The year in fashion was a tapestry woven with significant events, from groundbreaking collaborations that redefined market segments to iconic design retrospectives that honored timeless elegance. It was a period marked by both nostalgic tributes and forward-thinking innovations, capturing the diverse interests of the fashion-savvy public.
As the year drew to a close, a look back revealed a dynamic landscape where design houses, emerging talents, and even tech giants contributed to a vibrant dialogue, shaping not just what people wore, but how they perceived the world of style and its broader cultural impact. This retrospective delves into the highlights, charting the pulse of a year that celebrated creativity and individuality in equal measure.
Reflecting on Key Fashion Moments and Cultural Impact
This year, Vogue Runway readers engaged with a rich array of fashion narratives, spanning Melania Trump's inaugural style, insightful examinations of two Costume Institute exhibitions, and a detailed historical account of Christian Dior's revolutionary New Look, perfectly coinciding with Jonathan Anderson's ascent at the venerable French house. The narrative also highlighted major collaborations, such as Old Navy's partnership with Anna Sui and Apple's unexpected venture with Issey Miyake, underscoring a year filled with notable entrances and departures in the industry. The passing of fashion icon Giorgio Armani, just before his company's 50th anniversary, prompted heartfelt tributes, including a moving piece by Luke Leitch, reflecting on his enduring legacy.
Additionally, Adam Selman's debut at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show made headlines, though broader runway show analyses were typically segregated. The fall collections of 2025 saw Miu Miu's retro-inspired bullet bras captivate audiences, while Matthieu Blazy's Chanel collection for spring 2026 became a significant talking point. Readers also sought practical fashion advice, with Laia Garcia-Furtado's guidance on the 'art of getting dressed' resonating deeply, particularly her surprising endorsement of flip-flops, presented with a unique blend of casual wisdom and high style. Her work encouraged a reevaluation of everyday footwear, advocating for self-expression and comfort. As the year concluded, the fashion dialogue continued, with recommendations extending to practical winter wear like snow boots, illustrating the breadth of reader interest from high fashion to daily utility.
Emerging Trends and Enduring Legacies
The past year offered a fascinating blend of established traditions and audacious innovations that captivated the fashion world. From the meticulous details of Melania Trump’s inaugural ensemble, which set a tone of dignified elegance, to the illuminating narratives presented by the Costume Institute's dual exhibitions, fashion enthusiasts were treated to a journey through both contemporary statements and historical masterpieces. The timely exploration of Christian Dior’s groundbreaking New Look, coinciding with Jonathan Anderson’s creative leadership at the esteemed French label, showcased the enduring influence of design heritage. These events collectively underscored the industry's dynamic interplay between continuity and change, attracting substantial reader attention and sparking widespread conversation.
Beyond high fashion, the year also celebrated significant industry movements, including key collaborations that broadened fashion's appeal, such as Old Navy’s unexpected partnership with Anna Sui and the innovative fusion of Apple's technology with Issey Miyake's design philosophy. These cross-sector collaborations demonstrated a growing trend towards interdisciplinary creativity, pushing boundaries and reaching new audiences. The fashion community also paused to honor the profound impact of designers like Giorgio Armani, whose passing prompted poignant reflections on his indelible contributions. While major runway events like Miu Miu's Fall 2025 collection, with its distinctive retro bras, and Matthieu Blazy's Spring 2026 Chanel presentation generated considerable buzz, the emphasis remained on the broader cultural significance of these moments. Moreover, accessible fashion advice, particularly on everyday items such as flip-flops, highlighted a consumer desire for practical yet stylish guidance, emphasizing comfort and personal expression. This diverse range of content, from grand fashion spectacles to everyday style tips, illustrated a comprehensive engagement with all facets of the sartorial landscape.
