For our V159 Spring 2026 issue, a spring parade of fashion’s most in-demand models—both newcomers to watch and runway mainstays who helped shape the industry—channel the new energy rippling through today’s most talked-about fashion houses. Photographed by Chris Colls and styled by George Cortina, meet the ten models ushering in the new season!

First in line is Felice Noordhoff! It’s hard not to recognize her as one of fashion’s rare early breakouts; not many of us can say they signed a Prada exclusive while still a high school freshman. With an impressive résumé that includes walking in 36 Chanel shows and effortlessly clocking up to 20 runways per season, her presence on the catwalk has never been easy to overlook. “I was very young when I walked my first show and experienced my first major season, about 15. With time, I really learned how to grow into the industry more consciously.” 

Now 24, she graces the cover of our latest issue in Nicolas Ghesquière’s Spring collection for Louis Vuitton paired with Tiffany & Co’s emblematic HardWear jewelry collection, proving that one of the most sought-after Dutch models is still a force with no signs of slowing down. 

V: What’s your favorite part about spring? Are there any fond memories you associate with the season?

Felice Noordhoff: Spring might be my favorite season. Everything starts to bloom again, and it brings such a special energy. I love the feeling that everything is new and full of possibility. It always reminds me of fresh starts and long days outside.

V: Many of the Spring 2026 collections were debuts for certain designers, opening up a larger conversation around fashion’s need for renewal. How are you feeling about the recent creative shake-ups at these fashion houses?

FH: I actually think it’s exciting when a fashion house introduces a new designer. It can bring fresh ideas and new energy, while still respecting the heritage of the brand. Change is important in fashion.

V: A designer’s debut collection is often a statement of identity. Do you remember what you wanted your first major season to say about you? How did you personally manage the pressure of being “introduced” to the industry?

FH: I was very young when I walked my first show and experienced my first major season, about 15. The beginning of my career felt more like one big experience that is a bit blurry now. With time, I really learned how to grow into the industry more consciously. 

V: What do you see as the parallels between a model’s first runway moment and a designer presenting their first collection?

FH: Both experience a lot of pressure and excitement. But having seen new designers present their first collections, I think the pressure on them is often much higher. I have a lot of respect!

V: Have you ever felt like you were growing alongside a designer who was just starting out? What was that experience like?

FH: Of course! Pieter [Mulier] was not just starting out, but when he presented his first show for Alaïa, I walked in it. Since then, it has been special to see how his vision has developed. It felt like being part of an important moment in his journey.

V: Are there any designers in today’s fashion landscape whose work you feel especially connected to?

FH: I feel connected not only to designers’ work, but also to who they are as people. When I get to know the person behind the clothes, and when I can wear and feel the pieces they created, the connection becomes much stronger. That has been very special with Pieter. 

V: Do you think it’s better for a debut—whether for a model or a designer—to feel perfectly polished, or slightly raw?

FH: I think it really depends on the fashion house and its identity. Sometimes a polished debut works better, and sometimes something more raw and honest feels more powerful. Both can be beautiful in different ways.

This story appears in the pages of V159: now available for purchase!

Photography Chris Colls
Fashion George Cortina
Models Felice Noordhoff (The Lions)
Editor-in-Chief / Creative Director Stephen Gan
Makeup Mark Carrasquillo (Streeters)
Hair Bob Recine
Manicure Honey (Exposure)
Casting Goran Macura
Executive Producer Dana Brockman (Viewfinders)
Producer Max Bonbrest (Viewfinders)
Production Assistant T. Harper
Digital Technician Jeanine Robinson
Movement Director Marly Phillips Nicol
Director of Editorial Film Mynxii White
Location Untitled Studios
Equipment Alex Bova
Photo Assistants Daniil Zaikin, Ben Carhartt
Styling Assistants Moses Moreno, Trevor McMullan,
Jared Benhart, Mary Reinehr Gigler
Tailor Yaqi Sun (Atelier YQS)
Makeup Assistants Shoko Sawatari, Yuui Vision
Hair Assistant Shinya Iwamoto
Set Designer Happy Massee (La La Land)
Set Design Assistant Kevin Murphy