As Super Bowl LX weekend approached, the Bay Area buzzed with anticipation, culminating in a spectacular event known as the GQ Bowl. This gathering celebrated sports and showcased the latest in high fashion, with renowned designer Thom Browne presenting his Fall 2026 collection. The evening featured a glamorous atmosphere filled with celebrities and fashion enthusiasts alike.
Hosted at the iconic Legion of Honor museum, the event transformed the historic venue into a vibrant runway, blending art, culture, and style. With the Golden Gate Bridge serving as a picturesque backdrop, guests arrived in high spirits, eager to witness Browne’s artistic vision come to life.
A night to remember
Notable attendees included the talented Teyana Taylor, who arrived with her two daughters. They joined a lineup of celebrities, including Queen Latifah and acclaimed actor François Arnaud. As guests mingled, they admired the stunning architecture of the museum, which provided an elegant setting for Browne’s creations.
A perfect collaboration
Will Welch, the global editorial director of GQ, welcomed guests in a custom charcoal suit designed by Browne himself. He expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating, “ San Francisco is a beautiful city,” emphasizing that the location was a dream come true for the event’s second year. “Thom’s designs are timeless and theatrical, making this collaboration a perfect fit.”
As the evening progressed, energy heightened during the cocktail hour. Guests mingled among Rodin sculptures, sharing anticipation for the fashion show. The combination of sports and style drew in an eclectic crowd, including gymnast Sunisa Lee and K-Pop star Joshua Hong, all eager to experience Browne’s innovative designs.
Unveiling the collection
When the moment finally arrived, the audience settled into their seats beneath the museum’s grand arched ceilings. The show, also live-streamed on GQ’s YouTube channel, began with two prominent figures, Vinnie Hacker and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, taking their places at a modern desk. Abdul-Mateen II captivated the crowd by reciting lines from Dante’s Inferno, setting a dramatic tone for the evening.
The collection was a testament to Browne’s unique flair, featuring an impressive 63 looks that combined his signature tailoring with unexpected athletic elements. Sports legends, including Marcus Allen and Justin Jefferson, graced the runway, showcasing the collection’s blend of classic elegance and contemporary sportswear.
Inspiration and artistry
After the show, Browne expressed delight at presenting his collection in such a revered space. “ Sport has always been a significant influence on my work; athletes inspire me tremendously,” he shared. He reflected on the venue’s significance, noting the importance of the Rodin sculptures. Inspiration drawn from Dante’s work further connected the evening’s themes of artistry and athleticism.
As the final looks walked the runway, the audience erupted in applause, celebrating the fusion of creativity and skill. The evening concluded with guests transitioning to the museum’s courtyard for an after-party featuring a lively DJ set by Kitty Ca$h. Dancers adorned in Thom Browne designs energized the atmosphere, while vintage jerseys lined the walls, nodding to sports culture.
The event wrapped up on a high note with trays of delicious fried chicken from Raising Cane’s, a fitting end to a night that seamlessly blended fashion and sports in a spectacular celebration of creativity.
