Appiolaza draws from life in Buenos Aires, filling the runway with cultural references, everyday characters, and the brand’s signature humor.
At Milan Fashion Week, Moschino’s Fall/Winter 2026–2027 show felt like a trip through memory. Creative director Adrian Appiolaza looked to his roots, filling the runway with references to the Argentina he grew up in.
The collection pulled from everyday characters and cultural icons that shaped life in Buenos Aires. There were nods to tango dancers, football fans, bus drivers, and gauchos from the pampas. Even Argentine political figure and activist Eva Perón appeared on a pixelated graphic T-shirt, offering a reminder of the country’s political history.
The show was less about nostalgia and more about sharing a piece of where he comes from. During previews, he explained that Moschino has always allowed designers the freedom to explore ideas from anywhere. That open-minded approach, first established by founder Franco Moschino, made space for a collection that felt personal while still fitting the brand’s playful spirit.
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Everyday characters from Buenos Aires shape the collection
Instead of focusing on one storyline, the collection moved through a series of familiar figures. One look suggested a polished city woman, another hinted at a football supporter, while others referenced dancers heading out for tango.
Several pieces drew from Argentine traditions and visual culture. Decorative details inspired by filete porteño, a colorful art style commonly seen on buses and trucks in Buenos Aires, appeared across dresses with swirling patterns.
Other outfits leaned into elements connected to rural life. Gaucho-style trousers appeared in blue-and-white checks paired with fitted waistcoats, while hand-knit sweaters worn inside out gave everyday staples a slightly unconventional finish.
There were also pieces that balanced tailoring with movement. A flowing dress printed with horse heads appeared alongside a sharply cut jacket inspired by 1940s menswear, styled together as one look.
Surreal accessories continue Moschino’s playful tradition
Accessories once again carried much of the collection’s humor. Moschino has long been known for turning everyday objects into fashion pieces, and Appiolaza continued that tradition this season.
Handbags appeared shaped like unexpected items: a leather sack filled with churros, a cactus in a pot, and even a miniature piggy bank. That playful approach extended to the footwear as well. One pair of pumps appeared covered in fake euro notes, matched with a shirt and pocket square referencing the same idea.
Another detail was pieces featuring Mafalda, the beloved Argentine comic character created by cartoonist Quino. Printed on dresses and tops, the character added a cultural reference while hinting at the social commentary often associated with the comic.
The finale hints at fashion’s relationship with money
The show ended with one of Moschino’s signature playful twists. A model walked out dressed like a banker, carrying a leather piggy bank while wearing shoes decorated with fabric currency.
According to Appiolaza, the look was meant to reflect an unavoidable truth within the industry. “It was a way of saying that at the end of the day, fashion is all about money,” the designer said.
Watch the full show below:
