Khaite Demonstrates How to Achieve the Look of the Ultimate Sophisticated Cool Girl

      The Khaite girl represents the pinnacle of refined coolness. She doesn't just follow trends—she establishes her own rhythm. By blending elegance with an edgy spirit, she cultivates a style that is both relaxed and stylish. Imagine oversized leather jackets with loose black trousers and heels, or leather pencil skirts matched with chunky sweaters, casually styled with pushed-up sleeves. Her natural hair, with its frizz, whether deliberate or not, enhances her effortless presence, often described as confidence. While she may appear self-assured on the surface, she shares struggles with insecurities like many others. Catherine Holstein, the founder and creative director, delved into this concept for her Spring 2026 collection. "I find this notion of confidence rooted in insecurity and self-consciousness," she shared with WWD. "It’s perfectly fine to feel self-conscious and insecure. I derive confidence from that." Holstein redefined confidence, opening her show in the dimly lit McCourt at the Shed in NYC with a selection of raw looks. One featured a leather jacket with striking, angular seams and unusual folds, combined with casual dark-wash jeans and classic black heels. Another highlighted an avant-garde cream midi dress with a nearly architectural essence, featuring structured, asymmetrical draping and layers of sheer, light tan fabric that added movement and volume at the neckline. A sleek hairstyle with some baby hairs left out provided an organic touch. Throughout the collection, Holstein maintained her brand's intricate yet minimalist aesthetics while experimenting with patterns and shapes, evident in cinched-waist dresses, peplum tops, and polka-dot maxi skirts. For more on Holstein’s S/S 26 collection for Khaite, including an appearance by Kendall Jenner on the runway, continue reading.

      **Khaite's Elite Circle**

      Khaite's show was a showcase of style, both on and off the runway. Celebrities like Shailene Woodley, Chloe Fineman, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and Olivia Munn donned head-to-toe Khaite looks, embodying the essence of the stylish New York City Khaite girl. From long pony-hair coats paired with straight-leg jeans and sandals to zebra-printed tops and skirts matched with new Blake and Lori bags, these women illustrated that the Khaite show began long before guests took their seats. Notable attendees included fashion figures such as Arielle Charnas, Sarah Harris, and Olivia Palermo.

      **Exaggerated Silhouettes**

      The collection prominently featured exaggerated silhouettes. This was seen in long leather jackets with broad shoulders, dresses and tops with cinched waists that expanded into bubble hems, deconstructed peplum tops, and blouses with dramatic balloon sleeves. These designs cater to the maximalist dresser—those who are unapologetically themselves and unafraid to make bold statements.

      **Dark-Rinse Denim**

      Who What Wear has already noted that dark-wash denim is the must-have choice for 2025. The good news is its continued presence, as Khaite reinforced this in its S/S 26 collection. Holstein showcased new indigo wash jeans in straight-leg cuts that relaxed from the thigh to the ankle. Particularly noteworthy were the revival of dark-wash denim pencil skirts featuring cuff hems that exposed the raw underside of the denim. If you haven't added dark-wash jeans to your wardrobe yet, consider this your sign. The deep, rich wash offers a sleek and almost uniform appearance.

      **The Belt That's Coming for the Benny**

      Since its launch over a year ago, the Benny belt, characterized by its bold studs and Western-inspired buckle, has become an essential accessory among fashion insiders. While it remains in demand, the Benny may face competition soon. At Khaite's S/S 26 show, a new belt was introduced featuring a sleek black leather or tan suede band with a gold hammered design in circular or oval shapes. This elegant accessory, perfect for pairing with black trousers, jeans, and denim skirts, made a striking impression across five of the 46 looks.

      **Spotted!**

      Kendall Jenner made an appearance on the runway at the Khaite show. But when we say “spotted,” we really refer to the polka-dot prints interspersed throughout the New York-based brand's collection. The first look that drew our attention was a black and white high-neck blouse worn beneath a tan leather jacket, paired with a calf-hair pencil skirt and snakeskin sandals. As the show progressed, the polka dots became more pronounced—showing up in larger patterns on low-waisted maxi skirts with asymmetrical waistbands. Although polka dots have been prominent in other recent spring collections, it’s exciting to see them receive Khaite's endorsement.

      **Leather Overload**

      Holstein knows exactly what Khaite customers want, and one of those cravings is high-quality leather. Therefore, the new collection featured