How EMPATH is Embracing Summer

by Alivia Stonier

On May 19th, EMPATH, a Los Angeles-based fashion brand, released its spring 2026 collection.

Founded by Japanese-Singaporean designer Emily Arakawa, the brand aims to unify grunge aesthetics from these origins and 90s minimalism. The latest release is no exception to this goal, as it features many pieces that can be staples and are meant to be comfortable.

Made from cotton material, the clothing is meant to be breathable for the warm weather as summer approaches while still allowing you to be practical in style. According to their website, “Materials are thoughtfully sourced, balancing locally found deadstock with specialty imports from Japan and Korea, with an emphasis on quality and natural fibers.”

The collection acts as a continuation of the designer being able to bring together parts of home into the expression of clothing. Outside of the neutral colors, the latest release also features faded yellows and soft cream blues, allowing for the natural feel of summer, like the sun on your skin or the pale blue of the sky.

These colors evoke the feeling of long summer afternoons and time spent outdoors. Instead of relying on bright seasonal shades, EMPATH embraces softer tones that feel natural and understated.

Combined with pieces including a black dress and simple tank tops, these simple options are able to elevate your closet with class.

The collection balances both the practicality of a daily consumer while still leaving room for elevation and expression. While many of the pieces are simple in silhouette, they never feel boring, creating the foundation for everyday outfits that can be styled in a variety of ways. Whether paired with denim, layered under jackets, or worn on their own during warmer weather, the collection embraces all possible stylings.

The collection also feels relaxed. Rather than focusing on sharp tailoring or over-the-top statement pieces, many of the pieces appear designed with movement and comfort in mind. This approach helps reinforce EMPATH's identity as a brand that values wearability just as much as aesthetics. The result is clothing that feels approachable while still maintaining a distinct sense of style. While also leaning away from fast fashion trends or statement pieces that will quickly go out of style.

Throughout the lookbook the natural materials allow the pieces to feel lived in, creating an effortless appearance that aligns with the grunge influences highlighted by the brand. At the same time, the clean lines and muted color palette prevent the collection from feeling completely grunge-leaning, maintaining the minimalist influences of the 90s that EMPATH aimed to encapsulate.

This approach allows the collection to feel timeless rather than trendy. Many of the pieces appear designed to remain staples long after the season has ended.

The collection also reflects Arakawa's ability to merge different influences into a cohesive vision. Elements of Japanese-inspired minimalism, contemporary Los Angeles fashion, and grunge aesthetics all exist within the same space without competing with one another. Instead, they work together to create looks that feel personal to the designer while remaining accessible to a broader audience.

What makes the collection successful is its ability to find and use simple elements to enhance looks. By setting the focus on quality materials, ethical manufacturing, and colors that feel connected to the everyday person's closet, the brand stands out.

With breathable cotton, versatile styling options, and a muted palette inspired by the upcoming season, EMPATH's Spring 2026 collection continues the brand's mission of creating clothing that feels both comfortable and eye-catching.

It is available to shop now at www.empathla.com.