Modern Muse: Duro Olowu’s Spring 2026
Duri Olowu Spring 2026
Wardrobe Counsel
Duro Olowu’s Spring 2026 ready-to-wear collection was designed as an homage to Eartha Kitt and Marisol Escobar. Known as an icon of 50s and ‘60s America, Kitt embodied a captivating aesthetic and pursued a career in acting, singing, and civil rights work. Escobar is recognized for her sculptural designs, which unmistakably center on a human muse.
This collection features colors and patterns seen in traditional Nigerian clothing and architectural aesthetics that bring forth Escobar’s influence, with the glamour of the garments and styling representing Kitt’s legacy. Olowu’s designs for this collection have found a way to bring together influences and cultures within one cohesive look, integrating the silhouettes seen in Marisol Escobar’s work and on Eartha Kitt with the fabrics of Olowu’s heritage.
Anthropologie Textured Metal Hoops in Gold
Not there to steal the show but to add another sculptural element to the look, Anthropologie’s Textured Metal Hoop Earrings in gold create the effect of the earrings we see on Olowu’s runway. Balancing heaviness and sculptural elements, these earrings are $44 and come in 14-karat silver or gold-plated brass.
Diarrablu Elia Olive Lael Dress
The key to recreating Olowu’s looks is offering hints of traditional Nigerian prints and patterns, which often include geometric shapes or motifs of plants and animals. Diarrablu’s Elia Olive Lael Dress is made of 100% sustainable viscose, reflecting the brand’s commitment to reducing waste and promoting sustainability, and is priced at $345. This design is inspired by traditional Berber patterns, partially making it a cousin to the original Duro Olowu piece.
Tory Burch Pierced Wedge Sandal in Black
The Tory Burch Pierced Wedge Sandal in Black offers the same simple yet supportive structure as the Duro Olowu sandals. Featuring a faux toe ring and a small wedge, this is a modern and trendy alternative to the original. Priced at $425, these 100% leather sandals will last a lifetime.
Essential
Blue Banana Grapes 3d Bodice Sleeveless Maxi Dress
The key to recreating the looks from Olowu’s Spring 2026 collection is the eye-catching prints and vivid colors of the pieces. With minimal accessories and clean shoes, the garments are the highlight, with everything else acting as a support to the dress. The Farm Rio Blue Banana Grapes 3D Bodice Sleeveless Maxi Dress is a perfect mirror of the Duro Olowu design: sculptural and bright, made of linen and viscose, and from a Brazilian designer whose identity shows through in each piece. On the lower price of luxury, the dress is priced at $380, making it the perfect piece to invest in to recreate Duro Olowu’s cultural statement.

