Under the bright beams of New York Fashion Week, Jonathan Simkhai sent a wave of coastal optimism down the runway—sequins catching light like sea spray, fabrics washed in sunlit tones, and silhouettes that spoke of both the shoreline and the sidewalk. His Spring/Summer 2026 collection is not just an ode to California surf and salt air, but a dialogue between dreamy leisure and urban grit, nostalgia and evolution.
Inspiration & Atmosphere
Jonathan Simkhai describes his SS 2026 collection as a celebration of “coastal living.” He draws from memories of California days—sun-kissed skin, damp hair, the glow that lingers after saltwater swims. But this dreamy image is set against the raw geometry of New York: sidewalks, steel, and city edges.
This interplay of worlds defines the mood. Where LA offers languid glamour, New York injects structure and sharpness. The show lighting leaned into that duality: warm golden tones suggesting sunlight, layered over an industrial setting that reminded viewers of concrete and glass.
Key Design Elements: Fabrics & Textures
- Shimmer and sequins — Cascading sequins, especially in aqua and iridescent shades, mimic fish scales and ocean light.
- Guipure lace & embroidery — Romantic lace and embroidered overlays add softness to otherwise bold silhouettes.
- Distressed finishes — Crinkled leather, torn denim, and unraveling hems bring an undone, lived-in quality.
Silhouettes & Shapes
- Swimwear influences — Bodices, halternecks, and one-piece cuts reference swimsuits and bodysuits.
- Relaxed yet tailored — Wide-leg trousers, board-short silhouettes, and draped maxi dresses balance fluidity with structure.
- Structured sharpness — Tailored blazers and sculpted hardware keep the collection grounded in strength.
Accessories & Ornamentation
- Marine inspiration — Shell charms, pearls, and fishing-net motifs appear in bags and dresses.
- Footwear — Flip-flops with sculptural wedges and raffia-based sandals bring casualness elevated.
- Hardware details — Clasps and metallic accents double as jewelry and functional elements.
Narrative & Wearability
Simkhai makes it clear: his designs are not only for the runway. These clothes are meant to be lived in—whether stepping off a boardwalk, riding the subway, or walking into a meeting.
This collection also marks a full-circle moment for him. A decade ago, he dabbled in surf and skate influences but lacked the resources to refine them. Now, with more maturity and craftsmanship, he revisits those motifs with confidence. The nostalgia is evident, but it feels polished rather than retro.
By weaving coastal joy with urban edge, he creates clothes that invite women to embody both resilience and radiance. It’s fashion as translation—taking the serenity of the sea and carrying it into the rhythm of city life.
Why SS 2026 Resonates
In a season dominated either by stark minimalism or exaggerated spectacle, Simkhai finds a middle path. His SS 2026 feels joyful without being frivolous and wearable without losing artistry.
The collection resonates because of its emotional charge: an antidote to heavy times. The sparkle, the shimmer, the mood of sunlight—they lift spirits. Yet the grounding in denim, leather, and tailoring ensures practicality. It’s escapism, but tethered to reality.
Runway Meets Retail
The Farfetch lineup reflects the runway’s spirit in wearable form. Sequins, draped dresses, and raffia sandals echo SS 2026’s coastal shimmer. Wide-leg trousers and blazers tie into the urban-ready tailoring. Discounts on key pieces make some of this radiance accessible beyond the front row.
Simkhai’s Spring/Summer 2026 doesn’t just shine under runway lights; it extends into wardrobes through investment pieces, sale finds, and statement staples. Whether it’s the halterneck satin dress or raffia-textured sandals, the essence of sunlight meeting the city is there to be worn.