Paris Fashion Week Men's Spring/Summer 2026 season is set to kick off with a dynamic and diverse schedule, bringing together global fashion powerhouses and emerging talents. The event follows stops in Florence and Milan, culminating in a six-day spectacle filled with runway shows, retrospectives, and high-profile collaborations. Highlights include Jonathan Anderson’s highly anticipated debut for Dior, a retrospective of Rick Owens’ work at Palais Galliera, and the return of Grace Wales Bonner to the catwalk. With appearances from Kylian Mbappé and exclusive behind-the-scenes access offered by Wallpaper*, this edition promises to be one of the most talked-about in recent memory.
A New Era Begins: Jonathan Anderson’s Dior Debut
The most eagerly awaited moment of the week is undoubtedly Jonathan Anderson’s first collection for Dior, where he now oversees menswear, womenswear, and haute couture. His creative vision has been teased through cryptic yet evocative imagery, drawing inspiration from cultural icons like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Lee Radziwill. The inclusion of Kylian Mbappé in promotional material further amplifies the buzz surrounding this debut.
Anderson’s inaugural collection for Dior marks a pivotal shift in the brand’s identity, blending high fashion with contemporary cultural references. Drawing inspiration from figures such as Basquiat and Lee Radziwill, known for their distinctive style and influence, Anderson aims to create a narrative that bridges art, history, and modernity. Teasers released ahead of the show included reinterpretations of classic literature covers, vintage pin cushions, and Warhol portraits adorned with the Dior monogram—hinting at a collection that is both intellectual and visually striking. The involvement of Kylian Mbappé, shared in a short film wearing a sleek grey suit, reinforces the brand’s push toward a younger, more globally connected audience. As anticipation builds, fashion insiders across the board have marked this debut as the defining moment of the season.
Excitement Builds with Iconic Names and Fresh Faces
While Anderson’s Dior show steals the spotlight, Paris Fashion Week also features major presentations from established names like Rick Owens and newcomers such as Willy Chavarria. A retrospective titled “Temple of Love” will celebrate Owens' legacy alongside his latest collection, while Chavarria’s sophomore Parisian outing and Grace Wales Bonner’s poetic return add fresh energy to the lineup.
Beyond the main runway events, the fashion week offers a rich tapestry of artistic expression and innovation. Rick Owens’ retrospective “Temple of Love” at Palais Galliera not only coincides with his new menswear collection but also cements his status as a visionary force in fashion. Meanwhile, American designer Willy Chavarria, who recently relocated from New York, is gaining momentum with his second show in Paris, signaling a bold expansion into the European market. On the other hand, Grace Wales Bonner’s long-awaited return to the runway promises a deeply conceptual and culturally layered presentation, true to her signature style. Additional shows from Comme des Garçons, Junya Watanabe MAN, and Hermès round out the eclectic calendar, ensuring a wide spectrum of aesthetics and storytelling. Wallpaper* editors on the ground will provide real-time updates, offering readers immersive insights into the most captivating moments—from backstage preparations to after-show celebrations—making this season’s Paris Fashion Week an unmissable experience.