Contessa Mills debuted her largest collection yet, “The Lovers,” on Thursday 11 September at a gathering in Tribeca. The New York-based designer continues drawing inspiration from tarot cards, with The Lovers: SS26 collection being inspired by the duality of The Lovers tarot card. 

Traditionally depicting Adam and Eve, the card explores the interplay between masculine and feminine energies – an idea woven throughout the collection. Structured collars and textured fabrics nod to masculinity, while fluid silhouettes and delicate details embrace femininity. This tension is expressed through the push and pull of the garments: where sharp meets soft, black meets white, and symmetry is disrupted by purposeful asymmetry. Reflecting the idea that a partner can both mirror and challenge your sense of self.

Core silhouettes from previous seasons reemerge with thoughtful restraint: the Madeleine skirt returns, now free of fringe; shorts and pants feature the signature button detailing first introduced with the Benjamin Capri; and striped underpinnings are designed on the beloved bra and underwear Seraphim Set that debuted in second collection blurring the boundaries between inner and outerwear. Ribbon accents and leather trims, subtly stitched throughout, echo their presence in seasons past, reinforcing a sense of continuity while evolving. This ongoing conversation between past and present is underscored by the collection’s fabric palette of striped poplin, silk, linen, and black lace. Each meticulously chosen for its movement, texture, and timeless appeal.

Beyond fabric and form, The Lovers: SS26 collection is also about choice. It speaks to making decisions rooted in one’s morals and integrity. Contessa began designing this collection during the presidential race, a time when ethical decision-making was top of mind. The luxury of choosing how you express yourself is carried into the collection: a reminder that deciding what we wear, how we present ourselves, and who we are should align with what we believe.

Contessa Mills offers the luxury of choice this season. Supplying the ability to dress in a way that feels truthful, confident, and deeply personal.