Is this the GU I know: GU Fall/Winter 2026 led by the former Marni director, these pieces look so luxe!
No need to worry about going broke this fall and winter! đ
Summary
- After nearly a decade at the helm of Marni, Francesco Risso has officially been appointed creative director of GU, with his first full 2026 fall/winter collection set to roll out in late July.
- Inspired by the idea of âfreedom,â the new collection introduces six lifestyle concepts all at once: Minimal, Classic, Playful, Utility, Sport and Cozy.
- Womenswear highlights include a Faux Leather Balloon Hem Jacket priced at HK$ 399 and 3D Barrel Jeans at HK$ 199.
- Chief executive officer Tomokazu Kurose said the new collection combines Francesco Rissoâs creative aesthetic with accessible pricing, bringing more unexpected twists to everyday dressing.
When the seasons change, there’s always the urge to add a few versatile new pieces to your wardrobe without breaking the bank. If you follow the fashion world, this news will definitely catch your eye: To mark its 20th anniversary, GU has surprisingly announced that renowned designer Francesco Risso, who previously worked at Marni and Prada, has officially taken on the role of creative director. The Fall/Winter 2026 collection, his first for the brand, will begin rolling out in late July. The lineup has been completely refreshed, while prices remain as accessible as ever.
Former Marni creative director at the helm: Bringing a high-fashion feel to everyday clothing
Francesco Risso served as Marni’s creative director for nine years, winning over the public with artful colors and a vision that pushed beyond convention. This time, he brings his distinctive creative aesthetic to GU, taking inspiration from the Japanese word for “freedom” (JiyĆ«) to present a fresh Fall/Winter 2026 collection. Risso says contemporary clothing should fit naturally into everyday life while leaving room for personal expression. While retaining the brand’s value for money, this collaboration significantly refines its tailoring and details.
6 lifestyle styles: From commuting to unwinding on weekends
To suit different occasions in daily life, the new collection is divided into six style concepts. Those drawn to understated quality will likely have their eyes on “GU Minimal,” a black-focused line. One women’s faux-leather jacket, priced at just HK$ 399, has a rounded hem that gives it a high-fashion silhouette. For those who love a nostalgic ’70s mood, the plaid coats and relaxed suits in “GU Classic” are reliable choices for fall and winter.
For the functional dressing trend that has been popular in recent years, “GU Utility” offers practical pieces in earthy tones, including the women’s 3D Barrel Jeans (HK$ 199). Their sculpted cut is particularly flattering for the legs. Also featured are Playful, centered on colorful layering; Sport, with a retro streetwear feel; and Cozy, a loungewear line featuring skin-friendly pastels, covering every part of daily life.
The most worthwhile versatile pieces to invest in
Beyond this article, here are a few recent stories worth checking out:
- Who knows elevated everyday style better than GU: new director Francesco Risso debuts the Fall/Winter 2026 collection with 6 super easy-to-style looks
- UNIQLO 2026 Fall/Winter collection is here, every Uniqlo U 10th-anniversary piece is so easy to style!
- One more bag on your fall/winter wishlist: CHARLES & KEITH 2026 unveils a brand-new collection, lock in these two styles with Kim Yoo-jung





