Most Wanted: The Art Collector’s Closet

With fashion month well and truly wrapped, all eyes are on Frieze London as the art world descends on the British capital for five days of enthralling private views, parties and people-watching. While the buzz centers on the must-see exhibitions and pieces on display, in our opinion, the art crowd are the real ones to watch. You can count on the most committed collectors to extend their eye for aesthetics to their wardrobes, resulting in plenty of fashion for thought. If you’re headed to Regent’s Park for Frieze London and Frieze Masters, you’ll need an outfit that shows you know your Hockney from your Hirst – and there are plenty of art-inspired designs that will do exactly that.

“Everyone in fashion is talking about the statement skirt right now. I have my eye on Carolina Herrera’s asymmetric knee-length style from the fall/winter 2026 collection, which looks as though the calla lilies have been painted directly onto the fabric,” says NET-A-PORTER’s fashion content editor, Colleen Ross. “The entire collection was inspired by women who have shaped the art world, so this piece feels particularly apt for an art enthusiast like me to wear to the fair.”

If you, like Ross, are keen to make a statement skirt work for daytime, the key is to keep the focus on the waist down. Styles like Carolina Herrera’s or Rabanne’s paillette-embellished piece are like an artwork in their own right, so are best paired with a white shirt or a complementary colored knit and pared-back accessories that won’t draw attention away from the skirt’s texture or print. The Row’s white leather pumps and Chloé’s sculptural tulip-shaped necklace are stylish options that will only add to the artistic flair of your ensemble.

Alternatively, if an after-hours curator’s tour or exclusive preview is in your calendar, consider a glamorous gown to mark the occasion. Khaite’s ‘Bronte’ dress is a study in sculptural silhouette with its fitted velvet bodice and voluminous silk organza skirt, making it ideal for a night at the museum. Meanwhile, Abadia’s bright-red design is a timeless choice that nods to the draping seen on Ancient Greek sculptures. Just add some artful accessories like Sophie Buhai’s Klein-blue earrings or Loewe’s ‘Toy’ sandals, and style a sumptuous shearling jacket over your shoulders as you head out for the evening.