Get ready to move—Fashion East Fall 2026 is here, and it’s all about embracing the physical. But here’s where it gets controversial: can fashion truly capture the essence of movement without losing its artistry? This season, the incubator program took over Manor Place in south London, a venue co-founded by Palace Skateboards and Nike, offering a unique blend of a football cage, skatepark, and exhibition space—all free to the public. It was the perfect backdrop for designers Jacek Gleba, Louis Mayhew, and Traiceline Pratt, whose collections didn’t just showcase clothing but celebrated motion in all its forms, from dance-inspired pieces to treasure-hunting adventures.
Louis Mayhew’s collection was a bold statement on upcycling and creativity. And this is the part most people miss: his designs weren’t just about sustainability; they were a rebellion against conventional fashion norms. One standout piece? A top jazzed up with duct tape and his own boxer shorts, paired with an upcycled V-neck jumper adorned with broken bottle caps he scavenged from the Thames. His mirthful accessories, like a bindle carried by the closing model, added a layer of whimsy that challenged the audience to rethink what fashion can be. But does this approach dilute the line between art and chaos? We’ll let you decide.
Jacek Gleba, a former dancer, brought a vibrant energy to the runway with a palette that screamed movement. Swooshes of pink, burgundy, military green, and teal danced across bodysuits, leggings, and capris, inspired by Oscar Wilde’s Salome and its ballet adaptations. Here’s the kicker: Gleba’s slashed cutouts along the hips and shoulders weren’t just stylish—they were a nod to the femme fatale’s spirit. But does this interpretation of Wilde’s work honor or overshadow the original? Let’s hear your thoughts.
Closing the show was Traiceline Pratt’s Goyagoma, a fresh addition to the Fashion East lineup. The Bahamian designer took us on a 12-hour journey through his childhood neighborhood, complete with cheeky outfit titles like ‘Something to cheat in’ and ‘Something to steal in.’ The result? A sleek, versatile collection featuring a suede trench coat embossed with crocodile print and shearlings in every imaginable shape and size. But here’s the question: does fashion’s focus on storytelling sometimes overshadow its functionality? Pratt’s debut certainly blurs the lines.
Fashion East Fall 2026 wasn’t just a showcase—it was a conversation starter. From Mayhew’s rebellious upcycling to Gleba’s dance-inspired drama and Pratt’s narrative-driven designs, this season challenged us to rethink what fashion can—and should—be. So, we ask you: where do you draw the line between art, sustainability, and wearability? Let’s keep the dialogue going in the comments!
