On the banks of the East River at Pier 36, guests stepped into a dreamscape where New York’s skyline unfurled across sepia-toned canvas curtains, setting the stage for Coach’s Spring Summer 2026 show. Stuart Vevers, the brand’s Creative Director, has long been celebrated for weaving heritage and grit into hopeful modernity – and this season was no exception. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as the orchestra’s haunting rendition of Goodbye Yellow Brick Road filled the space, heightening the sense that something cinematic was about to unfold.
Sitting front row, model and creative Zoe Barnard absorbed the energy firsthand. Between the whispered guesses of celebrity arrivals, the parade of distressed denim, flowing silks, and tough leather, Barnard found herself immersed in a collection that blurred nostalgia with new beginnings.
From clever accessory updates like the Tabby clutch to whimsical slip dresses studded with golden stars, the show captured the romantic tension between memory and reinvention – something that resonated deeply with her own style. We spoke with Barnard to get all the details – the atmosphere, favourite looks, and of course, the people watching.
You walked into Pier 36 and straight into New York’s skyline printed on sepia canvas – what was that first hit of atmosphere like?
The atmosphere and energy was contagious. There was a buzzing of pre-show excitement with everyone meandering through the space, admiring the gorgeous canvas, finding their seats, whispering about which celebrity guests might be in the front row, and taking their final pictures before the show started.
Stuart Vevers talked about polish meeting grit. Sitting front row, how did that tension come through for you?
I loved the juxtaposition of plaid, pleats, flowing organza silks paired with tough leather boots, loose frayed denim pants and structured leather vests. I love to play with the same contrast in my personal style, so it really resonated and inspired me.
Leathers, denim, organza – which piece had you mentally bookmarking for your own wardrobe?
I loved the fit and cut of the pants this season- low slung, baggy in all the right places and effortlessly chic. I know this is SS26, but I am definitely implementing this style for fall too!
The Tabby bag debuted as a clutch. Did the accessories steal the show for you, or was there another hero piece?
The Tabby as a clutch was a clever take on a coach classic! And I loved the coin-purse necklaces, as well as neck scarf accessorising. But the piece that really stole the show for me was a sheer slip dress with gold stars. It moved beautifully down the runway, feeling dreamy and whimsical but modern, cool and grounded paired with heavy leather boots. (Which I feel like was such an encapsulation of the whole collection!)
Coach always plays with nostalgia. Did this collection feel like a memory lane moment, or a push into what’s next?
I think it was both! A beautiful balance of romanticising the past (through the sepia tones, music, stars and hearts) while still having a positive, hopeful note- almost like making way for new memories to be made.
The Soho sneaker came strapped instead of laced this season. Which shoe moment made you want to leave the venue wearing them?
I loved the strapped Soho sneaker – clever, cute and practical, especially for New York, with all the walking we do! But honestly my favourite shoes of the day were the ones on my feet, i adored the cowboy boots- from the ombré leather colour to the darling embodied flowers and trim.
Between the lighting, music, and set – did it feel like fashion theatre, or more like being dropped straight onto the streets of New York?
It felt like stepping in the most perfect old sepia New York photograph, more similar to a fashion theatre or film set. The music, which was a beautiful orchestral rendition of Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (please release this on Spotify!), couldn't be more emotive, and you really felt it in your chest. New York is such a special place, a main character in everyones story who lives here, the show really reminded me of how much I love it and how lucky I am to now call it home.
Sitting front row means people-watching too. Who did you spot that made you think, now that’s a look?
Not to play favourites, but I was obsessed with the looks of the fellow Australian and New Zealand guests I went with. Marlo Kelly looked incredible in her dramatic, sweeping dark denim dress, and Benee was bold, striking and playful in her striped coat paired with all of her fun tabby bag accessories.
Tell us about your own outfit – what did you choose for Coach, and how did it feel to wear it in that space?
My amazing Aussie stylist bestie Gemma Brookes and I conspired together for my show look. I've always adored the quality and craftsmanship of Coach’s leather, so we made the focal point a gorgeous burgundy leather coat and cowboy boots, which we paired with a simple black mini and classic baseball raglan with a signature Coach logo. In the space I felt polished, on brand, and at home in the New York City scape.
If you had to sum up the Coach SS26 show in three words – the first ones that come to you – what are they?
Romantic, nostalgic and real
What was the first thing you did immediately after the show?
To digest the whirlwind and excitement of the day, I headed straight to a bowl of pasta and glass of wine at my favourite local Park Slope spot, Al La Di Trattoria. Perfect stop to rest my feet and refuel before the heading to the after party to wrap the day up.
Where are some of your favourite places to eat and drink during NYFW?
I love being downtown during NYFW, people watching and feeling the energy in SoHo. The city really comes alive! My go-to spots are Fanelli, 19 Cleveland, Jac’s on Bond, and Bond Street Sushi. As for drinks, I run basically off pure matcha during fashion week so you can catch me at Matchaful, Sortate or Cha Cha Matcha.
