Andreas Kronthaler Draws the Curtain on Vivienne Westwood's Theater for FW26
Taking inspiration from Austrian screen legend Romy Schneider, Italian costume designer Danilo Donati, and playful, erotic underwear.
Andreas Kronthaler is celebrating 21 years at the helm of Vivienne Westwood, continuing to push the house’s theatrical spirit further with each season. For Fall/Winter 2026, Kronthaler pulled from three distinct inspirations to shape a collection that felt unapologetically larger than life. The first was Austrian screen legend Romy Schneider, whose heritage mirrors Kronthaler’s own, followed by the lavish costume sensibilities of Italian designer Danilo Donati. Rounding out the trio is erotic underwear, injecting the collection with a subtle yet persistent sensual charge.
FW26 unfolded like a new chapter of fashion theater. Checkered car coats opened the show, layered over strappy, lingerie-inspired pieces that set the tone for the lineup’s playful provocation. Oversized glittering hats swayed down the runway beside sharply structured silk suits and netted face coverings, while latex skirts, striped blazers, and sheer stockings blurred the lines between menswear and womenswear.
Elsewhere, fabrics were draped and twisted around the body to heighten movement, styled with knit tunics and bleached trucker jackets that added a rebellious edge. The show closed with characteristic humour: a bridal suit crowned with a bouquet of radishes — a wink to the house’s enduring blend of romance, satire, and spectacle.
Take a closer look at Vivienne Westwood by Andreas Kronthaler FW26 in the gallery above.
