Fashion Forward Menswear Winners

The British Fashion Council announced that Christopher Shannon, E.Tautz, J.W. Anderson and Lou Dalton will receive Fashion Forward sponsorship for Autumn/Winter 2013. All recipients are to show their collections at London Collections: Men, 7th - 9th January 2013.

The winners of Fashion Forward, sponsored by eBay and supported by the Mayor of London, receive tailored business support provided by the BFC, in addition to a cash prize to assist in showing either a catwalk show or presentation at London Collections: Men in January. Dedicated Fashion Forward sponsorship for menswear designers began in May 2012 in recognition of London's burgeoning menswear industry and to support the sustained growth of emerging men's fashion talent.

"These four designers have all established themselves as key players on London's menswear show schedule. With London Collections: Men providing new showcasing opportunities for menswear talent, it's essential we continue to support designers through the development of their business and Fashion Forward sponsorship allows us to do this. Congratulations to all involved," said Caroline Rush, CEO of the British Fashion Council.

The Mayor of London Boris Johnson said, "The menswear shows in June were a huge success and I'm thrilled to be backing these immensely talented designers through Fashion Forward. The great work they are doing is helping elevate London's status as a leading centre for men's fashion and I wish them every success."

Lou Dalton, first time recipient of the Fashion Forward award, adds "To have been awarded the Fashion Forward is just beyond amazing. I am truly ecstatic, to have been awarded such support, it will allow us to showcase our fourth coming collection for AW13 as part of the London Collections which is integral to the growth of the Lou Dalton label"

Lou Dalton joins Christopher Shannon, E.Tautz and J.W. Anderson who were the first group of menswear designers to receive Fashion Forward Men sponsorship in May 2012, and will once again be awarded the prize to support their Autumn/Winter 2013 collection.

Christopher Shannon stated, "The difference between momentary support and on-going cannot be understated. We have had the opportunity to grow season upon season, constantly adding stores internationally allowing the brand to establish itself worldwide. This is due in massive part to the on-going support network in London. We thank Fashion Forward for this seasons sponsorship and for being part of our development."

Jonathan Anderson of J.W. Anderson commented, "It's great to be a part of Fashion Forward again. The shows wouldn't be possible without the sponsorship and support that comes with it. The award helps us to keep growing the brand and take it to somewhere new."

Patrick Grant, Creative Director, E.Tautz said, "London's menswear scene is so full of talent right now and the London shows feel so unconstrained and this is thanks to the way the BFC and their sponsors support us across Fashion East, NewGen and Fashion Forward. We are thrilled and honoured to be named alongside Lou, Christopher and Jonathan for AW13."

Now in its 6th year, Fashion Forward has grown to support both womenswear and menswear designers. The initative provides funding to talented emerging British designer businesses for showcasing support and to develop their businesses in London. To be eligible, designers will either have progressed through NEWGEN or NEWGEN MEN, or be at a similar stage in their business. Fashion Forward is a key BFC initiative and has been instrumental in developing and sustaining the growth of emerging design talent.

____________________________________________________________________________