Ray Leeqs unveiled its SS26 collection, “Free Forms: Invisible Threads”, at Visa Fashion Week Almaty, in Kazakhstan, this week. Watching the show online left a real impression on me because the designs felt fresh and thoughtfully put together. The runway showcased both menswear and womenswear, and it was defined by bold, structured silhouettes that really carried emotion. For example, the oversized skirts, sharp-shouldered blazers, and precise tailoring all showed a designer who cared a lot about his work.
The colors were simple but worked really well together. Specifically, dark shades like black and navy mixed with red and white across jackets, trousers, and shirts. These contrasts gave the collection a nice balance and kept things simple. What really stood out to me were the details. In particular, the headpieces and sculptural necklaces added an extra artistic touch, giving the looks a complete and polished feel. One model wore lined trousers that I really liked; they were simple but full of character.
My absolute favorite thing about the collection was its simplicity. Nurali Kankeldi, the creator of Ray Leeqs, used a minimal color palette and worked with what he had. This shows you don’t need to do too much to get attention. The collection reminded me that less is more.
Strength & Inspiration
Ray Leeqs debuted in 2021 and was created by Kankeldi, a finalist for the Next Designer Award. The brand started as a personal way to express creativity, and that spirit still shines through in the work. Ray means light, while Leeqs means strength. Together, they represent a strong blend of softness and resilience, inspiration and structure.
This new collection is all about reimagining the familiar in fresh, unexpected ways. While it has a foundation of traditional tailoring, it feels loose and open to interpretation. In fact, imperfection is part of its beauty. The garments seem to speak to anyone who has ever felt different, saying, “Look, see yourself in the clothes and celebrate that difference.” Ray Leeqs definitely made an impression at Visa Fashion Week Almaty. The collection was thoughtful, clean, and powerful. The oversized silhouettes made a comeback in fashion. It is clear they’re back with a strong presence. I’m eager to see what Ray Leeqs will do next.
Kiki Khairy recently earned a master's degree in fashion styling & communication from IED Madrid, following his undergraduate degree in Public Relations & Communication from EU Business School Barcelona. Now working as a fashion editor, Khairy's career path reflects his dedication to the fashion industry. Born in London and with roots in Egypt, his diverse background enriches his perspective, contributing to his success in the dynamic world of fashion.