Fringe was spring 2026’s showstopper, all motion and drama. It rippled, swung, and brought garments to life, turning even the simplest silhouette into something electric. And it wasn’t alone: feathers, 3D florals, cascading ruffles, oversized sequins, intricate embroideries, tassels — you name it — made this season a full-on celebration of texture in motion.

The 1920s were everywhere, but no one was doing a straight-up throwback. Dropped waists, swinging silhouettes, flapper dresses — they were there, but reimagined with clean lines and modern proportions. And the best part? These fringe pieces don’t need dancing the Charleston to make them work. The movement is built into the design — the clever construction, layered tiers, and engineered textures make every step count.

Craftsmanship was in full display here, from hand-knotted macramé techniques at Balmain to Bottega Veneta’s technical fringe in recycled fiberglass and intrecciato leathers at Rick Owens. Fringe embellished handbags, scarves and lapels, the season showing off both artisanal skill and modern constructions. Metallic, satin and sculpted cords — fringe had range, from delicate texture to hard-edged architecture.

In a season dominated by a search for sensuality without explicitness, fringe delivered a fresh solution. It offered visibility without exposure, drama without excess. Spring 2026 proved that embellishment, when rooted in craft and historical intelligence, can become the most modern gesture on the runway — and no detail spoke louder than fringe.