With New York Fashion week ending and London Fashion Week just beginning let’s dive straight into some of the standout moments from this years Spring Summer collections.
OFF-WHITE
Kamara’s Off-White collection, Pop Romance, was nothing short of exceptional. Channelling urban maximalism, the collection featured bright reds and earthy khakis, graphic prints, chevron patterns and jewel-encrusted collars. Like many collections on the runway, Kamara used boxy tailoring but set himself apart with his creative nods to street style such as motorcycle jackets, utility belts and cargo pants. Kamara’s vision was to display the influence of black culture, namely in hip-hop and disco, which he absolutely achieved through his careful construction of complex and dynamic looks.
ALICE AND OLIVIA
This year saw an All-American inspired presentation for Alice and Olivia. Stacey Bendet exhibited floral mesh gowns, contrasting red and white suiting, layered chain belts, not to mention the 20 ft Statue of Liberty inspired floral dress cascading from the balcony. This presentation paid a homage to all American women, with delicate pastels and dramatic graphic prints, there was something for everyone. From sparkling accents to bright colors and florals, the collection captured the very essence of summer and joyfulness.
LUAR
An undeniable favourite of the SS26 collections was Raul Lopez’s carnival inspired collection. Carnival is rich in historical significance, as a celebration of freedom from enslavement, which Lopez makes ode to with bright colours, feathers, eye masks and headpieces. In contrast, running throughout the collection there is an undercurrent of black structured garments, such as the black velvet coat opening the show, evoking the presence of the colonisers. Other notable elements include distressed tights, black mesh gloves, crochet caps and sparkling embellishments. This was truly a major collection that left a lasting impression.
KHAITE
Khaite’s SS26 collection embodied the brand’s distinctive sophistication and form-focus. The show opened with sleek leather coats and tailored trousers, establishing definition and clean lines. The colour palette moved through white, black and burgundy while techniques included appliqué florals on mesh shirts and use of pom poms. Holstein’s emphasis on the figure came through in peplum tops, gathered dresses and frequent asymmetry. At the shows closing, two striking polka dot maxi skirts were worn by Binx Walton and Kendall Jenner which were arguably the collections centrepieces.
TORY BURCH
Burch’s collection utilised a diverse range of colours, moving from bright yellows, to pastels in pinks and blue. Key features included tailored mid-length skirts and shorts, flowing dresses cinched with waistband ties and, closing the show, delicate mesh dresses with hand-stitched florals. In terms of accessories, Burch delivered several structured bags and contrasting sheer net bags, as well as statement earrings and refined pointed toe heels.
ALEXANDER WANG
Wang’s collection, The Matriarch, was both powerful and cohesive, showcasing his signature dark colours and urban influence. Wang presented a series of short, cutting-edge pieces, embracing structured silhouettes and an inventive materials. Some highlights from this collection include the dramatic high collars, the creative use of muff-like accessories and hooded ponchos reminiscent of raincoats.
CALVIN KLEIN
After recently re-entering the fashion week scene, Calvin Klein’s SS26 collection was polished, sharp and minimalist. Yet this did not mean a lack of excitement as Leoni presented garments from smart suits and dresses to a bright pink silk boiler suit, arguably one of the weeks greatest highlights Monochrome dresses and elegant headscarves added sophistication alongside playful details like pom-poms and fringe.
ALL THE RAGE 
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