Kendall Jenner, the renowned model and media personality, has been chosen to star in Donna Karan's highly anticipated fall 2026 campaign. This marks a significant moment for the brand, as it showcases a return to the city that inspired its iconic designs. The campaign, photographed by Mert Alas, captures the essence of New York City's energy, texture, and light, mirroring the late 1980s aesthetic of a previous Donna Karan campaign. With creative direction by Trey Laird, the visual narrative unfolds against the backdrop of INXS' iconic track, 'Never Tear Us Apart'.
Jenner embodies the spirit of the Donna Karan woman, showcasing a range of looks that reflect the brand's signature style. She stars in a bodysuit from the archives, reimagined with an extra-wide belt, alongside a draped wool jersey jacket and skirt layered beneath a leather coat, and a tailored velvet suit. The color palette is dominated by a seasonal shade of black cherry, with additional looks in espresso brown and a full-length sequin dress. Jenner's outfits are complemented by the brand's signature Cashmere tote and Leno bag, as well as sculptural gold accessories and eyewear.
Laird, founder of Team Laird, praised Mert Alas' ability to create a visual world that is both instantly iconic and timeless. He noted that Alas perfectly captured Kendall's embodiment of the modern Donna Karan woman. The campaign will launch across Donna Karan's social channels, utilizing a mix of digital platforms, print placements, and premium outdoor displays. The fall 2026 collection will be available for purchase on DonnaKaran.com and in select retailers worldwide.
This campaign is a testament to Donna Karan's enduring influence in the fashion industry. It showcases the brand's ability to capture the essence of a city and translate it into a compelling visual narrative. With Kendall Jenner's involvement, the campaign is sure to generate buzz and excitement among fashion enthusiasts and the general public alike. As an expert commentator, I find it fascinating that Donna Karan has chosen to revisit the city that inspired its iconic designs, and I am eager to see how this campaign will shape the brand's future direction.