J. Press Has Launched Its First Women's Collection

The heritage retailer introduced new designs and a Barbour collaboration as part of its Fall/Winter 2026 lineup.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Accessories

J. Press Has Launched Its First Women's Collection

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J. Press has released a new Fall/Winter 2026 collection that features the brand's first women's line in 50 years. The company, led by Creative Director and President Jack Carlson, also debuted a collaboration with Barbour.

Why it matters

The brand introduced the women's line to meet evolving customer demand while executing a broader retail expansion strategy. Owner Onward Holdings intends to grow the brand's footprint significantly over the next few years.

J. Press is currently celebrating its 125th anniversary and produces its signature Shaggy Dog sweaters using traditional brushing techniques with teasel plants. Production for the line takes place in domestic factories as well as mills in Scotland and England.

The players

Jack Carlson

He is the current Creative Director and President of J. Press who previously led Rowing Blazers.

Onward Holdings

This parent company manages the J. Press brand and is overseeing a long-term retail expansion project.

Barbour

This historic British lifestyle brand partnered with J. Press for a new collaboration in the Fall/Winter 2026 collection.

The details

The collection was unveiled during a September 2026 runway show at Capitale in New York City. Alongside the new women's offerings, the brand continues its focus on classic knitwear, maintaining the specific brushing methods used in the United Kingdom for its sweaters.

Jack Carlson departed Rowing Blazers in 2025.
A runway show was held at Capitale in September 2026.
The Fall/Winter 2026 collection is currently released.
Onward Holdings targets a 20-store count by 2030.

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Culture Shift

This move reflects a broader industry trend of heritage brands reviving legacy categories to reach new consumer segments. It signals a departure from the brand's recent focus on menswear toward a more inclusive approach that aligns with current market demand.

Shoppers in New York City can now access the expanded collection at the brand's Madison Avenue flagship store. The shift introduces new apparel options for the local customer base while the brand continues its traditional knitwear manufacturing processes.

The takeaway

The return of women's apparel highlights the ongoing revitalization of heritage labels through strategic brand partnerships. Consumers should expect further growth as the company works toward its 2030 store opening goals.