The green chair accompanying the Dior invitation for the house’s AW26 show was recognizable as the signature furniture found along the edges of the Jardin de Tuileries in Paris. Offering a moment of respite for residents and tourists alike, the simple presence of these chairs are invitations to see and be seen. Jonathan Anderson’s sophomore ready-to-wear collection was also shown in this context—a runway constructed within the famed garden to view the collection and allow oneself to be seen.

The venue of choice clearly inspired the collection. On this sunny Tuesday during Paris Fashion Week, that invigorating shade of green from the chairs would appear as an accent in various show looks. Lily pads—quite literally found in the pond surrounding the runway—were a part of designs found on heels, bags and accessories. Florals were a throughline in this collection, but they were delivered in thoughtful and innovative ways. Hemlines and silhouettes resembled petals. Ruffles were plentiful, trains added drama and peplum jackets conveyed a playful yet sculpted quality. 

Anderson’s attention to detail from his debut ready-to-wear collection continued in this AW26 season, but the elegance and femininity embedded in the house codes were more emphasized. Through tailoring, there was a greater embrace of the feminine form, and like the early works from Christian Dior, the waistline was emphasized and skirts held the sensation of blossoming. The collection held a range of looks for the Dior woman including light, airy dresses and soft, but structural silhouettes for professional looks. Some will say that this was surprisingly springy for an autumn-winter show. But when the collection is this well-executed, who cares?