The young British designer, who’s worked at Michael Van Der Ham, Christian Dior, and Richard James, received a surprise visit during his AW18 show from her Majesty the Queen for first time in her reign as Queen, to present him with the inaugural Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design - "as a tribute to the industry," and "new, young talent" who "have contributed to British fashion,"  she said.

The award, initiated in recognition of the role the fashion industry plays in society and diplomacy, will be handed annually to an emerging British fashion designer who shows exceptional talent and originality, while demonstrating value to the community and/or strong sustainable policies, according to the British Fashion Council. The London-based designer Quinn is the first to receive the Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design.  The award was originally thought up by Angela Kelly - personal advisor to Her Majesty, and the British Fashion Council was instrumental in hand picking him for the prize.

Her Majesty toured the London based Designer Showrooms down at Strand meeting other designers before presenting Quinn with the award on the final day of London Fashion Week, which has brought hundreds of designers, buyers and press to London for a series of catwalk displays, presentations and events.

The emerging designer Richard Quinn holds a B.A. and M.A. from Central Saint Martins, and graduated from the M.A. program in 2016, going onto later launch his line that year. His evocative show included a model wearing what looked to be a decorated green motorcycle helmet with a dark visor along with black and white polka dot leggings and a gauzy top with different size dots, with models faces covered with elaborate print designed headscarfs.

The show was attended by Wintour, Naomi Campbell, designer Stella McCartney among other personage part of the fashion scene. 

The award will further help support new talent.

Update Feb 22nd: (article updated to amend an earlier typo -  to read 'courtesy of AP Press.')