Ultra-Low Rise Was the Name of the Game at McQueen SS26

It's a low-slung summer, according to Sean McGirr and McQueen. As the brand showcased its Spring/Summer 2026 collection in Paris this season, a wave of familiarity filled the air. Revisiting the house's archives and originals, the collection reinterpreted statement McQueen pieces like the skull scarf, the bumster and the marching band jacket through a new lens.

Exploring the relationship between "carnal restraint and release," the daring collection looked at themes like desire, deliverance and "raw animal instinct." Taking inspiration from Robin Hardy's The Wicker Man, the showcase was backdropped by a giant wicker tent, with DJs inside to soundtrack the occasion.

Bringing back the signature slash in his own way, McGirr's SS26 sliced through classic tailoring, bustier dresses and trousers. Designed to sit across the body's contours, this season offered a slew of extremely low-slung silhouettes, accessorized by embellished G-strings and polished buckle hardware.

Elsewhere, the collection favored "elemental materials" like wood and mother of pearl, resulting in folkloric motifs like talisman and wishbone charms, exuding a sense of "pagan mysticism," according to the collection notes. SS26 also saw the return of the McQueen horn-shaped heel, reimagined as mules, tall boots and sandals.

Take a look at the collection above and for more from PFW, check out our latest recap.

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