A Significant MFW: Designer Introductions, Goodbyes, and All the Key Trends to Be Aware Of

      Fashion month is still in full swing, yet conversations about the spring/summer 2026 season have already begun, marking it as one that will be remembered for years and noted in history. It's thrilling to ponder that we get to witness fashion history unfold before us. How fortunate we are! Among the many significant moments that have transpired so far, Milan has been the center of attention. This past week, everyone focused on Milan Fashion Week as we celebrated the most-anticipated debuts of creative directors, experienced emotional farewell collections, and welcomed a new era in fashion's aesthetic. Notably, Bottega Veneta showcased Louise Trotter's first collection, which honors the brand’s heritage of craftsmanship and material innovation. At Versace, Dario Vitale infused his signature Miami allure with a strong '80s influence. Meanwhile, Simone Bellotti's futuristic tailoring and tranquil minimalism were a perfect fit for Jil Sander. Finally, Giorgio Armani bid a poignant farewell with a collection conceived by the late designer himself. And who could overlook the appearance of Meryl Streep—reminiscent of Miranda Priestly—sitting front row at Dolce & Gabbana? Now that the fashion crowd has moved on to Paris to wrap up the month, let’s take a moment to discuss everything we witnessed during the Milan Fashion Week S/S 2026 shows, which certainly provided ample material for reflection.

      **Color Theory**

      Color, color, and more color! While bright, vibrant hues have appeared on the runways in New York and London, Milan took it up a notch with designs that mixed tones from all over the color wheel. Orange with pink, red with blue, purple with green—the more unconventional the combinations, the better.

      **Gucci**

      Patent-Leather Coat

      **Emilia Wickstead**

      Harleigh Skirt

      **Prep School**

      Preppy styles are expected from traditional American brands, but European designers are also adopting a modern take on prep, making it a trend we anticipate for spring 2026. Prada embraced this with sporty jackets, Boss emphasized sharp tailoring, and Missoni offered a layered look with sweaters and sweatshirts that could easily pass for collegiate wear.

      **Aimé Leon Dore**

      Corduroy-Trimmed Blouson Jacket

      **&DAUGHTER**

      Balla Wool Sweater

      **Le Monde Beryl**

      Driver Croc-Effect Loafers

      **Out From Under**

      If you frequented Tumblr around 2010 to 2014, you might be having nostalgic moments with the exposed-bra trend. This style, especially paired with lariat necklaces and delicate body chains, made a comeback over a decade later. Prada’s interpretation featured oversized bra tops reminiscent of cutout doll outfits, while The Attico leaned more into the 2000s with push-up bras visible beneath fitted cardigans.

      **Fruity Booty**

      Black Moss Bra

      **Colleen Allen**

      Ruched Tulle Bralette

      **Futuristic Tailoring**

      Tailoring is evolving in bold ways. Jil Sander’s trousers featured hip-high cutouts, The Attico presented twisted blazers, and Max Mara showcased halter-top vests, indicating a creative shift in suiting towards futuristic silhouettes that redefine tailoring.

      **Courrèges**

      Cutout Mini Dress

      **In Motion**

      While Bottega Veneta’s fiberglass pieces garnered significant attention, it wasn’t the only show highlighting texture and movement. At Ferragamo, 1920s-inspired fringe adorned satin scarves that hung from tailored jackets, offering an elegant evening flair, and Alberta Ferretti displayed airy crochet.

      **LOULOU DE SAISON**

      Zaro Fringed Jersey Top

      **Dries Van Noten**

      Sokna Fringed Midi Skirt

      **Cult Gaia**

      Caia Knit Dress

      **Layer Cake**

      Typically, spring and summer are synonymous with lighter clothing, but this season introduced a fresh perspective on layering for warmer weather. Designers creatively incorporated poplin shirts beneath suede jackets at Missoni and cinched cardigans around pencil skirts at Versace, illustrating various innovative approaches to lightweight layers.

      **Bottega Veneta**

      Crepe Trench Coat

      **The Frankie Shop**

      Lui Silk Shirt

      **Brandon Maxwell**

      Tierney Midi Skirt

      **Intricacies**

      Sequins and embroidery emerged as prominent details this week, showcasing intricate beading on items like bra tops and briefs, which, when paired with more subdued pieces, created a remarkably chic effect.

      **Anna October**

      Jessica Beaded Silk Top

      **Lizzie Fortunato**

      Gala Sequined Bag

      **Khaite**

      Loop Beaded Sandals