Forget Minimalism—at Prada, pastel coats, Frankenstein skirts, and an abundance of jewelry signified a new chapter in fashion.

Forget Minimalism—at Prada, pastel coats, Frankenstein skirts, and an abundance of jewelry signified a new chapter in fashion.

      It's Prada day, a time when fashion enthusiasts from around the globe united, regardless of the hour, to witness the unveiling of Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons's latest designs. I watched the show from the steps of Prada's SoHo store alongside Parsons students, as well as editors, stylists, and influencers who opted not to travel to Milan this season. Our editorial director, Lauren Eggertsen, experienced the debut from Fondazione Prada, the art institution that hosts the Italian brand's runway show each season. Many others tuned in on their iPhones and laptops, zooming in on every detail and capturing screenshots for later analysis.

      The Prada show consistently offers a glimpse into the future of fashion. It rarely resembles what other brands are presenting, always feeling fresh and innovative, and it illustrates what fashion is about to become. The key insight from the spring/summer 2026 collection is that minimalism will soon fade from the limelight, paving the way for bolder (yet still sophisticated) aesthetics to emerge. Bright clashes of orange, purple, red, and pink will replace subdued neutrals in our spring wardrobes, while extravagant accessories—such as satin opera gloves, colorful drop earrings featuring oversized gemstones, and rhinestone-adorned pumps—will replace more understated choices. Consequently, viewers did not experience the serene atmosphere typical of some shows; instead, those witnessing the collection for the first time seemed inspired and energized about the future of fashion. "People seemed to really love it," Eggertsen shared with me over Slack after the show. "Everyone was excited, chatty, and cheering!" New eras have that effect.

      Introducing the Frankenstein Skirt

      You might be curious about what exactly a Frankenstein skirt is. Essentially, it's a silhouette that only Prada could render chic, where multiple skirts seem to have been combined into a patchwork design. The brand showcased a more tailored, simplified version in its fall/winter 2024 show, utilizing backless skirts that can be styled both ways, paired with various slip skirts to suit one's mood. For spring/summer 2026, it appears that options for mixing and matching skirts may be reduced, encouraging the embrace of intentional chaos as seen in a ruffled orange taffeta skirt attached to a lace slip, among other materials and styles. A different version featured a model wearing a gray satin skirt layered with a pink, tiered taffeta skirt. Why settle for just one piece when you can have them all?

      Prada and Simons Are Adorning Again

      There was a time when rhinestones and jewels were a staple at Prada (and Miu Miu!), but it's been a while since such extravagant detailing played a significant role in their collections. However, they're making a comeback for spring/summer 2026. Pearl-encrusted collars graced hefty satin tunics, and colorful ornaments adorned square-neck tops layered over buttoned-up shirts. Even the kitten heels received a rhinestone upgrade, with diamond embellishments dangling from the backs of many pumps in the collection, resembling a "just married" sign on a pristine vintage car.

      Car Coats for Spring

      If you thought car coats were a big deal for fall, wait until you see the options Prada presented for spring 2026. Featuring classic Prada styles in cool khaki tones to pastel-painted leather versions that can elevate any outfit, there was a car coat for everyone. This outerwear staple, known for its simple design—a knee-length hem combined with a single-breasted closure—creates a practical and timeless top layer. Prada and Simons, of course, added their unique flair, particularly through styling, pairing them with bold skirts and long gloves in vibrant hues.

      Deep Vs, Coach Jackets, and Polo Collars Introduce a Touch of Prep

      It seemed that the preppy trend we first noted after Michael Rider's debut at Celine back in July was here to stay. Indeed, preppy elements continued to make an appearance leading into spring 2026, featuring unique takes on polo collars in primary colors paired with tiny, peach briefs that debuted in today’s show, along with bright yellow coach jackets styled over button-down shirts and deep V-neck sweaters tucked into suspender skirts. Low-profile suede sneakers evoked an almost boat shoe vibe, while oversized glasses and Peter Pan collars attached to faded leather coats contributed to the preppy vibe that resonated through Fondazione Prada.

      Zoom In for More

      Often, the best part of a new collection is getting up close and personal with the pieces. There are always more details than one can catch during the show, and for spring/summer 2026, these details included exposed stitching on thick satin gloves and drawstring bags, both in pastel pink and yellow. Elegant pumps showcased a flirtatious hint of toe cleavage, along with delicate bows and the aforementioned rhinestone embellishments. Sunglasses and eyewear featured unexpected ornaments visible only because of the models' slicked-back hairstyles.

Forget Minimalism—at Prada, pastel coats, Frankenstein skirts, and an abundance of jewelry signified a new chapter in fashion. Forget Minimalism—at Prada, pastel coats, Frankenstein skirts, and an abundance of jewelry signified a new chapter in fashion. Forget Minimalism—at Prada, pastel coats, Frankenstein skirts, and an abundance of jewelry signified a new chapter in fashion. Forget Minimalism—at Prada, pastel coats, Frankenstein skirts, and an abundance of jewelry signified a new chapter in fashion. Forget Minimalism—at Prada, pastel coats, Frankenstein skirts, and an abundance of jewelry signified a new chapter in fashion. Forget Minimalism—at Prada, pastel coats, Frankenstein skirts, and an abundance of jewelry signified a new chapter in fashion. Forget Minimalism—at Prada, pastel coats, Frankenstein skirts, and an abundance of jewelry signified a new chapter in fashion. Forget Minimalism—at Prada, pastel coats, Frankenstein skirts, and an abundance of jewelry signified a new chapter in fashion. Forget Minimalism—at Prada, pastel coats, Frankenstein skirts, and an abundance of jewelry signified a new chapter in fashion. Forget Minimalism—at Prada, pastel coats, Frankenstein skirts, and an abundance of jewelry signified a new chapter in fashion. Forget Minimalism—at Prada, pastel coats, Frankenstein skirts, and an abundance of jewelry signified a new chapter in fashion. Forget Minimalism—at Prada, pastel coats, Frankenstein skirts, and an abundance of jewelry signified a new chapter in fashion.

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Forget Minimalism—at Prada, pastel coats, Frankenstein skirts, and an abundance of jewelry signified a new chapter in fashion.

Greet every item that fashionable individuals will be purchasing in the spring of 2026.