Topshop Trafalgar Square Takeover

London Fashion Week maybe a month away but former high street giant, Topshop decided to kickstart the party early. On Saturday 16th August Trafalgar Square in central London was transformed into an open-air catwalk as Topshop staged its runway return after a seven year hiatus.

Set against the National Portrait Gallery and spotlighted by Topshop’s signature double-decker, the event showcased “see now, buy now,” pieces immediately available via the newly relaunched topshop.com website. 

Vogue UK called it a high-profile return, showcasing standout denim legends like the Jamie and Joni jeans alongside modern fashion highlights such as a pea-green faux fur coat and an oversized suit from Cara Delevingne’s edit.

FashionNetwork added details on the guest list—Cara Delevingne, Adwoa Aboah, and even the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan—who showed up in support, as well as DJs, cocktails, and the open casting by Wilhelmina Models for fresh-faced talent 

Additional commentary from The Independent revealed Topshop’s plans for “semi‑permanent” high‑street presences later this year, with full-blown standalone stores expected in autumn.

The brand’s comeback isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s grounded in strategic reinvention. After being bought by ASOS in 2021, Topshop is now majority-owned by Danish retailer Bestseller through its Heartland investment arm, with ASOS retaining a 25% stake.

The standalone website officially relaunched just before the show on 15th August, concurrent with a curated edit by Cara Delevingne—a fresh 30-piece collection with sharp tailoring and revamped denim staples—while a full capsule collection is planned for 2026.

According to Vogue Business, the reboot aims to balance nostalgia for millennials with appeal to Gen Z, forging credibility through improved quality, cultural relevance, and innovative collaborations.

Fashion and retail journalists are all asking the same question: Can Topshop / Topman rekindle its former buzz in what was known as the Jane Shepherdson years? As former brand director from 1997 – 2006 the brand was at its peak with its Oxford Street flagship store as its hub. The reboot will need to weave nostalgia with strategy, quality, and on-the-button trends to attract a new audience in a very different retail climate.

Sources:

Vogue UK

Vogue Business

The Independent

Drapers

Fashion Network

(Top image by JoJo Iles)