A.W.A.K.E. Mode Presents Playful Equestrian-Inspired Fall 2026 Collection
Designer Natalia Alaverdian unveiled her latest collection for A.W.A.K.E. Mode, masterfully blending two distinct aesthetic influences: the transitional fashion moment of the early 1990s when structured power suits evolved into streamlined minimalism, and traditional horseback riding attire. Speaking from her showroom space that overlooks the historic Place des Vosges, Alaverdian explained her approach to reimagining timeless pieces with unexpected elements.
The collection showcased the designer’s signature irreverent approach to luxury fashion. A standout ensemble, dubbed “the Duchess,” featured a precisely tailored tan equestrian jacket combined with a vibrant red knit top and the brand’s distinctive reversed denim silhouette. This playful subversion of conventional styling ran throughout the entire line.
Alaverdian’s witty interpretation of classic menswear appeared in a traditional striped shirt redesigned with an exposed shoulder detail. Outerwear pieces, including trench coats and formal evening wear, featured unconventional lapel placements at both collar and hemline. Seemingly conservative garments like argyle cardigans and wide-leg jeans were transformed through the addition of luxurious fur trim at the cuffs, elevating everyday pieces into statement items. A navy cape-style jacket with deliberately misaligned buttons exemplified the collection’s whimsical spirit.
The designer embraced the resurgence of voluminous undergarments by incorporating romantic white fabric details that resembled angel wings, visible beneath a form-fitting black velvet column dress. This piece evolved from previous seasonal offerings while maintaining the brand’s experimental silhouette work. Layering techniques featured prominently in tuxedo-inspired shirts with additional sleeves that could be tied around the torso or removed entirely for separate wear. One particularly innovative piece combined multiple garment elements—a checkered jacket, sweater, and shirt—into a single skirt-like accessory designed to be worn over dark flared trousers.
Knitwear represented an expanding focus for the label, with highlights including a grey top featuring dramatic ruffled cascades created from repurposed spring collection scarves. A navy ribbed piece with cowl neckline demonstrated how understated hangar appeal could translate into elegant wearability.
The designer’s love for fashion humor permeated the collection through pieces that challenged conventional dressing logic. A full-length dress with button details running along both sides embodied Alaverdian’s description of “professional front, party back” styling. Multiple looks appeared deliberately twisted or reversed, creating the impression of garments worn backwards or inside-out. A velvet midi dress included a removable internal corset component, allowing wearers to adjust the intensity of the silhouette. The designer’s preference for asymmetrical leg exposure appeared in a tiered zippered skirt with strategic openings that could be left closed or opened to create dramatic leg reveals.
Footwear continued the brand’s tradition of statement-making shoes with boots featuring prominent pompom details reminiscent of boy band aesthetics. These came in leopard-print pony hair or purple suede with upright tassel embellishments. Court shoes adorned with rosettes and oversized bow details reflected fashion’s current fascination with 18th-century French court style, evoking the grandeur of Versailles through contemporary design.