Lucila Safdie Breaks the Rules
The London-based designer shares the cultural touchstones that inspired Bunny Bell, the rebellious debutante at the heart of her Fall/Winter 2026 collection.
“I found this series of pictures on Flickr of girls at their balls and proms running in the street,” Lucila Safdie tells us of the
spark that started it all. The result is a Fall/Winter 2026 collection which revolves around the fictional debutante Bunny Bell, inspired by early-aughts cinema and the era’s wayward television heiresses. She’s part main character, part everygirl, and entirely Safdie’s brainchild. Below, the designer talks film references, good luck charms, and what she’s manifesting right now.
What were some of your references for Bunny Bell?
Tart (2001) by Christina Wayne and Metropolitan (1990) by Whit Stillman, mainly, but also the debutante ball episode of the Hills, Gossip Girl, all that kind of stuff from the early 2000s.
Any films you love currently?
I watched Ms. 45 (1981) by Abel Ferrara last weekend. I’m obsessed.
Favorite thing in your studio?
My pug stickers (I have the most beautiful pug ever), but I also love all the pictures and stickers that I’ve accumulated over time.
Is there a scent you love while working? Why?
I feel like I should implement this, but currently it’s just the scent of sewing machine oil.
What are you playing?
“Miss World,” by Hole.
Favorite snack?
Dark chocolate and Haribo gummies!
What color is your aura?
Peachy pink or purple.
Who is the first person you text when something goes wrong?
My boyfriend, Adam.
Do you have a good luck charm?
My great-grandma’s ring.
What are you manifesting right now?
This copy of The Bell Jar, with a note from Sylvia Plath’s nanny.