Closer Look: Collina Strada FW26 Footwear

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Hillary Taymour consistently creates designs that reflect what’s happening in the world, and her Collina Strada brand offers a hopeful escape from difficult realities. She’s built a vibrant and unconventional world where individuality is celebrated and expectations are defied. Following her Spring/Summer 2026 collection, which explored the contrast between light and darkness, comes her Fall/Winter 2026 collection, titled “The World Is A Vampire.”

With the weather turning bleak, both figuratively and literally, we’re all seeking comfort and refuge in our own spaces. The show’s description points out that, just like a vampire needing an invitation, unwelcome influences can’t affect us unless we allow them in – and that’s the theme of this new collection from Collina.

I love escaping into games, you know? It’s like drawing the curtains on a harsh reality and building a better world inside. Everything feels… curated. In my current game, it’s always snowing, but it’s this perfect, delicate snowfall, not the messy, icy stuff you get outside. My character wears these amazing, layered outfits, almost like a protective shell. And honestly? I’m starting to feel disconnected from the real world, like my in-game persona is all that matters. There’s this undercurrent of anger, a sense of losing faith, and yeah, maybe even getting a little…wild. Deep down, I still want to hold onto what makes us human, even if my character is starting to feel more like a creature of the night. We’re still trapped, still fighting, but at least in this world – Collina – everything feels…different, even beautiful. And hey, my character’s a vegan bat, so that’s a win.

The new collection featured a moodier, darker color scheme than usual for Taymour, and this was reflected in the makeup and music. But the real standout of the show was the footwear. KEEN, as the official footwear partner, presented updated versions of two popular styles: the Targhee EXP Collina Strada Boot and the Jasper Rocks Collina Strada Sneaker. Converse also contributed reimagined low-top Chuck Taylors, all with Collina Strada’s unique touch.

Check out the shoes from this season in the photos above, and read the complete interview with Hillary Taymour further down.

So, let’s talk about the title of your collection, “The World Is a Vampire.” What inspired you to choose that name?

Things are incredibly draining right now, and we’re all feeling exhausted. We need to find ways to protect our energy, because negative influences can only affect us if we allow them to.

In a world that often feels overwhelming and out of our control, how does Collina Strada offer a way to express yourself and feel empowered?

My main goal is to create a welcoming and supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their thoughts. Currently, I’m focused on building a resilient, woman-owned business that can advocate for its rights, remain financially secure, and give back to the community. Ultimately, I strive to be my best self so I can support myself, my team, and everyone around me.

I especially love the music in your show each season. Can you tell us about how you chose the songs for this year?

I collaborated with TT.BRITT on the music for the project, and he was fantastic. We spent a good amount of time crafting a sound that was both dark and contemporary, resulting in something with a lot of depth and a playful vibe.

The footwear was incredible – could you tell me more about the collaborations?

I’m really excited to announce we’re partnering with KEEN on a collaboration releasing in October! We designed two different shoe styles with them. Plus, we’re also working on a collaboration with Converse.

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2026-02-14 23:56