UPDATE: New York Fashion Week’s Spring/Summer 2026 season is underway, with music taking center stage as a vital element of the runway experience. As designers unveil their latest collections, the soundtracks shape emotions, memories, and overall impact, making this event a unique sensory journey for attendees.
With each show, the music is not just background noise but a critical component that enhances the narrative of the clothing. At the Mexican brand Campillo’s show titled “Repetición,” attendees were transported by an original composition featuring a poem from philosopher Nezahualcóyotl. The mantra-like delivery of the poem combined with nature sounds created an atmosphere that felt both dreamlike and deeply introspective. Composer Ruzzi collaborated closely with designer Patricio Campillo, describing the soundtrack as a “roller coaster of emotions.”
The music journey at Campillo’s show blended traditional Mexican sounds, including “Perfume de Gardenias” by La Sonora Santanera and a new Spanish cover of Daft Punk’s “Something About Us,” showcasing the designer’s exploration of cultural depth. “When you’re an emerging designer, the music creates attention alongside casting and clothes,” Campillo noted.
At Eckhaus Latta, the opening poem set a provocative tone, while DJ Galcher Lustwerk delivered a high-energy set filled with layered sounds reminiscent of 1970s and 1980s New York. The vibe resonated with the audience, enhancing the striking visuals of models in daring outfits, including one who walked with a lit blunt, creating a buzz of excitement.
This season also saw Diotima’s “Bacchanal” collection, which captured the spirit of Caribbean Carnival. The soundtrack, designed by Jordss, escalated tension with provocative sounds, culminating in a powerful atmosphere as colorful outfits showcased the vibrancy of the theme. “Carnival is an anti-imperialist act that flourishes in the face of violent oppression,” read the show notes.
In a nostalgic homage, Anna Sui’s show paid tribute to artistic icons, with music spanning from the late ’80s to the present. Models adorned in prairie silhouettes walked to tracks by Mazzy Star and Velvet Underground, creating a trip down memory lane that resonated deeply with the audience.
Khaite presented a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack that included works by Chopin, pairing it with ethereal designs that left guests in awe. The overall ambiance of layered sounds and visuals created an unforgettable experience.
In a bold statement, Collina Strada addressed contemporary issues through its musical direction, blending club music with social commentary. Designer Hillary Taymour emphasized the importance of questioning societal norms, culminating in an operatic version of Smash Mouth’s “All Star,” leaving attendees pondering its poignant lyrics.
As New York Fashion Week continues, the harmonious blend of music and fashion not only elevates the runway experience but also provokes thought and emotion, making each show a significant event. Viewers are encouraged to stay tuned for more updates from this vibrant showcase, where every beat and stitch tells a story.
The immediate impact of this season is clear: music is not just an accessory to fashion; it is a fundamental part of the experience, urging audiences to engage with the collections on a deeper level. The synergy of sound and style is reshaping perceptions at New York Fashion Week like never before.
