ERL SS26 "Poison Ivy" Evokes Dark Academia
LA-based designer Eli Russell Linnetz weaves a visual narrative exploring the subversion of traditional prep style.
Summary
- Eli Russell Linnetz’s ERL SS26 collection, “Poison Ivy,” explores American menswear codes through tailored silhouettes edited with edgy finishes and relaxed sensibilities, set within a dark academia narrative.
For SS26, Eli Russell Linnetz has plotted a new storyline titled “Poison Ivy,” incorporating the power dynamics of American menswear codes into a tale of obsession and self-realization.
ERL situates its all-new Ivy/Prep-inspired styles in a boarding school, following the character Ivy’s fixation on infiltrating the exclusive social hierarchy headed by his peer Chirstian — ultimately manifesting in a violent break driven by madness.
The collection toys with these twisted and contrasting themes throug the reinterpretation of tailored sillhouettes and elegant styles with edgy finishes and relaxed sensibilities.
Staples of prep fashion including relaxed Donegal linen suits, v-neck knitted sweaters, and pleated shorts are cast in a dusty neutral palette — injecting the collection with a gritty undertone. Across the board, fabrics boast a broken-in feel, boosted by faded finishes, distressed details, and brushed fibres. Elsewhere, super short swim trunks and surf nylon tailoring, remind us of ERL’s Venice Beach roots.
Further, an offbeat energy is brought in with patterns including a bold polka dot found in a neck tie and gloves, striped shirting, and a flamboyant baroque floral top. Arguably, the centrepiece of the range is a blue and white plaid suit, worn with a purple shirt and vest with a pastel striped tie.
See the gallery above for a closer look at ERL’s SS26 Poison Ivy campaign and head to the ERL web store for more details.
