OB SS26 fashion mood board

For March and April, the team wanted to introduce spring with a touch of romance and nostalgia and a quintessentially British feel. ‘We took inspiration from the artist Cedric Morris,’ explains Head Fashion Designer Annalisa Gioia, ‘focusing on the way he painted flowers and his evocative landscapes of British rural homesteads.’ This was translated into spring-ready accessories and simple, effortless outfits that incorporate a hint of heritage and those essential seasonal blooms.

Crafted artisanal finishes such as crochet, quilting, embroidery and cross-stitch feature throughout, with traditional tablecloth-inspired designs informing the pattern and materials used. Subtle preppy styling and clubhouse checks bring a fresh nautical nod to balance the floral motifs and embroidered details, while soft stripes, playful polka dots and unmistakably springlike gingham and fruit motifs bring a breath of fresh air. Denim also gets a new-season update, with spring shades and relaxed silhouettes, as well as the launch of our low-impact denim styles that use Jeanologia washing technology to reduce the amount of water, chemicals and electricity used in the finishes.

Spring's colour palette features muted mauve, dusky pink and fresh green, balanced with soft, soothing tan and buttermilk and crisp, coastal-inspired neutrals. Rich pops of crimson, coco and monochrome also appear on bags, shoes and hair accessories, adding energy and depth. ‘There’s an intentional paradox in our choice of colours for the spring collection,’ explains Annalisa. ‘We wanted the soft, nostalgic tones and delicate neutrals Cedric Morris used for his painted flowers, but also introduced shade with dark reds, deep chocolate browns and blacks to anchor the palette.’

As the temperature climbs, there’s a shift towards summer-event styling, vacation-ready designs and playful resort pieces. For May and June, spring’s feminine finishes and whimsical florals are joined by fun fruity motifs, postcard prints and impactful style statements, and there’s a joyful Italian energy woven throughout. ‘The collections really capture the vibrancy of a Sicilian summer,’ says Fashion Stylist Lynda Spence. ‘Think afternoon strolls through lush lemon groves, lazy lunches alfresco and catching up with friends over a limoncello.’ The result is a laid-back yet sophisticated selection featuring confident co-ords, mix-and-match separates and distinctive summer occasion dresses.

Hand-crafted finishes continue to be important. Raffia, crochet, linens and natural fabrics appear across bags, sandals and summer headwear, from straw hats to open-weave beach totes, adding contrast and texture against summer's bright colour pops and mood-boosting motifs. There was an intentional focus on creating product with lasting value. ‘These elevated, hand-crafted finishes are created using traditional artisanal techniques and are produced in much smaller quantities,’ says Head of Ethical Sourcing & Sustainability Katherine Bonnick. ‘The result is beautifully made pieces you’ll use every summer.’

Uplifting fresh green citrus shades and juicy reds are softened with mellow yellow, rich mocha and powder blue. The team wanted the feel-good energy of vibrant, sun-baked shades while providing an elegant neutral backdrop to keep it elevated. As we move into high summer, bolder design details are brought in to match the shift in seasons. Playful prints and feel-good flourishes can be found on shirts and colourful jewellery, while strong deckchair stripes, tablecloth checks and holiday-ready styles become key as we get ready to soak up the sun.