Kim Shui FW26 at NYFW was FAULTless (and on a boat)
Words: Mix Cacho-Negrete
Images courtesy of MOMENT DEPARTMENT
As it started to snow in New York City on Sunday night, I was inside a boat at Pier 17. Why? The Kim Shui Fall Winter 2026 show, inspired by movement, particularly the migratory history of Mongolia.
And boy, did we move. The boat was packed with eager attendees, and shortly after boarding, we set sail. The boat softly swayed from side to side as the show began, opening with a live guzheng performance by Nico Huzella. The melody made me feel as though we were on the edge of a beautiful story.
Then the show began in full, as the boat continued to sail. The clothes felt like the perfect combination of historical and cultural significance and the it girl uniform of today. There were many pieces that referenced traditional Chinese characteristics, such as Chinese knotting and the colour red. The collection felt meaningful, but its epic wearability truly shone through, especially for anyone who wants to make a statement. The looks seemed easy to move in, which they had to be, as the boat was swaying while models walked down the runway. Still, they featured Shui’s love of pattern. There were gigantic statement coats in almost every animal print imaginable. There were micro mini dresses you would see at the coolest club in Soho on a Saturday night. There was plenty of lace. The models had incredible nails that were works of art in their own right. Shui presented looks in every shade, from all black to all white and every colour in between.
Shui is celebrating ten years in business and has long been known for understanding what is missing in the womenswear market. I truly felt she FAULTlessly merged her cultural background, just days before the Lunar New Year, with her instinct for what women like to wear when they want to feel strong, confident, and sexy. I will be interested to see how this collection evolves when it reaches consumers, as many pieces would suit fashion lovers seeking statement silhouettes they can move in.
Bravo, Kim, and to think it all happened on a moving boat.