Anthony Vaccarello, with nearly a decade at the helm of Saint Laurent, continues to demonstrate his profound comprehension of the brand's enduring appeal. He consistently delivers captivating collections by skillfully navigating the inherent duality that defines YSL: the interplay between opposing forces such as masculinity and femininity, strength and fragility, and the refined versus the rebellious. His Resort 2026 collection serves as a testament to this philosophy, presenting a harmonious fusion of 1970s sportif elegance and ethereal, satin-laced lingerie-inspired attire, often complemented by striking, cherry-adorned high sandals.
This season introduces a fresh athletic dimension to Vaccarello's repertoire, allowing him to explore comfort and ease without compromising innovative design. The collection showcases vibrant color-blocking—think bold scarlet paired with vermillion, and vivid teal alongside ivory—applied to lightweight technical nylons. These materials form voluminous cagoules, anoraks, and track tops, featuring extended shoulder lines and gathered waists. These sporty pieces are then juxtaposed with delicate, lace-adorned innerwear, such as camisole shorts and slips with flowing asymmetric hems, rendered in soft hues like pale pink, eau-de-nil, or an exquisite shade of kingfisher blue. Vaccarello also revisits other signature Saint Laurent elements, including airy blouses with oversized bows, reminiscent of his crisp shirtings recently seen with biker leathers, and sinuous long dresses embellished with knotted satin ribbons, deep side-slits, and draped necklines. Many of these sophisticated evening ensembles are presented in deep navy, introducing an unexpected gravity to the otherwise light and fluid designs.
These creations nod to various significant periods in Saint Laurent's history, notably the 1990s, an era that Vaccarello particularly admires for its nuanced exploration of tension. His continuous ability to delve deeply into the brand's archives and reinterpret its essence allows him to consistently imbue Saint Laurent with his distinctive vision, making each collection uniquely his own while honoring the brand's rich heritage.
This collection exemplifies how creative vision can transcend conventional boundaries, transforming seemingly disparate elements into a cohesive and inspiring narrative. It reminds us that true artistry lies in the ability to find beauty and strength in contrast, pushing the evolution of style forward with grace and boldness.