Bianca Saunders and Onalaja, Shortlisted for 2026 BFC/VDFF AWARD

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by

Tessa Lwanga
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Designer Brands Bianca Saunders and Onalaja, are Shortlisted for 2026 British Fashion Council/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund (BFC/VDFF).

Awarded to outstanding fashion businesses since 2008, the BFC/VDFF grants £150,000 of funding, high-level mentoring and professional services to generate commercial success. Previous winners included Wales Bonner, in 2019. 

Design by Bianca Saunders, a shortlisted Designer for the 2026 BFC/VDFF

It forms a part of the BFC Foundation, focused on education, grant giving and business mentoring to support the growth and success of the British fashion industry. Made possible by the generous support of Vogue and Burberry and Mischon de Reya, providing pro-bono legal services

The designers will be interviewed by the Fund judging-panel and the winners announced in May 2026.

Creative Director of eponymous brand Bianca Saunders, at Institute of Positive Fashion Event

This year’s panel is chaired by Laura Weir, Chief Executive Officer of the British Fashion Council and Chioma Nnadi, Head of Editorial Content at British Vogue. 

Laura Weir “This year’s shortlisted designers embody the future we are committed to building. We are proud fro continue our partnership with British Vogue to ensure that the next generation of British designers is not only discovered but sustained.” Laura Weir, Chief Executive Officer, British Fashion Council

Chioma Nnadi, Head of Editorial Content, British Vogue at BFC x Vogue Fashion Fund Dinner

“This year’s shortlist is a powerful reminder of the depth of imagination and individuality emerging form the UK right now. I’m honoured to co-chair the judging panel and help champion designers who are forging distinctive paths and strengthening then future of British fashion.” Chioma Nnadi, Head of Editorial Content, British Vogue 

The application process encourages brands to think strategically about the three pillars of the Institute of Positive Fashion; The Environment, People and Community & Craftsmanship

The BFC charity also awards scholarships each year to students, as well as other programmes to promote the talent, longevity and diversity in the British Fashion Industry. 

To apply for a future fund visit: https://www.britishfashioncouncil.co.uk/business-support-awards/BFCVogue-Designer-Fashion-Fund/Apply

By Tessa Lwanga, Mulage Magazine