CWC is a programme of more than 1,000 experiences and activities open to the public from more than 350 brands throughout September taking place in London, Manchester and Newcastle. Curated by the BFC, CWC celebrates the best of British culture while cementing the country’s status as a leading fashion powerhouse during LFW’s 40th anniversary year. The programme aims to support and promote retail across the UK while driving the fashion conversation forward through industry-wide participation and partnerships.

Renowned shopping destinations Covent Garden (London), Selfridges (Manchester) and Fenwick (Newcastle) will kick off celebrations in each city, offering a series of activations for customers and style enthusiasts.

LFW’s principal partner 1664 Blanc will be taking over London’s Covent Garden Piazza from September 13-14. Guests can grab a limited edition print available from designer and Drapers 30 under 30 alumni Tolu Coker, explore ‘Le Journal Bleu’ a bespoke commemorative newspaper that celebrates 40 years of LFW, and have a professional photographer capture their portraits.

Caroline Rush CBE, chief executive, BFC said: “As we celebrate 40 years of London Fashion Week presented by 1664 Blanc, we are very excited to extend our LFW City Wide Celebration across the UK for the first time. BFC is committed to supporting retail and our brilliant network of designer businesses not only in London but across the UK. We are really looking forward to witnessing Manchester and Newcastle come to life with their own programme of events throughout September.

“LFW has continually been a pioneer when it comes to opening up its doors and inviting consumers to participate, enabling brands and businesses to connect to customers through cultural moments and events is core to its impact. Our principal partner 1664 Blanc has enabled us to extend this even further by opening up LFW all year with their fantastic lineup of events.”

Justine Simons OBE, deputy mayor for culture and the creative industries, said: “For 40 years London Fashion Week has been the engine room of our trailblazing, rule breaking, world leading fashion industry. London is where generations of designer talent have burst onto the world stage and the capital is where you can discover the tastemakers of the future. In a fitting celebration of four decades, this City Wide Celebration will honour the dynamic interplay between fashion and grassroots music. London Creates Music X London Fashion Week will spotlight fantastic underground gigs across the capital, as we build a better London for everyone.”

The full list of experiences is available on the LFW website.