Collina Strada’s Spring 2026 Collection: Embracing the Duality of Light and Dark
Each season, designer Hillary Taymour of Collina Strada presents a collection that tells a story. From the empowering “Fempire” of Fall/Winter 2025 to the much-needed “Touch Grass” of Spring/Summer 2025, Taymour’s designs always have a deeper meaning. And for Spring 2026, she has honed in on a concept that feels more relevant than ever before.
Entitled “Shade,” Taymour teased the collection with shadow puppet motifs on the show’s save the dates and formal invitations. As attendees eagerly lined up on an East River helipad, they wondered how this nostalgic theme would come to life in the presentation.
As the sun began to set on the water, it became clear that the models themselves were the shadow puppets, walking the runway in pairs with their “shadows” by their side. Each pastel look was accompanied by an all-black version of the same silhouette, representing the duality of light and dark. Taymour drew inspiration from sunsets when creating the collection, explaining that it is about being our brightest selves even in the darkest of times.
The soundtrack of “Friendly Fascism” played as chiffon-clad “light” looks were followed by their “dark” counterparts, featuring lace, veils, and drapery. The collection also featured hair-crafted hats, the Converse x Collina Strada high-top sneakers, and a variety of deadstock fabrics. Taymour’s message was clear: question what you’ve been told and choose your own path.
Collina Strada also collaborated with OnlyFans for a “Level Up” tee, further emphasizing the theme of embracing our shadows. As Taymour shared, the collection is guided by a quote from Carl Jung, reminding us that we all have shadows and encouraging us to “befriend and bedazzle” them. After all, our shadows are always with us, even on the East River Heliport.
Take a closer look at the full Collina Strada Spring 2026 collection in the runway images above, and stay tuned to Hypebeast for continuing New York Fashion Week coverage.
