For his second spin of New York Men’s Day, Max Esmail is bringing an even sharper aura of confidence to the showcase. Following up on his NYMD debut in February, the budding local designer is quickly carving out his own lane at the intersection of needle-pushing innovation and timeless craftsmanship.
Aptly entitled “Confidant,” Esmail’s Spring/Summer 2026 collection builds upon the foundation laid in February’s collection, refining his assured design language to an even more polished level of poise.
Per the collection notes, Esmail draws heavy influence from what he calls “the shadowed allure of underworld crime syndicates,” citing New World by Park Hoon-Jung, Eastern Promises by David Cronenberg, and Donnie Brasco by Mike Newell as key films of inspiration.
Lapelled leather jackets land in both vintage, perfectly faded versions, alongside floor-length trench coats and others that feature suede overlays. Tailored suiting also particularly shines in a selection of neutral tones.
“These villains hold chilling charisma and quiet menace – [gliding] through gritty streets, and high society with untouchable authority. Their hard-won wealth, lavishly spent, fuels a refined masculinity that blends cold calculation with sprezzatura, each gesture commanding respect and magnetic control.”
Shot by Stefen Pompee, the lookbook was staged on-site at this season’s Men’s Day location, Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan.
Take a closer look at Esmail’s “Confidant” SS26 collection in the lookbook above, and stay tuned to Hypebeast for continuing New York Fashion Week coverage.
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