A Private Policy: Where Fashion and Technology Collide
At New York Fashion Week, the unexpected is always expected. But this year, Private Policy took it to a whole new level with their Spring/Summer 2026 showcase. The runway was not only graced by the presence of rapper Kodak Black in the front row, but also by the world’s first Dual-Form Home Intelligent Agent, BAOBAO. This cutting-edge technology is able to seamlessly transition between a humanoid and quadruped form in real-time.
The juxtaposition of humanity and technology was the driving force behind Private Policy’s latest collection, aptly titled “Can We Be Friends?” In a world where artificial intelligence is rapidly gaining influence and power, the brand challenges us to look inward and examine our relationship with technology.
The collection itself is a fusion of elevated Americana and futuristic elements, creating a sartorial lane that Private Policy calls “Future-Tech Americana.” Denim, workwear, and preppy pieces are elevated with protective weaves and silicone textures, while pulled piqué and reworked polos add a touch of sophistication. Sheer outerwear and structured, tailored jackets add a modern edge to the classic American aesthetic.
But the real showstopper was BAOBAO, who made its appearance halfway through the runway. As models took jagged paths across the spacious showroom, BAOBAO showcased its advanced motion and manipulation abilities, prompting the audience to question the boundaries between man and machine. Can a machine truly understand and express emotion? Can it offer friendship?
Private Policy doesn’t aim to answer these questions, but rather to spark a conversation about the evolving relationship between humans and technology. As stated in the show notes, “If intelligence can be programmed to understand us, is it still only machinery? If friendship stretches to include what we once called artificial, does it not also stretch the very meaning of being human?”
So, can Kodak Black and BAOBAO be friends? The answer is up for interpretation. But one thing is for sure, Private Policy’s thought-provoking collection has left a lasting impression on the fashion world. Stay tuned to Hypebeast for more coverage of New York Fashion Week.
