Cultural Style Week Turns 5!

We’re turning 5! 21–27 May 2026 marks five years of Cultural Style Week.

What began as an online movement has grown into an international celebration, with people across the UK and internationally taking part through one powerful and accessible action: wearing their heritage.

From traditional dress to modern interpretations and fusion styles shaped by diaspora experiences, Cultural Style Week centres self-expression, cultural pride and storytelling through what we wear.

Four years of impact

Since the spectacular launch near London’s Royal Exchange on 21 May 2022, Cultural Style Week has inspired communities across the UK and beyond to connect, share and celebrate culture in visible, meaningful ways.

Over the past four years, several cultures have been represented and shared through a wide range of activity, including:

• Fashion showcases and cultural exhibitions, highlighting traditional, contemporary and fusion design while creating space for cultural storytelling

• Community-led activations and workshops, bringing people together through cross-cultural learning, creativity and shared celebration

• Online content creation and storytelling, with thousands participating by sharing their cultural style and personal stories

• Appearances and showcases in major public spaces, including collaborations connected to the Mayor of London’s cultural programmes

• National and international moments in cities including London, Leeds, Sheffield, The Hague and Cape Town

Together, these moments have helped build a recognisable platform for celebrating heritage through fashion and personal style.

What to expect in 2026

As the movement enters its fifth year, the message remains simple and powerful: wear your heritage, share your story, and be part of something bigger. You do not need a ticket, a stage or a formal event to take part.

• Wear Your Heritage - Choose a day or the whole week to wear clothing, accessories or styles that reflect your culture or identity.

• Share Your Style - Share photos, videos or stories using #CulturalStyleWeek, joining thousands who have taken part over the past five years.

• Celebrate Your Way - Individuals, schools, workplaces and community groups are encouraged to mark the week in ways that feel authentic, from conversations and creative moments to small gatherings and cultural sharing.

• Attend an event near you - Check out our events page to see if there is an event near you. We'd love to meet you!

Participation opportunities

If you would like to showcase in an upcoming show as a fashion designer, share your heritage through video content, appear on the runway, volunteer at events, host a workshop or support the team in other ways, please click here to view current participation opportunities.

Cultural Style Week 2026 also takes place within Cultural Heritage Month (11 May to 10 June 2026), creating a wider national moment for communities to celebrate culture side by side. For more info please visit culturalheritagemonth.com