In a recent LCF lecture hosted by BSc (Hons) Fashion Management and MSc Strategic Fashion Management lecturer, Ronit Zilkha, Caroline Rush, the Chief Executive of the British Fashion Council (BFC) provided an insight perspective on the BFC's crucial role in shaping the future of the fashion industry. Her talk revolved around the BFC's three-year mission, which is all about fostering innovation, responsible growth, and global recognition of British fashion, all while actively addressing sustainability and inclusivity within the industry.
Caroline Rush underscored the BFC's status as a not-for-profit organization with a dedication to responsible growth, innovation, and amplification of the British fashion industry. Their mission is structured around three fundamental strategies. The first strategy, "Relentless Innovation," involves embracing innovation, fostering diversity, exploring digital advancements, and promoting circular fashion practices to prepare businesses for a positive and sustainable future. The second strategy, "Fuelling Responsible Growth," centres on nurturing a dynamic, inclusive, and unified fashion community, thus supporting the growth of the industry and talent within it. The third strategy, "Amplifying the Narrative Globally," outlines the BFC's commitment to evolving its platforms to showcase and promote creative excellence, introducing UK's talent on a global scale.
'As Chief Executive of the British Fashion Council, Caroline Rush was an exciting guest speaker to have at LCF. What I found most interesting about the lecture, was the insights she gave us about the British Fashion Council, their purpose and their dedication to help the UK transition to a circular fashion economy with their annual IPF (Institute of Positive Fashion) Forums. This gave me hope that the UK will soon be able to achieve circularity in the fashion ecosystem.' - Year 1 BSc Fashion Management student, Elodie Cipullo
These strategies include initiatives such as the Institute of Positive Fashion, Circular Fashion Innovation Network, and a strong emphasis on sustainability and responsible practices within the fashion industry. Caroline Rush's lecture provides a comprehensive look into the BFC's dedication to celebrating British fashion's heritage while ensuring a sustainable and inclusive future.
BFC’s collaboration with the Design Museum to showcase the NEWGEN initiative exemplifies their commitment to nurturing creative talent and solidifying London's position as a global fashion leader. In conclusion, unveiling the BFC's commitment to shaping the future of British fashion through innovation, responsible growth, and global recognition, with sustainability and inclusivity at the forefront of their mission.
“I invited Caroline to share the different initiatives that the BFC are working on, focussing on sustainability and inclusivity and her vision of the future of the fashion industry. Caroline’s words were a fantastic inspiration to the industry’s next generation, with the Fashion Business School Year 1 students having just embarked on their journey.“ - Senior Lecturer and BSc Fashion Management Tutor, Ronit Zilkha