Embrace Undone Beauty: Totême's Vision for Spring 2026
The Transatlantic Design Philosophy of Totême
Elin Kling and Karl Lindman, the creative minds behind Totême, have consistently championed a pared-back Scandinavian aesthetic that has resonated globally. What distinguishes their label is its unique origin story, bridging Stockholm and New York. While the brand's base is now in Sweden, its inception in the bustling environment of New York has allowed them to expertly weave together the influences of both locales. This dual perspective is a significant draw for customers, particularly those in America, who are captivated by the brand's inherent Nordic essence. Their design approach extends beyond clothing to encompass product and interior design, aligning with the broader Scandinavian heritage of functional elegance, evident in their headquarters and retail spaces. The choice to unveil the collection in the renowned Pool Room of the legendary Four Seasons restaurant further cemented this narrative. Lindman articulated their fascination with Park Avenue's nostalgic modernism, evoking images of influential lunches amidst steel and order, noting the room's subtle resemblance to their brand's monogram.
Modern Elegance and Effortless Style for the Season
In contrast to the historical chic seen in the Warhol portraits adorning the Seagram's building, Kling's latest collection presented a contemporary interpretation of elegance, which she termed "undone beauty" for the spring season. Models exuded an air of effortless grace, with intentionally unstyled hair, loosely gathered, and new 'Clip' bags left casually unfastened. Some appeared to be hastily donning their coats, while flat Mary Jane slingbacks facilitated a brisk, confident stride. The collection also incorporated light, airy elements, capturing the essence of summer.
Harmonious Sensory Experiences and Textile Innovations
Kling highlighted the collaborative musical score by Frédéric Sanchez, which transitioned from delicate strings to a rhythmic heartbeat, culminating in gentle breathing sounds. This sonic journey perfectly complemented the collection's ethereal quality, particularly evident in the seamless integration of soft knits with flowing silks. Kling expressed her fondness for combining fluid textiles with the comforting embrace of more structured, compact knits. The overall ambiance suggested a relaxed, pajama-inspired ease. For the upcoming spring, Totême advocates for the pairing of shirts with skirts, diverging from the traditional shirt and pant combination. Details such as raw edges, subtly crinkled fabrics, and washed leathers contributed to a cultivated, lived-in aesthetic, portraying the Totême woman as always composed and self-assured.
Palette, Texture, and Personal Touches
The collection was primarily rendered in a sophisticated palette of black and white. Textural depth was achieved through the use of plush yarns and metallic-woven materials, alongside a interplay of matte and lustrous fabrics. Certain ivory shades possessed an almost pearlescent shimmer. A surprising romantic element emerged in the form of delicate, openwork lace pieces that concluded the presentation, reminiscent of christening attire. The designers revealed that these intricate details were inspired by the tablecloths found in their grandparents' cherished summer homes. Kling emphasized the value of incorporating personal elements rooted in reality, stating, "I feel like that's something that is always sort of the key to Totême, bringing inspiration from reality and continuing this dialogue with women about how to simplify your wardrobe and what you wear."