From darkness to light: Robert Wun’s haute couture epic

Robert Wun questions the place of haute couture in a polarized society

Théâtre du Lido, 7:30 pm. Guests took their seats on the iconic red armchairs of the former cabaret and legendary Parisian nightlife venue. All of them came for the Robert Wun Spring/Summer 2026 couture show. But tonight, no frills or feathers in sight. For his fourth couture collection, the London-based Chinese designer asked a deep question: What role does couture play in a world that seems to be falling apart? An existential interrogation, and one he answers in his own dramatic way.

Titled “Valor: The Desire to Create, and the Courage to Carry On,” the show unfolds in three acts. First, the spark of a dream and the blank page. Then, the necessity of questioning the very meaning of the word “luxury” at the heart of haute couture. Finally, the clarity of creation as a means of survival. On stage, the models move with a near-phlegmatic slowness, pausing in front of giant screens projecting skies that shift from clear to stormy. Both dramatic and conceptual, the hallmarks of Robert Wun’s work, the silhouettes emerge from darkness at times, or from paradise at others, captivating the audience.

A collection true to Robert Wun’s aesthetic

With his Spring/Summer 2026 collection, Robert Wun continues to develop a coherent narrative. Thus, he extends his work on imposing hips and shoulders, once again favouring a black, white, and red colour palette. His iconic trompe-l’oeil silhouettes, crafted from breastplates, seem to float and enhance the body’s curves.

There are also direct references to his previous collections, particularly his Fall/Winter 2024 show. A frayed dress with cascading pleats, delicate fabric butterflies resting on a crinoline, sculptural hats… Before a mesmerized audience, the show ends with a breathtaking finale. A voluminous gown adorned with countless gemstones emerges from the shadows to radiate brilliance and crystallise the splendour of Robert Wun’s fashion.

All the looks from the Robert Wun Spring/Summer 2026 couture show