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  • LFW (20th) SS26: Runway Roundup & Exciting News!

    The second full day of London Fashion Week is upon us today ladies and gents! With a lot of really cool up-and-comers on display throughout the day I will of course be writing about only the best and most WOW collections! However first I must mic-drop some information... I was confirmed for a show today! I will be walking a show tomorrow at LFW! I am buzzing, that massively long casting I wrote about 2 days ago clearly paid off because they booked me! I am super excited! But for now let's catch up on today's affairs. Starting off very strong with Patrick McDowell. Patrick McDowell - 20th @10am  Look 25 Patrick McDowell’s Spring 2026 show marked his ready-to-wear debut at London Fashion Week, hot on the heels of receiving the Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design. True to his ethos, the collection championed sustainability and craftsmanship as each piece is only going to be produced in limited runs of just 5–60 units and complete with a digital product passport (very ethical).  Simplistic silhouettes and precise tailoring defined the collection, with cropped trench coats as a recurring staple. Blurred poppy prints nodded to both spring florals and Remembrance Day - a meaningful, McDowell-style twist on the “groundbreaking” florals for spring trope. The embroidery and appliqué were show -stopping, particularly on Look 18 (below): a skirt-and-blazer set adorned with silver floral buttons, black velvet roses, and green silk stems. The 25-look show closed with two breathtaking bridal-style designs, one a two piece suit, and the final gown (shown above) featuring cascading white flowers, black ribbons, and a complete horseshoe tied to the right hip with black flowers holding it on! A symbolic, sentimental end. Fusing bespoke techniques with everyday elegance, McDowell’s debut ready-to-wear offering was thoughtful, theatrical, and beautifully executed. See the full collection here - https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2026-ready-to-wear/patrick-mcdowell/slideshow/collection Toga - 20th @1pm Toga’s Spring/Summer 2026 ready‑to‑wear collection by Yasuko Furuta continued the brand’s signature blend of duality, leaning into contrasts of softness vs edge. Quiet tailoring and clean lines are balanced with unexpected, playful details. The imagery and silhouettes shown throughout this collection hint towards a refined palette, more Toga than before.  The mood feels both wearable and artful, with just enough twist to avoid predictability. The use of prints throughout the collection is very clever, hints of a floral or a plaid or even a bold fruit print will pop out from under strictly tailored pieces to add a hint of fun and uniqueness to the pieces.  ​​Some of the key looks included sharp tops with relaxed hems, looks that play with proportion (think lengths and looseness, sometimes offset with tighter tailoring), and layering that mixes textures. Fabrics ranged from crisp to soft, with drape and structure both appearing across different looks. Accessories were mainly kept to a thoughtful minimum, however there are silver hardware details pronounced throughout the collection, supporting the main garments rather than overwhelming them. The show feels designed for someone who wants something off‑beat but still fundamentally practical, there were many strong ready-to-wear pieces, with a few looks that were elevated for more drama and event-wear!  Look 15 Such as my favourite look from the collection, Look 15. A crisp, architectural spirit dominates: a sharply tailored cropped blazer with a strong shoulder line is paired with a matching mini-skirt with accentuated waist. The gap between skirt and blazer accentuates the waist through an under layered body-suit paired with black leather belt. It is unique and unconventional, giving the silhouette both structure and fluidity.  This look is definitely modern, yet equally wearable, Toga brings pieces through this collection that speak with confidence without being too bold.  See the full collection here - https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2026-ready-to-wear/toga/slideshow/collection Ahluwalia - 20th @2pm Priya Ahluwalia’s SS26 sees her signature fusion of cultural heritage and fluid silhouettes evolve further. The collection blends relaxed tailoring with layering, think oversized jackets, drapey trousers, and soft shirts pairing with streetwear staples. SS26 had evolved staples for the designer - fringing, knit, prints, embellishments etc. Textures and prints played a supporting but strong role: subtle graphic work, potentially done through tie‑dye or tonal distortions, which were then contrasted with solid pieces, lending softness and movement. The mood feels grounded, warm, wearable, but with punctuation: unexpected cuts, asymmetry, detachable or adjustable elements. What’s especially striking is how Ahluwalia leans consistently into identity and personal narrative. Accessories and detailing are thoughtful - visible seams, interesting notions of “unfinished” or deconstructed edges, sometimes raw hems, but all feeling intentional rather than rough. There’s a sense of dialogue: the everyday and the elevated, comfort and construction. Overall, it’s a collection that underscores Ahluwalia’s strength in making pieces that feel both meaningful and ready for real life. See the full collection here -  https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2026-ready-to-wear/ahluwalia-studio/slideshow/collection Roksanda - 20th @5pm  Roksanda’s SS26 collection showed designer Roksanda Ilinčić reinforcing her signature strengths: bold colour, sculptural volume, and a strong sense of form. Celebrating its 20th anniversary this season, we were expecting a bold collection to honour the Roksanda legacy. This was 100% completed with remarkably bold silhouettes appearing throughout the 32 look collection.  This collection leaned into a signature flair for drama, with striking silhouettes, sweeping gowns, and architectural draping that echo movement and fluidity. Bold colour-blocking and unexpected combinations including bright orange, royal blue, and even dip-dye effects (as seen in Look 12 - shown above) - inject vibrancy into the lineup, alongside clever contrasts between structured tailoring and softer, more romantic elements.  Among the lineup, bold bordering-on-couture looks sit alongside more subdued everyday pieces, creating a deliberate juxtaposition. Fringing emerged as a prominent trend, adding texture and motion throughout - including some really cool tassel bags! A standout orange jacket - Look 9 shown on left - felt punchy and powerful, while some simpler office-style fabrics offered balance, and borderline Zara vibes. Not every experiment landed - certain paper, tinsel-like looks arguably veered into tacky territory, but overall, the collection showed strong creative direction.  While there are undeniable show-stoppers, much of the collection’s impact lies in its craftsmanship and attention to detail - a thoughtful harmony between the dramatic and the wearable. See the full collection here -  https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2026-ready-to-wear/roksanda/slideshow/collection Richard Quinn - 20th @7pm Look 1 Naomi Campbell just opened for Richard Quinn SS26. WOW. WHAT. HOW.  This collection was superb, you know when you can just tell when a designer loves women and makes them feel beautiful with fashion. Richard Quinn just successfully did this. Naomi Campbell for starters, opened up the picturesque runway in front of a live orchestra wearing a beautiful fitted black velvet maxi dress, with a white flower appliqued to the chest and white shoulders swooping across the back elegantly.  This look set up the trajectory of the other 55 looks to come, with more florals dispersed throughout the collection, among meticulously magnificent beadwork embellishments. The collection is made up of 56 gowns, which you would imagine would mean there would be a few looks which are reasonably sub-par. Wrong.  The silhouettes include dropped waists, capes, a- line, sweetheart, arched, square, collared, the list goes on and on. Each and every gown had so much individuality. With the collection telling a story throughout. First beginning with more simplistic silhouettes, added to with large white florals. Then moving on to a bow theme, which carried on throughout but started with the yellow embellished looks, moving swiftly onto green, then purple, then florals. And then the tone swapped completely to a red velvet, more bold, less safe than other looks. Equally breathtaking. Still the black velvet bows ran throughout, even when the looks transitioned yet again to blue prints, florals, and more beadwork!  ABOVE - LOOKS (in order) 52, 16, 36 It was insane. The development throughout the collection was stunning and still by now we are only at Look 33/57. The looks then transition to deeper tones, a deep blue velvet begins to appear, then deep blue tulle and of course matching beadwork. The diversity of the gowns was insane. The atelier must have been working non-stop for months prior. This is what fashion is all about! There are then more florals, then pinks, then golds, and finally I reached the final 14 looks which were quite clearly bridal inspired. My mouth was on the floor by this point. Oh my god. Look 56 Some models walked gracefully down the runway with bouquets in their hands, others without. There were so many varieties of brides on show. Of course there was the same embellishment detail as before, but now with elegant bridal touches, silk gloves, more white florals but this time white bows to match. Lots of lace, ruffles, and mountains upon mountains of tulle. Look 52 (above), I would happily get married in, a stunning beaded corset draped perfectly down the model to a dropped waist, and then a simplistic skirt took over and towered down to the floor. Stunning! Every look I was hungry for more on the next slide, this collection brought me back to life. It made me regain my love for fashion (not that it was lost - just that it was growing weaker) all in one collection. I have a new name to add to my wedding dress designer list now. Keep that in mind Richard Quinn… See the full collection here - https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2026-ready-to-wear/richard-quinn/slideshow/collection What’s to come  As mentioned above, yours truly has a runway tomorrow! Ahhhhh. I'm actually kind of nervous. But I will remain calm and mysterious, and of course I will be supplying all the BTS goodness you all need. Among that my day will be occupied with reporting on some of the exciting shows on offer tomorrow (21st September), including Emilia Wickstead, Marques A'lmeida, Simone Rocha, and Erdem! And as an even bigger bonus our Marketing Assistant is working behind-the-scenes tomorrow at the Marques A'lmeida show so you'll be getting one hell of a London Fashion Week dump after tomorrow... can't wait. With love, Mimi x

  • LFW (19th) SS26: Runway Roundup

    London Fashion Week - 19th - Day in Review - The first whole day of London Fashion Week just closed with the Labrum London show, with a live band to set the tone and close the night off! A whole day from 9am-9pm full of emerging, and well known designers displaying the recent fruits of their creative minds. It looked amazing.  After such a packed day I think it’s only right if you get a quick synopsis of the day. Including only my favourites, and the most anticipated, giving you only the info you need to know as a fashion lover this London Fashion Week! This issue includes - Paul Costelloe who set the tone this morning, Di Petsa, Fashion East, Mark Fast, Chopova Lowena,  and an event dinner from JW Anderson x The British Fashion Council, and finally Labrum London…  Paul Costelloe - 19th @9am  Paul Costelloe opened up LFW day 1 with a show at 9am. Wow. Personally, it was too early for me, so I had to catch up. They are a long-standing LFW favourite, and for good reason, known for their refined tailoring and bold silhouettes that blend classic British heritage with modern flair. Paul Costelloe I actually casted for this season and got clearly rejected. But I can’t even be mad because the models were so perfectly selected!  This collection was an ode to the old heritage, bold and vibrant streets of Rodeo Drive in 1960s Beverly Hills, with the collection fittingly titled ‘Boulevard of Dreams’. The hair and makeup was so complimentary to the looks. The entire collection was giving Barbie. All monochromatic looks in 3 main colour categories, pink, blue, orange and yellow. Most of which was in a plaid - which I can definitely get behind as a pattern for SS26. The subtle tailoring of each look - blazers, skirts, dresses, it was all stunning. And perfectly paired with chunky statement jewels (still in the monochromatic pattern) as well as block heels - really adding to the Barbie vibe! I loved this collection, the hair in particular was my favourite. The back combed beehive was 100% giving a vintage Barbie - 60s Beverly Hills Barbie to be exact, as well as the pastel makeup and exaggerated lower lashes. Sixties swing dresses in vibrant apricot waltzed down the runway, they were all styled in 60s silhouettes. However there were still modernised touches such as metallics which were evident but softened through pearly hues on babydoll dresses. It was perfect, each and every model looked like a walking piece of art.  See the full collection here - https://www.tag-walk.com/en/collection/woman/paul-costelloe/spring-summer-2026?city=london Dreaming Eli - 19th @2pm Held in a dramatic church setting the collection continues  on the brand’s tradition of blending corsetry, fluid silhouettes, and intricate detailing. There was lace, layering, and drapery, with contrasts of rigidity and softness. There was definitely a romantic, ethereal aesthetic with an emotional edge. Femininity was explored through the storytelling of the collection and the craftsmanship.  My favourite look - Look 41 - Is a black and white lace dream, it blends the materials seamlessly on the model and they look as if they float off her body. The silhouette and cut of the dress is stunning - this collection surprised me, coming from an emerging designer such as Dreaming Eli - however I am pleasantly surprised! See the full collection here - https://www.tag-walk.com/en/collection/woman/dreaming-eli/spring-summer-2026?city=london Di Petsa - 19th @2:30  Where do I begin? It was a wet and sandy universe , designer Dimitra Petsa fell into the realm of “magical realism”; the collection provided a 45 look database of sea creatures. Some models looked spectacularly mermaid-esque,  goddesses of the sea, very much spring/ summer approved. Others looked as if the sea had just spat them out, with sand and mud dripping off of them. A few of the models looked even visibly embarrassed to be strutting with mud falling off their faces. This was Petsa’s first independent show, held at a new multi -purpose building in Kings Cross.  It is a big step to take and after four years and not so much a newbie she flew the nest to go into the spotlight purely herself. The collection is actually really very creative and cool, one of the looks even has a sand castle cap which is very original! And the final look is a breathtaking sand coloured ruffle- tiered dress, very much oozing the mermaid queen vibe! Petsa’s goal and vision was exceptionally strong and this is a killer first collection. I’m excited for what’s to come… See the full collection here -  https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2026-ready-to-wear/di-petsa/slideshow/collection Fashion East - 19th @4pm Fashion East, the non-profit incubator for emerging designers, celebrated its 25th anniversary this LFW with a showcase of three SS26 collections. Below are three images - shown in order 1,2,3. First up was Louis Mayhew, making his Fashion East debut with 13 streetwear-inspired, DIY-driven looks full of scrunchy textures, raw energy, and playful, unconventional details - such as the opening look which had random pieces of broken china hanging from a polo!  The second designer, Nuba, led by Cameron Williams, returned for their third season with Fashion East, with 13 minimalist, sustainably-minded tailored looks, blending clever formalwear  (fracks, redingotes) with strong craftsmanship and a refined colour palette. More simplistic colour palette and less bold choices than others, but the niche is strong.  Finally, Barcelona-born Jacek Gleba, fresh from Central Saint Martins, presented 12 bold, conceptually edgy looks that fused sportswear and outerwear in an unorthodox manner with polished tailoring.The 12 look collection had a very strong vision, as well as colour palette - his design sensibility leans toward polished tailoring with conceptual edge.  It was an exciting showcase, highlighting three designers to watch in future seasons. See the full collection here - https://www.tag-walk.com/en/collection/woman/fashion-east/spring-summer-2026?city=london Mark Fast - 19th @5pm Mark Fast’s Spring 2026 lineup was deeply inspired by nature and process, channeling time by the sea and the art of transformation, like sea‑glass smoothed by tides, into knitwear that feels both raw and refined. He leaned on strong yarns with tubular techniques to deliver body‑conscious silhouettes: hand‑crocheted skirts, bralettes, and dresses that hug while also achieving seamless construction.  The 36 look collection featured many knits, however the closing look - first right - was my favourite. A black knitted one piece with cascading flared feathers from the knee, and such a perfectly shaped knit top section! It was perfectly constructed and I would personally pay good money to wear it. I was made to use the knit machine once at college and I have got to say it is a craft in itself, it is so difficult to perfect - and he’s done just that! It is truthfully very chaotic, but as Fast says, “something beautiful comes out at the end.” Amid the knits, he added contrast with pale velour separates, lace and washed‑denim pieces salted with beach‑found bleach tones, and gothic‑leaning details in black ruffles and lace to offset softer pastels. The collection plays with opposites, handcrafted vs mass reproducible, delicate vs grungy, polished vs rugged -  all while maintaining that signature knit‑led intimacy. See the full collection here - https://www.tag-walk.com/en/collection/woman/mark-fast/spring-summer-2026?city=london Chopova Lowena - 19th @6pm Chopova Lowena, founded in 2017 by Central Saint Martins graduates Emma Chopova and Laura Lowena, blends folk craft, punk, and school uniform references into distinctive, playful collections. Their SS26 Collection just debuted in London, labelled “Cheer Squad”, showcasing the brand’s signature pleating, tartans, folkloric embroidery, quirky prints, and DIY-inspired details, creating a visually rich, almost sensory-overload runway. This collection didn’t disappoint in any of these regards, featuring their typical vibe. Incorporating something for a lot of different demographics! They had goth core chainmail, lots of black, quirky prints, deconstructed skirts and lots of  safety pins. Many of the looks reminded me of Bratz dolls! There were many school skirt style looks as well, an ode to a punky, goth school girl who would do anything in her power to accessorise her school uniform!  In 2024, they won the British Fashion Council, receiving £150,000 plus expert mentorship and lots of support! It’s no wonder their location was grander, their looks were more thought out, and their hair and makeup team were perfect. For a brand on the rise they are doing amazingly. This collection wasn’t something I would personally put in my wardrobe but they know their target audience to a T and that’s the most important thing for a brand. See the full collection here - https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2026-ready-to-wear/chopova-lowena/slideshow/collection JW Anderson x British Fashion Council Dinner Event - 19th @8pm  A dinner by JW Anderson is not one I ever want to miss. While I may not be RSVP’ing just yet, I’m happy to cheer from the side lines! JW Anderson is truly one of a kind and as his much anticipated first Womenswear collection at Dior is looming upon us at PFW, (which i cannot contain my excitement for!!)  I'm assuming he doesn’t want to take away from that and so for his own eponymous label he is hosting a dinner! With the help of the British Fashion Council, this dinner event sets the tone for a creative renewal.  Labrum London - 19th @9pm Labrum London, founded in 2014 by Foday Dumbuya, blends his Sierra Leonean heritage with London upbringing to create menswear that bridges Western and West African influences through thoughtful, detail-driven design. The SS26 collection told a clear story of heritage, with 36 looks featuring standout hats - from royal guard inspired dual -brimmed styles with shells and feathers to towering sculptural straw creations. It was so perfectly done. The collection initially wasn’t even on my list but caught my eye immediately when scrolling on instagram!  The collection balanced bright shades like orange, teal, and purple with more muted earthy tones, combining tailored silhouettes and relaxed fits across dresses, blazers, skirts, and expertly fitted suits. Labrum London’s commitment to craftsmanship and meticulous construction was evident throughout, reinforcing the brand’s unique approach to cultural storytelling and modern menswear - blurring the lines with some womenswear pieces along the way. See the full collection here - https://www.tag-walk.com/en/collection/woman/labrum-london/spring-summer-2026?city=london What's to come The 19th has come to a close and the 20th is now upon us! If this much fresh talent was given to us on day 1 I can only imagine how the remaining 3 days are going to go. I’m looking forward to Toga , Roksanda, and Sinead Gorrey coming to us later!  I need to nap before I go to more castings! Then more writing. Some of my best friends are walking in shows today, I am buzzing for them and super excited to get the bts gossip - which I will of course be sharing. Stay tuned. With love,  Mimi x

  • Inside LFW (18th): Castings, Runways, and Exclusive Events

    Yesterday felt like an absolute fever dream. I just woke up after a 14-hour nap, completely wiped out from juggling NYFW reporting, starting university, and keeping up with back-to-back castings for London Fashion Week. Don’t get me wrong, I’m ridiculously grateful for this life I lead and and wouldn’t trade it for anything. Now, let me give you an insider’s look at what life is really like for a model during LFW… I started the day out by waking up at an ungodly hour, racing to get on a train before the inevitable train problems ensued. Got into London fresh-faced at 9am and headed straight to the agency, LFW is literally hell for the agents, it’s a whole two weeks of no sleep and working 24/7 so I usually avoid the office as much as possible, however the casting I was on my way to was a bulk casting - one i’ve never experienced before. So I needed many comp cards (for those who aren’t aware it’s a card with 2 images of the model, one face and one full body, and all of our measurements - a synopsis of the model basically!) I secured my comp cards - 12 to be exact - and headed to the casting, but not before cheekily asking for one of the fashion week goodie bags! Agencies get so many sponsorships during LFW, so I secured my bag (shown below) of Charlotte Tilbury, Garnier, Kiko, Dash, Candy Kittens and so many more. Really kept me going the whole day. my goodie bag!!! Oh and I forgot to mention, as a slightly shorter model myself (5’8) I always wear my trusted Reformation knee - high boots to castings, and this time I didn't even bring any flats to change into. Big mistake. I could feel blisters forming an hour into my journey, it was hell. I arrived at the casting to see a line that was comically long, winding around a skyscraper and looping back around a second time.  As far as a request casting goes, it seemed like all London models in the country had been requested. Luckily we had a friend in the queue and joined her, we waited in the line for 2 long hours, talking and rooting through my goodie bag of course! We even got taken out of the line for a street interview - they knew my outfit was too good to pass up.  When we finally got into the building it was unlike any casting I've ever been to before. There were 14 tables spread over the building, 9 downstairs and 5 upstairs and you had to walk in front of the table, give them your card and walk 4 more times. Then depending on if they liked you or not you would have to walk more, take pictures or they would brutally reject you. The first table I went to set me off to a humbling start. They made me walk 6 times - in front of about 200 other models may I add - and then handed me my card back at the end. Brutal.   Thankfully most of the others went well and I even got told I had a nice walk by one group! I love castings for London Fashion week because the turnaround is so quick, like i’ll know within 3 days if i’ve got anything or not because LFW is over in 3 days. There’s no hanging around for weeks in anticipation like many other modelling options. Thank god. So after arriving at 9am it was now 2pm, and like typical models me and my friends hadn’t eaten a thing so we ran to get a Pret before going to a second casting. That took another hour, and then they were so jealous of my goodie bag we went back to the agency to get them one as well - and to restock on more comp cards because the 14 at the first casting had wiped my stash out! So after another replenish of cards we headed back out and I raced to Westfield to get some ballet flats before going to an event in the evening. It was 4pm by this point so I headed back to my apartment in London to chill and recover from such a hectic morning. I literally had to bathe my feet after the torture of 15,000 steps in my heeled boots. Crazy behaviour from me. So I napped and recovered and headed out for the Lacoste x LNCC event I had been invited to that evening.  LNCC x Lacoste x Frank Dorrey Event:  As a model occasionally we get invited to events, especially during any fashion weeks and as a fashion student now as well I really love the exposure and chance to network it allows me! So me and my social media assistant headed to the event with some of my model friends, who I had just seen 2 hours prior at the castings!  We had been promised free Lacoste polos upon the invitation, and received no such thing. Outraged! Joking. The ambiance was cool, the place was packed with models, some of which were from my agency but I had never met, so it was nice to expand my agency circle! I even met an ex-love islander (albeit an irrelevant one). The DJ was kind of weird but you know what I can get behind it, kind of robotic vibe music. It was not my kind of music but everyone was head-bopping so it seemed to be the vibe. The atmosphere was really chill and everyone was absurdly fashionable and very cool. I had to race to the bathroom to put my boots back on so I didn't feel miniscule next to the towering male models. While on the way back from the event, we of course got harassed on the streets of London as usual, however when I finally got on a train - because there were of course train issues! I was rooting through my photos from the day and realised I failed to get one of my super cool outfits. What an idiot. But I also saw while scouting instagram that the starting day of LFW had gone down a treat! With really cool events taking place - one of which I'd just been to - and the first runway of LFW, Harris Reed!  I knew then and there I had to write all about his collection, which I've just done.  Read all about it here - Harris Reed SS26 - A theatrical opening to London Fashion Week I also knew I needed to cover some of the goings-on I missed while being such a booked and busy model yesterday! I knew for a fact I had to cover the insanely cool H&M&180 event and catwalk that had taken place. I mean the runway that evening was so star-studded I was shocked! I didn’t know H&M did it like that.  H&M&180 : The London Issue Event and Catwalk: Last night (18th), H&M unveiled its Autumn/Winter 2025 collections with an ambitious, genre-blurring showcase at London Fashion Week. Held at 180 The Strand, the event - titled H&M&180: The London Issue - brought together fashion, music, and digital innovation in a three-act runway-meets-concert experience. With a cast of 70 models - including Alex Consani, Lila Moss, and Romeo Beckham, performances by Lola Young, and appearances from stars like Central Cee, Little Simz, and Emily Ratajkowski, the show celebrated self-expression and style through immersive staging, monumental screens, and an eclectic soundtrack. See a video of the catwalk here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOwyn2MihPC/?igsh=MTZlODd5Y3lnN3gwcA== During the day, prior to the show H&M hosted panel talks and workshops led by Perfect Magazine, spotlighting creatives such as Susie Lau, David Kappo, and Sølve Sundsbø. The event culminated in a high-energy after-party with DJs Honey Dijon and Pxssy Palace. Blending fashion with culture, community, and cutting-edge presentation, H&M’s show positioned the A/W25 collections as a bold tribute to personal style and London’s creative spirit. What’s to Come - As the first whole day of LFW approaches us today with a full timetable from 9am - 9pm. Including shows from Paul Costelloe, Stephen Jones, Dreaming Eli, Mark Fast, and an event dinner from JW Anderson x The British Fashion Council. Today is already full steam ahead and I’m excited to report on it all for you. With love, Mimi x

  • Harris Reed SS26: A Theatrical Opening to London Fashion Week

    Look 1 Ten seasons into his eponymous label, Harris Reed is beginning to reflect on his house codes. Known for making spectacle a signature, Reed’s Spring 2026 collection revealed a surprising sense of intimacy and ease, though still firmly rooted in his maximalist, Met Gala-worthy, theatrical DNA. This season's outing took place in the low-lit, salon-style setting of the Gothic Bar at St. Pancras London. It felt more personal than past collections, but no less impactful. Reed is no stranger to extravagance - hell, the man had four outrageously cool wedding outfits. A Central Saint Martins graduate (class of 2020), he made the bold move from Los Angeles to London to explore his gender-fluid identity through fashion and unleash the theatrical maximalism he always knew was in him - and now, so does the world. Even before graduating, Reed was thrust into the spotlight when Harry Styles wore one of his custom blouses. From that moment on, everything else seemed to rise up beneath his feet. His work is deeply inspired by themes of gender identity, glamour, and self-expression, often featuring dramatic silhouettes, historical references, and a strong sense of narrative. However, when it comes to Ready-to-Wear, I imagine it’s not an easy brief for someone like Reed. His designs are inherently intricate and theatrical. The Ready-to-Wear we were served last night, it’s Ready-to-Wear only if you’re heading to a red carpet! That said, Reed thrives in the realm of couture. In 2021, just one year  after graduating! He was appointed Creative Director of Nina Ricci, making him one of the youngest to lead a major fashion house. (Crazy, right?) But his impact doesn’t stop there. He’s dressed Beyoncé, Adele, Florence Welch... the list goes on. Reed has become a trailblazer in creating pieces that challenge traditional fashion binaries, all while championing inclusivity and artistry in the industry. This SS26 collection stood apart from anything we’ve seen so far this season at NYFW. It was the perfect start to London Fashion Week. Leading with such a theatrical, gender-fluid, and unapologetically glamorous show set the tone beautifully, especially in a city known more for emerging designers than big fashion houses. Because Reed’s shows aren’t just fashion, they’re stories. And SS26 was no different. One of the most breathtaking moments came with the opening look - shown above: a cascading silk blue maxi skirt flowed effortlessly down the model’s legs, paired with a gold corset embroidered with florals. But the real showstopper? A velvet and gold appliqué sculptural sleeve (if you could even call it that!) - an architectural feat. Starting at the model’s knees, it looped through her left arm, hugged the waist to accentuate the silhouette, looped through her right arm and rose dramatically above her head. It was magnificent. ABOVE - LOOKS (in order) 5, 12, 14 The collection also featured fishtail dresses, bold corsetry, an expertly tailored two-piece suit, and of course plenty of feathers. One standout, Look 12 - shown above, was among the most dramatically shaped pieces on display (and one of my personal favourites). It featured a hand-painted and embroidered wallpaper pattern, created in collaboration with Fromental, applied to a voluminous silhouette that merged structured corsetry with flowing skirts. The colour palette - acrid yellow spines against gilded florals, wasn’t an obvious pairing, but it worked. With velvet detailing and baroque ornamentation, it was regal yet subversive. Definitely not your everyday outfit... unless your everyday includes red carpets. To close the show, Look 14 - shown above brought the drama full circle. A fishtail-inspired silhouette featured exposed boning that gave the hoop skirt a sculptural edge. The skirt bubbled and flared at the thigh, blending into a lilac floral motif that swept over one side, adding softness and colour to the otherwise bare look. The top half—a structured corset—played against the flowing bottom half, creating a beautiful tension between structure and fluidity. It wasn’t an everyday look by any means, but it was unmistakably  Reed: bold, artistic, and the perfect closing note to a striking collection. See the full collection here - https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2026-ready-to-wear/harris-reed/slideshow/collection Another beautifully crafted and imaginative collection from Reed, one that proves, yet again, his ability to blur the lines between fashion, fantasy, and identity. While the label may sit under the Ready-to-Wear umbrella, Harris Reed continues to deliver pieces that belong on grand stages, and red carpets - that’s exactly why I love him. He isn’t trying to fit into fashion’s mould; he’s reshaping it entirely.  This collection set the tone for a London Fashion Week that promises to be just as theatrical, expressive, and boundary-pushing - hopefully! If this is how LFW begins, we’re in for a wild, fabulous ride. With love,  Mimi x

  • London Calling: What to Watch at Fashion Week SS26

    London Fashion Week (SS26) London fashion week starts today, the 18th of September. Potentially the most anticipated week for me and my cohort, because as a London based model myself it is usually packed with lots of tiring days full of castings, as well as some brutal rejection, sometimes a booked show, and almost always very late nights. However this year, I've decided to step away from the limelight for only this one season and instead focus my energy into documenting LFW and all the amazing shows coming up! Since SS25, just last year, there has been an 18% increase in designers at LFW. With over 70 designers showcasing their physical collections and over 23 digital collections set to feature over the next 5 days. London FW is going to feature a ridiculously large range of talent and I'm very excited to observe and report all that happens.  London SS26 collection features a range of labels, from Burberry, Simone Rocha, Roksanda to more emerging names and debuting designers. I’ve made a personalised colour coded pdf of the schedule with my recommendations on what you must see, and which shows to prioritise this LFW. Here she is:  very neatly organised for you xx And if you want the plain version and don’t care for my personalisation, here is the original schedule pdf: London Fashion Week schedule Can’t‑Miss Shows London always tends to carry more English designers than anything else - I mean it is London. The established, globally recognised names that get featured in publications such as Vogue, Elle, Harpers Bazaar etc. Below are a few of the shows I am most anticipating watching this year:  Harris Reed -  September 18th @7pm -  Theatrical, gender-fluid glamour meets couture craftsmanship, Reed themselves has an exquisite and quite theatrical fashion sense so it makes sense that Reed’s shows are more than just fashion, they’re stories. Paul Costelloe - September 19th @9am - A long-standing LFW favourite, known for refined tailoring and bold silhouettes that blend classic British heritage with modern flair. Paul Costelloe I have casted for before and may I just say - wow.  JW Anderson x BFC Special Evening Event - September 19th @8pm - Not just a show, but more of a cultural event: JW Anderson reimagines his brand with BFC’s support, setting the tone for creative renewal. Keeping more of his attention and building the anticipation for his main focus - his debut womenswear collection at Dior (which i cannot contain my excitement for!!)  Roksanda - September 20th @5pm -  Celebrating its 20th anniversary this season, expect more bold colour palettes and sculptural silhouettes that honour its legacy.  Emilia Wickstead - September 21st @2pm - Another returning favourite, known for refined tailoring, ladylike elegance, and polished simplicity. I almost walked for Emilia Wickstead last year for S/S25, the dresses were artistic masterpieces (unfortunately my lack of curves made the dress too big and the show was the next day - CRYING) Simone Rocha - September 21st @4pm - A global favourite, known for her intricate and feminine aesthetic - emotional, dramatic, and unmissable. Simone Rocha is one of my all time favourite British designers - and she's very sweet in person! My claim to fame is that she once labelled me - “the girl in the big boots” at a casting once. Marques A’lmeida - September 21st @3pm - Expect raw-edged denim, rebellious silhouettes, and a distinctly youthful energy as this duo continues to champion experimental London fashion with a punch of 2010s nostalgia and Gen-Z grit. This is a standout show for those who love directional, subversive fashion - so definitely worth highlighting there. Erdem - September 21st @6pm - Poised to deliver romantic tailoring and refined femininity, always a favorite of editors and many celebrities. Burberry - September 22nd @7pm - The most iconic British house, that consistently blends tradition with innovation. Burberry always brings exclusivity and British charm to their shows, and as a model who’s previously worked for them (but isn’t tall enough to walk for them) I am always in anticipation of their next collection. Emerging & Debuting Designers Fresh faces of fashion coming to LFW,  these are the voices shaping tomorrow (hopefully), designers who aren't known yet and may never be if these collections don’t go well, no pressure guys: Talia Byre - September 21st @10am - Launching her first official London runway; expect conceptual depth and emotional resonance. Conner Ives - September 22nd @2pm - Traditionally a February fixture, now making a high-profile September return after launching his politically vibrant “Protect the Dolls” line. Which helped to keep trans rights a focus as all proceeds from the collection went to TransLifeline.  Fashion East Showcase - September 19th @4pm -  The home of emerging voice bombs; expect runways taken over by the next generations favourites like Fashion East’s new cohort. Dreaming Eli, Richard Quinn, Rory William Docherty, Susan Fang, Nanushka - A powerful cohort of other emerging and developing designers also showing their collections at LFW, I'm excited to see if they can bring amazing work and make it big time in the most competitive industry in the world!  Although London is one of the world’s major fashion capitals, I think LFW, much like NYFW, often gets slightly overlooked compared to Paris and Milan. This season runs from Thursday 18th to Monday 22nd September, and while it’s only five days, it still packs a punch. Personally, I’m most excited for the weekend shows, with Burberry and Simone Rocha right at the top of my list! As a model myself, let me treat you to a quick personal anecdote from Fashion Week 2023 - just to give you a taste of the industry's brutal side. I went to a casting the day before a show. Soon after, my agent called to say I was 99% confirmed!!! I was ecstatic, told my parents, mentally prepped, spent the night doing skincare, practising my walk, and obsessively refreshing my inbox for the call sheet. It got to 11pm that evening and the show was at 10am the next morning. It was getting a bit ridiculous by this point so I phoned her and said “um hello where is it?”  to which my agent responded and said, "I'm so sorry but the show needed more diversity so they have chosen a different model.” As a white woman, I’m aware of my privilege and truly support diversity in fashion. All races, sizes, and identities deserve representation. But it hit close to home when I was dropped from a show purely to meet a diversity quota. That, to me, isn’t real inclusion. Diversity shouldn’t be about ticking boxes - it should be a natural result of genuinely valuing different people and perspectives! But enough about past experiences! I’ve had equally positive moments during LFW, including some really cool castings over this past week for the LFW shows! It's all very last minute so I'll have to keep you updated as and when I find out if I booked any of them! However, even if I don't I'm happy to sit back and watch, hoping this season provides me with enough inspiration to build my next dream wish-list. Burberry is one I'm most excited for on the final day (22nd September!). Burberry is the epitome of British luxury. It’s such a British staple, and I’m hoping the collection is classically Burberry. It's so important that a brand has such a strong vision that you can instantly recognise each piece, collection, season etc. Simone Rocha is another designer who nails this. She’s known for ultra-feminine colour palettes and luxurious fabrics like silk, and her designs always ooze elegance and sophistication. Drawing in celebrities such as Kylie Jenner and Kelly Rutherford to wear her collections, and I’m eager to see what this next collection brings. Can it top my favourite of hers - S/S24? With its silky pinks and reds, ribbons, and pleating? It was pure beauty. Let’s hope she can outdo herself! Only time will tell, and I will be back in no time, reporting daily with only the best and worst moments over the 5 day extravaganza! Will the designers pull it out of the bag? Can LFW beat NYFW?! We will see... With love, mimi xox

  • Goodbye NYC, With Love: Luar SS26

    Look 38 Luar SS26 felt like a love letter written just for me, it was sharp, raw, and unforgettable. But in truth, it was addressed to downtown NYC, crafted with meticulous detail, urban polish, and an unapologetic edge. Raul Lopez leaned fully into his signature fusion of streetwear rebellion and elevated tailoring, pushing beyond the safe simplicity dominating much of NYFW this season. While it was a ready-to-wear collection there were of course some looks which were more high- fashion. Including a look featuring just a tiny speedo, some sheer gloves, and a very muscular male model covered in a few splashes of paint - arguably not so ready to wear! (Look 9) The collection was fearless and all the better for it. Let’s get into the show: Colour palette:  Black, Beige, White, Cream , Yellow, Blue, Red Favourite looks:  1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 13, 18, 19, 26, 30, 33, 36, 38, 42, 43 View Full Collection here:   https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2026-ready-to-wear/luar/slideshow/collection Luar's world this season was one of contrasts: nightlight glamour meets gritty city realism. There were nods to club culture, subtle punk, and artisanal craft. Feathers, beading, embroidery, hardware - all present, yet never tipping into excess. It was decorative, but still wearable; conceptual, but rooted in real identity. The final two matching looks - shown below, yellow tailored suits, black feathered effect spreading from the yellow patterned fabric. Paired with matching head pieces. What a way to end a show!  ABOVE - LOOKS (in order) 42, 1, 36 Silhouettes walked the line between structure and flow. There were some strong-shouldered jackets met with sheer skirts and bias-cut layers. Texture played a starring role: leather and mesh, raw hems and exposed seams, sheer against opaque. It was all deliberate, every rough edge thoughtfully placed for maximum impact. The palette swung between darkness and light. Deep blacks and metallics grounded the collection, while flashes of neon and vibrancy kept it electric. Accessories and styling elevated everything, the ‘beaded’ effect eye makeup forming butterfly-wing eye illusions (Look 4 - below)  , lips dripping in tiny embellishments (Look 7 - below), and feathers so seamlessly integrated they looked like they grew from the models' skin. The entire thing was magical.  ABOVE - LOOKS (in order) 4, 5, 7 My absolute favourite look of the entire collection has to be Look 38 - shown above! A flawlessly curated look, the model had eyes decorated with 3D Glitter sculptures, feathers shooting out the back of her head, shoes, skirt, and top. The champagne cream tone echoed throughout the three-piece set. Trousers, mini skirts, made of straw and what I think is a sustainable plastic? As well as a picturesque feather strapless bra top. It was ridiculously elegant. My breath was very much taken away.    This wasn’t a collection for the cautious. It was for the risk-takers, the wanderers, the true fashion obsessives. In a muted NYFW, Luar SS26 stood very tall , very alive, and most importantly very confidently defiant in the best way. I am now a big fan of Laur. I'm on board for whatever they have coming in future... bring on London Fashion Week AHHHH!!! With love, Mimi x

  • NYFW: Honorary mentions 14th - 16th

    Welcome to the second edition of NYFW: Honorary mentions for the SS26 Season, this is for all of the absolutely amazing shows that stunned me, but aren't too worldwide to have their own post to themselves quite yet. There was such a wide base of talent I even had to split the Honorary mentions into 2 parts. So without further ado - here are all the best shows from 14th - 16th September 2025 - in chronological order! Jason Wu - September 14th @5pm Look 7 Jason Wu’s Spring 2026 offering, titled ‘ COLLAGE’ , is a standout among this season’s NYFW shows, it was basically impossible to ignore! Marking the 100th anniversary of Robert Rauschenberg’s birth, Wu pays tribute to the artist’s collage work, not by literal reproductions but by weaving his experimental spirit into every seam. Wu is long known for his elegant take on design and bringing in many celebrity clients. I was anticipating this collection - and now it’s out I know I was right! What makes the collection so compelling is Wu’s clever mashup of classic Americana tailoring and artistic abstraction. There were structured blazers, sharp trousers, and clean shirt silhouettes softened by glossy fabrics and painterly touches - many pieces had a hand done/ hand finished feel to them, which was very purposeful. The collection balances precision with a relaxed elegance, offering unexpected contrasts around every corner, looks that feel modern, wearable, and just a little offbeat in the best way.  There’s a sense of maturity here too - Wu doesn’t surprise for shock’s sake. Instead, he lets the clothes take a natural lead. The palette shifts between stark contrast and soft harmony: chalky whites, muted neutrals, and occasional flashes of richer hues. The cuts are a mix between unwearable and wearable, due to the modern take on deconstructive design. Something that could definitely be worn at both a red‑carpet or a stylish night out.  ABOVE - LOOKS (in order) 5, 37, 38, 10 Some of my favourite looks from the collection feature the unconventional deconstructed design. Look 5 (first above) for example -  A shirt with joint belt skirt attached. Appliqué mimicking a bra slipping off a shoulder, outlined with a solid gold seam. It looks amazing! So original and unapologetically Jason Wu. The use of emerging trend patterns incorporated along the way too - stripes float throughout the 41 look collection.  Look 37 (second above) - An unconventional bridal look perhaps, a mixture of cream and white fabrics cascade down in various shapes, it looks both unfinished and finished all at once. The patchwork pattern of lace and silk adding to the runaway bride idea. It is so creative, so original. I love it! Patchwork runs throughout the collection as well. In strips of fabric sewn together to create one piece of fabric - E.g. Look 10 fourth above. A sustainability method, as well as for aesthetics! Look 7 (shown at the top) for example features a jacket, trouser, and skirt combination. All with a complimentary mix of patchwork appliqué over the top. The jacket in particular, with a variety of rectangles, squares etc sewn on to give a futuristic edge. Whatever the ideology was, I am 100% on board. Bring back patchwork!!! The collection feels quietly revolutionary. It’s also a reminder of why we cling to the slightly smaller scale shows. Jason Wu here crafts garments that act like paintings you can wear, the marks, layers, and mismatched fragments aren’t flaws but the very texture of creativity. Each look crafted to perfection, each tear, unfinished seam etc all done for a purposeful reason! This is the kind of work that lingers for a while, I sure won’t be forgetting it for a long time!  See the entire collection here - https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2026-ready-to-wear/jason-wu/slideshow/collection Bach Mai - September 14th @7pm Look 22 Bach Mai remains a rising name in New York, blending couture with a downtown, modern sensibility. The 25 look collection, leaned heavily into eveningwear, demonstrating technical skill (draping, tailoring, pattern work) while balancing sophistication and boldness. Bach Mai’s SS26 collection at NYFW blended refined couture techniques with bold tailoring, featuring sheer organza suiting, structured gowns, and playful polka dots. With its fusion of elegance and edge, the collection exuded confidence and modern elegance. Key takeaways from the show were: Organza suits, cropped shorts paired with tailored hacking jackets, evening‐trenches over more delicate pieces. The uproar of polka dots came once more, polka motifs appear in several forms - from lab coat styles to strapless mini‑dresses, to transparent panel work. The collection also played with more classical suiting patterns - plaid dresses, incorporating corsetry into unexpected fabrics and silhouettes. The show feels made for “sophisticated grown‑ups”: those who appreciate refinement, structure, but also a little theatrical flair. It was lively, sophisticated and well done. However, to lean too far into the polka-dot trend is possibly a mistake due to how much has been consumed already, will it still be a large enough trend in Spring/ Summer 2026? See the full collection here - https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2026-ready-to-wear/bach-mai/slideshow/collection Toteme - September 15th @10am Look 18 Known as a Swedish quiet luxury brand providing refined, elevated basics debuted their Spring/ Summer 2026 collection earlier today (15th September). Focusing largely on adding to their signature minimalism, but with a heightened sense of architectural precision. Introducing new depths of silhouette and materiality, this collection was very much about refined tailoring and easy dressing.  The colour palette remained quietly luxurious - very on theme for Toteme! Think soft neutrals: ivories, stones, tans, blacks, and whites with hints of interspersed richer earth tones occasionally dropped in accessorising pieces. Fabrics included fluid silks, mohair, crisp poplins, and whispers of lace - Look 18 (shown to the right) seamlessly blended poplin, mohair, and silk in Toteme’s modern take on a three-piece suit!  There was a brilliant interplay of structure and softness throughout the collection. Sharply tailored jackets and softly tapered trousers were balanced with flowing gowns, gathered tops, and skirts that moved with subtle grace as the models walked. The silhouettes feel modern yet familiar e.g. wide-leg trousers, asymmetric hems, and layered dresses. For example Look 16 (first left) which featured purposeful layering and perfect wide-leg trousers. Or Look 31 (second left) - A simplistic under-dress and immensely detailed open sleeve lace mini-dress. Two of my favourites from the collection! Tailoring remains the brand’s core strength, showcasing clean lines, precise proportions, and an unwavering commitment to understated silhouettes - there were many trench coats on offer this season. Accessories and styling follow suit: minimal yet intentional, with elevated leather goods, discreet metallic hardware, and shoes that felt almost statementless. What feels new in SS26 is the embedding of movement and tactility - shearling touches or softness that catches light; slits, fluid folds. In this collection Toteme seems to acknowledge the need for elegance that lives, that moves with the body, with real life! More lived simplicity. Overall, Toteme SS26 refined it's identity - less minimalism for the sake of minimalism, more minimalism made purposeful with texture, dimension, and quiet confidence. For those who love subtlety, this is a collection that speaks volumes without saying much at all. See the entire collection here - https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2026-ready-to-wear/toteme/slideshow/collection Diotima - September 15th @4pm Diotima’s Spring 2026 Ready‑to‑Wear collection, unveiled in their first ever runway debut. The collection felt like a delicate tension between the fully formed and the quietly unfinished, a “soft undoing,” as Rachel Scott describes - founder and creative director. The designs lean into edges with raw hems, knits that fray, and silhouettes that suggest movement with exaggerated shapes, offering a quietly tactile, sensual femininity.  The collection mixed soft pastels, bright pops of colour, and sun-washed prints with deeper, more earthy tones. Texture is key - with mesh crochet features, bouclé yarn, and touchable knits adding depth. Some pieces include delicate details that feel both pretty and slightly raw. Accessories keep the natural vibe going, with raffia, and shapes inspired by nature. At its core, the collection reflects Scott’s Jamaican roots and holds a strong focus on craft, while also embracing imperfection as part of beauty. It’s a quiet push against perfection, resulting in pieces that feel raw, real, and deeply personal - a refreshing take that leaves a lasting impression. I am excited to see what Scott brings as her brand grows & her creative direction at Proenza Schouler evolves. There is no debating this woman is exceptionally talented!   See the full collection here - https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2026-ready-to-wear/diotima/slideshow/collection Lii - September 16th @3pm -  Look 2 Lii’s Spring 2026 ready‑to‑wear collection by Zane Li felt like a quiet revolution, coming from an up and comer, unassuming at first, but full of detail once you begin to really see. The looks favoured clean lines and thoughtful structure, offset by moments of softness in sheer layering, loose silhouettes, and fabric drape that moves. It’s modern in a minimalist kind of way: tailored trousers, lighter outerwear, lots of layers, and softer pieces mingling with structured pieces without ever making the transitions feel jarring.  The colour story is grounded yet fresh: muted neutrals dominate, so think creams, off-white, greys and tans, with occasional points of contrast - darker tones and pops of bright blues, reds, pinks, and greens. The fabrics leaned toward natural feels: lighter weights, materials that breathe and flow, and textures that feel lived in rather than stiff. Styling kept the mood consistent - low chaos, high intention. Accessories seemed minimal, letting the clothes do the speaking. Interestingly the models had been made to either look ridiculously exhausted, i’m talking eye bags from a mile away. Or their eyes had weirdly been smothered in vaseline to get the look of tears. Weird! Silhouette shifts appear in soft vs. structured balances: cinched waists give way to flowing hems; tailoring is precise but not rigid. The collection teases a sense of ease, something wearable and approachable, yet still rooted in a design sensibility that values form, contrast, and the interplay of fabric and movement. And promising a SS26 full of layering apparently.  Overall, Lii SS26 doesn’t try to shock or shout. It’s less about spectacle and more about nuance: how cut, fabric, and subtle shifts in proportion can create a wardrobe that feels for spring yet built to endure. For anyone seeking pieces that balance utility and elegance, this is a good collection to turn to. See the full collection here - https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2026-ready-to-wear/lii/slideshow/collection Goodbye NYC As NYFW rounds off i'm both sad and happy to see it go. My hands are relieved at the thought of a day off without typing like a lunatic every second of everyday. But my brain is already aching for New York and the faint buzz of fashion icons trapsing around Central Park and whatnot. However... it brings us swiftly onto none other than Mimi's hometown and place of work. London town. LFW is beginning on the 17th September and we've got you covered with all the shows you must watch, and needn't bother - coming to the blog just before the shows unveil! I'll see you there once I've had time to rest my hands. With love, Mimi x

  • Tory Burch SS26: Threads of Optimism

    Look 4!!! Tory Burch. Wow. Thank god the all-white opening look didn’t recur at this SS26 show! Fashion has felt substantially vanilla over the past 4 days of NYFW. I actually stopped being as hopeful for NY sometime on the 12th of September. The instinct to simplify and provide contemporary, minimalistic collections is becoming too normalised. We want fashion! Literally I’m starving for some good collections to come my way. Don’t get me wrong, serene understated clothes are of course understandable - particularly in a ready-to-wear collection. But Tory Burch didn’t take this memo, she opted for more colours, thank god, and more quirkiness!  Burch stated she wanted “some joy and optimism in this collection, just based on everything that’s happening in the world.”  So rather than following the current trend toward muted or “vanilla” palettes, the collection embraced colour, unusual details, and playful shapes. Leaning away from pure preppy toward more daring, interesting design elements, without becoming excessively avant‑garde. There’s a lot of pieces you’d notice at first glance, and immediately want to buy. The show has been framed as part of a “creative renaissance” for Burch, as she gave up her CEO role and refocused on design, and investing time into her atelier and craftsmanship. Let’s get into the show: Colour palette:  Brown, Blue, Black, Yellow, Green, Lilac, Pink, Gold, Red  Patterns:  Polka, Stripes - very on trend. Favourite looks:  Look 1, 4, 10 , 14, 16, 18, 26, 29, 35, 39 View Full Collection here:   https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2026-ready-to-wear/tory-burch/slideshow/collection The opening look - donned by none other than Loli, upcoming supermodel - not the only supermodel Burch managed to confirm either, Alex Consani & Emily Ratajkowski - shown below. Loli opened the show gracefully, sweeping the runway in a simplistic baby blue cotton shirt. Paired with brown 3/4 length trousers with a faint abstract stripe pattern. Accessory wise they seem to have chosen to do what can only be described as an off-brand Birkin. The outfit is most definitely Ready-to-Wear, but equally looks runway ready with statement earrings, and a beautiful brooch on the right colour. Burch has clearly chosen silver as her hardware choice for the SS26 season, although gold does appear in one look (Look 31) as a very bold shirt choice. Made in a crinkled fabric for a worn in effect - this is also prominent in many of the looks.  ABOVE - LOOKS (in order) 16, 1, 18, 26, 10, 31 As with all of the looks the makeup has been kept refreshingly natural, and the hair was interestingly done in more of an unique comb over look that feels free and allowed for the craftsmanship to really stand out. In Look 4 (above) - Another favourite of mine, with multiple bright blue tones, there is a teal bias cut striped skirt that I am in love with! Paired with a deeper blue blazer (with another beautiful brooch on the right collar) and a really deeply bright vest peeping out over the top. Burch’s attempt to refocus on design is really showing throughout the collection in how cohesive the looks all go together!  One of my favourite looks is the simplistic dressing of Look 10 - shown above. With an open two layered skirt the look uses a warm, rich bright pink shade. The fabric appears lightweight and with slight sheen, perhaps a silk blend or something similarly fluid, allowing soft drape. There's a contrast between structure and flow. The skirt is so perfectly constructed with a fluid, gentle gathering to allow movement, and the waist is superbly defined, with a strategically tied belt accentuating the silhouette of the model.  Look 39!!! Her attempt to add to the craftsmanship at her atelier has 100% paid off, particularly in the more intricate pieces of the collection. For example look 39 (shown to the right) - the final look features hand embroidery, lots of beading, and artisanal detailing (all meticulous tasks) The yellow, and white beading on the sheer black dress works magnificently well , as does its twin earlier in the collection with pink and blue beading.  The collection holds nods to Burch’s own personal history - including inspired patterns from her past, such as her father’s old suit jacket inspiring one of the blazers! This is why the entire collection felt personal, appreciative, and appropriate for the SS26 Season. Burch has reclaimed her creative voice and I have to give her credit, this is one of the most impressive collections from a big name brand I’ve seen all week. I finally have faith from NYFW that fashion is in fact not dead, and will not forever be vanilla.  With love,  Mimi x

  • Coach SS26: Childhood Whimsy Meets Streetwear

    Look 27 Stuart Vevers used the SS26 season to reimagine Coach with fresh momentum, leaning into a youthful energy and placing ‘ Generation Now’  at the heart of the collection. This show felt like a celebration of personal style as seen in the streets of New York - how today’s youth remix heritage, symbols, whimsy, and utility into their own personal style.  The 47 look collection draws on references to childhood, performance, and costume. Speaking of childhood, the balloon, star, and heart sheer-panelled dresses (Looks 40, 41, and 44) were playful nods to youthful nostalgia, very charming, but with a grown-up twist. A perfect blend of innocence and edge. The result? A thoughtful mix of wearable art and ready-to-wear. Lightweight fabrics (ideal for spring), expressive motifs, and energising contrasts which teased a world that’s both imagined and lived-in - a dream sequence grounded in real-life dressing. Let’s get into the show: Colour palette:  Black, White, Nude, Grey, Brown, Blue Patterns: Plaid, Stars, Balloons Favourite looks:  Look 1, 14, 15, 22, 27, 29, 33, 35, 41, 47 Questionable Looks:  Look 3, 6, 9, 24, 38, 40, 44 View Full Collection here: https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2026-ready-to-wear/coach/slideshow/collection The collection features a good balance between comfort and tailored. While streetwear staples like tees and casual layers were present, they were offset by expertly cut trenches, outerwear, and structured accessories. Even when playful, the silhouettes retained a sense of refinement. ABOVE - LOOKS (in order) 3, 41, 15 That said, some of those streetwear staples veered into the uninspired. Look 3 (above) featured a sleeveless maxi dress emblazoned with "NEW YORK" over a monochrome skyline - not offensive, just flat. Several other place-name prints popped up throughout the collection, and frankly, it felt repetitive and unimaginative. It’s not for me. Other pieces did stand out to me in the collection, for example the accessorising - Bags and charms featured prominently. Somewhat similar to Michael Kors SS26, many of the models were kitted out with leather string necklaces carrying a small purse/ wallet type object. It was very much bohemian inspired and I really enjoyed Coach’s take on it. Hardware and details were used thoughtfully and with intention, not just as finishing touches to looks.  One of the most inspired styling choices? The tie. But not around the neck, instead, pinned to jackets, skirts, trousers. Look 27 (above) exemplified this perfectly and yes, I’ll definitely be stealing the idea. That look also featured another standout piece: Coach’s tri-pattern, tri-colour wide-leg ¾-length trousers, which appeared throughout the collection as full-length versions, jackets, and skirts.  ABOVE - LOOKS (in order) 1, 29, 22 And of course, it wouldn’t be Coach without its classics: statement trenches, colourful tees, and the iconic Tabby bag. This season, the trenches were reimagined with distressed details, imperfect closures, and lived-in character (see Look 1 - above). They felt rebellious, fresh, and very alive. I loved them! The collection gives a palpable sense of a “new day” Not just optimism, but a redefinition of what Coach stands for when observed through the lens of the young, streetwise, socially conscious. This season feels more alive, more immediate. For Vevers, Coach is being reinvented - rooted in what the brand has always done, but more aware of how today’s generation wants to dress, move, and express. With love,  Mimi x

  • Khaite Spring/Summer 2026: Edge in Bloom

    Last night at The Shed - a vast, looming structure in New York’s Hudson Yards, Khaite presented a show titled “Edge in Bloom”,  that felt more like a cinematic experience than a typical runway. Fog crept across an all-black pond as models navigated a series of diagonal catwalks.  The atmosphere was eerie, surreal, and unmistakably intentional. “The dark underbelly of America has always fascinated me,” confessed founder and creative director Catherine Holstein - and it was clear she was channeling that obsession throughout her Spr ing/Summer 2026 collection. The show opened with a quiet disruption: jackets cut up the side and slightly twisted to introduce deliberate imperfection, paired with jeans for a dose of normalcy. It was as if each piece had been deliberately disturbed, refusing to conform neatly to the expected. At the heart of the runway were the brand’s signatures, elongated leather fisherman jackets and urban double-breasted blazers, more tailoring to add to the overwhelming amount already consumed at NYFW - this is where I got a bit bored. However, Holstein infused the collection with a softened edge which I personally adored the most. The innocence of chiffon blouses embroidered with hand-sewn fabric petals whispered of naivety. “We kept coming back to that idea,” she said, echoing a maternal tenderness not often seen in her sharper silhouettes. This collection worked really well, although it was occasionally disjointed, it was unmistakably Khaite. The brand's DNA pulsed through every look, defining a new era of contemporary New York style, more confident, and quietly complex. It’s a wardrobe for stylish, busy women navigating the urban jungle, to give them a sense of individualism. Look 45 Nowhere was that more evident than in the subtle polka dot trend making its way across the Spring 2026 scene, it has appeared a remarkable amount of times in a myriad of collections. However Khaite did it differently… Kendall Jenner (Look 45), arriving penultimately, wore a taupe circle skirt covered in oversized cream polka dots. A chunky black sweater slouched off one shoulder, while leather toe-ring sandals wrapped around her ankles with satin ribbons. It added some newness to an oversaturated microtrend.   See full collection here - https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2026-ready-to-wear/khaite/slideshow/collection In the end, Khaite’s Spring 2025 wasn’t 100% but it showed the brand as evolving! A beautiful interplay of soft and strong, of control and chaos. Subtly shifting the brand’s narrative without abandoning its core, this collection hopefully marks a thoughtful, enigmatic step forward. With love,  Mimi x

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