'I went to the Topshop runway show - it was more than just a comeback'

Over the weekend, Topshoptook over Trafalgar Square, marking their return to the fashion industry.

For the first time in seven years, Topshop took to the runway, debuting their latest collection at an open-air fashion show in central London. The event also celebrated the relaunch of its standalone website, signalling a new sense of independence for the brand after years of sitting under ASOS.

Topshop has been part of ASOS since 2021, after being acquired following the collapse of Arcadia Group. But with ASOS stocking over 800 brands, Topshop’s identity has often felt hidden in plain sight.

But this year,they’re stepping forward and doing it boldly. In May, they hosted a exclusive pop-up with Defected Records - where they showcased a new collection inspired by Ibiza fashion, followed by another campaign pop up at Tottenham Court Road's Outernet, this time featuring an exclusive live DJ performance by Wes Nelson.

READ MORE: 'I grew up loving Topshop and their relaunch has me dreaming of this iconic item'

READ MORE: 'My AI boyfriend proposed - I was surprised but the ring he chose is stunning'

For me and many others who attended, it felt like a blast from the past - a reminder of when Topshop wasn’t just a store, but a fashion mecca. A place that brought a community together through style.

Trafalgar Square was packed; from loyal Topshop fans to supermodel Cara Delevingne and even London Mayor Sadiq Khan. Speaking to Sky News, Cara said: "It was like nostalgia mixed with something eclectic but also something brand new. For me, it really brings back a time of exploration of my own fashion sense because I think for me at Topshop I got to discover so much."

The energy was high, with a live DJ playing music that perfectly matched the fits coming out. The collection tapped into Topshop’s signature staples, with standout pieces like structured leather jackets, oversized tailoring, dramatic coats, and a strong focus on denim - which so many people have missed. Sleek eveningwear and layering knits also featured, showing the brand's renowned range.

For more stories like this subscribe to our weekly newsletter, The Weekly Gulp, for a curated roundup of trending stories, poignant interviews, and viral lifestyle picks from The Mirror's Audience U35 team delivered straight to your inbox.

The choice to return with a physical runway show felt intentional and was a clear signal of confidence in their relaunch. The vibe was infectious - from the music to the clothes. Having gone to all three of their events this year, this one stood out. It felt nostalgic and powerful. Not many brands can come back after years of silence and still draw a crowd like that.

The crowd itself was diverse, stylish, and expressive; helped by the fact that there was no dress code. That choice made the event feel true to what Topshop has always represented: individuality, self-expression, and style that doesn’t need to follow rules. I was initially unsure what to wear, but I quickly realised there was no wrong answer - and that was the beauty of it.

Denim was always a defining part of Topshop’s identity, and it was good to see that legacy reflected and felt like the brand was acknowledging its roots but looking ahead.

I’ve been to other Topshop events this year, but this one felt different. It was bold, loud, and hard to miss - a clear statement that Topshop is stepping out from ASOS’s shadow and reintroducing itself on its own terms.

Help us improve our content by completing the survey below. We'd love to hear from you!