UPDATE: Renowned designer Rick Owens has just unveiled his highly anticipated Fall/Winter 2026 TOWER collection at the iconic Palais de Tokyo in Paris. This groundbreaking showcase serves not only as a striking tribute to the future but also as a sharp satire on contemporary authority, featuring exaggerated military elements and oversized “police boots.”
The collection, described as “high-fashion armor,” incorporates advanced materials like Kevlar, which is five times stronger than steel, alongside luxurious Japanese cowhides. Owens aims to create a juxtaposition between industrial strength and artisanal craftsmanship, presenting pieces made from sustainably sourced materials, including handcrafted Himalayan wool and boiled wools from Tuscany.
Owens’ latest vision is a collaborative effort, featuring contributions from a host of “radical collaborators.” Notable pieces include shearling net flight jackets and intricately hand-knotted macramé masks, with each mask requiring an impressive thirty hours of labor. This approach embodies a “Goon Squad” aesthetic that balances toughness with a sense of hope and vulnerability.
The collection’s name, inspired by the “Temple of Love, Tower of Light,” reflects a duality: a hopeful prayer for a brighter future contrasted against a biting critique of modern power structures. While Owens has historically shunned military motifs, this time he intentionally reintroduces them, using humor to challenge the audience’s perception of authority.
Models strutted down the runway in boldly exaggerated police boots, available in striking colors like Butch Black and Mincy Mauve, amplifying the collection’s playful yet confrontational spirit. The garments themselves evoke a protective vibe, with lab-style coats crafted from heavy gloss leathers and modular jackets designed to peel apart, revealing long vests underneath.
Owens’ approach to fashion is not just about aesthetics; it’s a commentary on societal issues. As he described it during the show, the collection is meant to be “tough enough to handle a protest but soft enough to offer a sense of hope.” This philosophy resonates deeply in today’s world, making the collection not only visually captivating but also emotionally engaging.
The unveiling at Palais de Tokyo is set to draw significant attention from fashion enthusiasts and critics alike. This dynamic presentation marks a pivotal moment in Owens’ career, reaffirming his status as a visionary in the industry.
With the fashion world buzzing, the full gallery of the collection is available for viewing on Hypebeast. Stay tuned for more updates as the reception of this provocative collection unfolds.
