Shanghai-based fashion designer Mark Gong, admired by celebrities including Rihanna, Lisa and Jenna Ortega, shared his vision for the fall/winter 2026 collection. He portrays the 'Gong girl' as a fascinating, multidimensional figure who embraces both strength and vulnerability. Gong encourages women to pursue their desires freely, even when 'nasty or messy'.
Mark Gong draws inspiration from female stars such as Taylor Swift and Sabrina Carpenter for his latest designs. His fall/winter 2026 collection embodies the modern woman who does not need a partner but chooses to enjoy one, fully accepting her strong and weaker moments alike. Celebrities like Rihanna from Fenty, Blackpink's Lisa, and Jenna Ortega have shown appreciation for his work, as have Margot Robbie and others linked to icons like Samantha Jones and Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and the City. The collection is based in Shanghai with nods to New York influences. “Girls can feel free to date anyone or do whatever they like to do,” Gong said. “It’s empowering women in an easier way, instead of saying you have to be strong, you have to be confident... [The Gong girl] respects herself. She knows what she wants, even [when] sometimes the desire is a little nasty or messy.” Gong emphasized liberation from traditional expectations. He noted that women today call the shots in casual dating and singlehood. “I feel like the messier you get, the sexier you get,” he added, aligning with cultural shifts where even Vogue has questioned if having a boyfriend feels embarrassing.
