Paris Fashion Week Men’s is officially here, and while the industry’s bracing for big debuts this September, don’t underestimate what’s happening this week. Spring/Summer 2026 is more than just a prelude—it’s a power shift. From Jonathan Anderson’s first-ever menswear collection at Dior to Rick Owens taking over the Palais Galliera with a full-scale retrospective, this season is packed with major moves, fresh energy, and plenty of moments you’ll want on your radar.
Jonathan Anderson’s Dior Debut
Let’s start with the headline: Jonathan Anderson is making his menswear debut as the new sole creative director of Dior. While his first women’s collection won’t arrive until September, he’s kicking things off this week, and the pressure is high. Dior’s legacy, Anderson’s bold vision, and a whole lot of anticipation—expect this one to dominate conversation both on and off the runway.
Klausner Steps into Menswear at Dries Van Noten
Also stepping into new territory: Julian Klausner, now at the helm of Dries Van Noten. While his womenswear debut arrived in March, this is his first menswear show since taking over from the legendary designer. Klausner’s been behind the scenes since 2018, closely tied to both women’s and men’s, so this transition feels natural—even if it’s a big one.
Saint Laurent and Louis Vuitton Anchor Opening Day
The week kicks off strong. Anthony Vaccarello brings Saint Laurent back on the official calendar with a Tuesday 5PM show. Later that day, Pharrell Williams is back for his SS26 collection at Louis Vuitton. After his Pont-Neuf debut and last year’s Unesco garden spectacle, Pharrell’s shows are a guaranteed spectacle—and now with a Real Madrid partnership and stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Jeremy Allen White in the LV orbit, this one’s going to be big.
The Return of Grace Wales Bonner + More Names to Watch
British designer Grace Wales Bonner is back on the schedule following a massive Met Gala moment (she dressed Lewis Hamilton, FKA Twigs, Jeff Goldblum and more) and her “Togetherness” event at the Guggenheim. Also showing: Craig Green, Willy Chavarria (his second season in Paris), and a buzzy new Kenzo moment under recently appointed CEO Charlotte Coupé.
Jacquemus will close the week at L’Orangerie du Château de Versailles, fully embracing the Paris Fashion Week calendar after years of off-schedule shows. Romantic, theatrical, and location-perfect—as expected.
Fashion Beyond the Runway: A Week of Exhibitions
This season isn’t just about runway shows—Paris is leaning into reflection and legacy. Rick Owens’s long-awaited retrospective opens June 28 at Palais Galliera, covering his full journey from LA’s underground scene to Paris fashion royalty. The exhibit, co-curated by Owens himself, takes over the entire museum, garden, and even the restaurant (staff included in Rick Owens uniforms, naturally).
Meanwhile, Balenciaga is marking the end of a chapter with “Balenciaga by Demna,” opening June 26 at Kering HQ, showcasing 10 years of Demna’s rule at the house.
Also on view:
- Paul Poiret at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs (opens June 25)
- Worth: Inventing Haute Couture at Petit Palais (through September 7)
- Louvre Couture (on view until August 24)
- Acne Paper Palais Royal, a new cultural gallery from Acne Studios, opening with a solo exhibition by Dutch photographer Paul Kooiker
A City in Reflection
There’s a sense of pause, of looking back, and redefining the future. Rick Owens’s retrospective arrives at a time when, as Palais Galliera’s curator Alexandre Samson puts it, “fashion creation is becoming increasingly uniform.” Designers who stay true to their vision—like Owens—feel more vital than ever.
Paris is buzzing, and this week isn’t just about what’s trending—it’s about what’s lasting. From rising creative directors to legacy-defining exhibitions, SS26 is already leaving a mark.
