An exclusive first look at Oosterom’s Autumn/Winter 26 collection

5 March 2026
By Natalia Didovich

Designer Nicole Hadfield offers a glimpse into the creative vision behind Alla Prima, ahead of its debut Āhua on March 20th.

The Ida dress and Wrap Over Skirt from Oosterom's AW26 collection.

For this collection, I found myself deeply inspired by Johannes Vermeer and his masterful use of layering, light, colour and texture. Alla Prima – meaning “at first attempt” refers to wet-on-wet painting – it felt like the perfect title. There’s an immediacy to the process, but also incredible depth.

I’ve translated that idea into clothing designed to layer effortlessly, creating richness and dimension while working seamlessly within your existing Oosterom wardrobe. This season explores texture, sheers, limited-edition runway fabrics and elegant silhouettes. Pieces that build on each other to create something personal and considered.

One of my new favourites is the green olive Ida Dress, named after my daughter. I was holding her on my hip one evening, draping fabric on the mannequin before making dinner, when the design came to life. Sometimes my best pieces are born in those small, in-between parenting moments. There’s something instinctive and honest about them.

We’re also introducing the Petra Maxi Dress in Ochre Floral Velvet and Black Stripe Satin – two truly delicious fabrics that drape beautifully. We also have a new Wrap Over Skirt in Black Lace, she’s perfect for layering. I’m always drawn to pieces you can simply throw on as you head out the door, but that still feel a little bit special.

We’ve revisited our Anouk silhouette, inspired by the ’90s, this time in a rich gold-and-black textured floral – with just one of each available.

And finally, I’ve been quietly working on the perfect T-shirt for quite some time. We now have both a baby tee and an oversized tee featuring our signature raglan sleeve – and I genuinely think we may have nailed it with this one.

This collection feels layered, textural and deeply personal, I can’t wait to share it with everyone!

Oosterom’s AW26 collection will debut at Te Wiki Āhua o Aotearoa on March 20th. Buy tickets at ahuaaotearoa.com

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