There’s a noticeable shift happening in accessories. After seasons dominated by sharp geometry and rigid silhouettes, footwear is beginning to relax. Leather is being gathered rather than stretched taut, loafers appear gently ruched instead of perfectly polished, and boots favour movement over structure.
Vagabond Shoemakers’ Pre A/W 26 collection leans into that softer sensibility. Rather than reinventing familiar silhouettes, the Swedish label focuses on subtle interventions, allowing braided, knotted, ruched and scrunched leather to reshape otherwise understated designs. It’s a collection that finds interest through material rather than excess.
Among the standouts is the forthcoming Livia boot, whose softly slouched leather upper and rounded block heel offer an effortless alternative to more structured knee-high styles. Meanwhile, the Brandi loafer reimagines a wardrobe staple in glossy patent leather, with gathered detailing adding just enough texture to catch the eye without disrupting its clean proportions.
What makes the collection compelling is its confidence in restraint. Rather than relying on hardware or embellishment, Vagabond lets the leather do the work. Braiding, gathering and soft construction introduce dimension while preserving the clean Scandinavian aesthetic the brand has become known for.
It also speaks to a growing appreciation for pieces that feel lived in rather than overly polished. The slouched boot, the softened loafer, the subtle imperfections created through texture, they give familiar silhouettes a more relaxed character without sacrificing refinement.
The Pull: Texture continues to replace ornament. Expect gathered leather, softened structure and quietly sculptural footwear to remain key details as Autumn/Winter 2026 begins to take shape.
Cody Rooney is the Editor in Chief and senior contributor at liminul.
He is a PhD candidate, digital content specialist, writer, editor, multi-media artist, and photographer.