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![Welcome to The Who What Wear Podcast, your direct connection to the designers, stylists, beauty experts, editors, and tastemakers shaping the fashion and beauty landscape. Don't forget to subscribe to The Who What Wear Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Change was clearly in the air during S/S 2026 Fashion Month. Kristen Nichols, associate director of special projects at Who What Wear, remarked that this season was truly unprecedented. "I think we are witnessing an unprecedented season with over 15—I've lost track—new creative directors stepping into leadership roles at major fashion houses across the industry," Nichols stated. "It's a significant moment of transformation."
Editorial director Lauren Eggertsen echoed that the industry has seen substantial shifts. "This season sparked many polarized opinions regarding specific debuts or collections, which I find exhilarating and indicative of real change occurring," Eggertsen said.
In the latest episode of The Who What Wear Podcast, shopping director Bobby Schuessler speaks with our editors about their key takeaways from Fashion Month, the trends they anticipate will arrive in stores this spring, and more. For snippets from their discussion, continue reading below.
Were there any personal favorites among the shows or collections you attended?
Kristen Nichols: I believe this is an extraordinary season with more than 15 new creative directors taking charge at leading fashion houses. It marks an important moment of transformation. Reflecting on New York, we began with the Ralph Lauren show, which was a powerful start to the season. It made for a compelling starting point when considering a designer who has led his house for nearly sixty years and has fine-tuned his vision. And after Milan, we are beginning to see the emergence of many young and new designers, revealing how these elements interconnect. I found the contrast between these two perspectives captivating. In New York, some of the collections I admired included those from Altuzarra, Khaite, and Tory Burch. Conversely, in London, I enjoyed Burberry, Simone Rocha, and DeLara.
Lauren Eggertsen: Milan had a lot to offer, and what struck me while I was there was the quality of conversations surrounding the debuts and collections, which contrasts with the past where discussions felt stagnant. This season has definitely brought forth many polarizing opinions about various debuts, indicating genuine change. I have to mention Prada first, a brand I admire greatly. This collection seemed to elicit strong reactions, with people either loving or hating it. I personally loved it. Prada consistently stays ahead of the curve, setting a new standard each season. Their designs often highlight juxtapositions and innovative thinking. This collection exemplified that, featuring workwear shirts paired with elegant bags, satin gloves, and unique skirts that our senior fashion editor, Eliza Huber, referred to as Frankenstein skirts, combining elements like lace and pleats.
As for Versace, I could go on forever. The debut collection from Dario Vitale also stirred mixed feelings, but I believe it was precisely what the brand required. In New York, we witnessed a strong emphasis on wearability and practicality. Did you identify any key trends between New York and London?
KN: I’d also like to share my insights regarding Milan, as I feel that, as Lauren noted, it's often where we see trends solidify. Each week, themes begin to develop. One trend I've been discussing frequently lately is the prep bourgeois style, which I first noticed at Michael Rider's debut with Celine last July. It struck me as distinct and innovative, and I've seen other brands incorporating similar elements into their collections. For instance, at Tory Burch, there were many polo tops matched with midi skirts, pumps, and belts. I also noted similar styles at Toga in London, which was an editor favorite during fashion week, with polos and Oxford shirts tucked into mini skirts and fun styling belts. Even at Prada in Milan, hints of this sporty-preppy vibe emerged, despite the overall collection feeling somewhat more feminine.
Based on the trends you observed, are there particular key pieces you believe will be ubiquitous this spring?
KN: I expect to see an influx of preppy '80s and '90s styles with a lot more color this season. Additionally, outside of the trends, I think spring 2026 is the ideal time to invest in a new bag. With so many designers taking on new roles, there is a strong drive for them to create a standout bag. Designers are certainly focusing on that. At Gucci, there was a relaxed version of the classic Jackie bag, which I know Lauren [Eggertsen] has highlighted on her feed. It seems poised to become the bag everyone will want to purchase.
LE: I believe that Gucci bag will certainly gain popularity. It brings a fresh approach that really challenges the traditional structure of the Jackie, which hasn’t been done in a while. It generated a lot of discussion](https://nonf1.com/thumbs/nonf1.com-700/23/e7/Hamilton-tells-Piastri-Dont-give-up-positions.webp)

The FIA presidential election could become uncontested.
Apparently the alternative candidates will not even be included on the ballot...
Apparently the alternative candidates will not even be included on the ballot...