Courtesy of Michael Kors

CALVIN KLEIN SS 2026: Veronica Leoni Redefines Minimalism

Mia Macfarlane

Calvin Klein SS 2026 debuted on September 12th, 2025, at the Brant Foundation in New York City. The runway show marked Veronica Leoni’s second collection as creative director of Calvin Klein Collection.

From the very first look, the message was clear. Leoni wasn’t designing for the spectacle. Instead, she offered something more intimate. The collection focused on modern simplicity and emotional depth. As a result, it felt honest, wearable, and sharply elegant.

Calvin Klein SS 2026
Courtesy of Michael Kors

Wardrobe Icons, Reimagined with Substance

Leoni based the Calvin Klein SS 2026 collection on real-life essentials. For example, she highlighted pieces like the trench coat, the jean jacket, and the five-pocket trouser. These staples were not just repeated—they were elevated.

In addition, her fabric choices brought texture to the forefront. Leather appeared laser-cut to mimic terrycloth. Silks and jerseys draped like liquid. Consequently, each garment moved with ease while maintaining structure.

The color palette remained grounded. While white, black, and grey led the collection, subtle tones of pink, light blue, and fern offered contrast. Therefore, the overall effect was balanced and fresh.

Calvin Klein SS 2026
Courtesy of Calvin Klein

Underwear Takes the Spotlight

Underwear has always been central to Calvin Klein. However, for Spring Summer 2026, it took on a bold new role. Logo waistbands appeared not just as branding, but as design elements. For instance, one seamless tweed dress featured the Calvin Klein waistband woven directly into its fabric.

Although the silhouettes varied—cropped, long, sheer, or draped—they all shared a common language of exposure and restraint. Because of this, the collection felt both sensual and grounded.

Calvin Klein SS 2026
Courtesy of Calvin Klein

Sound and Setting: New York in Every Detail

The show took place at the Brant Foundation in the East Village. This location added texture to the experience. Its industrial architecture created a sense of raw intimacy.

Meanwhile, the soundtrack—curated by Grammy-winning producer Kid Harpoon—blended pop with orchestral and synth layers. The result was immersive and cinematic. Together, the visuals and audio captured the rhythm of New York life.

Calvin Klein SS 2026
Courtesy of Calvin Klein

A Global Guest List Reflects Calvin’s Reach

Many high-profile guests attended the runway event. Among them were Jung Kook, ROSALÍA, Solange, Emily Ratajkowski, and Lily Collins. All wore Calvin Klein Collection with ease and confidence.

In addition, editors, influencers, and artists from around the world filled the audience. For instance, Elsa Hosk, Iris Law, Aimee Song, and Gogoboi appeared in tailored suiting and denim from across Calvin Klein’s universe. Therefore, the brand’s global appeal felt unmistakable.

Veronica Leoni’s Calvin Klein: Minimal but Not Empty

Veronica Leoni’s vision for Calvin Klein is clear. Although she respects the brand’s minimal roots, she adds her own emotional weight. In her words, Calvin Klein is a “way of being,” not just a look.

Because of her attention to craft and silhouette, the Spring 2026 collection avoids trend-chasing. Instead, it builds a timeless system of dressing. In conclusion, it proves that minimalism can still feel intimate, expressive, and completely alive.


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One day when I was barely two my mom let me push her out of her bedroom. She was curious so she ran outside the house so she could watch me through the window. I climbed up on a chair by her vanity and started putting on her makeup. I loved playing dress up as a kid. Putting on my mom's sequin tube tops and high heeled shoes and then putting on a dance show in the lobby or the restaurant of the hotel/residence we lived in. It was the best childhood ever. Dress-up, dancing, playing with barbies, and drawing were my favorite things to do. I have not changed one bit today. If I am creating I am happy.

Now I am in Paris for the second time in my life and I am having a ball playing with my partner in crime Julien Crouigneau. We founded IRK Magazine together in 2015 and we are proud to collaborate with some amazing artists, and influencers.

We are also a photography duo under the pseudonym French Cowboy. We love to tell stories and create poetic images that are impactful.

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