Fashion: Major Appointments and Seasonal Highlights
The fashion world is currently announcing some high-profile leadership changes and innovative runway concepts.
• Grace Wales Bonner has been appointed as the Creative Director of Men’s Ready-to-Wear at Hermès, with her inaugural collection scheduled to debut in January 2027.
• Jonathan Anderson’s sophomore show for Dior AW26 drew inspiration from musician Mk.gee and featured a tribute to Paul Poiret, portraying a character study of "aristocratic youth".
• At Louis Vuitton, Pharrell Williams continues to look toward the future, recently presenting an AW26 menswear collection described as "Sherlock Hypebeast-Holmes," while the house simultaneously prepares to celebrate 130 years of its iconic Monogram in 2026.
• The industry also reflects on its history following the passing of the legendary "Emperor" of Italian fashion, Valentino Garavani, at age 93.
The Art World: Alchemy, Illusion, and Major Exhibitions
Contemporary art is currently exploring themes of memory, illusion, and the technical processes of image-making.
• Nat Faulkner’s latest exhibition explores the "alchemy of photography," focusing on shifting states and the intricate layers of photographic processes.
• Artist Nadia Lee Cohen is featured for her work that blurs the lines between "glamour and ruin," utilising a visual language that weaves together cinema, mythology, and popular culture.
• Jan Pypers’ series ‘Diorama’ invites viewers into the heart of illusion, transitioning from glass-framed landscapes to modern polished imagery.
• Institutional highlights include Sotheby’s "Visions of America," a series of sales and exhibitions celebrating American artistry for its 250th anniversary, and a selling exhibition for Sterling Ruby in Zurich.
Design and Craft: Humanising the Industry
A strong movement toward sustainability and the preservation of heritage is visible in current design and craft initiatives.
• Cabana Magazine continues to celebrate the "spirit of discovery" and the preservation of craft, showcasing artisanal homewares and the work of global makers, such as the silver story of Asprey and Imperial Jadeite.
• Studio mama has recently explored playfulness and fluidity through a collaboration with Birkenstock and the Crafts Council.
• Regional craft remains a focal point, exemplified by Melin Tregwynt in Wales, a whitewashed mill in continuous use since 1841, renowned for its crafted textiles.
• In Ukraine, research is being conducted into how industrial hemp can aid in sustainable reconstruction and economic growth following conflict.
Shows: The Creative Future and Graduate Excellence
Academic institutions are currently showcasing the "creative future" through various graduate exhibitions.
• Central Saint Martins (CSM) presented "Reset Show Collections," offering a closer look at the sketchbooks and processes of its students. The MA Fashion Image program also celebrated its 10th anniversary with a showcase titled "Expressions of Self".
• Parsons MFA 2025 collections reworked tradition into personal statements, featuring elements ranging from Sardinian lace to sports kits.
• The Antwerp 2025 graduate show "Craft, Concept, and Complexity," students explored fashion as sculptural expression and autobiography.
• In Vienna, the Modeklasse 2025 show was held under the artistic direction of Craig Green.
New Releases: Zines, Publications, and Collaborations
The final months of 2025 and the start of 2026 have seen several notable releases:
• Sorbet Magazine: released its 50th "Golden Issue," starring Golda Rosheuvel.
• See All This Magazine celebrated its 10th anniversary with the "Cooking is Caring" issue, guest-curated by French chef Mory Sacko.
• HommeGirls released a notable collaboration with Fruit of the Loom, featuring a range of essentials including bralettes, baby tees, and boxer shorts.
• Gentle Monster has unveiled its 2026 "BOUQUET" collection, accompanied by a new campaign.
• White Fungus is set to release its 18th issue, which includes an 80-page interview with Eileen Myles and a deep dive into the occult roots of modern art via Hilma af Klint.