New Zealand Fashion Week 2026 has revealed its first wave of designers

Has New Zealand Fashion Week hit its stride? It would certainly seem so. Hot on the heels of last year's triumphant return (after a two-year hiatus), tonight, New Zealand Fashion Week reveals the first look at its 2026 schedule. From August 17-22, Shed 10 will once again become the beating heart of style in the city, hosting a packed week of runway, conversation, and culture. And, if the first wave of names is anything to go by, 2026 is shaping up to be the most exciting edition yet.

In perhaps one of the most significant additions to the schedule, cherished womenswear designer Caitlin Crisp joins the lineup for the first time as a solo designer showcase. But she's not just showing, she's opening the whole week. It's a full-circle moment for the designer, who first stepped onto the NZFW runway eight years ago as part of a group graduate show. Fast forward nearly a decade, and Caitlin now has a flagship store in the city and has cemented her eponymous brand as a quiet cornerstone of New Zealand's womenswear. Yet, the invitation to headline NZFW is still a "pinch-me" moment for Crisp.

She's not alone in making a long-awaited return. Pōneke-born and widely-acclaimed cult favourite, twenty-seven names is back on the NZFW schedule with a solo show — and the timing couldn't be more fitting. This year marks 20 years in business for the homegrown label that has woven its whimsy, pattern-play and thoughtfully crafted pieces into the wardrobes of a fiercely loyal following for two decades.

Joining the lineup for the first time, and celebrating their 10th anniversary, is Elle & Riley, who will bring their signature cashmere comfort to the runway—a debut we're sure will stick for future schedules.

Amongst the new faces, a returning legion of NZFW alums anchors the 2026 NZFW lineup. From the impressive colour and energy of Kathryn Wilson to the culturally brilliant minds of Kāhui Collective and Pacific Fusion, and the enriched craftsmanship of taylor and The Shelter, this first wave signals a strong start for the schedule.

Following last year's commitment to 'anti-traditional' runway shows, 'off-campus' activations, and group shows, this year, that same ethos courses through the schedule, with many designers banding together for revitalised events. Once again, NZFW will present three of its owned shows: VIVA Presents Greatest Hits Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 and Future of Fashion Driven by Giltrap Group. Elsewhere, NZFW Creative Director Dan Ahwa turns his eye to the next wave with The Studio — a new contemporary group show that reads like a who's who of the designers quietly shaping where New Zealand fashion is headed. Think REBE, Longform, Bronwyn Footwear, Harris Tapper, Fringes, Penny Sage, Rhoda Nunn, and more.

Building on its runway debut at the Christchurch Spring Fashion Festival last year, leading Australasian fashion platform THE ICONIC will also present a group show, highlighting key labels under its arc and the key styles for the season ahead.

Speaking to the 2026 schedule announcement, NZFW Executive Director Liam Taylor says, "With the backing of key partners and sponsors, NZFW 2026 will be a step up from our already established and proven new format for the event. Expect more activations from your favourite brands, interactive pop-ups and even more ways to stay and play in Auckland during NZFW."

What emerges from the 2026 schedule, much like 2025, is that NZFW feels increasingly like a community event as much as an industry one.

That feels incredibly important in a country of our size. Yes, New Zealand occupies just a small corner of the world, but its fashion scene has always punched above its weight — and NZFW remains perhaps the most visible stage it has. 

The full list of designers and shows confirmed in this announcement for NZFW 2026 is as follows:

Designer & Group Shows (A-Z)
● Caitlin Crisp
● Elle & Riley
● Kathryn Wilson
● Kāhui Collective
● Juliette Hogan
● Pacific Fusion
● Sonnie
● Taylor
● THE ICONIC
● The Shelter
● Tough
● twenty-seven names
● Walk the Line

NZFW’s Owned Shows
● New Zealand Fashion Week 2026 Opening Event (Invite only)
● The Studio featuring Rebe, Harris Tapper, Penny Sage, Fringes, Longform, Bronwyn Footwear, and Rhoda Nunn, with more to come
● Future of Fashion Driven By Giltrap Group
● VIVA Presents Greatest Hits Vol. 1 and Vol. 2