Susan Fang returns to Barbican for Lakeside Terrace London Fashion Week show
Barbican Business Events has underlined the flexibility of the Centre’s spaces after welcoming Susan Fang back for a second consecutive Spring/Summer show during London Fashion Week.
The designer presented her latest collection, titled Air•Illusion on Friday 18 September on the Lakeside Terrace, using the fountains, elevated walkways and Brutalist architecture as part of an outdoor catwalk setting.
A bespoke layout placed guests around five circular structures on the western terrace, creating a route between the audience and the architecture. The arrangement made full use of the waterside location while keeping guests close to the collection.
The show continued Susan Fang’s relationship with the Barbican following the presentation of her Spring/Summer 2026 Air•Evolution collection in the Conservatory during London Fashion Week last September. That event welcomed around 300 guests and used the tropical setting as part of a show inspired by the relationship between nature and technology.
Susan Fang commented: “Our fashion show at the Barbican meant more to me than I can fully put into words. It was our second show here, and the first time the Lakeside has ever been allowed to host one. This place holds so many memories for me: I shot my graduation collection here, at the Lakeside and Conservatory, years ago, so coming back to create something new in this space was truly an honour.
“The sunlight was beautiful, with just the right amount of wind, and everything came together perfectly. XL Architects set designed the space, transforming the Lakeside into something surreal and dreamlike, and our deepest appreciation to everyone at the Barbican for your warmth and care.”
Jenny Waller, Head of Sales at Barbican Business Events, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Susan Fang back and see the Lakeside Terrace become part of the show. The architecture, water and movement of the catwalk all contributed to the experience.
“The Barbican offers designers a choice of spaces with very different characters. Susan Fang’s two shows demonstrate how the same venue can provide an entirely new backdrop from one season to the next, supported by a team that understands the practical and creative demands of London Fashion Week.”
As designers, agencies and brands begin planning for London Fashion Week in February 2027, the Barbican has confirmed that The Curve will be available for fashion shows, presentations and brand events. The ground floor gallery follows a long, sweeping curve that creates a natural runway route and can be adapted for installations, guest seating and production requirements. It previously hosted 16Arlington’s Autumn/Winter 2024 show for around 250 guests.
Jenny added: “The Curve is a particularly strong option for February. Its shape gives creative teams an immediate starting point for the show, while the setting provides the control and flexibility of an indoor space. We are already speaking to organisers about its availability for the next London Fashion Week.”
Fashion will also feature prominently in the Barbican’s artistic programme in spring 2027. Characters of Fashion, a major exhibition exploring the relationship between fashion and literature, will run in the Barbican Art Gallery from 15 April to 29 August 2027. The Barbican is inviting brands to explore partnership opportunities around the exhibition, including sponsorship, brand activations, and bespoke events.
Further information can be found via Fashion and Brands at the Barbican Centre
