Fashion turns to maximalism

The autumn-winter 2026-2027 fashion collections have marked a significant shift in design philosophy, moving away from minimalism toward a new maximalism that emphasizes freedom, experimentation, and the celebration of craftsmanship. This trend is seen as a response to a society in constant transformation, influenced by artificial intelligence and cultural evolution, with designers offering a deeply human answer through tactile intelligence and authentic luxury.

Bottega Veneta highlights craftsmanship

Louise Trotter, artistic director of Bottega Veneta, has focused on celebrating the craftsmanship of raw materials, featuring furs made of silk, extreme volume silhouettes, and variations of the Intrecciato weaving. Her designs aim to highlight the uniqueness of individuals who express themselves with flair.

Marni embraces functional elegance

Meryll Rogge, the new artistic director of Marni, introduced a vision of functional elegance, incorporating unexpected associations and bold chromatic pairings. Her designs reflect the legacy of Consuelo Castiglioni, a designer known for nurturing hope in the industry.

Dior challenges minimalism

At Dior, Jonathan Anderson's collection was set around the Octagonal Basin in the Tuileries gardens, a historic location that once dictated strict dress codes based on social rank. Anderson's designs challenge the conventions of minimalism, favoring a maximalist approach that emphasizes visibility and the accumulation of elements.

Maximalism spreads across brands

Other designers, including Matthieu Blazy at Chanel, Julian Klausner at Dries Van Noten, and Duran Lantink at Jean Paul Gaultier, have also embraced this revival of maximalism. The shift is seen as an evolution in the concept of "dressing well," which is now associated with carefully measured excess rather than neutral sophistication.

Italian fashion observatory highlights industry

Il Bello della Moda, an observatory dedicated to the systemic value of textiles, clothing, and luxury in Italy, highlights the positive contributions of Italian fashion, supported by the Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana and knowledge partners such as McKinsey & Company and IntelliSurvey. This initiative aims to showcase the beauty and positive aspects of Italian fashion, emphasizing its role as both an art form and a source of pleasure.