At this stage in her journey, Hailey Bieber truly embodies the spirit of a contemporary Renaissance woman. As the founder, chief creative officer, and head of innovation for her beauty brand, Rhode, she has firmly established herself as a notable entrepreneur. Beyond that, she enjoys a successful modeling career and is recognized for her impeccable street style, capturing the attention of fashion enthusiasts worldwide. To top it all off, she is also a dedicated mother to her son, Jack Blues.
Given her multifaceted life, it’s no surprise that Bieber gravitates toward clothing that offers versatility and comfort as she navigates her various roles. Once again collaborating with DKNY, she stars in the spring 2026 campaign of the iconic New York label, showcasing a striking minimalistic dress reminiscent of the beloved fashion from Sex and the City. In a conversation with ELLE.com, Bieber shared her insights on how this collection resonates with her lifestyle, the stylistic connections between New York and Los Angeles, and her current inspirations. Read on for the full discussion.
You starred in the last DKNY campaign—how do you see this collection as an evolution from the previous one?
This time, my relationship with DKNY feels more profound. I’ve had the chance to connect with the brand and its team on a deeper level, which has strengthened our bond. The brand excels at designing standout pieces like jackets and outerwear, in addition to essential denim. This new season builds beautifully on that foundation.
The spring 2026 collection is “designed for life in motion.” What does that signify for you?
For me, it translates to clothing that seamlessly fits into my daily life. Everything in this collection feels not only stylish but also incredibly wearable.
How would you incorporate these pieces into your wardrobe?
There are numerous fantastic pieces that I would love to integrate into my current wardrobe, such as layering one of the jackets over a stylish pair of jeans or tailored trousers to refresh my look.
With DKNY representing the essence of New York and you being an L.A. girl, what are your thoughts on the style of each city and their commonalities?
I believe there’s a shared essence of effortless style in both cities. DKNY captures the vibrant energy of New York, yet the simplicity and comfort of the designs make them remarkably suitable for the laid-back vibe of L.A.
This collection features the iconic Sex and the City Naked Dress. What does it feel like to be part of reviving such a legendary piece?
The timeless nature of that dress lies in its silhouette, which has seamlessly transcended various eras. I adore that it functions as a little black dress but with its own distinctive flair. It’s one of my favorite pieces in the collection, and I genuinely believe it’s a must-have for every woman’s wardrobe.
Speaking of icons, what does it mean to you to be a style influence for so many?
I believe my focus has always been on cultivating confidence and the freedom to experiment with different styles. Ultimately, your unique sense of fashion shines through when you feel your best.
Are there any style icons currently inspiring you?
Inspiration can emerge from various aspects of life—be it photography, travels, culinary experiences, music, or cinema. However, Kate Moss remains an everlasting source of inspiration. She is truly timeless and continues to serve as a significant sartorial reference for many.
This interview has been edited and condensed.
