Inside Calvin Klein SS26: The City, Stripped Back

Veronica Leoni’s second outing for Calvin Klein Collection redefines modern American minimalism with a cinematic lens. Spring/Summer 2026 is a study in contrasts, intimacy versus exposure, simplicity meeting sensuality all framed through the rhythm of New York City.

“Calvin Klein has always been a brand that belongs to the people,” Leoni shared. “With this collection, I wanted to present Calvin Klein as a way of being bold, unadorned, and deeply human.”

At its core, the collection translates daily essentials into statement icons. The trench coat, pinafore, bathrobe, and caftan take on sculptural proportions, while denim, polo shirts, and five-pocket trousers are elevated with sharp tailoring. Accessories from folded earrings to sneaker-soled moccasins reinforce a wardrobe grounded in real life, yet heightened by craft.

Lingerie codes surfaced throughout: slip dresses, lace-trim camisoles, and even a tweed dress woven with Calvin Klein’s signature logo waistbands. Textures carried tactile intrigue laser-cut leathers mimicking terrycloth, crocheted fringe dresses, and fluid silks all rendered in a palette of urban neutrals with injections of scarlet, powder blue, and fern.

The show, staged at the Brant Foundation in New York’s East Village, unfolded against a custom soundtrack by Grammy-winning producer Kid Harpoon. Remixing global pop with orchestral and synth interludes, the soundscape mirrored the collection’s balance between universality and New York grit.

Spring/Summer 2026 cements Calvin Klein’s vision for the modern wardrobe: stripped back, yet resonant with intimacy, individuality, and the quiet power of everyday icons.

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