Spring 2026 Dsquared2 Collection: A Celebration of Exaggeration
Despite the absence of a traditional runway show, the spring 2026 Dsquared2 collections were all about exaggeration according to Dean and Dan Caten. The designers aimed to create strong contrasts between prints, shapes, and bold decorations to achieve a sense of “excess” in their designs. Drawing inspiration from the glamour of fashion editorials from the 1990s and 2000s, as well as their own penchant for breaking the rules, the Catens delivered a collection that pushed the boundaries of traditional fashion norms.
In the men’s collection, the juxtaposition of see-through pop-colored shirts with sartorial suits, canvas workwear overshirts, trucker jackets, and camouflage parkas created a dynamic and eclectic mix. Signature Dsquared2 touches like studs and intarsia embroidery were taken to the next level with transparent maxi-sequins and ton-sur-ton cockade appliqués. The women’s collection featured similar bold decorations, with magenta micro-skirts and wide pants adorned with eye-catching embellishments.
Hybrids were a key theme in both collections, with corsetry reimagined on military pieces for women and blazers combined with activewear fastenings for men. The Catens also played with the concept of fake layering, adding backpack straps to sporty tank tops and incorporating built-in underwear waistbands into denim and sweatshirt fabrics. The iconic power shoulders of rugby-inspired tops made a statement in both the men’s and women’s collections, showcasing the designers’ love for intricate constructions.
The collection also featured nods to the Dsquared2 archive with prints from the ICONique capsule introduced during the Catens’ 30th anniversary show in February. The bodysuit-shirt hybrid was a standout piece, along with t-shirts featuring references to the brand’s heritage.
Overall, the spring 2026 Dsquared2 collection was a celebration of exaggeration, creativity, and boldness. By blending elements of the past with their own unique vision, Dean and Dan Caten once again proved that they are masters of pushing the boundaries of fashion.
