It seems like only yesterday that I was massaging the life back into my poor, ravaged feet after the mayhem of New York Fashion Week. Now, I’m ready to set off again, this time to the streets of London, England, for another week of runway shows, designer interviews and street-style spotting. Here are some of the labels that I can’t wait to see in person.

London Fashion Week Must-See: Issa London
When Kate Middleton wore a sapphire Issa London dress to announce her engagement to Prince William, interest in the label skyrocketed. Issa’s spring [not spring/summer?] 2012 collection featured vibrant motifs and tropical colours inspired by the streets of Rio de Janeiro. Even though the Duchess of Cambridge was a no-show at the tents last season, this commoner is still holding out hope for a royal encounter.

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London Fashion Week Maverick: J.W. Anderson

This Irish-born designer is the name on the lips of all the cool kids. Sure, he’s only 26—but his knack for fusing elements of menswear with womenswear has garnered him some major kudos from the well-heeled crowd. So, what can we expect from the fall runway show? “Aristocracy, youth culture and individualism,” he told the London Fashion Council.

London Fashion Week Returning Act: Stella McCartney
When I read that Stella McCartney would be presenting in London instead of Paris this season, my heart soared. The Central Saint Martins grad, famous her sleek, modern tailoring and vegan-friendly designs, always has a famous front row that includes her dad, Paul McCartney, and bestie, Gwyneth Paltrow.

 

For more of our London Fashion Week Favourites, check out the next page…

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The Canucks at London Fashion Week: Thomas Tait, Todd Lynn, Erdem and Mark Fast

Let’s hear it for our fellow Canadians! These homegrown designers are now fixtures on the London Fashion Week scene. Central Saint Martins grad Thomas Tait is the toast of the town for his understated, elegant silhouettes, while Todd Lynn’s tailor-made rock ’n’ roll pieces are favourites of artists like Lady Gaga and Courtney Love. You can be sure Erdem will bring unique prints and ladylike cuts, and count on Mark Fast for his signature knit style.

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London Fashion Week’s big ticket: Burberry

Let’s face it: Christopher Bailey can do no wrong. This it-Brit designer, who steered the heritage label into the 21st century, is a master at creating elegant and sophisticated pieces that somehow make it seem very reasonable to shell out astronomical sums for a woven leather trench coat. Don’t forget to watch the show as it streams live online on the Burberry website.

 

Read more:
Burberry’s best looks
Thomas Tait’s Toronto debut
Issa London is fit for a queen
Our favourite It-Brits