For pre-fall 2026, Zuhair Murad looked back more than 100 years to Paris’ Golden Age at the turn of the 20th century. The calm just before the storm of World War I when women were gaining more independence, social power and freedom of movement.
Murad pored over images of women walking through winter gardens to capture romantic prints as a reference point that he weaved throughout the collection — a softer take on the bold florals he favors.
This sense of empowerment ran through the collection’s core themes, where masculinity and femininity existed in tension, as evidenced by his heavy use of corsetry as the central structure. Corseted silhouettes appeared across dresses, jackets and Edwardian waistcoats, shaping the body while allowing movement and ease.
The waists were defined — or “snatched,” as he said — and while meant to give structure to the body, the looks were balanced by fluid skirts and trousers. Even his caftans were more shapely this season, cutting in at the center to create an hourglass curve.
Silhouettes ranged from sharply tailored pieces to softer, more romantic forms, including the dramatic evening and ballgowns in velvet, lace, satin, and chiffon in a palette of pale rose, brown, black, burgundy, plus a striking and on-trend absinthe green.
Murad has toned down his use of beading for the most part, but he still loves a good sparkle, as evidenced on some flashy suiting and blazers with high collars and snazzy shoulders.
He continued his expansion into costume jewelry with chunky statement earrings, necklaces and rings, alongside bags and accessories. He also debuted smaller bag shapes in satin this season to extend his evening offering, including a mini-version of his popular handle tote.
Murad’s continued expansion into accessories and new categories signals his intention to create a fully realized wardrobe for his client ahead of the brand’s anticipated flagship opening in September, as he seeks to position the house as a complete lifestyle proposition.
