The Rio World has officially entered a new chapter with the unveiling of RIO’s Spring/Summer 2026 collection, “A Poem and a Protest.” Presented at The Broad, the collection merges artistry and activism, celebrating the dualities that shape modern identity.
With designer Rio Uribe at the helm, the SS26 offering is a tribute to the beauty found in contrast—where softness meets strength, where expression becomes resistance, and where fashion becomes both a declaration and a dream.
A Celebration of Color & Play
On one side of the collection lives pure creative joy. Vibrant plaids, airy polka dots, and iridescent textiles bring a playful futurism to life. Draped, ruched, and sculpted into slinky silhouettes, these pieces embody movement, optimism, and a sense of freedom. Hand-crafted reflective elements create statement looks that literally shine, evoking a youthful spirit that refuses to dim.
A Wardrobe Built for Resistance
Balancing the whimsy is the collection’s tougher, more utilitarian heart. Quilted fabrics and structured tailoring introduce a sense of armor—pieces built for navigating a world that demands resilience. Padded jackets, functional skirts, backpacks, and other modular elements create a visual language of protection and purpose. These silhouettes are urban, sharp, and intelligent, designed for the modern non-conformist who carries both softness and fire.
Where Dualities Meet
Together, both sides of “A Poem and a Protest” form a fluid narrative that shifts effortlessly from day to night, playful to powerful. The collection invites wearers to embrace their full spectrum—joyful, defiant, dreamy, grounded. It is fashion as self-expression, self-protection, and self-belief.
The Vision Behind RIO
RIO, founded in 2013 by Mexican-American designer Rio Uribe, continues to redefine contemporary luxury through handcrafted artistry, gender-fluid design, and cultural storytelling. Rooted in inclusivity and innovation, the brand celebrates individuality and community with every collection. The SS26 debut at The Broad reinforces RIO’s position as a leading voice in boundary-breaking fashion.
Check out all of the pics from RIO’s SS26 debut below!
Creative Credits
Creative Direction: Rio Uribe
Photography: Guicho Palma
Casting: Anthony Conti
Styling: Cesar Alvarez
Hair: Patricia Morales
Beauty: David Velasquez
Production: Sister Midnight
With support from Mayorga Handbags, Converse Footwear, and the full RIO creative team.
