Kim Shui was on top of the world at her spring 2026 show. And that’s both figuratively and literally, considering her show took place at the One World Trade Center Observatory, 120 floors up. But Shui’s vibe just days before the show also reflected that calmness and happiness, as did her clothes.
The Shui we’re most familiar with may be known for its sex appeal, but for today’s show, the designer wanted to try a different approach. She was partly inspired by the painting the Allegory of Inclination, and how the woman in the painting is nude but also covered. She wanted to showcase the female body without a full reveal: many of the looks featured layers of sheer tulle overlaid on the pieces. “I wanted my clothes to feel like those Strappo paintings where all the layers start peeling off, and begin unveiling themselves,” said the designer. One of the season’s best looks included a lace-up blazer overlaid with layers of tulle at the front, styled with a pair of lace-trimmed capris. It gave a Chloé-esque bohemian feel, but with that Shui touch.
As the show progressed, it was evident that, like the layers Shui showcased on her clothes, she was also unveiling to the audience that her design expertise lies deeper than just making sexy clothes. She knows how to make clothing feel sensual while also still being sensible.
