Kravitz & styles: a decade of couture – street style rewind

A decade ago, Zoë Kravitz stunned in a billowing Valentino tulle confection, a moment captured by Phil Oh that’s now being revisited as Fashion circles prepare for the fall 2026 couture season. But the story goes deeper than a single red-carpet moment – a private tour with Alessandro Michele himself illuminated the creative heart of Maison Valentino.

A flashback to 2016: models, icons, and enduring style

The fall of 2016 was a vibrant tapestry of street style, a snapshot of an era defined by bold personalities and a relentless pursuit of the extraordinary. Bella Hadid, a rising star then fiercely loyal to Saint Laurent, was undoubtedly the face of the moment, gracing the runways of Atelier Versace, Christian Dior, Givenchy, and Fendi. Yet, certain constants remained – Natalia Vodianova, Lucinda Chambers, and Christine Centenera, front-row fixtures for years, continued to command attention with their impeccable choices.

Looking back, it’s remarkable how much remained unchanged. The echoes of that season – the crimson lips of Bella Hadid, courtesy of Pat McGrath, the enduring presence of Vodianova at Dior – serve as a potent reminder of the eternal allure of strong style. Sofia Sanchez de Betak’s love for bold prints, exemplified by her Valentino look, foreshadowed the launch of her own brand, Chufy, a year later.

Beyond the established names, emerging talents like Soo Joo Park, known for her arresting presence, and Teddy Quinlivan, whose campy aesthetic quickly gained traction – remember her Louis Vuitton looks? – were already making waves. Cindy Bruna, transitioning from the runway to film (she recently starred in French Girl), continued to captivate with her metallic aesthetic. Edie Campbell, Mica Argañaraz, and Anna Ewers, embodying a distinctly cool glamour, consistently delivered memorable street style moments, showcasing the power of motorcycle glam.

And then there were the figures who shaped the landscape – Justin O’Shea’s vision at Brioni, Giorgia Tordini and Gilda Ambrosio’s burgeoning brand, The Attico, and Catherine McNeil and Binx Walton, capturing candid moments away from the runway. Hanne Gaby Odiele’s advocacy for intersex rights, coupled with her undeniable style, added another layer of significance. Vera Wang, a consistent presence, remains a sartorial icon, her signature black attire a statement in itself. Nadège Vanhée, fresh at Hermès, sported the brand’s signature orange, while the effortlessly chic Giovanna Engelbert and Laure Hériard-Dubreuil continued their couture circuit appearances.

Jeanne Damas and Veronika Heilbrunner, both radiating Valentino elegance, cemented their status as enduring street style icons. The scene was complete, a testament to the enduring power of creativity and personal expression. Ultimately, the fall 2016 couture shows weren't just about new collections; they were a reflection of a moment in time, a visual record of style that continues to resonate today.