The previous fashion season highlighted designers making significant entrances at renowned fashion houses. However, this season showcased designers embracing their individual visions with mixed results. Notably, Cathy Horyn critiqued Louise Trotter’s latest work at Bottega Veneta for its lack of coherence and flattering execution.
Despite some stumbling, the season generated considerable excitement. Prada innovatively featured models walking the runway multiple times, gradually shedding layers to reveal a total of 60 looks. Celebrities flocked to Gucci’s show by Demna Gvasalia, while anticipation surrounded Maria Grazia Chiuri’s debut at Fendi in Milan.
Designers seemed focused on creating collections that were both captivating and practical for everyday wear. Erdem paired wide-leg jeans with brocade and feathers, while Emilia Wickstead styled cable-knit crewnecks with evening dresses. Wool suiting and tailored separates were also prevalent, likely reflecting the return-to-office mindset.
Key trends from the Fall 2026 Fashion Week runways included:
1. **Power suits:** Despite economic uncertainties, designers emphasized statement suiting for women navigating a challenging career landscape. Boldly padded shoulders and pinstripe sets were prominent at brands like Paul Costelloe, Tod’s, Tom Ford, Thom Browne, and Givenchy.
2. **Fur coats:** Vintage-style fur coats in medium and dark brown hues made a comeback for Fall 2026, with slim-cut belted options suitable for day-to-evening wear from Fforme, TWP, and Burberry, while more lavish styles by Stella McCartney, Michael Kors, and Saint Laurent were ideal for evening outings.
3. **Disheveled layers:** Fall 2026 runways showcased a mix of informal and polished ensembles, with off-the-shoulder coats at Erdem, Toteme, and Ulla Johnson. The MM6 Maison Margiela collection featured garments intentionally “shifted off balance,” reflecting a trend towards intentional layering in uncertain times.
4. **Updated pencil skirts:** A revival of the pencil skirt trend was evident across collections from Marc Jacobs, Prada, MSGM, and Jil Sander. These skirts, offered in various fabrics and colors, were versatile for office settings and after-work meetings, styled elegantly with heels or flats.
5. **Sporty mix:** Designers skillfully combined sporty elements with dressy attire, introducing a sense of ease and movement. Track jackets were paired with eveningwear at Simone Rocha, while performance separates were juxtaposed with tailored outerwear at Mame Kurogouchi and Lacoste.
6. **Dropped waists:** Departing from the previous season’s focus on bustle-inspired designs, Fall 2026 showcased silhouettes with dropped waists. Alaïa and Jacquemus featured V-shaped basque waists elongating dresses, while Chanel, Altuzarra, Tory Burch, and Alex S. Yu offered relaxed interpretations of the trend.
The Fall 2026 Fashion Week unveiled a diverse range of trends, reflecting a blend of creativity, practicality, and adaptability in the fashion landscape.