University of Westminster Alumnus Steven Stokey-Daley Wins Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design
British designer and University of Westminster alumni, Steven Stokey-Daley has been awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design, presented by the British Fashion Council (BFC) Foundation. This accolade, now in its seventh year, recognises designers who are at the forefront of innovation while making a significant societal impact, particularly through sustainable practices and community engagement.
Steven, originally from Liverpool, is the creative force behind the label S.S. Daley. His work is known for exploring themes of British heritage, class, and identity, often using motifs inspired by the countryside, such as horse races, geese, and florals. His unique perspective and commitment to sustainability have set him apart in the competitive world of fashion.
His journey began with the launch of his graduate collection at London Fashion Week in February 2020. This initial success caught the eye of stylist Harry Lambert, who selected pieces from Steven’s collection for Harry Styles’ music video “Golden.” This high-profile endorsement not only boosted his brand’s visibility but also led Styles to invest in a minority stake in S.S. Daley, further solidifying Steven’s place in the fashion industry.
S.S. Daley is committed to sustainability, a principle that runs through every aspect of the brand. Steven uses deadstock and donated fabrics, reducing waste and promoting responsible consumption. This approach earned him the prestigious Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy Prize in 2022, as well as the BFC Foundation Award at the Fashion Awards, cementing his reputation as a designer who is both innovative and socially conscious.
In 2023, Steven was invited to showcase his collection as a guest designer at Pitti Immagine Uomo, a renowned fashion fair in Florence, Italy, known for highlighting the best in menswear and accessories. The recognition continued when he received the Queen Elizabeth II Award from Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh at The Royal Academy on 12 September 2023. The event, which also featured a performance by British R&B singer Laura Mvula, was a fitting celebration of Steven’s achievements.
Steven’s work is not only celebrated for its artistic vision but also for its alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. The University of Westminster, where Steven studied Fashion Design BA Honours, has been a strong advocate of the SDGs since 2019, using them to guide its strategic decisions and foster a more sustainable, equitable, and healthier society. This shared commitment to sustainability underscores the impact of Steven’s work beyond the fashion industry.
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