Boy London's Gothic 'Guillotine' Collection Fuses Punk Heritage with Medieval Drama at NYFW Fall/Winter 2026

Boy London debuted its Fall/Winter 2026 'Guillotine' men's and women's collection at New York Fashion Week, staging the show inside St. Paul's German Lutheran Church on Friday the 13th. The dramatic setting--steeped in gothic architecture and old-world reverence--heightened the collection's exploration of heritage, rebellion, and reinvention. Backstage, creative director Can Tran explained that the season was conceived as both a tribute and a forward statement. 'We wanted to do a lot of research and bring back nostalgic pieces but have a touch of modern fabrication. Inspirations from medieval dress--I mean, what inspires more than archival pieces?' he shared. The result was a thoughtful fusion of past and present: silhouettes drawn from medieval tunics, doublets, and ecclesiastical robes were reimagined in contemporary proportions and technical fabrics. The collection leaned heavily into layered tailoring and statement outerwear. Oversized wool coats featured sharp, almost armor-like shoulders, while elongated leather trenches were detailed with metal hardware and corset-style lacing. Founded in 1976 by Stephane Raynor on London's King's Road, Boy London emerged from the epicenter of Britain's punk movement. What began as a cult streetwear label has evolved into a global brand synonymous with bold graphics and subcultural attitude. 'Guillotine' felt like a return to those roots. Hair and makeup extended the narrative, drawing on punk and New Romantic influences. Smudged, grungy eyeliner contrasted with pale complexions, while teased textures and sharply cut, colorful wigs added a theatrical edge. The looks balanced rebellion with romance, echoing the collection's interplay between medieval drama and streetwise modernity.