What did Simone Bellotti’s debut show for Jil Sander look like?

A new chapter at Jil Sander

Capturing minimalism in its purest form is no easy task. Yet, Simone Bellotti, the new creative director of Jil Sander, has pulled it off brilliantly. After gaining experience in major houses, such as Dolce & Gabbana, Bottega Veneta and Gucci, where he spent sixteen years, the Italian designer joined leather specialist Bally as creative director of collections in 2022. A few months ago, he succeeded Lucie and Luke Meier at Jil Sander.

As a pioneer of minimalist fashion since the 1980s, Jil Sander has reshaped women’s wardrobe. His vision of style was fully embraced, then revamped by Lucie and Luke Meier, who brought the brand to prominence over the past eight years.

Looking at the softness of the tones and the precision of the cuts in his Spring/Summer 2026 collection, it becomes clear that Simone Bellotti has a deep respect to Jil Sander’s heritage. Creating an ethereal atmosphere enhanced by a stark black-and-white set with near-monastic sobriety, the designer sets the tone for a debut collection marked by restraint.

Simple, structured silhouettes

Crewneck sweaters, straight-leg raw denim trousers, midi skirts, patent brogues, black leather coats, zip-up knits… Basics reigned supreme on Jil Sander’s Spring/Summer 2026 catwalk. Only a few looks seemed to fall prey to a touch of eccentricity, like the dresses with large round openings on the chest.

While pleated fabrics, stunning layers of silk and subtle slits occasionally appeared, small hints of shine and transparency popped up here and there. Between refinement and rigour, Simone Bellotti’s creations left no room for rebellion… Let alone any lyrical flight of fancy.

As for accessories, the Italian designer introduced the Pivot Bag. This deconstructed piece with round lines and finely grained leather perfectly matches his vision. Is Jil Sander in good hands? Only time will tell…

All the looks from the Jil Sander Spring/Summer 2026 show