September 25, 2025 |
The Onitsuka Tiger SS26 show delivered a confident mash-up of nostalgia and experimentation, transforming familiar school-day codes into something distinctly modern. The collection opened with a back-to-school spirit – pleated skirts, striped tops and skinny scarves – before swiftly spiraling into a collage of flapper sparkle and track-ready ease. Tailoring collided with athleisure: trench coats layered over gym shorts, cargo pockets reimagined across structured frocks and slim stirrup track pants tucked into slouchy boots. The theme was Urban Fantasy, and the execution was strong.
Accessories played up the playful mood. Bug-eye sunnies, graphic bags strung with charms and tiger necklaces balanced the demure palette of beige, khaki, grass green and plum with a cheeky attitude. Rare golden pearl jewellery was created in collaboration with Japanese brand Mikimoto. Footwear pushed contrasts even further, from Kaber mules and shimmering satin ballet-style trainers that reinterpreted the Mexico 66 sneaker to buckle heels riffing on the Mary Jane. A pair of leather moto jacket-and-skirt sets – one styled for men, one for women – stood out as the clearest nod to genderless dressing, though nearly every look carried a sense of fluidity.
Flashes of bedazzled fringe and shimmering fabrics gave the collection its glamour, while oversized hoodies thrown over mini dresses and moccasin-like slip-ons grounded it in comfort. With its studded bags – the Tiger Tote and Karate –, sharp white zippers and relaxed-yet-elevated layering, Onitsuka Tiger’s SS26 show felt like a fresh reminder that style can be both disciplined and delightfully unruly.
Photography courtesy of Onitsuka Tiger.
