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y-3 ss26 | a lasting impression

Y-3, a collaboration between Japanese designer Yohji Yamamoto and adidas, has been pushing the boundaries of sportswear since its inception. This season’s ‘Movement as Metamorphosis’ collection is no different – and takes it even further beyond those expectations. 

Showing their spring/summer 2026 collection at the Palais Brongniart in Paris, the brand went in a completely different direction from their last show, which featured LED jumbotrons and adidas’ iconic three stripes illuminated above the runway. This time, they opted to show in a presentation format. 

The presentation, which featured a four-act live performance directed by choreographer Kiani Del Valle – and including KDV Performance Group dancers – felt effortlessly true to Y-3 and the brand’s legacy. Innovation is at the heart of everything they do.

Taking inspiration from adidas’ 1990s equipment range, new fabrics and techniques are introduced to ameliorate performance and functionality. The performers danced almost hauntingly in unison, the summer and crinkle viscose allowing a full body of movement, meant to enhance the presentation, not hinder. At the same time, dip-dyed garments with Yamamoto’s signature raw finishes and asymmetrical silhouettes gave performers an almost Zombie-like appearance as lights flashed against the darkness of the space. 

A five-piece capsule was a standout of the show, celebrating athletes associated with the number 5 – think footballer Jude Bellingham and basketballer Anthony Edwards. The pieces include pinstripe baseball-esque sets (with the cap, too), basketball and football jerseys, and trousers featuring three stripes down the sides. 

Y-3’s signature design style – minimalist, deconstructed, and monochromatic – never tires, proving that technical innovation and intentional design can make for a collection that challenges fashion and sportswear time and time again. 

Discover the collection here.

photography. Courtesy of Y-3
words. Amber Louise