Johnson Hartig presents the Libertine Fall Winter 2026 collection, a body of work rooted in a visit to Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam. This Prussian retreat, built for Frederick the Great, provides the structural and conceptual framework for the season. The palace features trellised pergolas, gilded surfaces, and formal gardens that define a specific balance between rigid structure and aesthetic beauty. Hartig shifted his creative direction entirely after experiencing the site’s grandeur, resulting in a collection that treats fashion as architecture in motion.
FALL WINTER 2026.27 WOMENSWEAR
Hand embroidery serves as a primary medium for translating Sanssouci’s physical details into wearable form. Treillage and sun motifs directly reference the pergolas found at the palace gates. Cascading “drip” embroideries replicate coral ornamentation and natural flora from the estate gardens. Gold tweeds function as a visual nod to gilded interiors, while the broader color palette and various tactile textures draw from the palace’s private rooms. Embroidered depictions of fruits and animals recreate the atmosphere of historical courtly dinners through narrative needlework.
The collection extends its reach from the palace grounds into the botanical expanses and moonlit paths of Berlin’s Tiergarten. These locations inspire a lush plant print and a celestial night sky vignette. A hand-embroidered galaxy motif honors Frederick the Great’s historical support of science and astronomy, specifically referencing a planet named in his honor. Architectural history remains a central influence; Hartig includes the “Sepia Londres” illustration, a tonal meditation on Frederick’s desire to relocate to London. This graphic explores ideals of cultural exchange and intellectual curiosity.
This collection arrives as Libertine nears its twenty-fifth year. The designs establish an elevated tone that focuses on intellectual glamour and technical skill. Libertine also continues its partnership with Helena Mar and APICCAPS, the Portuguese Footwear Association, for a second season.
This collaboration produces three distinct footwear styles: a block-heel Mary Jane, a platform Mary Jane, and a knee-high boot. Manufacturers utilize the same fabrics as the main collection to ensure a unified color palette across all items. A bespoke suede envelope clutch, featuring geometric suede patchwork, completes the accessory offering. This piece coordinates directly with the matching tall boot. APICCAPS provides the technical expertise for the production of these leather goods, contributing Portuguese manufacturing knowledge to the final products.
