Supermodel Elton Ilirjani Closes Satomi el Beso Show With Otherworldly Space Age Style At London Fashion Week 2026
The closing of the Satomi el Beso show by Elton Ilirjani was more than just a fashion moment; it was a testament to the evolving landscape of global fashion – one that embraces diverse voices, celebrates unique artistry, and champions inclusivity.

The Vivz World Fashion Week London Edition, part of London Fashion Week 2026, concluded a momentous runway show for Japanese label Satomi el Beso with a show-stopping appearance by Albanian-American supermodel Elton Ilirjani, famously known as HANKO. The highly anticipated finale, held at the majestic St. John's Church, marked a powerful fusion of groundbreaking design and impactful advocacy.
Elton Ilirjani, a prominent genderless advocate and fashion icon based in New York City, brought his signature magnetic presence to the Satomi el Beso catwalk. With a global following of over 12 million on Instagram, where he's also known as a human rights activist, Ilirjani's walk underscored the collection's unique spirit and the brand's commitment to artistic expression.
Ilirjani's journey in the fashion world began in 2019, discovering Asian designers at New York City's 3NY boutique. His genuine appreciation for their artistry led him to showcase their creations to his vast online audience, fostering connections that quickly propelled him onto international runways.
Since 2022, HANKO has become a mainstay at fashion weeks in New York, Milan, Paris, London, Athens, Costa Rica, Miami, and Tokyo, gracing shows for renowned designers like Greedilous and Malan Breton, and most recently for Jemma Russo and Naoka Tosa at New York Fashion Week 2025, and Ema Savahl at Miami Swim Week. His consistent support for independent, up-and-coming couture designers perfectly aligned with Satomi el Beso's innovative ethos.

Satomi el Beso, founded by designer Satomi Takakura, is a brand celebrated for its unique, meaningful, and impeccably tailored clothing. Takakura, who began making custom garments at just 17, champions the beauty of thoughtful dressing, creating pieces that maximize positive emotions and make individuals shine. The brand's aesthetic skillfully blends elegance for women with a distinct sense of wildness and sexiness for men, all inspired by music and Takakura's hometown.
The brand's achievements extend beyond the runway, with notable success in costume design for Japanese pop idols and collaborations for movies, TV commercials, and educational programs. A highlight in their illustrious portfolio includes costume design contributions for the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympic Games. Satomi Takakura, also a special lecturer at Sogei Art School, has previously showcased her collections at Vancouver and New York Fashion Weeks, further solidifying Satomi el Beso's international footprint.

The closing of the Satomi el Beso show by Elton Ilirjani was more than just a fashion moment; it was a testament to the evolving landscape of global fashion – one that embraces diverse voices, celebrates unique artistry, and champions inclusivity. As the final look swept through the historic St. John's Church, the collaboration between Ilirjani's powerful advocacy and Takakura's visionary design left an indelible mark, signaling a vibrant and forward-thinking direction for London Fashion Week 2026.

About the Creator
Lisa Rosenberg
I am a writer based in New York City writing about artists, creative leaders and entrepeneurs.




Comments