*By Jesse Scott *
Georges and Jad Hobeika spirited guests into a soothing dream world for a stellar Autumn/Winter 2026 ready-to-wear show that exemplified the timeless elegance and effortless glamour that we have come to expect from the father-and-son team. Flowers, graceful silhouettes, and soft colors cast the tender femininity at the heart of the Maison into an even more refined focus, with the Hobeikas explaining that “colors grow softer, edges dissolve, silhouettes move to the rhythm of the earth's own breathing.” A classical palette, with intricate floral embroidery on almost every dress and pops of baby pink, sea foam green, and rich purple enhancing the overall air of fantasy, guided us on a fairy tale journey through ensembles suited for old-world aristocracy yet created to re-define the 21st century princess.
Loyal Clientele Celebrate Dazzling New Collection
Mara LaFontan wearing a royal purple furry cropped jacket, Anna Della Russo donning a gem-encrusted dress with a statement necklace, and Leonie Hanne in an elegant beige gown with a classic Hobeika silhouette, were among the front row attendees. They were rightfully delighted by a show that saw exciting evolutions in silhouettes and embellishments even as it continued a consistent narrative. For example, a halter with a striking diamond cutout, near-military style detailing and a semi-sheer yet dazzling bejeweled structure, provided a highlight of the show in Look 59. Oceanic Look 49 saw a structured bodice recalling standout shapes from recent seasons paired with a surprisingly slinky gown. Look 45 saw playful ostrich-plumed shoulders on a traditionally glamorous gown. And Look 43, perhaps the most innovative ensemble, brought together the stripped-bare whalebone structure of a corset with allusions to a cropped men’s tuxedo shirt and billowing almost-boho sleeves.
Georges Hobeika Autumn/Winter 2026 Ready-to-Wear collection (Images courtesy of Patrycja Wieczorek)
My personal favorite was the all-black Look 42, which exemplified the Hobeikas’ mastery of shape and sheer while displaying some of the season’s most striking embroidery. Black, while featured sparingly, was employed to great effect, with Look 26 in its dignified and almost military rigidity proving that not all flowers have to be soft. “Nature exists in its absolute form, unbidden, without concession,” the Hobeikas reminded us. And “dignity lies in the strength one draws from fragility and tenderness.”
Georges Hobeika Autumn/Winter 2026 Ready-to-Wear collection (Images courtesy of Patrycja Wieczorek)
One of the most touching moments of the evening came not during the show but behind the scenes afterwards. Tears sprang from the designers’ eyes as A-list guests and clients, most of whom have been loyal to the Hobeikas for years, congratulated them on the collection. Fashion is truly a labor of love for Georges and Jad, who craft every dress with passion, and in an age of mass production and instant gratification, have never lost sight of the fact that it is people who matter most. Buying or creating couture is like buying or creating art; it should be an intimate and deeply personal experience. For the Hobeikas, this is just second nature. Let them be an example for the fashion world to follow.