The Bite Magazine - Spring/Summer 2026 - Issue 39

bitecatwalk M arques ‘ Almeida collection felt emotion- ally vulnerable and rebellious. Founders Marta Marques and Paulo Almeida explored softness as a form of transforma- tion, presenting one of the label’s most refined and emotion- ally resonant collections to date. Staged high above London on the 59th floor in Bishopsgate, the show unfolded against the dramatic backdrop of the city skyline of the Shard. The setting itself reflected the spirit of the collection, suspended between instability and hope, vulnerability and defiance. Marques ‘ Almeida described the collection as an embrace of ‘softness and lightness’ during what feels like a volatile moment. That emotional tension could be felt throughout every silhouette and fabric choice. Known for their raw denim aesthetic and rebellious street energy, the designers introduced a gentler visual language this season while maintaining the brand’s unmistakable DNA. Transparent layers drifted around the body with scarf- like fluidity, while watercolour-inspired floral prints softened the darker foundations of the collection. Deep burgundy, black and olive gradually gave way to powder pinks, pale yellows and sky blues, creating a sense of emotional release as the runway progressed. There was a cinematic quality to the garments’ movement. Sheer voiles, satin finishes and delicate draping brought a romantic softness rarely associated with the label’s earli- er work, yet nothing felt overly polished or sentimental. Marques ‘ Almeida signature tension remained firmly intact, elegance continuously interrupted by asymmetry, oversized proportions and undone styling. Denim still played a central role, grounding the collection in the rebellious spirit that originally defined the brand. Baggy jeans, bubble hems and multi-pocket details injected practicality and edge into the softer silhouettes, balancing femininity with attitude. The designers managed to evolve their aesthetic without losing its emotional honesty, which is precisely what made the collection feel so compelling. What stood out most was the sense of emotional maturity running through the presentation. Rather than chasing spectacle, Marques ‘ Almeida focused on atmosphere, texture and feeling. The collection seemed to acknowledge the uncertainty of modern life while still insisting on beauty, tenderness and hope. That balance between darkness and optimism gave the runway genuine emotional depth. The partnership with Dylon added another thoughtful dimension to the collection’s narrative. Built around the idea that garments should endure and be passed between generations, the collaboration highlighted themes of longev- ity, restoration and sustainability. Five looks treated using Dylon’s fabric revitalising process reinforced the idea that fashion can evolve and be renewed rather than discarded. Intergenerational casting further strengthened this message, bringing a human warmth to the presentation. Founded in 2011, Marques ‘ Almeida has always occupied a unique space between street culture and luxury craftsman- ship, blending instinctive creativity with technical preci- sion. This season felt like a confident continuation of that evolution. The brand’s softer direction did not weaken its rebellious identity; if anything, it deepened it. www.marquesalmeida.com/en-gb