic is, there’s a UK designer out there for you.

We’re recapping the fourteen most popular British designers you need to know, including some up-and-coming brands. You can add a touch of British charm to your closet with one of these iconic designers.

1. Alexander McQueen: Dark Romance Meets Razor-Sharp Tailoring

When it comes to modern British fashion brands, Alexander McQueen is in a league of its own. The brand single-handedly brought skulls back into the mainstream.

Founded in 1992, Alexander McQueen’s logo features a unique “Q” lettering with a small “c” inside

Alexander McQueen was nicknamed the ‘hooligan of fashion’ and was famous for mixing structural silhouettes with delicate floral patterns and motifs.

Before launching his eponymous brand, Alexander McQueen worked as Creative Director at Givenchy.

Alexander McQueen flashes a confident smile at the British Fashion Awards 2005, where his razor-sharp tailoring and rebellious spirit cemented his status as fashion’s ultimate provocateur (Credit: WENN)

Some of Alexander McQueen’s most recognizable pieces remain the signature skull scarf, knuckle-ring clutch bag, and white sneakers.

The brand describes itself as being “distinctive for its innovative and uncompromising expression of unbridled creativity.” Along with being synonymous with contemporary British couture, Alexander McQueen is a favorite among streetwear followers.

Alexander McQueen’s signature skull motif—seen across scarves, knuckle-ring clutches, and even pared-back white sneakers—captures the house’s dark romanticism and enduring blend of rebellion and refinement

After McQueen’s death, any concerns about the brand’s future were quickly squashed when Sarah Burton was appointed Creative Director.

Under the Alexander McQueen label, Burton was responsible for creating the Duchess of Cambridge’s iconic wedding dress. Since becoming a full-time royal, the Duchess has remained loyal to the brand.

Some of her most iconic pieces, often with a military-inspired flair, have been custom-designed by Alexander McQueen.

Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton wears a white lace wedding gown designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen in April 2011 (Credit: Anwar Hussein / WENN)

What makes Alexander McQueen unique is its ability to juxtapose the feminine with the masculine to create pieces that are wearable for any occasion.

2. Vivienne Westwood: Punk Spirit, Couture Craft, British Icon

While you may know Vivienne Westwood for her environmental work, her eponymous brand is one of the most popular British brands of its era. It was born during the height of the hippie movement in the 1970s.

Vivienne Westwood’s iconic orb logo blends punk rebellion with British heritage, symbolizing the designer’s subversive take on tradition and power dressing

Instead of taking inspiration from the era, Vivienne Westwood looked to the 1950s for her muse. She started making Teddy Boy clothes for Malcolm McLaren before opening her King’s Road store in 1971. It remains one of the most famous fashion districts in London.

Westwood’s first runway collection came in 1981, bringing the innovation and subtle historical nods for which the brand would become famous.

Vivienne Westwood brings her signature eccentric flair to A Taste of Honey press night on December 9, 2019, wrapped in bold layers and intricate, handcrafted textures (Credit: WENN)

During the late 1980s, the brand shifted its focus from punk fashion to the ‘Tatler’ girls, whose style parodied the upper echelons of British society.

The synonymous Westwood designs were born with a focus on signature British fabrics and elevated basics with a quirky twist.

The modern Vivienne Westwood collections have a more asexual flair, focusing on the natural dynamic of fabrics. Her brand is to thank for bringing punk into the mainstream of fashion and ushering in a new era for the industry.

Vivienne Westwood’s modern punk and new-wave aesthetic comes to life through tartan tailoring, irreverent accessories, and bold footwear collaborations that fuse rebellion with British heritage

Must-have Westwood pieces include the pearl choker with a logo pendant, tartan bags, and checked ready-to-wear. In 2021, the brand unveiled a collaboration with the activewear brand Asics, focusing on their GEL-KAYANO 27 sneakers.

3. Stella McCartney: Modern Luxury With a Sustainable Backbone

When your dad is Paul McCartney, you’re naturally a British treasure. Stella McCartney is a British legend in her own right, counting her mother, Linda, as her greatest muse.

The focus on animal rights and sustainability that Linda passed on to her daughter appears throughout Stella’s fashion brand.

Stella McCartney’s dotted wordmark reflects the brand’s modern, minimalist identity rooted in innovation, sustainability, and conscious luxury

Within two years of graduating from Central Saint Martins, Stella was appointed Creative Director of the legendary French fashion house Chloe.

In 2001, she launched her self-titled fashion brand, showing her first collection in Paris. As a committed vegetarian, she has never featured fur, leather, feathers, or skin in her collections. As the company has evolved, sustainability has remained at the heart of every collection.

Stella McCartney makes a sleek statement in all-black at the 4th Annual WWD Honors on October 30, 2019, cinching her look with a wide belt and a glossy circular clutch (Credit: Derrick Salters / WENN)

The fashion house has since expanded to include a perfume range, an athleisure collaboration with Adidas, and a lingerie collection. The first iconic Stella McCartney bag, the Falabella, was unveiled in 2009 and became an instant best-seller.

Stella McCartney was appointed the Creative Director for Team GB’s uniforms and clothing for the 2012 Olympics. She was the first fashion designer to design apparel for a country’s team in every Olympic competition.

Meghan Markle’s Stella McCartney white stretch-crepe halterneck wedding reception dress has been made available to the public for $5,200

Stella was invited to collaborate with Adidas again on the 2016 Team GB uniforms. The brand has its own stake in royal history.

Stella McCartney designed the minimalistic evening dress Meghan Markle wore to her wedding reception. In 2019, she partnered with LVMH to further develop her iconic British brand.

4. Mulberry: Heritage Leather, It-Bags, and British Cool

When it comes to iconic British handbags, look no further than Mulberry. The brand has collaborated with everyone from Lana Del Rey to Alexa Chung.

Mulberry’s name and tree logo were created by founder Roger Saul’s sister, Rosemary, inspired by the mulberry trees they passed on their way to school

Mulberry was launched in 1971 by Roger Saul, using a £500 investment from his mother. The brand started with buckled leather belts before launching into a complete accessory and women’s wear line in 1979.

Mulberry founder Roger Saul driving an electric car during the 2010 Brighton to London Eco Rally on July 7, 2010 (Credit: WENN)

The Mulberry aesthetic has always been one that brings timeless silhouettes together with high-quality leather and a contemporary feel.

The brand is quintessentially British, offering unique insights into the country’s fashion scene and its trends and values. It shows the ‘town and country’ aesthetic throughout British fashion.

Mulberry describes itself as “heritage meets rebellion – rules are broken, to make something new.” Considered a British institution, the brand has produced several ‘it’ bags you might already have in your closet. The Bayswater, Lily, and Alexa bags are all icons in their own right.

Mulberry’s most iconic handbag designs—Bayswater, Lily, and Alexa—showcase the brand’s timeless British elegance, blending heritage silhouettes with modern, everyday functionality

The brand is currently undergoing a rebrand that preserves the British feel while bringing the fashion house into the modern era.

If you’re looking for a mid-tier luxury handbag, Mulberry is the perfect choice of a UK brand. They also regularly hold seasonal sales on their website if you want to grab a deal on one of their iconic styles.

5. Victoria Beckham: Minimalist Power Dressing, Made in London

The former Spice Girl turned fashion designer is one woman behind some of our favorite trends. While her Birkin collection is worth lusting after, Beckham is a designer in her own right.

Victoria Beckham’s refined wordmark reflects the brand’s minimalist aesthetic, defined by clean lines, modern tailoring, and understated luxury

When her eponymous fashion brand launched with ten dresses, it became an instant success. Beckham easily translated her signature style into a brand aesthetic.

The Victoria Beckham fashion house has expanded to include two ready-to-wear lines, accessories, and a long-term collaboration with the activewear brand Reebok.

Victoria Beckham embodies modern elegance at the British Fashion Awards 2018, stepping out in a sleek black look that reflects her signature minimalist aesthetic (Credit: Lia Toby / WENN)

The brand works by taking Beckham’s personal style and adapting it to the needs of the modern, international woman.

You can find the brand in over 450 stores across more than 50 countries worldwide. Victoria Beckham has won several awards, including the Best Designer Brand and Brand of the Year at the British Fashion Awards.

Victoria Beckham’s fashion brand spans refined dresses, sculptural knitwear, lingerie, accessories, and sleek heels—defined by modern tailoring and understated luxury

Victoria Beckham’s fashion collections have shown that she’s more than just a WAG and former pop star. Her dresses, cashmere knitwear, and structured handbags are standout pieces from her collection.

Since the brand launched in 2008, it has sculpted out a unique space for itself in the UK fashion scene. Beckham launched her popular ‘Victoria Beckham Beauty’ range in 2019.

6. Burberry: The Trench-Coat Legend and the Check That Traveled the World

Burberry is a British brand with an unparalleled heritage. Their check print is recognizable around the world and is almost as iconic as the British flag.

When Thomas Burberry founded the brand in 1870, its original purpose was to sell a waterproof fabric called ‘gabardine’, primarily to the Army to make trench coats.

Aside from the equestrian knight logo, Burberry is also famous for its signature check design

Burberry received its royal warrant from the Queen in 1955. It indicates that the brand is worn by the Queen herself, primarily for weatherproof outerwear.

Almost every member of the Royal Family has been spotted wearing a Burberry piece. In 1990, Burberry received a second royal warrant from Prince Charles.

The brand broke into the mainstream of fashion during the mid-to-late 20th century before undergoing a makeover when Christopher Bailey took over in 2001.

From red carpets to street style, Emma Watson, Billie Eilish, Ellie Goulding, and Rita Ora showcase Burberry’s enduring appeal—reimagining the brand’s iconic checks and British heritage through distinctly modern lenses (Credit: Nicky Nelson / Michael Wright / WENN)

In recent years, Burberry has been moving towards an increasingly younger audience. Some of the most famous British celebrities, including Emma Watson, have acted as global ambassadors for the brand.

If you want to add some Burberry to your closet, you can’t go wrong with a signature check scarf or beige trench coat.

Known for its classic checkered scarf and beige trench coat, Burberry now also incorporates its interlocking TB logo into its handbags and small leather goods

The brand has streamlined and modernized its logo to an interlocking ‘TB’ that appears on most of its current handbags and small leather goods.

7. Lulu Guinness: Playful Bags With a Very British Wink

If you love quirky, feminine designs, Lulu Guinness is the British designer for you. It’s the home of the original witty and playful handbag you want to show off to all your friends.

Some of their most famous pieces include the lips clutch and florist basket, which are on permanent display in the V&A.

Lulu Guinness’s clean wordmark reflects the brand’s playful yet polished identity, known for witty accessories and fashion-forward British charm

The brand was started by Lulu Guinness in 1989 with an attached case with pockets to hold all your essentials. The aesthetic has always blended vintage inspiration with ladylike fashion and a playful tongue-in-cheek twist.

Lulu Guinness attends the Red Woman of the Year Awards on September 3, 2014, carrying her iconic metallic lips clutch—a playful signature of the brand’s witty, statement-making style (Credit: WENN)

Lulu Guinness is a British brand with a celebrity cult following that includes Gillian Anderson, Bella Hadid, and Kate Moss. David Hodgson became the brand’s Creative Director in 2018, with Lulu becoming Artistic Director.

Kate Moss, Jameela Jamil, and Laura Whitmore put a playful spin on red-carpet style, carrying Lulu Guinness’ iconic lips clutch—one of the brand’s most instantly recognizable statement accessories (Credit: Will Alexander / PBI / WENN)

The artistic spirit and quirky sense of fun have made this one of Britain’s most beloved brands.

Their designs regularly include subtle nods to British society, whether it’s the pub or the monarchy. A Lulu Guinness bag can be your perfect souvenir if you ever visit the UK.

8. Strathberry: Scottish Handbags With Royal-Favorite Energy

An up-and-coming British brand that you need to know is Strathberry. It’s already received the royal seal of approval from both Meghan Markle and the Duchess of Cambridge.

Strathberry’s sleek wordmark reflects the brand’s modern Scottish heritage, defined by clean lines, understated luxury, and timeless design

Strathberry was founded by husband-and-wife duo Guy and Leeanne Hundleby, evolving from its original incarnation as Strathberry of Scotland, which was co-founded in 2011.

Based in Edinburgh, the luxury leather-goods label was reintroduced simply as Strathberry in 2015, sharpening its focus on refined, accessibly priced handbags defined by clean lines, modern craftsmanship, and understated elegance..

Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, carries the East/West Mini bag, while Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, holds her Multrees Chain wallet (Credit: Euan Cherry / Avalon / WENN)

The brand is proudly Scottish, with its famous structured bags taking the fashion world by storm. Every Strathberry bag takes at least 20 hours to craft by hand – a testament to their dedication to luxury.

The brand’s aesthetic is contemporary and minimalistic, with accessories intended to be timeless and last a lifetime.

Julianne Hough and Katie Holmes showcase Strathberry’s understated elegance, stepping out with the brand’s Nano Tote and Lana bag—two favorites known for clean lines and everyday versatility (Credit: Instar / WENN)

Strathberry’s incredible growth has been fuelled by a collaboration with famous British fashion influencer InTheFrow and its royal patrons. Other celebrities spotted wearing their bags include Katie Holmes, Lady Gaga, and Heidi Klum.

9. Paul Smith: Classic Menswear—With a Signature Twist

When it comes to British tailors, few are as famous as Paul Smith. His work within the UK fashion industry earned him a Knighthood from the Queen.

The brand is synonymous with its use of bright colors and inventive shirt designs, turning it from a niche London brand to a global success story.

Named after its founder and designer, Paul Smith’s highly recognizable logo features his elegant signature

If you’re a fan of elevated basics and classics with a quirky twist, you’ll want to check out Paul Smith. The brand’s aesthetic combines tradition with modernity, bringing the ‘classic with a twist’ into the mainstream.

Paul Smith at the 2019 GQ Men of the Year Awards in London on September 3, 2019 (Credit: Avalon / WENN)

The founding principle of Paul Smith is that “you can find inspiration in everything” – whether it’s everyday life or high art. Its designs are underpinned by the classic sense of dry British humor that is quirky without being eccentric.

Paul Smith’s collections span tailored clothing, distinctive shoes, and playful accessories, blending classic British style with signature color and modern wit

Paul Smith is the perfect British brand to experiment with if you want a taste of the local fashion industry without breaking the bank.

10. JW Anderson: Art-School Edge, Runway Influence, Cult Accessories

JW Anderson is one of the few big-name designers from Northern Ireland. You can find his work at his eponymous fashion brand, JW Anderson, or Loewe, where he is the Creative Director.

JW Anderson was founded in 2008 and was initially focused on menswear before moving into womenswear in 2010

He’s a designer on the rise with investment from LVMH and a popular collaboration with the high-street brand Topshop.

Under his leadership, Loewe has transformed from a niche Spanish luxury brand to a mainstream label. It’s a transformation on the same level as that of Celine and Gucci in recent years.

Jonathan Anderson, founder of JW Anderson, pictured at The British Fashion Awards 2012 (Credit: WENN)

While this list focuses on UK designer brands, we must touch on Anderson’s work at Loewe. You must check out the brand if you prefer a more refined look.

It’s now largely considered to be the Spanish equivalent of Hermes. Anderson has modernized the brand, making it a luxury fashion destination with gender-blurring aesthetics and a contemporary feel.

JW Anderson’s eclectic universe spans ready-to-wear—from tops, dresses, and outerwear to statement bags, distinctive shoes, and artful accessories—blurring the line between fashion and design

11. Antonio Berardi: Body-Skimming Glamour With Architectural Precision

Antonio Berardi is a British-Sicilian designer who is known for his dresses. His eponymous fashion brand won the Harper’s Bazaar award for ‘Dress of the Year’ in 2009.

The brand is synonymous with its figure-hugging, sensual dresses that are sophisticated yet striking, featuring contemporary fabrics and the latest manufacturing techniques.

After launching his fashion brand, Antonio Berardi designed for the Italian label Ruffo Research. In 1999, he entered into a partnership with the Italian label Exte.

Berardi is considered one of the greatest British designers, helping revive British fashion alongside other designers like Alexander McQueen.

Daisy Lowe in a pink stretch-cady Antonio Berardi jumpsuit with chain straps (L) and Lana Condor in a navy Antonio Berardi jumpsuit with beaded gold shoulders (WENN / Avalon / Lia Toby)

Berardi draws inspiration from the worlds of art and cinema, as well as Italian art, Catholic symbolism, and feminine influences. One of his most famous designs is a coat illuminated by light bulbs that forms a crucifix, shown at Milan Fashion Week in 2003.

His black and white dress for Gwyneth Paltrow’s Two Loves premiere, featuring a trompe-l’oeil corset, is among his most iconic designs.

Blake Lively wears an Antonio Berardi crepe pencil dress with Lorraine Schwartz jewelry and Elizabeth and James “Nora” pumps at the premiere of The Town on September 14, 2010, at Boston’s Fenway Park (Credit: Bizu / WENN)

In 2009, Berardi returned to London Fashion Week after previously showing in Italy. His most recent collections have shifted their focus to incorporating romance into their designs, featuring contemporary designs that add elegance to modest silhouettes and shapes.

Among Berardi’s celebrity clientele, you’ll find Jennifer Aniston, Jennifer Lawrence, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Rose Leslie. The Antonio Berardi brand has featured in numerous publications, including Vogue, Elle, and Harper’s Bazaar.

12. Temperley London: Bohemian Romance and Occasionwear Magic

Temperley London is an eponymous British fashion brand that captures the heritage of English fashion.

Established by Alice Temperley and her then-boyfriend, Lars von Bennigsen, in 2000, the brand is known for its intricate detailing and luxurious fabrics.

American Vogue once named Temperley as the designer making the biggest waves in British fashion. She’s even been called the ‘English Ralph Lauren’ for her ability to capture a distinctively British concept of fashion.

Greg Williams and his girlfriend Alice Temperley attend the Summer Exhibition Preview Party at the Royal Academy of Arts on June 3, 2015, in London, England (Credit: Lia Toby / WENN)

It’s no surprise that Temperley is perhaps one of the most influential British designers of the last two decades.

The brand held its first fashion show in 2003 in Notting Hill, before its shows moved to New York from 2005 to 2011. In recognition of the brand’s influence, its tenth-anniversary show was hosted at the British Museum.

The growth of the Temperley brand

Temperley London was founded a year after Alice graduated from the Royal College of Art. After two decades, she remains at the helm of the brand.

She’s famous for her ability to capture the romance and decadence of a bygone era with timeless silhouettes and feminine designs. Temperley London encapsulates a unique idea of ‘British bohemianism’ with its lifestyle-driven fashion.

Fashion designer Alice Temperley attends the BFI Luminous Fundraising Gala at The Roundhouse on October 1, 2019, in London, England (Credit: Avalon / WENN)

While ‘Temperley London’ is the parent brand, there are several diffusion brands below it. Temperley Bridal is one of the most popular, while ALICE by Temperley was launched in 2010 with a focus on a younger demographic before it was closed in 2013 to allow a focus on a one-brand approach.

In 2012, Temperley collaborated with British retailer John Lewis to launch ‘Somerset by Alice Temperley’, which became the fastest-selling collection in John Lewis’ history.

Temperley’s celebrity customers and awards

Among Temperley’s celebrity clientele, you’ll find several members of the royal family. The Duchess of Cambridge is a repeat customer, and her sister Pippa Middleton famously wore an Alice Temperley dress for her sister’s evening reception.

Other celebrity clientele includes Thandiwe Newton, Freida Pinto, Penélope Cruz, and Julianne Hough.

Alice Temperley MBE, founder of Temperley London, is pictured in-store—reflecting the feminine, bohemian elegance that has defined her label since its launch in 2000 (Credit: Vince Maher / WENN)

Alice Temperley has won several awards for her work, including Elle’s ‘Best Young Designer of the Year’ in 2004. She was awarded an MBE in 2011 for services to the fashion industry.

In 2018, Temperley London was awarded the Butterfly Mark by Positive Luxury in recognition of its commitment to responsible practices across the brand.

Alice Temperley is also a member of the British Fashion Council Advisory Board and was an Ambassador for the nonprofit humanitarian organization Women for Women International.

13. Christopher Kane: Provocative Details, Sharp London Energy

Scottish designer Christopher Kane is the founder of the eponymous fashion brand, Christopher Kane. He won the ‘Lancome Colour Award’ in 2005, working alongside Giles Deacon and Russell Sage.

His early work attracted the attention of some of the fashion world’s most celebrated designers, including Donatella Versace. She would later compare Kane to her late brother, Gianni Versace.

Scottish fashion designer Christopher John Kane attends the opening party of Skate at Somerset House with Moët & Chandon at Somerset House on November 16, 2021, in London, England (Credit: Avalon / WENN)

His MA Graduate collection won him the Harrods Design Award, which included a showpiece window at the upmarket London department store.

Upon graduation, he was snapped up by Versace for their couture collection and accessories. Kane graduated from the highly esteemed Central Saint Martin’s College of Art and Design.

Kane’s bandage-tight tailoring is his signature, inspired by the feminine silhouettes and evening dresses of Antony Price in the 1980s. His namesake brand was created in 2006 in partnership with his sister, Tammy Kane.

Tammy Kane with her daughter Bonnie and her brother Christopher Kane at the opening party of Skate at Somerset House on November 12, 2019, in London, England (Credit: Avalon / WENN)

The debut Christopher Kane collection centered on short neon bandage dresses, which led to a surge in popularity for the ‘fluoro’ trend.

He’s collaborated with some of the biggest names in entertainment and beauty, including Kylie Minogue and Lancôme. In 2013, he received the ‘Women’s Wear Designer of the Year’ award at the British Fashion Awards.

Kane describes his London label as “challenging fashion ideologies and notions of beauty” with the belief that the “ordinary is transformed into the extraordinary when collections that start with autobiographical inspirations are realized using innovative techniques.”

Christopher Kane poses with the award for British Designer during the ELLE Style Awards 2011 at the Grand Connaught Rooms on February 14, 2011, in London, England (Credit: Daniel Deme / WENN)

Every collection from Christopher Kane blends creativity, sensuality, and wit in an unpredictable, provocative way.

14. Paul Andrew: Footwear Architecture With Red-Carpet Polish

Paul Andrew, whose father served as Chief Upholsterer to Queen Elizabeth II at Windsor Castle, brings a rare blend of heritage and modernity to fashion. After honing his craft alongside industry heavyweights including Calvin Klein, Alexander McQueen, Narciso Rodriguez, and Donna Karan, Andrew emerged as one of footwear’s most exciting new voices.

He launched his eponymous luxury women’s shoe line in Spring 2013 (introduced in September 2012), earning immediate critical acclaim for designs that balance architectural precision with wearability. His work has since been featured in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Elle, cementing his reputation as a designer to watch.

Andrew’s rise has been recognized with major industry honors, including the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund in 2014 and an Accessories Designer of the Year award in Italy, underscoring his influence on contemporary luxury footwear.

Paul Andrew and Jessica Chastain attend the 2016 CFDA Fashion Awards at the Hammerstein Ballroom on June 6, 2016, in New York City (Credit: Ivan Nikolov / WENN)

Andrew’s exceptional talent has continued to attract major industry attention. After leading design at Salvatore Ferragamo from 2019 to 2021, he returned to his namesake label with a renewed focus on modern femininity, Italian craftsmanship, and shoes that balance comfort with expressive design.

In mid-2024, Andrew took on a new chapter as Creative Director of Italian luxury shoe house Sergio Rossi, while continuing to build his own brand alongside the role. Known for blending high-tech innovation with traditional shoemaking, Andrew brings a distinctly contemporary sensibility to both labels—championing elegant, wearable footwear designed to empower women without sacrificing style.