British luxury menswear brand Saul Nash recently presented its Autumn/Winter 2026 collection, Masquerade, at London Fashion Week in September, with a special presentation at the Truman Brewery in Shoreditch. The collection, which was created by British-based designer Saul Nash, gives classic menswear a theatrical edge.
Masquerade's distinctive cuts, printed body images, and compression garments explore how everyday clothing can function as a costume. These pieces allow wearers to express different facets of their identity and shape their appearance.
The collection draws inspiration from Notting Hill Carnival and European masquerade traditions, examining the connections between disguise, performance, and self-expression. It also references Venetian masquerade balls, where masks concealed or altered appearances.
From Carnival to Contemporary Menswear
Masquerade originated after Nash attended Notting Hill Carnival, which led him to research Carnival costumes and their connection to masquerade traditions. He expanded his research to Venetian masquerade balls and the impact of clothing on perception.
Nash applied these concepts to the relationship between formal tailoring and casual sportswear. Rather than treating the two as separate styles, the collection unites them through unexpected shapes, prints, and construction details.
The designer also considers how clothing can offer greater freedom of expression. In this collection, sportswear and tailoring become ways for the wearer to experiment with their appearance without being limited to a single style.
Sculptural Sportswear and Dramatic Details
The lineup included designs such as the Roll Neck Motion Shirt, Kinetic Loft Jacket, Kinetic Trench Coat and Kinetic Pinstripe Shirt. Various 'embrace' pieces were also evident, including Jumpers and Pants.
Several pieces use printed images and unconventional construction to integrate the body into the design. T-shirts feature blurred muscular torsos, creating the illusion of a different physique, a printed costume that encourages wearers to experiment with style.
Fitted Henley tops feature buttons running diagonally from the collarbone to the ribs. This design creates cut-outs across the torso, giving the garments a sense of movement. Separately, the Asymmetric Henley Print T-Shirt reworks the signature silhouette in breathable organic cotton jersey, featuring a trompe-l'oeil print that mimics diagonal buttons and torso cut-outs.
Meanwhile, the 'Embrace' Printed Long Sleeve Top features a signature hand motif wrapping around the torso. Its recycled Lycra construction creates a sculpted, close-fitting silhouette. Another design, the Knitted 'Embrace' Scarf, carries the collection's signature artwork into a soft merino wool accessory.
Movement and Menswear
Movement is central to Nash's design approach. His background as a dancer and choreographer continues to inform his clothing development.
Nash's designs prioritise garments that move with the body and offer comfort. He applies this approach beyond activewear, exploring how tailoring and everyday clothing can enhance freedom of movement.
He founded his eponymous label in 2018 after studying Performance Design and Practice at Central Saint Martins as well as completing a master's degree in menswear at the Royal College of Art. In 2022, he received the International Woolmark Prize and the Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design.
The London presentation of Masquerade in Residence marked Nash's return after presenting his last four collections in Milan. The event took place from 18 to 20 September 2026 at the Truman Brewery during London Fashion Week, allowing visitors to view and purchase the collection.
The wider project also included a billboard campaign featuring images across North East London, Nash's childhood area. Rather than using traditional advertising, the campaign invited people to engage with the imagery and track its movement across locations. Ultimately, the residency brought together the collection, a panel discussion, and a live performance, expanding the theme beyond clothing.
