Frieze London 2026: Style Notes from the VIP Opening Day

At Frieze London 2026, the first VIP day saw the international art world gather in two large white tents in Regent's Park. The contemporary art section was crowded, yet attendees moved slowly. The author, delayed for a Ruinart champagne reception, had to navigate through lingering collectors. Beyond the art, fashion played a significant role, continuing a historical link between clothing and status. Expected Issey Miyake Pleats Please was less common, but pleats appeared on voluminous trousers and cropped styles with bright socks. Women wore brightly colored silk scarves despite the warm October weather. Prints were popular, including florals and geometric patterns, often clashing. Some dressed in cashmere, while men opted for chinos and linen shirts. Notably, fashion figures like Raf Simons, Dries Van Noten, and Daniel Lee wore understated black, navy, and beige. Across Regent's Park, Frieze Masters offered a subdued atmosphere with beige carpets and plummy accents, matching the understated, expensive dress code. Frieze runs until 18 October.