Sergio Rossi Unveils Artistic Spring ’26 Collection at Milan Fashion Week
A Fusion of Art and Footwear
At Milan Fashion Week, renowned footwear brand Sergio Rossi showcased a groundbreaking collection for Spring 2026, under the creative direction of Paul Andrew. This season, Andrew has taken a bold step to intertwine art, craftsmanship, and technology, a vision he articulated upon his appointment earlier this year. The highlight of the presentation was a collaboration with contemporary artist Richard Zinon, transforming the Sergio Rossi showroom into an immersive art gallery.
The Artistic Collaboration
Andrew and Zinon’s partnership blossomed after they met through Cadogan Gallery, following Andrew’s relocation to Milan. Their collaboration began with smaller art pieces but quickly evolved into a more ambitious project. “The paintings are of massive scale, and the shoes are inspired by Richard’s extraordinary gestural brush strokes,” Andrew explained. The thick paint used in Zinon’s work adds a unique texture and dimension, which Andrew sought to replicate in the footwear designs.
Zinon, who was venturing into the world of fashion for the first time, expressed his excitement about the intersection of art and footwear. “Now to see the space together with the designs, it’s really come together beautifully,” he remarked, highlighting the synergy between the two creative realms.
Architectural Inspirations
The Spring ’26 collection is characterized by sculptural designs that reflect architectural themes. Andrew has introduced a variety of innovative styles, including wedges with cutout arches and flared heels. One standout piece features an elongated pointed toe crafted from carbon fiber, a material typically used in automotive manufacturing. “These curvaceous, feminine forms and sinuous lines are coming from the artwork in an abstract way,” Andrew noted, emphasizing the artistic influence on the collection.
Another remarkable design incorporates wood repurposed from a fallen forest in northern Milan, combined with a galvanized chrome heel and embossed ostrich leather. “You see the form is sort of mimicking what is happening with a painting,” Andrew added, showcasing his commitment to sustainability and artistic expression.
Signature Styles and Innovations
Among the collection’s highlights is the Serpentine wedge, inspired by the architectural work of Zaha Hadid, specifically her design “Elastika.” This wedge features sweeping, curvaceous cutouts and is available in metallic chrome, gold, and suede pavé adorned with Swarovski rhinestones. The use of rhinestones is a nod to Sergio Rossi’s heritage, which has long been associated with opulent embellishments.
Andrew also revisited the brand’s archives, reworking classic woven designs and an archival slingback for the new season. This blend of nostalgia and modernity reflects a broader trend in fashion, where designers are increasingly looking to the past for inspiration while pushing the boundaries of contemporary design.
A Softening of Styles
In addition to the sculptural pieces, the collection also features a softer approach to traditional styles. Loafers and ballerinas have been reimagined with a focus on comfort and elegance, appealing to a modern audience that values both aesthetics and wearability. This shift aligns with a growing trend in the fashion industry, where comfort is becoming as important as style.
Conclusion
Paul Andrew’s Spring ’26 collection for Sergio Rossi at Milan Fashion Week marks a significant moment in the intersection of art and fashion. By collaborating with Richard Zinon and drawing inspiration from architectural forms and sustainable materials, Andrew has created a collection that is not only visually stunning but also rich in narrative and context. As the fashion world continues to evolve, this collection stands as a testament to the power of creativity and collaboration, setting a new standard for future endeavors in the industry.
