MCM kicked off SS26—and the lead-up to their 50th anniversary celebrations in 2026—at Milan Fashion Week with a show and collection inspired by the Korean martial art of Taekwondo.
The latest instalment in the German luxury brand’s ongoing mission to transform motion into modern luxury, the presentation, titled The Art of Motion, turned the Casa degli Artisti gallery into a design dojo through an immersive installation, with an AI-powered hologram—created in collaboration with Capsa Studio—at its heart.
The SS26 collection showcased unique, made-to-order creations by esteemed designer, former adidas Creative Director and now MCM Chief Brand Officer, Dirk Schönberger, channeling the ‘control, respect and flow’ of a discipline defined by movement and mastery.
Martial arts belts play a key role: layered to create a boxy white jacket; oversized in blue to create a striking strapless dress; knotted to fasten a double-breasted blazer. Elsewhere, martial poise meets tactical precision in a zen uniform composed of a vest, crisp shirt, and pleated balloon trousers, and quilter bomber jackets paired with strong shoulders and a controlled waist.
“Inspired by the discipline and flow of Taekwondo, we looked at how motion shapes identity,” says Schönberger. “The result is a dialogue between tradition and innovation, where every piece reflects balance, respect, and dynamism.”
This interplay shows up in both the silhouettes and the materials: cotton, canvas and wool offering resilience and lightness, while functional jersey fabrics provide vests and dresses with tactile strength—a collection made not just to be worn, but to be performed.
Alongside the ready-to-wear, MCM also unveiled an exclusive preview of SS26 leather goods in a private, invite-only showcase. It was a reminder that while apparel continues to expand the brand’s reach, accessories remain a cornerstone of its identity.
From its beginnings in 1970s Munich as an enfant terrible disrupting the traditional world of luxury, to its position today as a global powerhouse, MCM’s latest show builds momentum toward its 50th anniversary in 2026. More than a seasonal collection, it reads as a clear statement of intent.
Keep up to date on this drop via MCM’s Instagram.