The latest Spring 2026 collection from SC103, conceived by designers Claire McKinney and Sophie Andes-Gascon, unveiled a fresh perspective in a distinctive Brooklyn location. The show, set in a parking lot adorned with corrugated metal and barbed wire, offered a surprisingly convivial atmosphere, complete with popcorn and butterscotch candies. This collection signifies a notable evolution for the brand, moving towards a more refined aesthetic while retaining its intrinsic magic. The designs emphasize comfort, adaptability, and a sense of tranquil exploration, reflecting the designers' personal growth and a deeper engagement with their creative process.
The SC103 Spring 2026 presentation took place in an unexpected setting, a rocky parking lot surrounded by industrial elements in Brooklyn. This unconventional choice was inspired by the relaxed ambiance of festival grounds and open spaces, aiming to evoke a sense of 'drifting in open spaces without a sense of time.' The show began with a welcoming atmosphere, as hundreds of attendees were offered refreshments before the garments made their debut. This curated experience set the stage for a collection that sought to communicate a feeling of calm and collectedness, a 'trance or sleepwalk style of being,' as described by co-designer Claire McKinney.
Crafted predominantly from silk and cotton, the collection presented an idyllic vision. A key highlight was the experimental footwear, which included sandals made from screen-printed knits, lace-up designs in horsehair with cotton lacing, and foil-wrapped rope sandals. These innovative shoe designs introduced an 'intergalactic element' to the show, transforming the rocky terrain into a lunar landscape. This imaginative approach underscored the designers' venture into uncharted creative territory, pushing the boundaries of conventional fashion presentation.
The collection also signaled a significant maturation for Andes-Gascon and McKinney. While previous works often possessed a charming haziness, this season's pieces featured more clearly defined lines, exuding a newfound confidence. This shift was mirrored in the choice of models, with over half being over 30 years old, reflecting the designers' own age and their entry into a 'new chapter' of life. They articulated a desire to align their career aspirations with their personal values, seeking to make meaningful contributions beyond just the garments themselves.
A striking opening ensemble was a simple, all-white collarless long-sleeve shirt paired with a tiered skirt, a departure from the brand's usual vibrant colors and collage techniques. The designers explained this choice by referencing 'blank surfaces like drop cloths, sails and banners,' functional materials with strong seams and hardware. The show progressed with diverse pieces, including a black sports mesh set, a laced tunic, and an asymmetric denim skirt with a matching top. Stripes, both thin and wide, and shredded, fringed textures further enriched the collection, showcasing a range of silhouettes.
Throughout the collection, round drawstring cutouts were a recurring motif, adding adjustability and airflow to garments. A vibrant fuchsia dress, for example, embodied a breezy summer feeling, enhanced by the fabric's soft lightness. Many pieces were washed and tumble-dried, contributing to their comfortable and relaxed appeal. This emphasis on material proximity to the body and adjustable channels allowed for versatile silhouettes and responded to the theme of 'weather' in the collection, offering an adaptable and comfortable wear.
Six years into their journey, the designers are now collaborating more extensively with partners, which Andes-Gascon noted felt like a 'better use of our brains rather than sewing robotically small runs of production.' This collaborative approach frees up time for greater experimentation and development within their Red Hook studio, a space that perfectly aligns with SC103's independent spirit. McKinney emphasized their commitment to maintaining their unique systems and staying true to their vision, echoing Shakespeare's timeless advice: 'to thine own self be true.' This collection truly highlighted the seamless integration of comfort and chic, presenting a vision of sophisticated ease that resonates with modern sensibilities.