Lemaire and Tran’s final chapter: What to buy before it’s gone
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A defining chapter in modern elevated basics is coming to a close. UNIQLO U—the Japanese retail giant’s specialized, fashion-forward line—has launched its Fall/Winter 2026 collection worldwide. Marking a decade of transforming everyday wardrobing, the release carries a bittersweet resonance: it serves as the final design collaboration between UNIQLO and the acclaimed design duo Christophe Lemaire and Sarah-Linh Tran.
Since its debut, Uniqlo U has operated as a living laboratory for "Future LifeWear," blending architectural silhouettes, pragmatic utility, and muted, sophisticated palettes. This collection caps off a 10-year masterclass in democratic design—bringing runway-level refinement to everyday essentials.
“Working with UNIQLO and building together the team and concept of Uniqlo U has been a truly exciting journey. I see this project as a true achievement, a dream come true; bringing the best qualitative and stylish apparel for everyday life to a wide variety of people,” Lemaire shared in a statement reflecting on the milestone. “I learnt so much working with the amazing design and development teams, watching this very Japanese passion for quality and constant quest of perfection and improvement. I see these 10 years as one of the very heights of my design life.”
True to the line’s signature ethos, the Fall/Winter lineup relies on subtle shifts in proportion, tactile fabrics, and thoughtful details to elevate daily dressing. A few clear highlights demand a spot on your seasonal wish list:
The Button-Front Knit Jacket: A modern cropped cardigan featuring a relaxed silhouette, soft dropped shoulders, and roomy sleeves. Its key detail lies in the versatile stand collar—fasten it to the top for a crisp, high-neck profile, or lay it open to create a relaxed, sailor-style lapel.
The Raglan Crew-Neck Sweater: Cut with a boxy, generous drape, this knit strikes the ideal balance between casual and structured. Ribbed trim at the collar, cuffs, and hem anchors the volume seamlessly.
The Convertible Utility Bag: Designed with a double-slide zipper, adjustable strap, and an accessible exterior zip pocket, this accessory delivers the sleek, functional minimalism the Lemaire-Tran era is famous for.
As Lemaire and Tran step away after a remarkable decade, this final collection stands as a masterwork in effortless modern dressing—and a fitting finale for one of retail's most successful design partnerships.
