Christian Siriano SS26 Old Hollywood Glamour
Christian Siriano brought cinematic drama to the heart of NYFW, with his Spring/Summer 2026 runway show, staged at the historic Macy’s Herald Square Flagship. Against the grandeur of one of Manhattan’s most iconic landmarks, Siriano unveiled a collection inspired by the timeless allure of 1940s film and the unapologetic style of Hollywood icon Marlene Dietrich.
A Star-Studded Front Row
Siriano’s shows are as much about the audience as the runway, and this season was no exception. Oprah Winfrey, Whoopi Goldberg, Lizzo, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, Patricia Clarkson, Gayle King, Jordan Roth, Adam Lambert, Heather Graham, Jonathan Van Ness, Natasha Rothwell, Brittany Broski, Slayyyter, and Coco Rocha were just a few of the names who filled the front row. Their presence affirmed Siriano’s enduring role as a designer who bridges Hollywood glamour with modern relevance.
Collection Inspiration
The collection drew heavily from Dietrich’s duality, her mastery of sharp masculine tailoring, and her embrace of ultra-feminine silhouettes. Siriano explored texture, volume, and sculptural form, crafting looks that balanced strength with sensuality. The palette told a cinematic story: beginning in crisp black and white, reminiscent of old Hollywood reels, before bursting into vivid brights as though the film itself shifted into Technicolor. The setting only amplified the effect, evoking the couture salon presentations of a bygone era while showcasing Siriano’s modern, dramatic flair.
Collaborations on the Runway
Siriano used his platform to highlight bold collaborations. With Humane World for Animals, the reimagined Humane Society, he unveiled three custom-designed pieces—a bra, coat, and pants—featuring the organization’s new animal-print logo in a cruelty-free black-and-white textile. The designs aligned seamlessly with the season’s monochrome narrative while underscoring Siriano’s commitment to animal welfare.
In another surprising twist, Siriano partnered with Capri Sun to debut the Pouch Purse. Inspired by fans who have DIYed the brand’s silver pouches into handbags since the early 2000s, Siriano elevated the playful concept into a high-fashion accessory. The limited-edition piece, available through Capri Sun’s exclusive online drop, tapped into both nostalgia and Y2K revivalism while making a bold runway statement.
Beauty, Atmosphere, and Craft
The show’s atmosphere was a masterclass in fashion staging. Makeup was led by MAC’s Gilbert Soliz, while TRESemmé’s Lacy Redman directed hair using ghd tools. Skincare by Borghese Roma and floral design by Pejy Kash Events added polish to the presentation. The soundscape, curated by Alicia Solombrino, created a cinematic mood, while S_Projects handled production and Hollie Schliftman led casting.
The After-Party
The glamour continued after the runway with a celebration at the newly unveiled W Union Square, a historic Beaux-Arts landmark on Park Avenue South. Guests mingled amid music and design, bringing Siriano’s blend of couture drama and modern inclusivity to life beyond the runway.
About Christian Siriano
Since launching his eponymous label in 2008 after studying under Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen, Christian Siriano has become one of America’s most celebrated designers. Known for championing body diversity on the runway and red carpet, he has dressed figures ranging from First Lady Jill Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris to Oprah Winfrey, Zendaya, and Lady Gaga. His work has been featured in exhibitions at institutions such as SCAD, the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, and London’s Victoria & Albert Museum, with multiple designs included in The Met Costume Institute’s acclaimed shows. Beyond fashion, Siriano has authored two best-selling books, launched a thriving interior design business, and released a new book, Christian Siriano: The New Red Carpet, solidifying his reputation as a multi-disciplinary creative force.
With his SS26 collection, Siriano once again proves why he remains a fixture at New York Fashion Week: honoring timeless glamour while fearlessly pushing it into the present.
Photo Credit: Arturo Holmes