Paris Fashion Week Roundup

This Fashion Week in Paris gave us a first-hand look at what’s taking shape for Spring/Summer 2026 As always, the runways and showrooms reflected a rich diversity of voices—but also revealed some striking commonalities. These are the trends we saw repeatedly making their mark.

More Fades.

The worn-in, faded treatment has long cycled in and out of lookbooks and runways, reappearing season after season. Some years lean into it more heavily—and Spring/Summer 2026 seems to be one of them. What stood out this time, however, was the unexpected use of color in the faded aesthetic. Rather than sticking to the usual neutrals, designers consistently applied the treatment to greens, blues, and reds, bringing a fresh perspective to a familiar look. Standout executions came from Acne Studios, Camiel Fortgens, and Beach Brains, each offering their own nuanced take on the trend. Whether embraced or critiqued, the manufactured aesthetic is clearly here to stay—at least for the foreseeable future.

A Redefined Sense Of Maturity.

If you’ve read our takeaways from the Fall/Winter 2025 fashion calendar, you’ll know that a newfound sense of maturity was the overarching style signal. That same energy carries into the Spring/Summer 2026 presentations, reinforcing a continued shift toward a more refined, grown-up aesthetic. ERL’s typically youthful design aesthetic took a more mature turn in their Spring 2026 collection, which featured classic patterned sweaters and blazers. Similarly, Acne Studios has dialed back their signature playful trompe-l'œil prints in favor of more subtle patterns, while re-embracing tailored silhouettes that contour to the shape of the wearer.

Open Toed Shoes?

Yes, open-toed shoes. For men, it’s been a while since they’ve had a real fashion moment—but that time appears to be now. If you’ve been paying attention, you might have noticed their quiet resurgence in everyday outfits, particularly in style-forward regions like Scandinavia and Japan. Now, they seem ready to make their way into mainstream menswear around the globe. Auralee, Yohji Yamamoto, Lemaire, Ami, and—yes—Acne Studios all showcased open-toed silhouettes in their Spring presentations. Long treading the line between stylish and casual, this long-underappreciated footwear option is emerging as the new go-to for both.

So?

The Spring/Summer 2026 showings point to a season defined by quiet confidence, intentional design, and a renewed embrace of comfort. There’s a noticeable shift toward authenticity—where details, textures, and silhouettes speak louder than overt statements. Designers seem to be leaning into pieces that feel lived-in yet elevated, nostalgic yet forward-thinking. Finally, Comfort isn’t just a consideration; it’s woven into the aesthetic itself, making ease and wearability central to wearer self-expression. The result is a wardrobe that feels both grounded and expressive, encouraging a more personal, intuitive way of dressing.

stay rooted, 

ed