Actress and Harvard alumna Yara Shahidi recently shared her unique perspective on style and her exciting attendance at Loewe's spring/summer 2026 presentation in Paris. She expressed her anticipation for the inaugural collection from the brand's new creative helmsmen, Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez. Shahidi elaborated on her evolving fashion philosophy, emphasizing self-expression and an appreciation for intricate design. Her appearance at the event was a blend of personal style and a deep understanding of the fashion world, showcasing her vibrant approach to clothing and her engagement with artistic influences.
On a Friday morning, amidst the Parisian atmosphere, Yara Shahidi found herself in the front row of the highly anticipated Loewe show. She spoke enthusiastically about the appointment of Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez as the luxury brand's new creative directors. Having long admired their work at Proenza Schouler, Shahidi was eager to see how their vision would merge with Loewe’s established reputation for exceptional craftsmanship. Her ensemble for the occasion—a navy windbreaker, a white V-neck hoodie, and a red midi skirt, paired with sculptural pumps—perfectly encapsulated her playful yet elegant aesthetic, setting the tone for the vibrant collection that followed.
Shahidi's choice of a bold red skirt proved to be a fitting preamble to a collection that earned a standing ovation for its lively, joyful, and colorful designs. Her personal style, she explains, is rooted in self-expression and a refusal to take fashion too seriously. She is particularly drawn to the architectural elements of clothing, finding immense satisfaction in observing the intricate details and construction up close during fashion week. This thoughtful approach extends to her outfit selections, where she prioritizes silhouettes and the tactile quality of fabrics. She highlighted the unique pleating of her blouse's neckline and the unexpected hood detail as elements that resonated deeply with her, reflecting her general dressing philosophy of combining color, silhouette, and fun.
Over recent years, Shahidi's personal style has undergone a transformation, moving towards a more vibrant and less serious disposition. She embraces her twenties as a time for experimentation, letting her style reflect her current life experiences. This evolution has also spurred a deeper academic interest in fashion, prompting her to study particular designers, photography, and silhouettes. Her passion has turned her into a 'fashion geek,' as she now approaches clothing from a historical perspective, often delving into designers' inspirations and the intricacies of garment creation. This intellectual curiosity enriches her engagement with the fashion world.
Discussing the blend of art, playfulness, and wearability characteristic of Paris Fashion Week designers, Shahidi remarked that fashion is at its best when it feels like an immersive artistic experience. She cherishes the designers' passion and the artistic 'rabbit holes' they inspire, such as exploring Matthieu Blazy's set designs. Wearability remains a crucial aspect for her, believing that an outfit truly becomes 'hers' when she feels comfortable in it. She admires designers who can push creative boundaries, like the leatherwork and beading seen in the Loewe show, while still producing pieces that are practical for everyday wear.
Shahidi also drew inspiration from other women in the public eye. She cited Solange as a long-standing style influence, admiring her authentic approach to dressing. For Shahidi, Solange epitomizes someone who honors her artistic and personal self through her fashion choices, inspiring Shahidi to explore different facets of her own identity through clothing. Beyond the show, Shahidi expressed excitement for Michelle Obama's forthcoming book, 'The Look,' which will chronicle the former First Lady's style evolution. Shahidi views this as a significant narrative, especially given the politicized nature of dressing for Black women, and looks forward to gaining insight into Obama’s personal journey with style.
Her pre-fashion show ritual is a blend of comfort and routine: a carefully curated playlist and a cup of morning tea. Tea, in fact, is such a fundamental part of her daily life that she jokingly keeps bags of it in her car for 'dehydration emergencies.' Her playlist for getting ready typically includes tracks like 'Get It Over' by Yukimi and Little Dragon, and music from Bktherula. Beyond these, her essential fashion week survival kit includes stretching and indulging in a Dumbo Burger in Paris—a treat she highly recommends for fellow smash burger enthusiasts, often followed by a mocha with extra chocolate flakes from Peloton.
Looking ahead, Shahidi is involved in two upcoming film projects, 'Street Smart' and 'The Beekeeper 2.' She described 'Street Smart' as a deliberate departure from her previous roles, allowing her to portray young women in military service in a novel way, a role that also served as an educational journey for her. For 'The Beekeeper 2,' she is embracing the delightful challenge of the sequel, enjoying the preparation process and eagerly anticipating bringing her character to the screen.
Ultimately, Yara Shahidi's engagement with fashion transcends mere aesthetics, serving as a powerful medium for personal expression, intellectual exploration, and connection with broader artistic and cultural narratives. Her journey reflects a mindful approach to style that values authenticity, craftsmanship, and the joy of discovery, all while navigating the dynamic world of high fashion with a refreshing perspective.