John Richmond Rewrites Fashion Week with Immersive Culture Vulture Show
British designer John Richmond made a significant return to London Fashion Week, staging his innovative ‘Culture Vulture’ show. Known for his profound passion for pop music, Richmond eschewed the conventional runway format, opting instead for a dynamic event that seamlessly fused fashion and music. Held at the Stereo club in Covent Garden, the venue transformed into a vibrant stage for both a captivating runway presentation and a live gig, unveiling his Spring/Summer 2026 collection.
Describing the essence of this novel approach, John Richmond stated in a press release, “Culture Vulture is a new way of experiencing the brand: Instinctive, immersive, alive.” This immersive format is set to be a recurring theme for the label, with similar events planned for Milan and Paris. Richmond further elaborated on the concept, emphasizing, “Runway and nightlife blur, the band disrupts the order and the clothes come to life: Unfiltered, unexpected.” This vision aimed to create an authentic and immediate connection between the audience and the collection.
The collection itself was a deep dive into John Richmond’s rich heritage, serving as a powerful homage to various musical subcultures that have shaped his aesthetic. Inspirations ranged from the suave style of 70s soul boys and the rebellious spirit of American pre-punk, to the glamour of club chic and the edgy sophistication of Goth culture. These diverse influences converged to form a collection that resonated with authenticity and a distinct rebellious flair.
True to Richmond's signature, the collection masterfully played with contrasts. Luxurious satin met sheer organza, delicate lace and georgette were juxtaposed with rugged leather and worn denim. Couture-level beadwork found an unexpected partner in bold, tattoo-inspired graphics. The statement pieces embodied Richmond’s unique touch: a blend of streetwear sensibility with romantic undertones, simultaneously raw and refined. The color palette was predominantly black and ivory, punctuated by striking flashes of gold, vibrant turquoise, and bright yellow, adding an energetic dimension to the designs. Mirko Pedone, with his strong ties to subcultures, curated the event’s distinctive style, amplifying John Richmond’s inherent rebel spirit.
The "Culture Vulture" event culminated in an unforgettable party, organized in collaboration with The1989, a platform deeply rooted in contemporary underground culture. The impressive line-up of talent included Paul Simonon of The Clash, who took to the DJ decks alongside Dan Donovan and Faris Badwan of The Horrors. The evening also featured a live poetry reading by Solange Smith, while Sounds Mint and other prominent bands from London’s underground music scene provided electrifying live performances, ensuring the night ended on a high note of artistic expression and celebration.
This show marked a significant moment for the brand, as it represented John Richmond’s return to the UK after a 20-year absence; his previous collection was presented at London’s Tate Modern in February. Historically, the brand had showcased its collections in Milan. The move back to London follows the Italian Fashion Chamber’s decision to exclude the label from the Milan Fashion Week calendar. Since 2016, the John Richmond brand has been under the ownership of Italian fashion group Arav Fashion, led by CEO Mena Marano, who continues to guide its strategic direction.
