The upcoming Met’s “Costume Art” exhibition in May will showcase the evolution of human form in art and fashion throughout history. In contrast, designer Zoe Whalen took a unique approach in her fall 2026 collection, titled Birthing Circle, which focused on celebrating the body from an introspective perspective. The collection served as a tribute to both childbirth and the growth of her brand, Zoe Gustavia Anna Whalen.
Whalen described her collection as a personal ode to her own body, emphasizing a sense of rebirth and new beginnings in her artistic journey. The show, characterized as a page-turner, placed a strong emphasis on the clothing itself, with a communal experience woven into the presentation.
The designs featured in the collection showcased a blend of functionality and artistry, with pieces like a torqued sweater designed with a single hook and eye slit, possibly catering to breastfeeding mothers. Tailoring played a significant role in the collection, with pieces like fencing-inspired jackets and intricately seamed garments making a statement on the runway. Whalen’s signature milkmaid skirts and corsets made an appearance, along with subtle details like hip pads, emphasizing the femininity and fertility associated with the female form.
The color palette of the collection transitioned from white to various shades of red, symbolizing blood in relation to reproduction processes like menstruation, birth, and abortion. Whalen expressed her desire to challenge societal norms around body exposure, embracing the natural functions and transformations of the human body.
The show culminated in a powerful finale, with the designer submerging herself in a claw-foot tub on the runway, symbolizing a public rebirth and reclaiming of bodily autonomy. The collection not only elevated the brand to new heights but also conveyed a message of elasticity, positivity, and community.
In a time where external alterations to the body are prevalent, Whalen’s collection celebrated the natural ability of the body to transform and evolve. By showcasing how fashion can adapt to these changes organically, the Birthing Circle collection served as a poignant reminder of the beauty and resilience of the human form.
