For the Akris Spring Summer 2026 collection, Creative Director Albert Kriemler turned to the world of modern art — specifically, the work of Leon Polk Smith, a mid-century painter known for his hard-edge geometric compositions. 

The collection was framed around Seven Involvements in One, one of Smith’s bold, six-paneled works. In fact, Kriemler asked the artist’s estate for permission to re-create it as a backdrop for his runway — an intentional reminder that art and fashion are deeply intertwined. 

As Kriemler puts it: “Akris is about essence, not reduction … using form and fabric to bring the person into light.” 

The Collection: Colors, Shapes & Textiles

1. Color as Architecture

The palette progresses almost like Smith’s painting itself: starting with stark black and white, then evolving into bold blues, reds, and citrus hues. These colors feel intentional rather than purely decorative — each tone echoes the painter’s own minimal yet vivid geometry.

2. Sculptural Tailoring

There’s a strong architectural quality in the silhouettes: column dresses with single-panel geometrics, tailored suits, and trench-like outerwear. Kriemler plays with tension between softness and structure — for example, organza bomber jackets or ruched, geometric cutouts on shirtdresses. 

3. Contrasting Textures

Akris doesn’t lean into one fabric story — there’s suede, Japanese denim, summer leather, and sheer embroidered overlays. Embroidered panels float over more grounded, pragmatic pieces, creating a dynamic interplay of artful softness and sculptural form. 

4. Art in Detail

The geometric motifs aren’t just printed — they’re built into the seam work, cutouts, and embroidery: lines and shapes reflect Smith’s signature style. Even accessories get in on the reference: the Alice handbag, crafted in horsehair and satin, comes alive in lapis and orange hues as a nod to the painter’s work. 

Why This Collection Stands Out

• Quiet but expressive: It’s not loud fashion, but its geometry and color feel powerful.
• Timeless + modern: The minimal art inspiration gives it a refined, almost architectural feel, but the clothes feel fresh, not dated.
• Craftsmanship-forward: The mix of textures and the precision tailoring show just how much craft matters for Akris.
• Wearable art: These are pieces that could hang in a museum — but also work beautifully in a sophisticated wardrobe.

How to Style Key Looks

• Day to night: Pair a cobalt organza bomber with a white column dress and slim heels. The contrast in structure + floatiness creates a refined tension.
• Power look: Wear a structured red suit (inspired by Smith’s panels) with clean accessories — the kind of ensemble that commands attention without shouting.
• Elegant layering: Use sheer embroidered overlays from the collection over tailored separates — letting the geometric cutouts peek through.
• Accent with purpose: Use the Alice bag (in lapis or orange) as the statement piece, especially with neutral or monochrome outfits.

Akris Spring Summer 2026 is a masterclass in marrying art and fashion. With its bold reference to Leon Polk Smith, the collection feels intellectual yet deeply wearable. Kriemler’s vision of “essence, not reduction” resonates strongly here — these are not minimal for minimalism’s sake, but minimal with intention, and every piece feels thoughtfully designed to elevate the wearer.