With the sun setting over the hills of Bel-Air, Hermès presented its Fall 2026 Chapter II collection in a location that perfectly echoed the mood of the season.
Designed by Nadège Vanhée, Artistic Director of Women’s Ready-to-Wear, the collection explored themes of movement, freedom, and effortless sophistication, transforming a Los Angeles hillside into a striking stage for the evening.
The show attracted an esteemed audience of fashion editors, longtime clients, and notable figures from the worlds of film, television, and music. Among those in attendance were actresses Keke Palmer, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and Kerry Washington, as well as musician Miley Cyrus. While the guest list reflected Hermès’ enduring influence in luxury fashion, attention remained firmly focused on the collection itself.
Set beside the iconic Hotel Bel-Air, the purpose-built venue became an extension of the show’s narrative. Finished in a soft yellow hue, the structure glowed beneath the fading California sky, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Guests entered beneath the words Silhouettes on the Horizon, the title of the collection and a fitting introduction to the story unfolding on the runway.
The concept of movement served as the collection’s foundation. Inspired by dance and the natural relationship between clothing and the body, Vanhée designed garments that embraced fluidity, comfort, and ease. Rather than constraining the wearer, the pieces appeared to respond organically to every gesture and stride.
This vision became apparent from the opening looks. Awar Odhiang stepped onto the runway wearing a pale yellow jumpsuit trimmed with delicate fringe that moved gracefully with each step. The effect was captivating, reinforcing the collection’s emphasis on motion as a key element of design.
As the presentation continued, Vanhée explored the balance between precision and fluidity. Structured tailoring was softened by flowing silhouettes, creating a wardrobe that felt both refined and relaxed. One of the show’s standout moments featured Yasmine Warsame in a deep burgundy leather jacket paired with an embellished dress that flared dramatically at the hem. The look embodied a compelling contrast between strength and softness.
Leather remained central to the collection, reflecting one of Hermès’ most recognizable signatures. Yet the pieces felt surprisingly light and versatile. Cropped wrap jackets, corset-inspired dresses with tulip-shaped skirts, and slim cigarette trousers demonstrated the house’s commitment to craftsmanship while embracing a modern approach to dressing. Even the most sculptural designs conveyed a sense of comfort and ease.
This blend of practicality and luxury has become a defining characteristic of Vanhée’s work. Her collections consistently prioritize wearability, creating garments that seamlessly fit into everyday life while maintaining a high level of sophistication.
Color brought additional energy to the runway. While black leather provided a strong visual anchor, vivid tones of yellow, red, and teal punctuated the collection. Satin dresses featured delicate piping inspired by ballet slippers, tracing the body’s contours and highlighting movement. Functional details such as pockets reinforced the collection’s balance between elegance and utility.
As daylight gave way to evening, the mood gradually shifted. Vibrant shades receded in favor of darker hues, and daytime silhouettes evolved into polished eveningwear. The show concluded with a series of black satin and velvet gowns that projected understated glamour and timeless refinement.
These final looks echoed the transformation taking place beyond the runway as Los Angeles moved from sunset into night. The progression from motion to stillness created a poetic narrative, reflecting the natural rhythm of a day unfolding.
Through Silhouettes on the Horizon, Vanhée offered more than a seasonal wardrobe. The collection explored the pace of contemporary life and the many transitions that shape it, presenting clothing designed to accompany women through each moment with confidence and grace.
As the final model exited the runway and darkness settled over the city, Hermès brought the evening to a close with a collection that balanced innovation, craftsmanship, and wearability. By placing movement at the heart of its vision, the house delivered a Fall 2026 offering that felt both distinctly modern and unmistakably Hermès.
