Julien Macdonald Reignites Glamour at London Fashion Week

Julien Macdonald made a glossy return to London Fashion Week, presenting his autumn/winter 2026 collection on the rooftop interior of The Shard, showcasing a range that solidified his status as the fashion world's self-proclaimed "king of glamour."

Suspended above the capital, visitors sipped martinis while the Welsh designer unveiled a line of shimmering, structured outfits against the sparkling city night.

Singer Ella Eyre was among the people sitting in the front row, observing as Macdonald presented a performance filled with his trademark high-energy style.

It was Macdonald's first London Fashion Week runway appearance since reorganizing his business in 2023, and the message was clear: bold, extravagant elegance is making a comeback.

Macdonald, 54, who started his label in 1997 and has previously worked in prominent positions at Chanel and Givenchy, has consistently been linked with red-carpet standout pieces. His comeback fully embraced that reputation, presenting a collection of bold evening attire meant for spectacle rather than subtlety.

The performance began with flowing, form-hugging gowns in shiny colors, such as a liquid gold halter-style dress that had a deep V-neck and twisted into a draped skirt with a high slit.

The outline stretched the figure, the material reflecting the light with each movement, creating a moment reminiscent of the paparazzi-filled scenes that Macdonald's famous clients — including Beyoncé and Jennifer Lopez — are known for.

Sequins were used extensively throughout the collection. A sharply tailored, long-sleeved column dress in burnished bronze caught the light under the stage lights, with its structured shoulders highlighting Macdonald’s signature tall and elegant look.

In other areas, micro silhouettes were prominent: a black, crystal-decorated two-piece featuring sheer shorts and cut-out elements revealed much, paired with minimal heels to draw attention to the body.

Feathers, which have been popular on the catwalk, added a dramatic touch to the collection.

A light green, crystal-embellished bodysuit was worn with a matching feathered robe that flowed behind the model, its feel adding a gentle contrast to the subtle sensuality of the transparent lower layer.

From a different perspective, a black sheer dress with feathered hem details flowed down the runway, combining see-through elements with fluid motion.

There was minimal acknowledgment of winter in the conventional way. Although labeled as autumn/winter, Macdonald's world stays firmly in summer – or at least perpetually celebrating.

Open-back dresses, low necklines, and high-cut bodysuits were prominent, with transparent sections and clever openings appearing frequently. A light green, glitter-covered dress had a deep V-neckline that was gathered at the waist and a front slit that showed a hint of leg, combining red-carpet elegance with a relaxed, beach club vibe.

The atmosphere at The Shard heightened the thrill for this return performance. As London's skyline sparkled through the windows, the event seemed less like a seasonal showcase and more like a festival – a declaration of strength and reemergence.

If much of this season's schedule has focused on subtlety, Macdonald provided a lively contrast with high-energy, unapologetic, classic-style elegance.

The designer has indicated a move toward a more approachable luxury ready-to-wear concept, emphasizing adaptable decorated items. Although the collection stayed within the eveningwear category, some outfits—sleek sequined gowns and precisely tailored cocktail styles—implied a business-minded perspective beneath the sparkle.

Macdonald received the title of British Fashion Designer of the Year in 2001 and was named chief designer at Givenchy during that same year, taking over from Alexander McQueen. After more than twenty years, his approach featuring sequins, skin, and revealing styles has remained largely the same.

Julien Macdonald's comeback brought a surge of happiness to the London skyline.