The BRIT Awards left London for the first time in its history this year, landing in Manchester's Co-op Live arena. Matthew Williamson, fashion designer and Manchester native, was commissioned to design the 2026 trophy and what he delivered was a statement about place, identity, and what happens when the music moves north.
Williamson's trophy is cast in amber-toned resin, designed to resemble the golden honey of a worker bee. That's Manchester's mascot, a symbol of the city's role during the Industrial Revolution and its ongoing identity as a place built on graft, community, and resilience. The trophy sits atop a globe, representing British music's worldwide reach. Local symbolism and global ambition in the same piece.
The worker bee matters here. Manchester adopted the symbol in the 19th century during the height of textile manufacturing and after the 2017 Arena bombing, it became a rallying symbol of solidarity and strength. It's embedded in the city's cultural fabric.
He said he wanted to create something "timeless and stylish that each recipient would feel proud to own and display." He could've leaned into colour and pattern, which would've been expected given his fashion background. Instead, he offered something personal. The amber tone, the globe, the bee. All connected to place.
The choice to commission a Mancunian designer for Manchester's first BRIT Awards ceremony isn't a coincidence. The BRITs have always had designers create the trophy. Vivienne Westwood, Tracey Emin, Zaha Hadid, Es Devlin. This year, bringing in someone whose creative practice has been shaped by Manchester adds cultural authenticity that wouldn't exist otherwise.
The globe at the base does double duty. It grounds the trophy physically whilst reinforcing the idea that British music travels. It's Manchester holding up the world, not the other way round.
Special mention to one of our house favourites, Olivia Dean, who walked away with four of them on the night. The BRITs left London and Matthew Williamson made sure Manchester had the last word.
Shot of the good stuff. With a side of honey.
Shot of the good stuff.
