Paris Fashion Week SS26: A Stunning Prelude to Spring Style
The City of Light recently hosted the Spring-Summer 2026 edition of its legendary Fashion Week, and designers pulled out all the stops. From Saint Laurent’s hydrangea-lined labyrinth to Louis Vuitton’s grand runway at the Louvre, the runway presentations revealed the season’s hottest trends. Ahead of the collections landing in stores, here are the standout looks you need to know—and shop—right now.
1. Oversized Bows and Sculptural Silhouettes
Saint Laurent kicked off the festivities on September 29 with a jaw-dropping display of colossal bows and sculptural tailoring. Models emerged from a maze of fresh pink and white hydrangeas, each ensemble punctuated by an exaggerated bow at the waist, neckline, or back. These voluminous accents offered a dramatic, sculptural effect, proving that bows aren’t just adorable—they can be downright architectural.
2. Vibrant Orange Hues Steal the Show
Orange took centre stage this season, vibrating across Saint Laurent’s sleek bodysuits, Louis Vuitton’s tuxedo blazers, and even statement shoes at Olympic revival brand Paloma Lira. The hue ranges from tangerine to burnt sienna, adding instant energy to neutral palettes of black, ivory, and olive. If you’re hesitant to commit head-to-toe, a bright orange accessory—think ankle boots or a clutch—will give your spring wardrobe a fresh jolt.
3. Fringed Movement for Effortless Elegance
Fringe isn’t new to fashion, but this season designers revived it with finesse. Giambattista Valli sent layers of long, delicate fringe down the runway, creating a sense of ethereal movement. Likewise, Dior’s twist on fringe combined metallic threads with cady fabric for a subtler glimmer. These flowing details add playful motion to even the simplest outfits—perfect for dancing under summer’s open skies.
4. Statement Belts in Supersized Proportions
Zomer, one of the emerging labels in Paris, made headlines with its “Belt of Giants.” These belt buckles, as wide as a smartphone, cinched flowing dresses and tailored jackets alike. The look draws attention to the waist while lending a bold, graphic element. Try replicating the trend by wrapping a wide satin or leather sash around your favourite spring dress—bonus points for metallic hardware.
5. Delicate Floral Prints Meet Modern Cutouts
Florals bloomed across collections, but not in the traditional sense. At Dior, designers juxtaposed romantic rose and peony prints with geometric cutouts, exposing glimpses of skin in unexpected places. Similarly, Rochas layered sheer floral organza over structured bodices, merging softness and strength. These hybrid styles work beautifully for garden parties or outdoor weddings, balancing femininity with contemporary edge.
6. Clean Lines and Architectural Tailoring
Louis Vuitton’s show at the Louvre highlighted the power of minimalism. Crisp tailoring, precise seam lines, and monochrome palettes created a gallery-worthy aesthetic. Think sharply cut wide-leg trousers, boxy blazers, and sleeveless trench vests. This architectural approach makes for a polished look that commands attention in boardrooms and city streets alike.
7. Sheer Layers and Textural Play
From Chloé’s whisper-thin chiffons to Acne Studios’ mesh layering, sheer fabrics added a touch of sensuality. Silhouettes ranged from sleek underpinnings peeking through loose overlays to tiered nets that added depth. When recreating this trend, start by pairing a lace camisole with a semi-sheer maxi skirt, then add a lightweight cardigan for a balanced, textural ensemble.
8. Footwear Spotlights: Sculpted Heels and Platform Sandals
Shoes were as imaginative as the outfits themselves. Sculpted heels, like those at Alaïa, resembled wearable art, curving into architectural shapes. Platform sandals made a comeback at Balenciaga, combining comfort with runway drama. Look for artisan-crafted heels and bold platform silhouettes to elevate your spring shoe game.
9. Bag Trends to Bag Your Spring Looks
The season’s must-have handbags ranged from micro-sized pouches at Jacquemus to oversized leather totes at Hermès. Crossbody styles featured gold hardware and braided straps, adding versatility. For a quick update, invest in a mid-size crossbody with a chunky chain or a vibrant tote to complement your seasonal palette.
10. Mix High and Low to Master the Trends
You don’t need a designer budget to capture these key looks. Here’s how to adapt them affordably:
- DIY Maxi Bow Belt: Transform a wide scarve into a sculptural bow belt—tie it off-centre for a modern feel.
- Orange Accent: Add orange through a printed scarf, belt, or statement earrings.
- Play with Fringe: Look for fringe-trimmed bags or keychains to accessorize basic outfits.
- Architectural Jewelry: Geometric earrings or sculpted cuffs can echo the season’s clean lines.
By blending a few standout elements with your existing wardrobe, you’ll be runway-ready long before stores fill up with full collections. After all, fashion is about personal expression—take these inspirations and make them uniquely yours this spring!
