LABRUM Wins the 2026 BFC/GQ Designer Fashion Fund
The British Fashion Council (BFC) announced on June 11 that LABRUM has been named the winner of the 2026 BFC/GQ Designer Fashion Fund, a program designed to support the growth and long-term success of promising British designer fashion businesses.
Summary
- LABRUM has been named the winner of the 2026 BFC/GQ Designer Fashion Fund
- The brand will receive a £100,000 grant, a year-long mentorship program, and legal support
- Founded by Foday Dumbuya in 2014, LABRUM is known for exploring stories of diaspora and cultural identity
- The British Fashion Council and British GQ praised the brand’s originality and cultural impact
- The award is expected to support LABRUM’s team expansion and international growth ambitions
The Fund provides financial backing as well as strategic business support for emerging British fashion brands with strong commercial potential. In addition to a £100,000 grant, LABRUM will receive a year-long mentorship program, pro-bono legal services from Sheridans, and access to a network of specialist advisors tailored to the brand’s business needs.
A Brand Built on Diaspora Narratives
Founded in 2014 by Foday Dumbuya, LABRUM is a menswear label rooted in the founder’s experiences growing up in Sierra Leone, Cyprus, and London.
The brand has developed a distinctive design language that combines African cultural influences with British tailoring traditions. Through its collections, LABRUM explores themes of migration, identity, and belonging, earning growing recognition as one of the most influential voices on the London fashion scene.
Laura Weir, Chief Executive of the British Fashion Council, commented on the award: “Foday’s ability to consistently elevate his collections while maintaining a distinct creative vision reflects the strength and originality that British fashion is known for globally. Through stories rooted in heritage, community and diaspora, LABRUM continues to shape a powerful cultural dialogue with lasting impact.”
Murray Clark, Head of Editorial Content at British GQ, also praised the brand, stating: “I am beyond elated to present this year’s BFC/GQ Designer Fashion Fund to LABRUM, a brand that has come into the fullest of force. I’ve had the pleasure of watching Foday Dumbuya’s label grow over the years, and he tells the stories we all need to hear through rich, sharp and incisive menswear.”
Recognition for a Growing Global Vision
Responding to the announcement, Dumbuya described the award as a significant milestone for the brand.
“Winning the BFC/GQ Designer Fashion Fund is an incredibly special moment for me and everyone who has been part of the LABRUM journey. As a brand built on the stories of migration, identity and cultural exchange, this recognition is a reminder that those stories matter.”
He added: “The Fund will give us the platform, resources and confidence to continue building LABRUM into a truly global British brand, allowing us to invest in our team, strengthen our business and reach new audiences while staying true to the community and values that brought us here.”
The judging panel included Laura Weir of the British Fashion Council, Murray Clark and Angelo Mitakos of British GQ, brand consultant Lewis Bloyce, stylist Rudy Simba Betty, Simon Longland of Harrods, artist and designer Skepta, and Tahir Basheer of Sheridans.
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