Catherine Holstein delivers pure New York City energy in the form of embroidered florals, maximalist polka dots and perfectly tailored leather, a multitude of expressions that coalesce into a singularly fluid wardrobe.
For Khaite, restraint is a form of power. While the label’s designs exude an effortless elegance, a closer inspection reveals meticulous craftsmanship and razor-clean lines. The Khaite woman may embody minimalist poise, but she is far from simple. She exists in a space of duality – graceful yet strong – and this balance comes sharply into focus in the Spring/Summer 2026 collection.
Her confidence is unmistakable, enhanced by impeccably tailored ensembles that inspire instant envy. Yet the designer Catherine Holstein set out to prove that confidence doesn’t require perfect polish. She aimed to show that the undone can be just as refined. To that end, she intentionally disrupted the collection’s pristine edges with raw details – asymmetrical cuts, daring shapes, frayed hems – revealing a new facet of the Khaite identity: Khaite, unbuttoned.
The collection debuted at The Shed, where the runway unfurled in jagged paths divided by shimmering pools of water, an artistic nod, as the show notes suggested, to “walking on shaken ground.” Fog drifted through the space as looks featuring playful textures came forward: tactile fur dots, delicate floral appliqués and generous knit fibres spread across coordinated sets, crisp shirting and sculptural blouses. Skewed silhouettes added an unexpected twist, with fabrics that appeared folded, pinched, or gently warped, elevating everyday essentials into something more intriguing.
Leather jackets were cropped daringly at or above the bust, a bold evolution of the familiar staple. Power suiting was reimagined with tulle erupting from necklines in capri-length variations and skirts toyed with proportion through split hems and oversized structures. Holstein’s ability to merge refinement with a touch of grit is well-known, but this exploration into the unconventional felt especially deliberate.
Source: Khaite PR
