Prepare to be transported back in time! While social media is awash with nostalgic references to 2016, the upcoming Fall 2026 edition of New York Fashion Week is taking inspiration from the year 1416. Yes, you read that right! Designers are looking back to the medieval era, and the results are sure to surprise.
As we eagerly await the start of the shows this Wednesday, some designers have shared sneak peeks of their creative visions with WWD. Among them is the talented Stephen Biga, who is set to unveil his second Mel Usine collection, heavily influenced by the enchanting tapestry series “La Dame à la Licorne.” Over at Area, Nicholas Auburn, who is settling into his role as creative director, is weaving the rich history of French tapestries into his designs, reminiscent of those crafted at the historic Musée Manufacture des Gobelins.
The Des Gobelins factory, which originally operated as a medieval dyeing facility, perfectly encapsulates the current climate of luxury fashion and global affairs. It’s easy to see why such themes from the Dark Ages are making a comeback. Just take a look at Elena Velez’s striking lambskin corset or Christian Cowan’s eye-catching chainmail dress, both of which would be fit for a front-row attendee straight out of a Knight Templar tale.
On a more uplifting note, there are several exciting anniversaries to celebrate during this fashion week. Notably, Michael Kors will be celebrating 45 years in the industry on Thursday, and if the chandelier he showcased is any indication, it promises to be a spectacular event. Additionally, both Sergio Hudson and Cinq à Sept are commemorating ten years in fashion, with Cinq à Sept making its runway debut this season.
In terms of fresh talent, former Blumarine designer Nicola Brognano is ready to make waves with his new role at Seven For All Mankind, where he has appointed the iconic Chloë Sevigny as the brand ambassador. Here’s hoping that the coffee he photographed himself with is strong enough to give the denim label a much-needed boost!
Robert Rodriguez, who is leading the charge at Derek Lam, aims to introduce utility tailoring designed for “confident city women.” Recognizing the versatility every urban woman desires, Lafayette 148, Pamella Roland, and Tibi are also focusing their collections on chic suits. And men won’t be left behind either, as J. Press draws inspiration from Ivy League prep styles while Todd Snyder channels Wall Street sophistication.
Moreover, designers such as Jane Wade, the Tanner Fletcher duo, and Aknvas’ Christian Juul Nielsen are embracing an alpine aesthetic, aligning perfectly with the Winter Olympics set to take place in Milano Cortina.
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner on Saturday, many designers are approaching their collections with a romantic lens. Wes Gordon collaborates with several female artists at Carolina Herrera, while Henry Zankov captures the essence of a romantic rendezvous through reflections in his window designs. Meanwhile, LaQuan Smith finds inspiration in a muse lounging at the bar, sipping a martini.
Interestingly, the works submitted by Smith, Prabal Gurung, and potentially others highlight the ongoing tension between high-tech innovation and traditional craftsmanship in fashion. For example, Hervé Léger features a head adorned with a snake, representing cutting-edge technology, whereas Tory Burch showcases a classic silver etching that epitomizes craftsmanship. This blend of aesthetics serves as a reminder to tread carefully. As the visionary Christian Siriano once put it, the line separating dreams from reality is indeed very fine.
Curious to see more of what Fall 2026 at NYFW has in store? Don’t miss the gallery above!
