For its fall 2026 project, Weekend Max Mara chose to explore different landscapes together with Robert Rabensteiner, the stylist and former fashion editor at large of Italy’s L’Uomo Vogue.
The project, titled “Into the Forest: A Weekend With Robert Rabensteiner,” is a collection inspired by a woman’s adventures both in nature and the city.
“It’s the first thing that came to mind: a woman inviting her friends to gather around an exquisitely decorated table in the middle of the woods. It’s the most elegant thing you can do,” stated Rabensteiner. “In general, the collection blends masculine and feminine elements, combining hyper-classic pieces with modern touches.”
The collection echoes the stylist’s South Tyrolean heritage, while also incorporating his urban aesthetic inspired by the city of Milan, where he lives. The collection draws inspiration from traditional Austrian alpine coats, reinterpreting them with a focus on three key elements: the textured fabric that gives a mélange effect, the classic form with cup sleeves and inverted pleats, and the distinctive green hue.
The Weekend Max Mara “Into the Forest: A Weekend With Robert Rabensteiner” fall 2026 collection
Courtesy of Weekend Max Mara
Rabensteiner blended workwear, hiking attire and evening glamour.
The collection is dominated by felted wool, presented in various forms, including a distinctive cropped coat with an inverted box pleat; a premium hand-sewn double-wool coat in red and blue, and a jacket-and-pants look. Hand-sewn double-wool cloth is the thread that links the outerwear and dressier options, featuring a tent-shaped cape, a soft-shouldered bomber jacket and a sleek shift dress. The dresses are slim-fitting, with full midi skirts, while straight-legged pants, silk tops and authentic fisherman sweaters complete the looks.
The color palette features a mix of green, navy blue, pale blue and chestnut brown, with pops of red, purple and curry yellow. Materials range from sturdy cotton and Irish wools to leather, velvet and silk.
Accessories play a key role, including the brand’s signature Pasticcino Bag in leather, suede or velvet; velvet evening slippers, buckled boots and hiking-inspired booties; a Fedora hat; long cashmere gloves, and printed silk scarves.
