The absence of a Proenza Schouler runway show at New York Fashion Week this season was a stark reminder of the brand’s evolving landscape. With founders Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez stepping down just weeks before the anticipated showcase—amid speculation of a shift to a European house—the fashion world was left questioning the brand’s next move. Yet, under the new leadership of CEO Shira Suveyke Snyder and design studio head Lisa Muscatel, Proenza Schouler presented a Fall/Winter 2025-2026 collection that quietly signaled a new direction, unveiled through an intimate showroom experience and a lookbook shot at Manitoga/The Russel Wright Design Center.

This season, the collection leaned into a more organic, outdoors-influenced aesthetic, reflecting the serene backdrop of its campaign setting. Traditional American sportswear elements were reimagined with a modern, elevated approach—oversized buffalo check tops, scarf skirts, and ultra-wide wale corduroy trousers exuded a refined yet effortless appeal. Outerwear played a defining role, with draped leather aviator jackets and technical mac coats offering a balance of structure and ease. A versatile cowl-neck top, which doubled as a hood, nodded to the rising trend of adaptive headwear, reinforcing the collection’s practical sophistication.

While statement eveningwear took a more understated role this season, the brand’s signature fluid pleating remained a standout feature. A chartreuse two-piece dress with delicate gold chain detailing introduced a fresh yet familiar elegance, while a draped red dress with metallic hardware accents added a sculptural element to the lineup.