Anya Taylor-Joy appeared in New York City on Wednesday, March 18, to promote her latest project. The actress is currently the voice behind Princess Peach in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. While the film is a colorful journey through the Mushroom Kingdom, her attire for the day was a sharp lesson in tonal restraint. She navigated the East Village in a look that managed to be both wild and remarkably disciplined.

The centerpiece of the ensemble was a leopard print skirt from the Balmain Fall/Winter 2026 collection. It was a significant moment for fashion observers. This marks our first real-world look at the work of Antonin Tron for the house.

Tron took the creative lead at Balmain in November 2025. He followed the lengthy and high-octane tenure of Olivier Rousteing. The shift is already palpable. Where Rousteing favored heavy embellishment and sharp, architectural shoulders, Tron seems to be leaning into texture and tactility. The skirt features a gradient motif that shifts in scale. It is crafted from micro-materials that give the illusion of soft fur.

The price tag for this specific piece of craftsmanship is a steep $56,000.

Taylor-Joy and her stylist Ryan Hastings chose to anchor the statement skirt with absolute simplicity. She wore a cropped black halter top with a delicate twisted neckline. This choice allowed the skirt to remain the focal point without the entire outfit feeling overwhelming. It is a technique often referred to as microdosing. It allows the wearer to experiment with loud patterns while keeping one foot firmly in minimalist territory.

The actress skipped heavy jewelry. She opted for a few simple rings and sleek sunglasses. This stripped-down approach is what prevents the leopard print from falling into the trap of the mob wife aesthetic. It feels modern. It feels like a wardrobe for a woman who is badass but non-bourgeois.

Footwear played a crucial role in maintaining the streamlined silhouette. Taylor-Joy wore the Intriigo mules from Giuseppe Zanotti. These shoes are a favorite in the celebrity circuit for a reason. They feature a sharp pointed toe and a minimalist hourglass strap. The stiletto heel adds height without adding visual bulk.

Later in the day, she changed into a second look featuring the Audrinette sandal. This was paired with a breezy white dress.

The market for animal prints is currently thriving. Leopard, snake, and zebra motifs have dominated the recent runways. However, the execution seen here suggests a more refined path forward. By focusing on the quality of the print and the unique texture of the fringe hem, Balmain is moving away from the loud branding of the past decade. Tron is creating pieces that feel alive.

This New York appearance serves as a teaser for what is to come. With Dune: Part Three press tours on the horizon, the fashion world is watching closely. Taylor-Joy has a history of leaning into the themes of her films. For the Mario press tour, she is managing to balance character-driven fun with high-fashion credibility.

The look is grounded in black. It is the noir backdrop that makes the leopard print look sophisticated rather than kitschy. For those looking to replicate the style, the lesson is clear. Choose one high-impact pattern and surround it with wardrobe staples.

Ultimately, this Balmain debut on the streets of Manhattan is a win for both the designer and the actor. It proves that the new era of the house will be one of texture and wearability. It also confirms that Anya Taylor-Joy remains one of the most effective conduits for high-fashion storytelling today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who designed Anya Taylor-Joy’s leopard skirt?

The skirt was designed by Antonin Tron for his debut Fall/Winter 2026 collection at Balmain. Tron took over as creative director following the departure of Olivier Rousteing in late 2025.

What movie was Anya Taylor-Joy promoting in New York?

She was in New York City on March 18 to promote The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. She voices the character Princess Peach in the animated film.

How much does the Balmain leopard print skirt cost?

The skirt is reported to have a price tag of $56,000. This high cost is attributed to the specialized micro-materials used to create its unique fur-like texture.

What shoes did Anya Taylor-Joy wear with her leopard outfit?

She wore the Giuseppe Zanotti Intriigo mules in black. These shoes feature a minimalist pointed-toe design and a simple hourglass strap across the toes.

How did she style the leopard print to look minimalist?

She paired the patterned skirt with all-black basics, including a cropped halter top and sleek sunglasses. This strategy, known as microdosing prints, keeps the focus on one statement piece while the rest of the look remains neutral.

Who is Anya Taylor-Joy's stylist?

Her long-time stylist is Ryan Hastings. He is known for helping her curate sophisticated and often avant-garde looks for both red carpets and press appearances.

When did Antonin Tron become the creative director of Balmain?

Antonin Tron was appointed as the creative director of Balmain in November 2025. He was previously the founder and designer of the label Atlein.