Perched above Los Angeles with panoramic views stretching across Bel-Air, Hermès presented its Fall 2026 Chapter II collection in a setting that echoed the collection’s themes of fluidity and freedom.
Guided by Nadège Vanhée, Artistic Director of Women’s Ready-to-Wear, the French luxury house unveiled a lineup inspired by movement, modern femininity, and the changing rhythm of everyday life.
The show drew an exclusive audience of fashion editors, longtime clients, and notable figures from the entertainment world. Among the guests were actresses Keke Palmer, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and Kerry Washington, alongside musician Miley Cyrus. While the front row was filled with familiar faces, the evening ultimately revolved around the collection itself and Vanhée’s creative vision.
The venue, specially constructed beside the legendary Hotel Bel-Air, provided a memorable backdrop. Dressed in a soft yellow hue, the structure glowed beneath the California sunset, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Welcoming attendees at the entrance was the phrase Silhouettes on the Horizon, the collection’s title and a fitting introduction to the story that unfolded throughout the presentation.
Movement served as the foundation of the collection. Drawing inspiration from dance, Vanhée focused on the relationship between garments and the body, designing pieces that responded naturally to motion. Ease, flexibility, and elegance were evident throughout, with silhouettes that seemed to come alive as they moved down the runway.
The theme emerged immediately with one of the opening looks. Awar Odhiang appeared in a pale yellow jumpsuit accented with delicate fringe that swayed gracefully with every step. More than a decorative detail, the fringe reinforced the collection’s central idea, turning movement into an integral part of the design.
As the presentation continued, Vanhée explored a balance between structure and softness. Tailored elements were paired with flowing silhouettes, creating looks that felt refined yet relaxed. One of the standout moments came when Yasmine Warsame walked the runway in a deep burgundy leather jacket layered over an embellished dress with a dramatically flared hem. The look perfectly captured the dialogue between strength and fluidity that defined the collection.
Leather remained a key pillar of the lineup, reaffirming its importance within the Hermès universe. Yet these pieces felt remarkably supple and modern. Cropped wrap jackets, corset-inspired dresses with sculpted tulip hems, and slim cigarette trousers demonstrated Vanhée’s ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. Even the most structured garments retained a sense of lightness and ease.
This combination of luxury and practicality has become a defining characteristic of Vanhée’s work. Rather than designing exclusively for the runway, she consistently creates clothing that integrates seamlessly into everyday life. The result is a collection that feels sophisticated and aspirational while remaining highly wearable.
Color introduced another layer of expression. While black leather anchored much of the collection, vibrant shades of yellow, red, and teal injected energy into the runway. Satin dresses featured delicate piping inspired by ballet slippers, tracing the natural lines of the body and emphasizing movement. Functional details such as pockets further highlighted the collection’s focus on versatility and comfort.
As the evening progressed, the mood gradually shifted. Bright colors gave way to deeper tones, and daytime dressing evolved into elegant eveningwear. The final looks featured black satin and velvet gowns that projected quiet confidence and timeless sophistication.
These closing silhouettes mirrored the changing sky outside the venue. As daylight faded into darkness, the collection transitioned from dynamic movement to a sense of calm stillness, creating a narrative that reflected the natural flow of a day.
Through Silhouettes on the Horizon, Vanhée presented more than a seasonal wardrobe. The collection explored the many transitions that shape modern life, offering clothing designed to accompany women through each moment with grace and ease.
As the final model disappeared backstage and night settled over Los Angeles, Hermès concluded a presentation that balanced innovation with heritage. Through impeccable craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and a compelling exploration of movement, the house delivered a Fall 2026 collection that felt both contemporary and unmistakably Hermès.
