Exploring Maximilian Davis’s Spring 2026 Vision for Ferragamo: A Refreshing Take on Luxury Fashion
On September 27, 2023, Ferragamo’s creative director, Maximilian Davis, unveiled his latest collection for Spring 2026 at the Portrait Hotel in Milan. This venue, marking the site of his debut as head designer in September 2022, became a canvas for innovative designs and fresh explorations within the luxury fashion brand. With three years under his belt, Davis has established a recognizable aesthetic characterized by strong colors and sharp yet considered shapes. This season, however, he dared to venture into new territories, introducing embellishments and prints that reinvigorated traditional silhouettes.
Davis showcased a juxtaposition of formal elegance and ease in his collection. Ensuring a relaxed fit, he incorporated long, tasseled embellishments that exuded movement—a feature he has skillfully executed throughout his tenure at Ferragamo. An opening black suit, featuring an oversized blazer and relaxed trousers, was particularly noteworthy. The addition of a long scarf that swayed with each model’s stride created a dynamic visual effect, setting the tone for the collection. Furthermore, the printed sheath midi dress, adorned with a tasseled detail low on one side, evoked the iconic drop-waist style of the 1920s, blending historical inspiration with modern flair.
A significant source of inspiration for Davis came from the Ferragamo archives, specifically an image of Lola Todd, an American silent film star donning a leopard coat. This led him to explore the works of John Held Jr., a cartoonist known for documenting jazz-age fashion. In his show notes, Davis remarked on a pivotal moment when women began expressing a new sense of femininity—a celebration of liberation and self-reclamation. His collection, with its laid-back energy and stylish layering, aimed to mirror this spirit. Pairing suits with T-strap leather sandals demonstrated that elegance could seamlessly blend with daily attire, challenging conventional fashion norms.
Davis’s expertise in color remains an essential element of his design philosophy. For Spring 2026, he introduced striking prints, including abstract animal graphics on sheath dresses and pencil skirts. These designs featured rich hues of blue-brown and greenish-yellow, complemented by contrasting tassels that added an extra dimension of vibrancy to each ensemble. This season’s palette not only showcased his bold vision but also reinstated his commitment to making color a defining characteristic of the Ferragamo brand.
Red carpet moments were poised to emerge from Davis’s collection, particularly with a series of layered ribbon mini dresses that featured a subtly sheer panel and cascading ribbons, offering a unique twist on classic femininity. Accessories also took center stage, enhancing the overall appeal of the collection. Notably, ribbon heels tied above the ankle and a striking chartreuse feather clutch stood out, promising to be instant favorites among fashion enthusiasts. Lastly, Davis subtly endorsed the comeback of skinny scarves, encouraging wearers to dig into their closets and rediscover this chic accessory.
As the Spring 2026 collection concludes, Davis proves that he is committed to both innovation and honoring Ferragamo’s rich legacy. By merging historical influences with contemporary elements, he invites wearers to experience a sense of freedom and elegance—perfectly encapsulating the essence of what Ferragamo stands for. For more insights on the latest fashion trends and news from the world of luxury, visit Fashionista and Vogue.
