LGN Louis Gabriel Nouchi Unveils Genderless Spring 2026 Collection

On June 28, 2025, renowned designer Louis-Gabriel Nouchi showcased his Spring 2026 collection for LGN at Paris Fashion Week, marking a significant moment in the evolution of genderless fashion. The collection, presented through a two-and-a-half-minute animated film rather than a traditional runway show, reflects Nouchi's artistic journey and his commentary on the intersection of fashion and technology.

Nouchi, who studied at Gobelins Paris and La Cambre Mode(s) in Brussels, has built a reputation for innovative designs since launching his label seven years ago. His latest collection draws inspiration from the dystopian universe of Philip K. Dick’s "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?" The animation, developed in collaboration with the French studio Wizz, features replicants—androids that challenge the boundaries between human and machine—mirroring Nouchi's concerns about the proliferation of AI-generated imagery in contemporary society.

In a preview of the collection, Nouchi stated, “It’s a robot that looks like a human and starts to think like a human; there’s an uncertainty.” This uncertainty extends to the fashion world as well, as Nouchi navigates the implications of AI on authenticity and creativity in fashion design.

The Spring 2026 collection showcases a distinct play on gender ambiguity, with Nouchi opting to forgo traditional female models while still incorporating styles that can be worn by all genders. The designs include tailored silhouettes enhanced with trompe-l'œil techniques, which allow garments to transform visually. For instance, a floor-length coat can be perceived as a boxy blouson or a fluid trailing sheer skirt, emphasizing inclusivity and versatility.

Textures also play a crucial role in this collection, where materials like latex symbolize a glossy, artificial aesthetic. The garments are tailored to ensure comfort and fit, with dart placements mimicking the defined musculature reminiscent of pencil strokes. Nouchi's commitment to craftsmanship is evident in the intricate detailing that enhances the overall tactile experience of the clothing.

The collection’s unveiling at Silencio, a venue known for its artistic and cultural significance, underscores Nouchi’s vision of merging fashion with multimedia storytelling. Critics have noted that while the visual elements of the collection are striking, it is the feel and fit of the garments that truly resonate with audiences, an experience that cannot be replicated in virtual spaces.

As the fashion industry moves towards a more inclusive and innovative future, Nouchi’s approach raises questions about the role of traditional fashion presentations and the impact of technology on creativity. His Spring 2026 collection not only challenges societal norms surrounding gender in fashion but also invites discourse on the implications of AI in artistic expression. Looking ahead, Nouchi's work may pave the way for future designers to explore these themes, further blurring the lines between human and machine in the realm of fashion.