Khaite Demonstrates How to Achieve the Look of the Perfectly Sophisticated Cool Girl.
The Khaite girl epitomizes sophisticated coolness. Rather than adhering to trends, she sets her own style. By blending elegance with a touch of rebellion, she achieves a laidback yet chic look. Picture oversized leather jackets worn with loose black trousers and pumps, or leather pencil skirts paired with chunky sweaters, sleeves rolled up. Her naturally frizzy hair, whether by design or not, enhances her effortless feel, which some might interpret as confidence. Although she appears self-assured, she, like many, grapples with insecurities. Catherine Holstein, the brand's founder and creative director, delved into this theme in her spring 2026 collection. "The idea of confidence often discussed is something I find within insecurity and self-consciousness," she shared with WWD. "It's perfectly fine to be self-conscious and insecure. I derive my confidence from that." Holstein redefined the concept of confidence, launching her show at the dimly lit McCourt at the Shed in NYC with raw, striking looks. One featured a leather jacket with sharp seams and irregular folds, paired with everyday dark-wash jeans and classic black pumps. Another showcased an avant-garde cream midi dress that felt almost architectural, boasting structured, asymmetrical draping and layers of sheer light tan fabric that created movement around the neckline. A pulled-back hairstyle with baby hairs peeking out added an organic feel. Throughout the collection, Holstein maintained her brand's complex yet minimalist aesthetic while experimenting with patterns and shapes, evident in cinched-waist dresses, peplum tops, and polka-dot maxi skirts.
For more insights into Holstein's S/S 26 collection for Khaite, including a sighting of Kendall Jenner on the runway, keep reading.
**Khaite's Elite Circle**
Khaite's show was a demonstration of style, not just on the runway, but also outside the venue. Celebrities like Shailene Woodley, Chloe Fineman, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and Olivia Munn turned heads in head-to-toe Khaite, encapsulating the essence of the cool New York City Khaite girl. From long pony-hair jackets teamed with straight-leg jeans and sandals to the brand's zebra-printed skirts and tops paired with the new Blake and Lori bags, these individuals showcased that the Khaite presentation began long before attendees took their seats. Notable attendees included fashion insiders like Arielle Charnas, Sarah Harris, and Olivia Palermo.
**Exaggerated Silhouettes**
The collection embraced exaggerated silhouettes. This was clear in long leather jackets with broad shoulders, dresses and tops with cinched waists that flared into bubble hems, deconstructed peplum tops, and blouses with dramatic balloon sleeves. These designs cater to the maximalist dresser—someone who is unapologetically themselves and unafraid to stand out.
**Dark-Rinse Denim**
Who What Wear has already highlighted that dark-wash denim is the trending wash for 2025. The good news is that it’s here to stay, as Khaite confirmed in its S/S 26 collection. Holstein's new indigo wash jeans in straight-leg styles, which relax from the thigh to the ankle, were showcased on the runway. Particularly noteworthy were the now-revamped dark-wash denim pencil skirts with cuff hems that uncovered the raw underside of the denim. If you don’t own any dark-wash jeans yet, this is your cue to invest. The deep, rich color wash offers a sleek, almost uniform appearance that’s hard to resist.
**The Belt That's Coming for the Benny**
Since its debut over a year ago, the Benny belt, with its bold studs and Western-style buckle, has become essential in the wardrobes of fashion insiders. Although it remains in demand, Benny may soon have competition. At Khaite's S/S 26 presentation, a new belt emerged, featuring a sleek black leather or tan suede waistband adorned with a gold hammered design in circular or oval shapes. This elegant accessory, perfectly suited for black trousers, jeans, and denim skirts, was featured prominently across five of the 46 looks, making a memorable statement.
**Spotted!**
In case you missed it, Kendall Jenner was spotted on the Khaite runway—though when we say 'spotted,' we refer to the polka-dot patterns that featured throughout the New York-based brand's collection. One intriguing look included a black and white high-neck blouse layered under a tan leather jacket, worn with a calf-hair pencil skirt and snakeskin sandals. However, the standout moment arrived later with larger prints on low-waisted maxi skirts with asymmetrical waistbands. While polka dots have appeared in other recent spring collections, it's thrilling to see them embraced by Khaite.
**Leather Overload**
Holstein evidently understands Khaite's clientele, with a strong emphasis on
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Khaite Demonstrates How to Achieve the Look of the Perfectly Sophisticated Cool Girl.
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