A$AP rocky, the multi-hyphenate artist and creative force, recently captivated Paris fashion Week with the second runway show for his enigmatic creative collective, AWGE. Titled “Obligatory Fashion,” the Spring/Summer 2026 presentation was far more than a simple display of clothes; it was a conceptual statement, a blend of personal narrative, and a bold commentary on how clothing functions in society. Staged within the striking L’Eglise Protestante Unie de l’Etoile, the show transformed the sacred space into a striking, makeshift courtroom, providing a dramatic backdrop that resonated deeply with the collection’s themes and Rocky’s own experiences.
The Courtroom of Style: Setting the Scene
Guests arriving at the venue were immediately immersed in the “Obligatory Fashion” narrative. The entrance mimicked a courthouse, complete with imposing metal detectors lining the runway path that models and attendees walked through. Masked individuals, described as resembling SWAT personnel, added to the institutional atmosphere. This deliberate setting served as a potent reference to the justice system and, more subtly, Rocky’s 2024 legal proceedings, framing the entire show as a reflection on his personal journey and societal perceptions. The ambiance was further amplified by a projected fresco on the church ceiling, displaying powerful Americana and justice-related imagery – gangsters, judges, the Statue of Liberty, and the American flag – alongside chopped ‘n screwed music tracks, creating an intense, immersive experience.
Deconstructing the Dress Code: The Collection
The collection itself was a masterclass in deconstruction and exaggerated silhouettes, challenging conventional norms around uniforms and social categorization. AWGE, under Rocky’s direction, showcased looks that blurred the lines between formal and casual, foundational wear and high fashion. Models sported enormously oversized shirts paired with loose trousers, gargantuan denim gaucho pants, and check shirts cleverly repurposed into dresses. The clothing explored the idea that garments can be perceived as “obligatory uniforms” in various contexts, detaching them from their original function and giving them new meaning. Looks ranged from tailored, corporate-style suits contrasted with visible boxer shorts, to statement pieces like wearable bullet-proof vests and jerseys boldly emblazoned with phrases such as “Not Guilt, Stop Snitchin’.” This daring approach underscored the collection’s roots in personal experience and cultural commentary.
Styling with a Statement: Details Tell the Story
Styling played a critical role in reinforcing the collection’s courtroom and defiance themes. Many models featured hair styled in large rollers, paired with striking, bruised eye makeup, suggesting a hurried, perhaps unbothered, aesthetic. Accessories included document-folder clutches, further integrating the legal motif. Customized jewelry from Rocky’s own brand, Pavé Niteõ, added touches of high-wattage luxury. The overall styling, which incorporated unconventional elements like plaid skirts wrapped around the waist and clear-frame sunglasses, contributed to the “courtroom drip” concept – an intentional blend of institutional aesthetics with street-influenced style.
Footwear Takes Center Stage: Collaborations Revealed
Footwear emerged as a significant highlight of the AWGE SS26 show, previewing exciting collaborations. The most prominent were the new A$AP Rocky x PUMA Speedcat sneakers. Presented in multiple colors and worn by the majority of models, these weren’t just standard kicks. Each pair was intentionally distressed, made to look heavily stained and scuffed as if fresh from a mechanic’s workshop, tapping into the growing trend of worn-in footwear. They featured unique modifications like an extended, soccer-inspired tongue (worn up or folded down) and, on one red style, deliberately misplaced logos and a one-dollar bill attached to the tongue. Beyond the distressed Speedcats, the PUMA collaboration also included appearances of the new Inhale sneaker and the Mostro Gabbia model, alongside classic Speedcat styles.
Adding another layer of luxury, Rocky also unveiled a collaboration with Christian Louboutin. The collection featured red-bottomed Mary Janes and stilettos, some customized with bedazzled AWGE charms created by Pavé Niteõ. Rocky himself was seen post-show walking the runway with his son Riot while wearing a pair of the Louboutin Mary Janes, adding a personal touch to the presentation of the high-fashion collaboration.
Beyond the Clothes: Music, Furniture, and AWGE’s Enigma
The “Obligatory Fashion” show served as a platform for more than just clothing and footwear. A$AP Rocky previewed new music from his highly anticipated upcoming album, Don’t Be Dumb. Two unreleased tracks were played: one a more aggressive trap cut featuring Thoto, and another described as a woozy, psychedelic soundscape. This offered fans a tantalizing glimpse into his musical future. Rocky’s furniture line, Hommemade, also made an appearance, continuing its presence from the first AWGE show. Known for quixotic pieces like chromed speakers and trash-bag cushions, Hommemade reinforced AWGE’s diverse creative output. AWGE itself remains intentionally enigmatic; Rocky has never publicly revealed what the acronym stands for, preferring its meaning to be open-ended. Developed with young designers discovered on social media, the clothing line embodies this vagueness with a grungy, loud aesthetic. This creative collective functions as Rocky’s “creative id,” a vital outlet for experimentation and shaping newness, contrasting with more commercially available projects like his Ray-Ban creative director role.
A Family Affair: Rihanna and Riot Steal the Show
The front row was packed with notable attendees, but the presence of Rihanna and the couple’s ten-month-old son, Riot Rose, generated significant buzz and heartwarming social media reactions. Rihanna, who is expecting their third child, arrived carrying Riot (and a distinctive Dior tote). The family’s attendance marked their first public outing since the passing of Rihanna’s father, adding a layer of personal significance and drawing support from fans. A particularly memorable moment occurred when A$AP Rocky appeared on the runway; Rihanna excitedly pointed him out to Riot, and Rocky later picked up his son, carrying him back along the catwalk to cheers from the audience. This public display of family connection, especially with Riot’s “adorable” reaction to seeing his dad, resonated strongly with fans who cherish these “wholesome moments” alongside the couple’s renowned style. Riot himself sported Vans Knu Skool sneakers, adding a touch of casual cool to the high-fashion event. A$AP Nast was also noted among the supportive family members present. Rocky stated his intention to continue presenting AWGE shows in Paris, aiming for the top while maintaining a paradoxical “humble badass” stance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main theme and inspiration for A$AP Rocky’s AWGE SS26 show?
The show, titled “Obligatory Fashion,” explored how clothing serves as a uniform that can categorize and control individuals. Inspired by A$AP Rocky’s personal experiences, including his recent court case, the collection and setting commented on how items rooted in necessity or social circumstances transform into fashion symbols, and how individuals personalize these perceived uniforms. The courtroom setting directly referenced the legal system and its influence.
What were the key fashion pieces and collaborations presented at the show?
Key fashion elements included exaggerated silhouettes like oversized shirts and gaucho pants, deconstructed formalwear, and statement pieces like “NOT GUILTY” jerseys. Major footwear collaborations were previewed: intentionally distressed A$AP Rocky x PUMA Speedcat sneakers with unique details like extended tongues and scuff marks, plus new PUMA Inhale and Mostro Gabbia styles. The show also debuted Christian Louboutin red-bottom Mary Janes and stilettos, customized with AWGE charms by Pavé Niteõ.
What does the “Obligatory Fashion” concept and the show’s presentation reveal about A$AP Rocky’s vision for AWGE?
The concept highlights Rocky’s interest in challenging conventional fashion perceptions and repurposing societal uniforms as art. By using a courtroom setting and incorporating personal legal references, he positions AWGE as a platform for expressing his creative id and personal narrative. It shows his ambition to push boundaries and explore complex themes through diverse outputs, positioning AWGE as an experimental, enigmatic collective distinct from his commercial endeavors.
Conclusion
A$AP Rocky’s second AWGE presentation was a compelling spectacle that fused personal narrative, social commentary, and avant-garde fashion. Through the lens of “Obligatory Fashion” and a striking courtroom set, Rocky used the runway to explore themes of uniforms, identity, and institutional influence. The show successfully debuted significant collaborations with PUMA and Christian Louboutin, previewed new music, and reinforced AWGE’s identity as a vital, experimental creative outlet. The memorable appearance of Rihanna and their son Riot added a touch of warmth and viral moment to the bold artistic statement. As AWGE continues to evolve, its Paris shows promise to remain significant platforms for Rocky’s unique vision, blending high fashion with raw personal expression and cultural critique.
