As the sun slowly descended over the hills of Bel-Air, Hermès revealed its Fall 2026 Chapter II collection in a setting that perfectly complemented the spirit of the designs.
Overseen by Nadège Vanhée, Artistic Director of Women’s Ready-to-Wear, the presentation transformed a scenic Los Angeles hillside into a stage for a collection centered on movement, ease, and contemporary elegance.
The audience reflected the prestige of the occasion. Fashion editors, dedicated Hermès clients, and a number of recognizable faces from the worlds of entertainment and culture gathered to witness the unveiling. Among them were actresses Keke Palmer, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and Kerry Washington, as well as singer Miley Cyrus. While the guest list generated its share of attention, the focus remained firmly on the collection and Vanhée’s creative vision.
A purpose-built venue next to the renowned Hotel Bel-Air provided the setting for the evening. Finished in a soft yellow hue, the structure seemed to glow beneath the fading California light. Above the entrance, guests were welcomed by the words Silhouettes on the Horizon, the title of the collection and a fitting description of the atmosphere that unfolded throughout the show. Framed by sweeping views of Los Angeles, the presentation felt intimate yet grand in scale.
The collection was rooted in the idea of motion. Drawing inspiration from dance, Vanhée explored the relationship between clothing and the moving body, creating pieces that emphasized fluidity, comfort, and natural movement. Rather than imposing rigid forms, the garments appeared designed to evolve with every step.
That concept was introduced early in the show. Awar Odhiang appeared in a pale yellow jumpsuit accented with delicate fringe that swayed rhythmically as she walked. The movement of the garment became part of the design itself, setting the tone for a collection that celebrated motion as much as silhouette.
As the presentation unfolded, Vanhée continued to play with contrasts between structure and softness. Tailored pieces were balanced by flowing shapes, creating a wardrobe that felt both refined and effortless. One of the standout moments came courtesy of Yasmine Warsame, who wore a rich burgundy leather jacket over an embellished dress with a dramatically flared hem. The look combined strength and femininity in equal measure, capturing the essence of the collection.
Leather remained a cornerstone of the offering, reaffirming a material long associated with the Hermès identity. Yet these designs felt notably light and flexible. Cropped wrap jackets, corset-inspired dresses with sculptural tulip hems, and slim cigarette trousers demonstrated the designer’s ability to merge technical craftsmanship with modern practicality. Even the most structured garments retained an easy sense of movement.
This balance between sophistication and functionality has become one of Vanhée’s defining strengths. Her collections consistently prioritize wearability without compromising luxury, resulting in pieces that feel as relevant off the runway as they do on it.
Color played an equally important role throughout the presentation. While black leather anchored many of the looks, vivid shades of yellow, red, and teal injected moments of energy into the lineup. Satin dresses traced the contours of the body through delicate piping details inspired by ballet slippers. Thoughtful additions such as pockets reinforced the collection’s emphasis on practicality and ease.
As daylight faded into evening, the collection gradually shifted in mood. Bright hues gave way to deeper tones, and daytime looks evolved into elegant eveningwear. The finale featured a sequence of black satin and velvet gowns that brought a sense of quiet drama to the runway.
These closing looks mirrored the transition taking place beyond the venue as Los Angeles moved from sunset into night. The progression felt deliberate, creating a visual narrative that reflected the changing pace of the day. In doing so, the collection gained an emotional dimension that extended beyond its craftsmanship.
Through Silhouettes on the Horizon, Vanhée presented more than a seasonal wardrobe. The collection explored the rhythms of modern life, following a journey from activity to stillness, from day to evening. Each look seemed designed to accompany women through those transitions with confidence and grace.
As the final model disappeared backstage and darkness settled over the city, Hermès concluded an evening that was both visually compelling and thoughtfully executed. Combining exceptional craftsmanship with a nuanced exploration of movement, the house delivered a collection that felt contemporary, elegant, and unmistakably Hermès.