Fashion enthusiasts are embracing British labels once again, disregarding the pessimistic economic climate.
In the realm of fashion, British brands are making waves with their unique blend of sustainability, heritage revival, and modern luxury. This mix of traditional values and contemporary innovation is not only shaping the local market but also influencing the global fashion scene significantly.
Steve Fine, head of stockbroker Peel Hunt, believes that UK firms, including these fashion powerhouses, are seen as bargains by US investors due to "our domestic self-esteem being quite low." However, Fine also urged Britons to "gain confidence, the political situation notwithstanding."
One of the standout brands leading the charge is Burberry. Under the creative direction of Daniel Lee, Burberry has reimagined classic British style for a modern audience. The label's focus on iconic products like trench coats and bucket hats, which have seen a resurgence in popularity, has contributed to a 60% increase in Burberry's shares over the past three months.
Meanwhile, emerging designers like Wales Bonner and Molly Goddard are also making a mark with their innovative designs that blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary multicultural narratives. These designers often produce limited runs with high craftsmanship, enhancing the UK’s standing as a center of cutting-edge fashion.
However, it's not just high-end fashion that is thriving. Brands like Laura Ashley, though less prominent in the luxury market, represent an enduring legacy of British textile and print traditions that continue to inspire contemporary narratives. This year, US firm Marquee Brands acquired Laura Ashley, adding it to their portfolio which includes the Martha Stewart lifestyle business.
As for the world of DIY investing, British platforms like interactive investor, AJ Bell, Trading 212, Hargreaves Lansdown, and InvestEngine are making it easier for individuals to invest in the stocks of these fashion brands and many more. These platforms offer learning resources for users to learn more about investing, and users can compare them to find the best account for their needs.
It's important to note that This is Money's editorial team chooses these deals based on their value to readers, not commissions. However, affiliate links may be present in this article, and This is Money may earn a commission if a product is taken out.
In the spirit of staying true to roots, Poppy Marshall-Lawton, leading Laura Ashley's revival, stated that British brands can cut through the noise and connect with a new generation of customers. This sentiment echoes the ethos of British fashion in 2025, where tradition and innovation coexist, positioning the UK as both a guardian of tradition and a progressive force in the international fashion economy.
Investing in UK fashion brands, such as Burberry and Laura Ashley, has seen a surge in interest from US investors, attracted by the potential bargains offered by British companies due to their low domestic self-esteem, as noted by Steve Fine, head of stockbroker Peel Hunt. Concurrently, DIY investing platforms in the UK, like interactive investor and AJ Bell, are making it simpler for individuals to buy shares in these fashion brands, empowering them to be part of the global fashion economy.
