The British Fashion Council (BFC) have announced Labrum London as the winner of this years Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design.
In ceremony held at the brand’s home base 180 Studios, King Charles (who has long been involved with the British fashion industry, having launched London’s inaugural menswear fashion week in June 2012 at St James’ Palace) presented the award to brand founder and creative director Foday Dumbuya who first founded the menswear label back in 2015.
Speaking after the prize giving, Dumbuya said: “I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive the Queen Elizabeth Award from your Majesty, King Charles III for British design. As someone who was born in Sierra Leone, and migrated to Cyprus and London, this recognition is beyond my wildest dreams.”
“I stand here grateful to my family and friends, who have been my constant source of support and inspiration on this incredible journey. Your unwavering love and encouragement has helped me to push past obstacles and to continue working towards achieving my goals every day.”
“As a proud Sierra Leonean, British designer and West African migrant, I believe that fashion is an integral part of what makes our world beautiful and diverse. This award is a symbol of how far we’ve come as a team, and the journey we will continue as we push forward and embark on new frontiers.”
BFC chief executive Caroline Rush said of the label and designer: “Foday’s designs beautifully bridge the story of his West African heritage with his life in London and the history of British tailoring. His work speaks to what is so unique and compelling about the UK as a leader in creative and fashion talent.”
“At the BFC, we recognise our responsibility to support these incredible British emerging designers as they develop into self-sustaining businesses and are honoured and proud to continue to do so, particularly in the current economic climate as funding for the arts diminishes.”
As well as revealing the winner of The Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design, the British Fashion Council also announced the recipients of the 2023 Fashion Trust grant, which aims to accelerate business growth by supporting young designers with cash and mentoring. This year’s winners include Chopova Lowena, Fruity Booty, Molly Goddard, Neous, Piferi and Richard Malone.
