Naomi Campbell Returns to the Catwalk at LFW

Naomi Campbell opened Richard Quinn’s Spring/Summer 2026 show at St John’s Smith Square during London Fashion Week on Saturday evening. At 55, she led the runway, appearing first in a collection that drew attention for its dramatic designs and refined tailoring.

Campbell wore a black velvet column gown with a sculptural white detail on the shoulder and a single camellia pinned at the chest. The silhouette combined Quinn’s characteristic boldness with precise tailoring.

Photo: @enews-Instagram

The venue was adorned with lush greenery and blooms, echoing the floral motifs that ran throughout the collection. A live orchestra, positioned on a raised platform behind the models, supplied a continuous musical accompaniment to the runway show.

Front-row guests included England footballer Lucy Bronze, singer Mimi Webb, actress Evie Templeton, and style figure Olivia Palermo. Their presence was noted by media outlets, but coverage highlighted Campbell as the first model to walk, drawing the majority of attention.

Photo: @enews-Instagram

Richard Quinn’s SS26 collection maintained his signature theatricality while showing a greater focus on structure and fabric quality. The lineup featured evening gowns, oversized floral details, gloves, veils, and layered fabrics. Early pieces leaned on deep blacks and reds, later transitioning to lighter shades, including cream, lilac, and pale blue, providing contrast within the presentation.

Several outfits drew cues from bridalwear, incorporating veils, illusion panels, and bouquet-inspired details, adding ceremonial elements to the runway.

Campbell’s role as the opening model was widely noted in coverage. Her appearance was one of the most reported moments of the show, confirming her enduring presence in the fashion world and reinforcing her status as one of the industry’s leading figures.