Photographed by Mert Alas and styled by Jessica Diehl, the campaign reimagines a late 1980s Donna Karan visual through a contemporary New York lens
Donna Karan New York has tapped Kendall Jenner to front its Fall 2026 campaign, photographed by Mert Alas and styled by Jessica Diehl. The campaign marks the first time since the brand’s relaunch that its advertising has unfolded across recognizable New York City locations, placing the city’s architecture, light, and energy at the center of the visual narrative.
The campaign references a late 1980s Donna Karan campaign and video photographed by Dennis Piel and starring Rosemary McGrotha. In the earlier work, McGrotha was filmed expressing her inner thoughts while riding into New York in a limousine, a concept that informed the new campaign’s premise of Jenner imagining she has the city to herself.
“Mert Alas is a master of creating a visual world full of cinematic storytelling infused with powerful fashion imagery. His images are both instantly iconic as well as timeless and modern, and he perfectly captured Kendall embodying the essence of the Donna Karan woman for today,” said Laird, founder of Team Laird.
Jenner wears pieces from the Fall 2026 collection alongside a reimagined version of the iconic Donna Karan bodysuit from the house’s archives, updated with an extra-wide belt. Other looks include a draped wool jersey jacket and skirt layered beneath a leather coat, a tailored velvet suit, and separates in the season’s black cherry shade.
The campaign also features an espresso brown aviator jacket and skirt, a full-length sequin dress, and accessories including the Cashmere tote in chocolate suede and the Leno bag in black cherry. Sculptural gold jewelry and eyewear complete the styling.
Launching Wednesday across Donna Karan New York’s social channels, the campaign will extend across digital platforms, print placements, and premium outdoor displays. The Fall 2026 collection is available through DonnaKaran.com and select retailers globally, continuing the brand’s effort to connect its New York heritage with its current direction following its relaunch.
