From Backstage to Runway: Inside Christian Siriano’s Bold NYFW SS26 Collection

Award-winning CFDA designer Christian Siriano brought his visually stunning SS26 collection to life at the iconic Macy’s Herald Square.

The store’s lower level was transformed into a draped maze where models wove their way in and out in ensembles rich in tones and architecture. But before the models hit the runway, we went backstage with TRESemmé to check out the hairstyles that complemented the looks and the artists who brought them to life.

Behind the Gloss

TRESemmé partner and celebrity stylist Lacy Redway revealed the inspiration behind the look and the products that made it possible. “For Siriano, we wanted a look that was sleek yet striking — a sculpted wave that feels both modern and timeless. It’s all about that balance of high-shine polish with clean, fluid lines,” she told us.

For this collection, Redway introduced what she calls the “liquid wave.” It’s a sleek style that sweeps three-quarters of the hair back into a glossy low bun, while a front section is pulled forward and sculpted into a fluid, wave-like curve – reminiscent of a competitive ballroom dancer.

Now, how exactly did she craft this look?

To create the “liquid wave,” Redway began with damp hair, starting with a deep side part and setting aside a section from the temple to the crown. She worked TRESemmé Extra Hold Mousse through the lengths before brushing hair back into a sleek low ponytail, then twisted it into a bun with the help of the ghd Chronos Curve Grand Iron.

The bun was misted with TRESemmé A-List Collection Workable Hairspray for shape and hold. For the front section, she curled and brushed it into a sculpted 1940s-inspired wave, locking it in place with TRESemmé Freeze Hold Hair Gel before tucking it neatly behind the ear.

A few finishing touches, including the key component, the Instant Fix Styling Stick for flyaways and a veil of Lacquer Shine Spray, gave the style its glossy, runway-ready polish.

Siriano’s SS26: Bold Prints, Sharp Silhouettes, Unforgettable Drama

Once it was time for the models to hit the runway, we witnessed the magic unfold. The designer we first met on Project Runway curated an unapologetically bold collection.

Playful interpretations of zebra prints and black-and-white polka dots, punctuated with vibrant pops of color, initially had the audience convinced that the collection was strictly monochrome. But midway through the show, the runway came alive with rich hues—think vivid pinks, deep teals, and striking oranges.

The silhouettes offered a twist on today’s hottest trends: corsets paired with bubble skirts, cropped yet structured blazers, plunging vests, and collared cutouts, toeing the line between fantasy and reality.

He crafted both the men’s and women’s collections with the same sharp eye for detail, a quality still often overlooked. Siriano experimented with volume and pattern play, proving his designs not only turn heads on the runway but also transport guests beyond the real world.

Taking the Party to the Thirteenth Floor: Macy’s I.N.C. x Christian Siriano

You thought the new pieces ended as Siriano took his bow? Actually, he darted through the aisles. Anyway, the party made its way to the store’s thirteenth floor to celebrate Macy’s new I.N.C. fall collection. For the 40-year anniversary, Siriano served as Creative Director and Curator.

The designer presented a collection of neutral tones and flattering silhouettes for the modern working woman. Pieces like the Printed Asymmetrical Midi Skirt transition effortlessly from the office to a midtown happy hour.

Other standouts include: Faux-Leather Biker Jacket, Surplice-Neck Faux-Leather Dress, Double-Breasted Blazer, and the Halyn Strappy Stiletto Dress Sandals.

From the high shine and high glam that Siriano said he missed to the I.N.C. collection filled with closet essentials, Christian Siriano’s NYFW affair proved once again that he is on a mission to make fashion for everybody—and every body.