Anrealage Presents Spring/Summer 2026

Before revealing his Spring/Summer 2026 collection, Morinaga expressed an ambitious vision for his designs. “We aim to imbue clothing with life, as if each piece is a creature that moves and breathes alongside its wearer.” While he acknowledges the current limitations of technology in creating conscious clothing, Morinaga’s collection effectively explores the concept of lifelike garments through two distinctive approaches: one grounded in technology and the other steeped in artistic collaboration.

The technologically driven aspect of the collection was strikingly evident in the use of motion-sensing mechanisms woven into the fabric of the clothes. Models glided down the runway adorned in skirts, dresses, and coats featuring undulating, semi-rigid hems that danced with every movement. Additionally, the collection included ethereal capelets made of ruffled gauze, which incorporated discreet wiring designed to respond to the models’ motions. As the models paused to pose for photographers, the hems of their garments twitched and fluttered, creating an enchanting visual that showcased the dynamic interplay between human movement and the responsive design of the clothing.

Adding to the theatricality of the presentation, Anrealage unveiled a series of whimsical handbags developed in collaboration with Yukai Engineering, a robotics startup. These bags were not only adorned with faux fur but also featured an animated tail that would flick up in response to touch, reminiscent of a playful kitten. However, despite the anticipation of animated tails on the runway, many of the bags seemed to shy away from their performance, remaining still as the models strutted past. This moment of hesitation highlighted the tension between the aspiration for life-like qualities in fashion and the limitations of technology.

While the technological elements of the collection were captivating, Morinaga’s second approach was more profound and reflective. The vivid and diverse patterns that adorned the garments stemmed from the creative contributions of 18 artists with disabilities and neurodivergence, who collaborated with Heralbony, a Japanese-French initiative dedicated to fostering artistic expression. These artists were not merely contributors; their experiences and lives were interwoven into the fabric of the collection. “Their art is a crystallization of their lives,” Morinaga noted, emphasizing the depth and significance of the collaboration that transcended mere aesthetics.

The show’s soundtrack, produced by Thomas Bangalter of Daft Punk fame, further enhanced the emotional resonance of the collection. The music incorporated sounds of markers gliding across paper and the clatter of ball bearings in spray cans, creating an auditory tapestry that echoed the creative processes of the artists involved. This immersive experience aimed to illuminate the essence of humanity in an increasingly mechanized world, a theme that resonated throughout the collection.

As the show progressed, the garments themselves began to take center stage. The opening looks featured flowing ruffles that mimicked the gentle movements of ocean creatures, thanks to technology that detected the model’s heartbeat. This element added a layer of intimacy and connection, as if the clothing was not only responding to the wearer but also participating in an unspoken dialogue.

The collection included tailored coats, flowing skirts, and whimsical dresses characterized by wired flounces that bounced and swayed, revealing contrasting linings and a striking blend of baroque and preppy styles. The dramatic effects were heightened when models halted on the runway, creating a captivating tableau of motionless silhouettes that drew the audience’s attention to the intricate details of the garments.

Complementing the eye-catching clothing were accessories that continued Morinaga’s exploration of technology in fashion. Handbags and shoes featured screens that displayed animations, including heart emojis and blinking eyes, reinforcing the theme of life and consciousness embedded within the collection. This innovative approach echoed Morinaga’s previous work and showcased his commitment to pushing the envelope in the fashion industry.

The exaggerated proportions of the silhouettes were designed to highlight the bold artwork, with motifs ranging from pointillism to urban street art. The use of vibrant colors and striking patterns transformed each piece into a canvas, allowing the artists’ contributions to shine through in a dynamic manner.

Anrealage’s Spring/Summer 2026 collection was a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in the fashion industry. Morinaga’s vision not only challenged the traditional boundaries of clothing design but also offered a platform for marginalized voices through the inclusion of artists with disabilities. By merging technology with artistic expression, Morinaga succeeded in creating a collection that was not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful.

As the fashion world continues to evolve, Kunihiko Morinaga and Anrealage stand at the forefront of this transformation, exploring the intersection of technology, art, and humanity. The collection was not merely a display of garments; it was an invitation to consider the very nature of clothing and its relationship to the human experience. In a society increasingly defined by technological advancements, Morinaga’s work serves as a reminder of the importance of connection, creativity, and the stories woven into the fabric of our lives.

As the show concluded, the audience was left with a sense of wonder and introspection, pondering the future of fashion and the potential for garments to transcend their physical forms and take on lives of their own. Anrealage’s Spring/Summer 2026 collection was more than just a presentation; it was a celebration of life itself, embodied in the artistry of clothing and the stories that each piece carries.