Nina Ricci Spring 2026 Ready-to-Wear Collection

Backstage, the moodboard was a veritable tapestry of cultural references, showcasing the essence of an era when rock stars defied norms with their audacious fashion choices. Reed himself embodied this spirit, donning an ensemble reminiscent of Ziggy Stardust—complete with a plunging black shirt and second-skin trousers. “Carine [Roitfeld, Reed’s stylist] asked me, ‘What do you want to wear?’” Reed recounted, highlighting the collaborative nature of this collection. “This was my first time exploring that question, and it felt like a genuine provocation to express myself. The collection is about character building,” he stated, emphasizing a shift in focus from the traditional ‘Nina Ricci woman’ to the more inclusive ‘Nina Ricci person.’

This shift in perspective is particularly significant as Reed continues to redefine the brand’s identity. He has adeptly navigated the world of French femininity, incorporating familiar elements such as polka dots, tweeds, lace, and bows. Yet, rather than simply rehashing these tropes, Reed has breathed new life into them, liberating them from the confines of a bygone era. His approach reflects a broader trend in contemporary fashion—one that seeks to transcend outdated notions of gender and cultural identity.

Reed’s vision did not shy away from embracing the quintessential Frenchness of the brand, interpreted through his Anglo-American lens. The collection showcased a fusion of polished elegance and bohemian flair, featuring black tux jackets paired with flowing olive blousons and skirts adorned with bows. Reed’s inventive use of materials included tortoiseshell sequins on one-shouldered tops and a striking turquoise snakeskin blazer over a sleek satin skirt. He eschewed feathers in favor of ethereal chiffon, resulting in pieces that were both visually captivating and imbued with a sense of freedom.

As the models glided down the runway, it was evident that Reed was not only enjoying the process but was also fully embracing his artistic identity. This collection marks the second season of Reed’s collaboration with stylist Carine Roitfeld, and the synergy between the two is palpable. A playful video of them headbanging to David Bowie went viral shortly after the show, capturing the exuberant spirit that permeated the event.

The collection itself is a vibrant tapestry of eclectic influences, merging Parisian chic with the laid-back swagger of Los Angeles. Reed’s mood board featured images of rock icons like Keith Richards and Anita Pallenberg, evoking a sense of carefree rebellion. The runway presented a fantasy dressing-up box, with Ricci’s signature polka dots interwoven with metallic jacquards and eye-catching python prints. Model Colin Jones channeled the spirit of Jimi Hendrix, while the silky robes and flared pants seemed tailor-made for Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler.

Reed’s personal style, characterized by a more streamlined interpretation of boho chic, also made its way into the collection. He showcased sharp black pantsuits worn bare-chested, adorned with statement jewelry that added a touch of drama. This season, under Roitfeld’s guidance, the collection veered into more sensual territory, featuring peak-shouldered jackets and lingerie-inspired silk skirts, accentuated by knee-high python boots with sculptural wedge heels.

A notable highlight of the show was the introduction of Reed’s first handbag for the brand, the Grand Bal. This paneled leather design, set to debut next month at Bergdorf Goodman in New York City, marks a significant expansion of the Nina Ricci accessories line. During a pre-show fitting, Reed noted the success of his bias-cut dresses, which had sold out on the brand’s website and at Saks, prompting him to streamline some of his more theatrical designs. “Everyone was laughing when we got here, like, ‘Oh, the racks aren’t as exploding as they were before,’” he quipped, referring to a shift in focus away from overly ornate pieces.

The finale of the show featured model Ashley Graham in a stunning black silk slip dress, artfully spliced with diagonal panels of polka dot chiffon and lace, paired with an oversized bomber jacket worn off the shoulder. As the models completed their final lap down the runway, the ambiance was charged with the soulful sounds of Janis Joplin, creating an atmosphere that was both celebratory and liberating.

Reed’s Spring 2026 collection for Nina Ricci is not only a testament to his evolving aesthetic but also a reflection of the shifting tides within the fashion industry. By embracing fluidity and inclusivity, Reed is paving the way for a new era of design that resonates with contemporary sensibilities. The collection stands as a bold statement that honors the past while simultaneously looking forward, inviting a diverse range of individuals to find their place within the Nina Ricci narrative.

As fashion continues to evolve, the spirit of rebellion and self-expression championed by Reed and his rock ‘n’ roll inspirations serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of style. The Nina Ricci Spring 2026 Ready-to-Wear Collection is not merely a collection of garments; it is a celebration of identity, creativity, and the ever-changing landscape of fashion. With each piece, Reed invites us to embrace our individuality and express ourselves unapologetically, ensuring that the legacy of Nina Ricci remains as relevant as ever in a world that thrives on diversity and innovation.