The Prada showcase has consistently been a pinnacle of anticipation during Milan Fashion Week. While the garments remain the primary focus, the staging environment contributes significantly to the spectacle. Since 2018, these events have taken place within the expansive Deposito area at Fondazione Prada—a versatile canvas that has facilitated numerous imaginative settings. Previously, this space featured dripping slime onto futuristic metallic floors, an oversized paper house transforming attendees into miniature figures, and a shadowy scaffolding structure reminiscent of a club atmosphere. However, for the Spring/Summer 2026 collection, Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons opted for illumination.

Experience the Evolution: Prada's Shift Towards Light and Calm

Revitalizing the Deposito Space

Unveiling the previously concealed windows of the Deposito, the presentation area was saturated with a luminous clarity—an abrupt divergence from the dense, multi-leveled framework of Autumn/Winter 2025. Guests were afforded the opportunity to appreciate its unrefined, industrial allure. The Rotterdam-based architectural firm OMA, led by Rem Koolhaas, was responsible for designing the set. Prada has maintained a partnership with OMA for over two decades, commencing in 1999 when they commissioned OMA to conceptualize their New York store on Broadway. The stark wooden steps leading into the store, along with its dramatic manipulation of scale, have since become iconic in the realm of fashion retail.In embracing simplicity this season, only a scattering of plush, flower-patterned carpets adorned the floor—recalling retro 1970s designs—which subtly hinted at the collection’s essence. Strands of fibrous material clung to guests' footwear before they settled in to witness the proceedings, while KLF’s ambient 1990 album Chill Out, interwoven with bird chirps, resonated overhead. According to the brand's statement, the apparel embodied 'a shift in demeanor—deconstructing significance and dismantling authority.'

A Collection Rooted in Surreal Escapism

This translated into an otherworldly liberation, featuring outfits ranging from micro shorts as if cinched upward at the hemline, vibrant raffia headwear, and tabard-style tops embellished with floral motifs. Tracksuits, reduced in size and evoking athletic wear from the 1970s, also made appearances. Accessories conveyed a sense of practicality, such as a series of backpacks, waist pouches, and duffel bags carried by models. Other garments revisited masculine paradigms—from double-breasted suits to military-inspired attire.Raf Simons remarked backstage, 'This marks the first occasion the Fondazione is entirely bare, with light streaming in.' When queried about the motivation behind the alteration, Miuccia Prada responded, 'It's evident. You perceive it,' undoubtedly alluding to the turbulent era we inhabit. 'Our aim was to present something in this period that, ideally, conveys positivity and equilibrium,' Simons elaborated. 'Occasionally, it's beneficial to contemplate and adopt a slightly more tranquil approach.'

Designing with Ease and Freedom

This brightness, according to the designer, rendered the collection the most effortless he had ever undertaken in his career. 'Typically, you encounter a highly defined architectural blueprint, a contour, a shoulder, a waist,' he explained. 'Initially, we declared we don't desire that. We wish for everything to be human-centric. We aspire for everything to be light, invigorating, and colorful. Upon commencing our work, it proved to be the simplest collection I've ever created. It's exceedingly unrestricted.'The decision to embrace minimalism and positivity reflects a broader trend within the fashion industry, where designers seek to resonate with contemporary audiences amidst global uncertainties. Prada's strategic pivot not only enhances the viewer experience but also underscores the importance of adaptability and innovation in maintaining relevance on the world stage.