Wearing color can be intimidating if you're not in the habit of it, but it need not be as tricky as it looks. It's all about tapping into tried-and-true color combinations, and ahead, we're giving the download on the off-kilter pairings that are set to be major this season, like romantic pink with red, soft sage with butter, and true red with true cobalt. On paper, they seem like they shouldn't work but somehow still do. From the runway to fashion-person feeds, discover the color combinations that will define cool style in spring 2026 and, frankly, all year long.

If you take note of just one combination for the season ahead, let it be this one. The romantic duo of ballet pink married to tones of red was a theme that showed up throughout the spring collections—notably at Chanel, where a powder-pink button-down shirt was styled with dramatic burgundy skirt. If ballet pink has ever felt a tad juvenile, the addition of a striking red accent can sharpen it into something intentional and forward.

Cue the Devil Wears Prada monologues because cerulean is poised to be the It color of 2026. Overall, fashion is stepping into a new chapter of vibrant Technicolor, and bright turquoise is one of the most notable hues. Deep espresso, however, makes the bold blue surprisingly approachable.

Yes, butter yellow is still going strong, but the go-to way to style the color is set to be in one particular combination: with sage green. The two hues are in the world of pastels, so they complement each other well and can naturally be styled with ivory and beige staples, making this combination one that even neutral-dressing loyalists will warm up to.

Primary colors were a major takeaway from the spring 2026 runways, and *the* way to wear them will be to combine red and blue with the saturation turned up to the maximum.

Chestnut brown, almost veering on camel, makes for the earthy antidote to bubblegum pink's saccharine quality. The two give off such opposite energies—one super sweet and one more academic—which is why they oddly just work.

Burgundy just doesn't seem to quit, and at this point, it's becoming more of a staple than a trendy color. Marrying it to refreshing icy blue is the best way to make oxblood feel fresh, forward, and peak 2026.

This season is all about the off-kilter combinations and color duos that are almost so wrong they're right. Cherry and grape are, undoubtedly, one of these weird team-ups.

Formerly synonymous with the on-stage looks of bad hair metal bands or tacky dress-up parties, leather pants have come leaps and bounds in terms of their place in the fashion landscape. (Because who could forget David and Victoria Beckham’s matching monochromatic Gucci leather looks that they wore to the opening of the Versace Club on New Bond Street in 1999?)

Now, leather pants outfits are ubiquitous as a leather jacket from The Frankie Shop or a leather bag from The Row. They say fortune favours the bold, and it appeared, at least for a time, that only those who possessed an unparalleled amount of gumption would be daring enough to consider wearing a pair of leather pants. But as far more risqué pieces became normalised in more casual settings, it’s hardly surprising to see leather pants become prominent amongst the off-duty set.

So, why am I all of a sudden keen to follow suit? Simply put, it’s an ensemble that always looks considered, bound to keep you warm and requires very little thought into styling. The runways have proved time and time again, from the cropped pair worn by Amber Valletta in the aforementioned Italian maison’s spring/summer 1996 collection to the ultra-fitted style featured in Ann Demeulemeester’s landmark autumn/winter 2023 collection.

More recently, Chloé produced hip-grazing leather pants in muted moss and soil tones for its grungy-bohemian autumn/winter 2025 collection, evoking this sort of countryside chaos that complemented the faux-tail bag charms and aristocratic trench coats that appeared throughout the presentation. Even Posh Spice herself updated the style in her spring/summer 2026 collection by presenting a pair of deep indigo leather pants designed to imitate denim. All this to say, there’s no shortage of chic leather pant outfits to convince you to invest in the style.

As for styling, there are many looks to take cues from. Lean into the simplicity of the cut and let the texture do the talking by pairing it with an equally architectural top from the likes of Christopher Esber or Y/Project. Or, embrace your inner Trinity from The Matrix and opt for head-to-toe leather by teaming the bottoms with a tighter jacket and heeled black boots.

Both approaches have already been endorsed by members of the celebrity style set, with Gigi Hadid often spotted out wearing the former look and Hailey Bieber regularly seen in the latter, meaning you’ll be in good company, irrespective of how you wear them.

But if you’re still in need of inspiration, keep scrolling below for the 5 chicest leather pants outfits I’m copying in 2026 and beyond.

5 Chic Leather Pants Outfit Ideas to Recreate in 2026

1. Collarless Leather Jacket + Leather Straight-Leg Pants + Pointed-Toe Heels

Style Notes: Whilst the costumes worn by Keanu Reeves in the previously stated seminal sci-fi film might’ve made full leather looks popular in the mainstream, it was actually Tom Ford who first pioneered the silhouette in industry circles. Here, Elsa Hosk proves exactly why this look is so heavily imitated by wearing a pair of straight-leg leather pants with a vintage jacket designed by the Texan-born creative director. Teaming it with a pair of ‘90s-inspired rimless glasses, this look is proof that good things will never date.

Shop the Look:

2. Trench Coat + Leather Leggings + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Leather is a fabric that’s rarely associated with comfort, but thanks to innovation in vegan leather and softer, synthetic blends, it’s incredibly common to see the material in more languid environments. Lean into the effortlessness of the texture by pairing it with equally fuss-free staples, like a classic white t-shirt and polished trench coat.

Shop the Look:

3. Graphic T-Shirt + Low-Rise Leather Pants + Heeled Mules

Style Notes: Bella Hadid’s street style moments have always been some of the most pioneering amongst her cohort. Always one to tackle the unconventional and make it covetable—librarian glasses, gorpcore, Y2K 2.0, you get the gist—it should come as no surprise to see leather pants as something she’d gravitate towards. Approaching the trousers with a playful attitude, she’s paired the piece with a statement-making graphic tee, horsebit-adorned heeled mules and an Hermés Birkin worth more than my salary.

Shop the Look:

4. Bomber Jacket + Wide-Leg Leather Pants + Heeled Sandals

Style Notes: In an era of ostentatious dressing, there’s nothing more fitting than piling textured piece upon textured piece. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley made this apparent in this sumptuous outfit, which consists of wide-leg trousers from Bottega Veneta and a fluffy bomber jacket from Phoebe Philo.

Shop the Look:

5. Zip-Up Leather Jacket + Flared Leather Pants + Backless Heels

Style Notes: Whilst visiting London, Hailey Bieber proved why leather pants have become an essential part of any West End girl’s daily attire. Here, she’s pictured shopping through Marylebone in Balenciaga’s black leather racer jacket and matching black leather flared five-pocket pants from the luxuriate’s Spring 2023 collection. Her message? When in doubt, double down.

Shop the Look:

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.

We regularly try on pieces ourselves—everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes—and speak to external experts and fashion insiders, staying closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise, and each and every buy we feature has to meet our exceptional taste standards—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

Silk blouses and velvet trousers in rich jewel tones, fitted pencil skirts in supple leather fabrics and eye-catching animal prints, and fur-trim coats that lead to rich-looking outfits, no matter what's styled underneath—these are just a few examples of 2026 trends that we have Ford's Gucci portfolio to thank for. In recent months, Hailey Bieber has been seen sporting vintage pieces from his collections to press events, on red carpets, and in L.A. and NYC hot spots on the regular, and local It girls in both cities have followed suit, scoring red velvet pants, black GG-logo bags, and deep-V polo sweaters on The RealReal and eBay. Meanwhile, other celebrities like Elsa Hosk are wearing trends that appear to have been inspired by the designer's most popular creations.

Hailey Bieber is wearing an ice-blue spring/summer 1998 Gucci dress, sourced from The RealList, according to Vogue. The dress has also been seen on Anna Wintour and in the pages of the magazine, in a March 1998 spread shot by Steven Meisel.

Plus, if the spring/summer 2026 shows informed us of anything, it's that Ford's sway on fashion is only just getting started. Haider Ackermann's second collection for Tom Ford brought the same level of sex appeal and drama that the brand's founder presented at Gucci, and Hermès, a brand known to many for its modest and sophisticated approach to dressing, changed its approach, still using its signature leather but developing it into more revealing silhouettes. Mugler, Schiaparelli, Versace, and Coperni, all too integrated sex into their runway designs more than usual, leading us to believe that sensuality's current hold on 2026 fashion will only continue to strengthen as these collections begin to hit stores throughout spring and summer.

Get ahead by scrolling through and shopping six 2026 trends that were inspired by Tom Ford's Gucci era.

2026 Trends Inspired by Tom Ford's Gucci Era

1. Silk Blouses

A vibrant silk blouse is probably 2026's most talked-about trend that ties back to Ford's time at Gucci, with Hosk and Bieber both donning the trend recently (Hosk in turquoise and Bieber in emerald green). Hosk's brand, Helsa, even released a similar version in a variety of colors, many of which are already selling out, as is popular UK-based label Aligne's take, which comes in an icy blue. Gucci's exact blue silk blouse is one of Ford's most well-known creations, with everyone from Kate Moss to Madonna wearing it in the '90s.

2. Fur-Collar Coats

Look around—everyone is either desperately searching for or already wearing the 2026 fur-trim trend, be it in the form of a long coat or a cropped jacket. Nearly every brand is playing around with the sophisticated detail, adding it to collars, hems, and cuffs to add an elegance to their outerwear offerings, but real ones will remember how prominent this coat style was in the '90s, with Ford debuting version after version at his runway shows for Gucci. My favorite? This white wrap coat from the house's fall 1996 collection.

3. Velvet Trousers

The Tom Ford Gucci–inspired trend that I'm currently hunting down with the more fervor is a pair of velvet trousers. Though, if I could find the original red pair that was worn by Gwyneth Paltrow at the 1996 MTV VMAs for a good price, I wouldn't complain about it. He designed the pant trend in a number of styles and colors, with the best ones being made in rich shades, like red, sapphire blue, and deep purple.

4. Leather Pencil Skirts

Of all the skirt trends being talked about in 2026, leather pencil skirts are by far the most worn, particularly with knee-high boots. Bieber actually wore one in this fashion at the end of 2025, likely sparking the outfit formula to become one of winter's most popular. You can't go wrong with a classic black leather version, but opting for one in suede or embossed leather is far from wrong.

5. Sexy Knee-High Boots

If you're going to lean into this year's leather pencil skirt trend, then you'll need a pair of sleek, knee-high stiletto boots to wear with it. For the full Gucci effect, try the brand's current-season logo-covered Bombshell Boot, which is guaranteed to earn you compliments, or, for a subtler take, Reformation's Claudette boot in either burgundy or tan is foolproof.

6. Ostrich Leather

For the first time in a long time, the animal print of the year isn't the same one as the year before, aka leopard print. By now, a leopard skirt or coat is more of a classic wardrobe item than a trendy staple, leaving room for a newcomer (or fashion returner) to take its spot at the top of fashion's food chain. The animal print in question? Ostrich print, and like all the buzzy pieces on this list, it has ties to Ford's Gucci era. For spring/summer 1998, Ford played around with the embossed pattern, featuring it on knee-length coats and pencil skirts alike.

It might feel soon to tell which cuts and colours are already entering early retirement to the untrained eye. Yet, as a fashion writer who has made a career of chronicling consumer data, previewing new season collections and understanding the machinations of how this industry works, knowing these things is not only a prerequisite for staying ahead, but my job.

So, what does 2026 have in store for us, and what are the styles that certainly won’t be getting as much airtime over the next 12 months? After the reign of quiet luxury, shoppers are looking for new and exciting pieces to invest in. These are styles that offer the same longevity, but aren’t as demure and toned-down as we’ve seen previously. Others are looking to buck this trend entirely, looking to vintage stylings as far back as the Victorian era for inspiration. Most are bidding buying into “—cores” adieu, and for good.

All in all, 2026 is promising a mode of fashion that’s ornate, joyful and coherent. As we inch towards the turn of the decade, consider the year ahead to be one that’s distilled everything we’ve loved about the past five years of fashion and disregarded everything that’s proven controversial or problematic. (See: Becoming a micro trend final boss). Without further ado, scroll on for the 7 key fashion trends that appear dated and the styles that feel relevant instead, ahead.

7 Fashion Trends That Feel "Dated" in 2026

1. Passing On: Jelly Sandals

1. Wearing Instead: Wedge Trainers

Style Notes: Despite originating in the ‘80s, jelly sandals returned with a vengeance over the past summer, with high-octane heeled versions from Chloé, mellow and luxurious slip-on styles from The Row and sickly-sweet flip-flop iterations from Ancient Greek Sandals. Whilst I’d contend that this gelatinous and textured footwear style is wading into “timeless” territory, it’s arguably no longer the shoe trend du jour, which is why I’m predicting they’ll be put on pause during the warmer months ahead.

If we were to look at which hybrid shoe trend—one of the biggest categories to boom over the past few years—is just starting to peak, you’d notice that wedge trainers are certainly the most viral. With Isabel Marant’s iconic pair on the feet of nepo baby scions like Romy Mars and Blue Ivy, Puma’s Wedge Speedcats already on their second release after selling out immediately after their launch and Chloé’s boxer-meets-ballerina Kick style gaining traction, this is one trend you’ll assuredly see nonstop throughout the entire year.

Shop the Trend:

2. Passing On: Sardine Girls

2. Wearing Instead: Poet Core

Style Notes: We’ve officially hit micro-core fatigue, with the last niche aesthetic, a mania that swept the first half of the 2020s, taking the form of the “sardine girl” trend. (Tinned fish forever, but may I please implore you to stop dressing like a can of Ortiz.) Replacing these hyperspecific and style-led subcultures is a return to third spaces and physical media through acts like journaling, collecting, writing and participating in community book clubs.

2026 will be a continuation of this mode, with more people reflecting this newfound interest in literature, semiotics and publishing through their wardrobes. Coined by social media app Pinterest as part of their annual predictive trend report as “poet core”, this trend is part academic and part preppy. It’s time for Donna Tartt’s The Secret History hive to rise up…

Shop the Trend:

3. Passing On: Mob Wives

3. Wearing Instead: Sciura Dressing

Style Notes: If you purchased a faux fur coat in the midst of the “mob wife aesthetic” pandemonium that engulfed the latter half of 2024, you’re in luck! Instead of dressing like the spouses or mistresses of Italian-American mafiosos like Carmela Soprano or Adriana La Cerva, 2026 will have you returning to their country of origin and garbed with far more elegance. Enter: “sciura dressing”.

For the uninitiated, “sciura” is an Italian word that refers to well-heeled and well-dressed elderly women who live in Milan. They are always put-together and exceptionally sophisticated, often sporting a bouffant bob, a string of pearls and a silk scarf. The acme of this trend, in my humble opinion, will always be Miuccia Prada. And it appears the 76-year-old designer knows her sartorial impact well after she presented a very socialite-forward range for Miu Miu’s autumn/winter 2025 collection. These might be ladies who lunch in ornamental brooches and bracelets, but you can bet they’ll be ordering a portion of Rigatoni all' Amatriciana.

Shop the Trend:

4. Passing On: Pastel Shades

4. Wearing Instead: High Saturation

Style Notes: Forget what Pantone said, 2026 will be the year of vibrant palettes. Dialling up the saturation, tones will veer away from muted and neutral pigments and steer towards the most intensified and lurid versions of themselves.

Where calming and tranquil pastels once reigned supreme, bold and brash hues will usurp them in a way that acts as a sort of factory reset for the understated and quietly luxurious approach to style that dominated in recent years. Swap buttery yellow for bratty chartreuse, deluxe pinot for plumped-up aubergine and powder blue for Yves Klein’s signature shade, and you’re set.

Shop the Trend:

5. Passing On: Boat Shoes

5. Wearing Instead: Derbies

Style Notes: In the vein of “poet core”, preppy fashion is also undergoing a transformation. Instead of suede-lined and tassel-adorned boat shoes, the fashion set is gravitating towards derbies instead. Switching the yacht deck for something more inherently librarian in tone is in line with this wider pull towards written works.

It also speaks to our collective interest towards more glamorous and ornate styles of dress. Taking cues from the menswear of the early ‘30s and the womenswear of the late ‘50s, these are shoes that convey refinement, practicality and sophistication in spades.

Shop the Trend:

6. Passing On: Eclectic Grandpa

6. Wearing Instead: Indie Sleaze

Style Notes: I might be encouraging everyone to dress like an elderly Italian grandmother, but I can’t extend the same latitude to the grandfathers. Or, at least the “eclectic grandpa” trend.

Fusing striped knits with oversized wire-frame sunglasses and tailored trousers, the trend has certainly faded into obsolescence since we’ve revived our interest in the “indie sleaze aesthetic.” Because who wants to stay at home knitting when you can hit the club?

Shop the Trend:

7. Passing On: ‘70s Bohemia

7. Wearing Instead: ‘80s Power Dressing

Style Notes: Put the Rumours record down. After Chemena Kamali made her splashy debut with Chloe’s spring/summer 2024 collection presentation, bohemian fever certainly spiked. Now, after a period of tiered dresses, ruffle trims and sheer fabrics, the ‘70s are giving way to the ‘80s.

Indeed, power dressing is back, bringing with it a rise in oversized suiting, sleek pencil skirts and voluminous hair. It’s less Daisy Jones & The Six and more Madonna, though still deeply rooted in nostalgia.

Shop the Trend:

To me, some of the strongest spring collections were the ones that didn't attempt to reinvent the wheel, but inspired innovative ways to wear some of the most essential core pieces. At Celine, that looked like silk scarves, which were tied over jackets and layered elegantly underneath the collar of trench coats. At Khaite, blazers weren't worn traditionally but instead with the lapels flipped up to create a sort of mock funnel neck silhouette. None of them involves trends that pushed the needle. As you'll see ahead, each of these styling ideas features items we all probably have in our closets already.

Dresses over pants! Scarves tucked into coat collars! Innovative colour combinations! Here, discover the seven S/S 2026 styling ideas that have me rifling through my wardrobe to put together combinations I would have never thought of before now.

Spring Styling Ideas I'm Copying From the 2026 Runways:

1. Silk Scarves Tied Underneath Blazers

Style Notes: In both the spring 2026 and summer 2026 collections, satin scarves stole the show. They featured prominently throughout many looks where they were tied over and under blazers and layered around the collars of trench coats. The ideas were seemingly endless and made me look at my collection of vintage silk scarves in a completely new light. I'm inspired to try them all, but ultimately, the one I'm most excited to re-create first is wearing a printed scarf around the neck with a structured blazer. It's simple in theory but so sophisticated in practice.

Shop the Look:

2. Leggings With Flats

Style Notes: We may be shifting away from wearing leggings as trousers in 2026 (and even wearing leggings at all), but if you must wear a pair of black leggings, then look no further than Altuzarra's idea on how to make them look utterly elegant and chic. The key is to pair them with items that are on the opposite end of the athletic spectrum, most importantly, a pair of sleek, pointed-toe flats. Layering on an ankle-length trench coat creates a lengthening effect that feels intentional. While underneath the coat is a choose-your-own-adventure type of situation, Altuzarra has the right idea with the choice of a great blazer.

Shop the Look:

3. Sweaters Tied Around the Waist

Style Notes: In 2026, we're wearing our sweaters anywhere but actually on our bodies. Draped over the shoulders, yes, but perhaps even more on-trend is wearing a knit tied around the waist. At Kallmeyer, not just one, but two striped sweaters were styled around the waist of a relaxed pantsuit, giving the tailoring a relaxed, lived-in feel that's easy, insouciant, and cool as can be. The best part about this styling idea is that there are few instances where it doesn't work: deploy it with trousers, jeans, skirts, and even dresses to give any look a more informal air.

Shop the Look:

4. Blazers With the Collar Upturned

Style Notes: Hello, blazers, meet your 2026 destiny. Since I know we're all owners of at least one classic blazer, you'll want to keep this cost-free styling idea in mind. Instead of wearing it traditionally, try the Khaite-approved move and flip up the lapels to create a new silhouette that feels more akin to a trending funnel-neck jacket. It's modern, sleek, and transforms the blazers in your closet that may have been starting to feel stale.

Shop the Look:

5. Double Pendant Necklaces

Style Notes: What's even better than wearing a cool pendant necklace? Wearing two. According to Michael Kors, it's time to double down on the trending accessory for a modern boho approach (even better if one of them is a wallet pendant, which we saw in so many of the New York shows this season) to create an interesting and dynamic look. I'll be tapping into Kors' classic outfit base of a button-down shirt and black trousers, and using the necklaces to make my wardrobe staples feel very 2026.

Shop the Look:

6. V-Neck Sweaters Over Button-Downs

Style Notes: Twenty-twenty-six is set to be the year of preppy fashion, and Toteme is responsible for the prep-inspired way everyone will be wearing their sweaters next year, aka layered over a contrasting button-down shirt. Now this works whether you wear it with a crewneck or V-neck, but there's just something so chic and intentional about the latter, especially when the knit is on the fitted side as Toteme's interpretation.

Shop the Look:

7. A Pop of Cerulean

Style Notes: I've said it once, and I'll say it again: Cerulean, or Capri blue, is the 2026 colour trend to know. It might even be the *only* color trend to know for next season, but only time will tell. So many designers tapped into the oceanic hue, but it was Tory Burch whose idea is inspiring me the most. The runway featured looks with just a singular pop of the bright-blue colour, where it was paired with more muted tones like navy and stone blue. If, like me, you're hesitant to go beyond neutrals, this is one way to add the punchy colour to your outfits in a way that still feels approachable.

Shop the Look:

The slim sneakers seen in Dries Van Noten’s S/S 26 collection have an almost fitted appearance. They outfitted nearly every look that came down the runway. While they were done almost exclusively in bright colors and patterns, I couldn’t help but home in on their sleek white sneaker take. In typical Dries fashion, they were adorned with colorful charms.

So, kiss your Asics Gels goodbye—24 of our favorite sleek white sneaker picks are moments away.

Shop Sleek White Sneakers

While browsing Nordstrom, we noticed spring's most eye-catching trends that are already available at the department store, meaning you don't have to wait until March to enjoy them. We browsed the retailer's site to find eight top trends you can shop right now, including jewelry and playful colors and prints. Discover them all below.

Cord Necklaces

With an emphasis on personal preferences, pendants have come back in a big way for spring. One of the most popular formats was on cord necklaces seen on runways for Michael Kors Collection, Ralph Lauren, Victoria Beckham, and Coach. Minimalist, bohemian, and breezy all at once, there's nothing as nonchalant as a bauble of your choice swinging from a leather or woven cord at any length you desire.

Primary Colors

Let's go back, back to the beginning… to core colors, that is. Color blocking with pieces akin to the color wheel's six key hues popped all over spring's runways, from Versace and Loewe to Fendi and Prada. The most popular takes layered a single-toned coat on top of an otherwise basic look or mixed and matched shades with a carefree nature for even more play.

Statement Earrings

You heard it here: Statement earrings are back. Saint Laurent's glistening post and chandelier earrings in rich jewel tones were one of the season's most eye-catching trends. We also spotted sparkling droplets and sculpted metals at Chanel and ACNE Studios, proving the power of a supersized style.

Rad Plaids

The spotlight shone on humble plaids for spring 2026, which isn't surprising given the season's work-ready undertones as we venture back into the office. Splashed across skirt suits, blazers, and—of course—collared shirts, the geometric print is once again on-trend. Its gridlock effect makes a statement while remaining minimalist and subtly equestrian, hitting multiple notes at once.

Prim Pumps

While spring's collections are playful, they also uphold an air of sophistication. Classic pointed-toe pumps were everywhere, emphasizing that dressing up is back. Whether low-heeled, slingback, or stiletto-based, closed-toed styles stepped out on runways for Dior, Balenciaga, Saint Laurent, and more. Best of all, their classic shape adds instant polish to any outfit.

Slouchy Bags

Security handbags are the new security blankets in 2026. Slouchy, soft styles led the charge for spring, with clutches and closely held satchels bringing practicality and cherished comfort. Complementary jewel tones and standout hardware will keep the trend fresh in the months ahead.

Silk Scarves

After elegant silk scarves picked up steam as a surprising layer in 2025, it's clear brands are betting big on the piece's presence. Allover patterns and splashes of color flowed on scarves in Celine's, Ulla Johnson's, Alexander McQueen's, and Hermès's latest collections, from equestrian belts to retro graphics. Whether draped across tops or flowing beneath long jackets, the styling options are endless.

Miniskirts

From romantic to academic, miniskirts are making an impact this spring. Think knee-length styles in textures like denim and tweed, which bring lightheartedness to any outfit. Oversize jackets and matching tops make ideal top layers for this trend to further play with volume and silhouette.

Or, at least that is my own experience after spying them in the flesh on a whim in a scenario that feels ripped right from the pages of a Richard Curtis screenplay. Indeed, during a winter’s stroll in central London, I wandered into Selfridges' luxury floor and came face-to-face with a shoe trend that truly took my breath away. It was something right out of Love Actually, but instead of Emma Thompson’s mindless perusal through the boutique racks, I found myself staring down a pair of satin Miu Miu trainers hidden away inside the iconic department store.

It felt kismet, like everything I had ever done had led me to discover this secret gem. So, you can only imagine my surprise when I suddenly saw the same pair crop again on the feet of a stylish content creator the next day when I was aimlessly scrolling through Instagram. And again, when I was perusing the new in section of leading online fashion stores like MyTheresa and Farfetch.

Now, I don’t usually believe in love at first sight, especially when sartorial affairs of the heart were concerned, but the act of seeing these sumptuous satin trainers in quick succession after never noticing them previously felt like no coincidence.

Was this the admiration people talk about when they feel like they’ve found a forever piece? I’m usually one to be more pragmatic with my investments, deciding to bite the bullet and purchase something only after I’ve undergone the tedious mental arithmetic of working out the cost per wear and the precise number of pieces they could be paired with. But as a fashion writer who has made their passion for shopping and love for identifying covetable and nascent styles, you can surely sympathise with how besotted I became with the style.

It’s a desire that my chic colleagues can attest to, after rushing back to my desk to share my eureka moment and proclaim that this exact fabric and shoe shape would soon be everywhere. Which brings us here; explaining to you, dear reader, not only my logic, but the rationale for why satin trainers are the latest shoe trends to back.

Of course, part of this harks back to what I was saying about trusting someone’s gut instincts. As someone who has worked in the industry for over half a decade, it takes a lot for me to feel genuinely excited about something bubbling up on the horizon. This is especially as I know what it takes to manufacture a trend, with celebrity endorsements often paid for and never an accident.

And when it comes to trainers, I hate to say it, but I’ve always found the practical silhouette somewhat dull as a category. I can admire how sneakers have become a fashion staple in their own right. Still, I’d much rather covet something more charming or beautiful. Therein lies part of the appeal of satin trainers. Whilst retro, low-profile and technical iterations have reigned supreme in recent months, this style feels like the antithesis of the functional versions that serve as prototypes for the genre. They’ll still provide orthopaedic support and enable you to clock in thousands of steps, but the delicate satin finish offers a darling and saccharine element that sets them apart from their competitors.

Who else but Miuccia Prada to show this best? As a stringent acolyte of hers, it doesn’t take a lot to convince me that her subversive and intellectual approach to fashion is superior. In fact, on a recent trip to Florence, I resolved to spend a day at the Prada outlet instead of exploring the Tuscan city’s rich art galleries and cathedrals, imagining the sprawling discounted store as my own personal wardrobe to shop from.

For the uninitiated, Mrs. Prada is truly one of the most cerebral creative directors working today, meaning that everything she produces to be incredibly considered, pondered over and refined. Offering up a pair of satin trainers is by no means an accident, but a thoughtful successor to Miu Miu’s viral satin ballet flats that debuted on the brand’s autumn/winter 2022 collection all those years ago.

Again, I say this to stress the point that there is no twist of fate when it comes to style, as at the same time Miu Miu was gearing up for the style’s release, Prada was also offering its own version of the trend on its orange-coated spring/summer 2026 runway. Alongside utilitarian silhouettes that distilled the brand’s more artistic side into a palatable look at conservative fashion and purposeful clothing, the legendary Milanese designer was offsetting these restrictive totes with darling sneakers that offered a lightness and elegance.

Another view is that satin, after a period where suede and leather dominated, was just the next logical material to utilise and make popular. Sure, there’s that too, but I’d rather take a kinder look at the trend and argue it injects an ethereal and glamorous element into ensembles during a time where dressing feels entirely ascetic. With this trend, we need not compromise on comfort for the sake of wearing something beautiful. Our austere uniform of funnel-neck jackets and straight-leg jeans can remain; it’s just about swapping out a stiffer shoe for something soft and polished.

Researching this piece, I’ve already noticed quite a lot of brands take up this mantle, with Dries Van Noten producing airy and glossy iterations of its viral trainer, to Grace Wales Bonner embracing this smooth texture in her latest collaboration with Adidas. Call it what you want, but there is no denying that satin trainers are on the precipice of having a big moment. Intrigued to follow suit? Ahead, I’ve compiled the best satin trainers currently available to shop for you to embrace this trend yourself. And when you see them out and about, remember that love, or a love for style at least, is actually all around.

Shop the Satin Trainer Trend:

I zoomed in on hundreds of runway images and can say with certainty that the eight shoe trends I'm presenting here will have the biggest impact. With the high-vamp heels that will have everyone overlooking flats again to the elegant two-tone vibe inspired by the new-era Chanel, consider this list your North Star for all things stylish footwear. Continue on to get your fill of the major spring/summer 2026 shoe trends to know.

High-Vamp Heels

Flat shoes have dominated the fashion conversation in recent years, but the spring 2026 runways are giving us a big reason to revisit our heels. Designers including Chanel, Alaïa, and Toteme took the silhouette of classic pumps and updated it with one forward detail: a high vamp. The high-cut, higher-coverage detail echoes the power-dressing heel silhouettes of the '80s, a decade that's increasingly relevant for next season.

Two-Tone

All eyes were on Matthieu Blazy's Chanel debut this season, and it was the shoes that insiders were buzzing about the most from the collection. They featured innovative takes on Chanel's signature black-and-white aesthetic with pieces like contrast-tone heels. But two-tone shoes popped up elsewhere in the collections, too, like the sophisticated driving loafers at Dior and the chain-embellished T-strap pumps at Ferragamo that indicated the dominating shoe color of 2026.

Woven Textures

Woven details are usually synonymous with vacation dressing, but designers are using the warm-weather texture on shoes that go far beyond the beach. For instance, the woven leather slingbacks at Ralph Lauren or the woven loafers at Miu Miu that bring a coastal feel to city wardrobes.

Ballerina Sneakers

Are they sneakers or are they ballet flats? Hybrid "sneakerinas" have been popping up all year from athletic brands like Puma and Adidas, but now designers are adding their luxury spin on the trend. At Prada and Dries Van Noten, the sneakers arrived in delicate satin finishes while at Fendi and Onitsuka Tiger, they came in vibrant colors like pink, green, and red.

Derby Shoes

Not quite as formal as loafers or oxfords but with more sophistication than your average ballet flats, derby shoes are the surprising new style that's just right for a dose of everyday polish. In his debut Celine spring 2026 collection, Creative Director Michael Rider sent model after model down the runway wearing what first appeared to be regular flats with their slim soles and glove-like fits, but upon closer inspection featured lace-up details. Sportmax, Lanvin, Miu Miu, and Ralph Lauren all followed suit with their respective takes on the derby shoe, indicating that it's set to become the It flat of 2026.

Pretty Bows

One of the signature elements of Jonathan Anderson's new Dior is none other than the bow. Thick, tube-like bow details arrived on the shoes in his debut collection, and the detail felt at once sweet and sophisticated. Jacquemus likewise sent out point-toe pumps finished with delicate bows and Erdem's ballet flats came with large moiré bows affixed to the top. Whether on flats or heels, modern bows are set to be a major shoe trend.

Western Boots

Western details are subtly making their way back right now, and the latest item to emerge is none other than Western boots. Designers introduced ankle and knee-high boot silhouettes in their spring 2026 collections that were decidedly sleek and modern instead of on-the-nose. They arrived slouchy and distressed at Miu Miu and glossy and sharply pointed at ACNE Studios.

Embroidery

Maximalism is so back. All across the collections, we're noticing an explosion of bright colors, prints, and intricate details but nowhere is that seen more than in shoes. Embroidery, beading, and tasteful sequin finishes are the defining details of spring's standout shoes, marking the arrival of a brand-new maximalist era in fashion.

Colours have always been at the centre of the most outdated style rules. (No mixing of navy and blue! White is best suited for the summer! Neon colours should be left in the '80s!) Yet, the leading colours set to define the year ahead have been marred in more controversy than ever before.

From Pantone dubbing a "billowy, airy, and serene off-white" as the 2026 colour of the year from Pinterest predicting lurid tones like "wasabi green" and "plum noir" as the shades that will dominate the next 12 months, the latter of which are closely similar to the tones foretold by New York-based fashion analyst, trend forecaster and content creator Mandy Lee, it's safe to say a lot of confusion surrounds what colour trends will actually come to fruition in 2026.

We here at Who What Wear UK thrive in this kind of uncertainty. Instead of being dictated by data, statistical insights, consumer shopping habits or any sort of digital material, we've always found that the trends that make the biggest impact are the ones determined in real life and exhibited by real people. We pride ourselves on paying close attention to what those living in fashion capitals and international tastemakers wear on a daily basis, whether it be whilst visiting a local café or stepping out on a press tour.

So, when we've already begun to notice a few of these so-called 2026 colour trends begin to crop up in the wild, you can rest assured that we took good notice. Of course, we can't do this alone, as, with most things in the industry, the runways are always a good barometer of what's to come, too. After all, what we see in new-season designer collections will ultimately be the designs worn by style luminaries in a few months' time.

For the uninitiated, the spring/summer 2026 shows were a hotbed of inspiration, and brought with them a new wave of palettes, hues and finishes which will no doubt permeate our desires in a mere few months. Poppy red and expensive aubergine are both part of the new cohort of colours on the rise, but there are also a few others that I just have to tell you about now, before they hit the mainstream.

I've been taking a deep dive into fashion's biggest players, including Alaïa, Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta and Stella McCartney, to explore which tones they're favouring for 2025, so consider this your sneak peek at what the year has to bring in terms of colour. From head-turning tones like vibrant chartreuse, canary yellow, vibrant purple, candy pink and rich teal, to the palette-cleansing hue of "cloud-dancer" white, this scheme of shades will be sure to add a saturated appeal to your Monday-to-Friday looks, and your off-duty 'fits, too.

Scroll on to get the lowdown on the biggest colour trends that 2026 has to offer, plus a little bit of shopping inspiration to help you get ahead of the curve.

The 7 Biggest Colour Trends of 2026

1. Icy Blue

Style Notes: Feeling blue? Don't let the year's frosty beginnings and depressive winter weather keep you from dressing up, with the runways and red carpets indicating a penchant for this specific shade of icy blue. Perhaps an indication of where we are as a culture, this polar shade might have you channelling your inner Snow Queen as a response to the precarious times we're living in. Consider this shade like a form of sartorial resistance, because there is truly nothing more intimidating than walking around dressed cold-heartedly.

Shop the Trend:

2. Chartreuse Green

Style Notes: It might've been a quarter of a century since pop diva Kylie Minogue brought chartreuse to the mainstream with her bit part as the Green Fairy in 2001's Moulin Rouge!, but as they say, good things come to those who wait. A tone that's as polarising as it is inescapable, the chartreuse reign feels like a natural successor to the Brat green tone pioneered by Charli XCX in 2024, but with a slightly more yellow undertone. Some consider it ghastly, some don't consider it at all. But irrespective of where you stand, there is no denying it's quite hypnotic. Plus, in a world that's constantly threatened by the intersection of man and machine, the hyper-virtual undertow of this shade feels like the perfect shade to represent the glitch-in-the-matrix sensation of now.

Shop the Trend:

3. Vibrant Purple

Style Notes: I profiled the rise of expensive aubergine this year, and for the new season, this shade is getting a bit of a facelift. I'm seeing a much richer, vintage-inspired, decadent hue push it from the top spot, which I'm calling it vibrant purple. A little bit '80s with a splash of royal, aristocratic flavour, it's a shade which feels both luxurious and fun. It dominated some of the most headline-grabbing shows, including Balenciaga, Burberry, Valentino and Chloé, and worked beautifully in head-to-toe looks or with the odd floral thrown in. It's already making the waves amongst the street style set, too, with both Zoë Kravitz and Jennifer Lawrence incorporating the colour into their winter accessories. To dial it back, it pairs exquisitely with sand, taupe and beige, but if you're adventurous, canary yellow complements it delightfully.

Shop the Trend:

4. "Cloud-Dancer" White

Style Notes: Cloud Dancer has been named Pantone's Colour of the Year for 2026. This light and bright-white hue leans slightly into natural putty territory, and it's your sign to start 2026 as a clean break. This really couldn't be more apt, as we all desire to go into the new season with a fresh perspective and a clear palette. Cloud Dancer is a chance to unshackle from the grey days of winter and enter the year ahead with an open mind and little visual distraction. Do you have a minimalist personal style? Look to Bottega, Pauline Dujancourt, Dior and Noon By Noor, who all embraced this pillowy-soft tone on the runways, across dresses, suits and accessories.

Shop the Trend:

5. Canary Yellow

Style Notes: Butter yellow had us all salivating over the summer. For 2026, enter its natural upgrade, which I'm calling canary yellow. This eye-catching tone is brilliant, full contrast and intense, and some of fashion's biggest labels gave it serious airtime on the runways. Bottega, McQueen, Loewe and Tove all dipped their toes in, with all other colours paling in comparison. If you're ready to let the canary sing, pair it with beige, or even citrusy orange for your spring/summer ensembles.

Shop the Trend:

6. Candy Pink

Style Notes: Powder pink reigned supreme in 2025, but for 2026, its not-too-distant cousin is entering the chat. Candy pink, a more strikingly sweet and drool-worthy shade, is what I took note of on the runways for spring. Fresh and undoubtedly pretty, it packs a stronger punch than its predecessor, popping down the catwalks of Stella McCartney, Patou, N°21 and Blumarine, on dresses, suits and shoes. It can be toughened up with charcoal grey, chrome and patent black. It's the chicest way to do pink.

Shop the Trend:

7. Rich Teal

Style Notes: Not blue and not green, this mysterious mix of both raced down some of the biggest runways this season, predominantly on coats, jackets and suiting. Rich teal permeated the collections of Alaïa, Saint Laurent, Acne Studios and Loewe; labels that pride themselves on the bold use of colour season after season. It's the sort of hue that just reads expensive. I see this tone working well in monochromatic looks, but it also complements black, chocolate brown and, if you're feeling extra peacock-y, pillar-box red.

Shop the Trend:

I've been taking note of all of the biggest trends for spring/ summer 2026, first, accessories, shoes, and now, handbags. I'm seeing the rise and rise of exaggerated animal prints, XXL fringing, ludicrously capacious business bags, luxe denim fabrications and sultry suede styles all over the runways, and so I have compiled the best of the best here. Whichever handbag you pick for the new season, make sure it's doing the hard work for you.

Ready to walk into the room purse first? Scroll on for my edit of the best bag trends on offer for 2026, and some curated shopping picks to give you a taste of what's to come.

The Biggest Handbag Trends for 2026:

1. Animal Kingdom

Style Notes: Animal print is making a major comeback, along with a desire to dress up, show off, and turn heads. Handbags are getting in on the action for 2026, with loud, proud and eye-catching, exotic-feeling finishes coming to the fore, particularly on lady-like, top-handle and chain shoulder strap styles. Khaite, Valentino, Balenciaga and The Attico paired leopard, zebra and snake bags with pared-back, monochromatic looks to let the handbag itself do the talking. Meow!

Shop The Trend:

2. XXL Fringing

Style Notes: I spotted countless fringed handbags on the runways this coming season, so know this will be a major trend. Acne Studios, Stella McCartney, Burberry and McQueen exhibited this trim best, in real and faux leather fabrications on oversized shoulder bags and clutches, too. Notably, this embellishment was prominent on neutral-toned bags, to keep things chic, stylish and classic. Fringes were exaggerated and often floor-skimming. This is boho, 2.0.

Shop The Trend:

3. Big Business Bags

Style Notes: Ludicrously capacious bags are so back, and they mean business. Looking for your next work bag? Then this is the trend for you. Bottega Veneta, Loewe, Ferragamo and Fendi are bossing big, beautiful corporate-friendly bags, in grey croc-effect, smooth black leather and sumptuous suedes for SS26, so you can be ready to strut back into the office in style. Boasting enough space for your laptop, phone, and Monday-to-Friday haul, this trend is for the maximalists.

Shop The Trend:

4. Tobacco Suede

Style Notes: I've spotted a distinct return to a particular hue on suede handbags, and that shade is tobacco brown. Sweeping over small top-handle, belted and clutch bags alike, this sultry, sepia tone gives an exceedingly expensive appeal, especially when teamed with shiny silver hardware. Acne Studios, Chanel, Dior and Moschino were the labels to give this fabric and finish real merit, teaming handbags with similarly toned looks, or, surprisingly, grey ensembles for 2026.

Shop The Trend:

5. Blue Jean Bags

Style Notes: Lana del Rey's song, 'Blue Jeans', instantly comes to mind when observing this hard-working, vintage-feel trend. Runway designers, including Ferrari, Zimmermann, Coach and Acne Studios, are looking to denim to kit out handbags for 2026, for shoulder, cross-body, clutch and cylindrical styles, too. Brass hardware and classic brown and black leather finishes complete the look. Pair with full denim looks to double down on this trend.

Shop The Trend:

Not only do I like to write about the trends each season, but, luckily, I get to work with them in the flesh, too—styling celebs, models, and even my fellow editors for photoshoots, try-ons and cover stories. In the run-up to these styling projects, I find myself frantically pinning, saving down and screenshotting all of the trends I see. Right now, I am focusing my efforts on accessories, as these are the finishing touches I know that can make or break a look.

I'm seeing emerging trends across Paris, London, Milan and New York that I know will go mainstream in 2026. From belts, jewellery, sunglasses and gloves, these finer details give real character, direction, and punctuation to an outfit, taking it from boring to a masterpiece.

I'm sharing my findings with you below, as I don't like to gatekeep. Scroll on to see my biggest accessories trends for 2026, and how to shop the styles now.

The Biggest Accessories Trends for 2026:

1. Shield Sunglasses

Style Notes: Tiny, rounded, bookish sunglasses and spectacles are out. Big, bug-like, and sporty eyewear is in. I spotted this trend take shape at some of the top labels showing in Paris and New York, such as Coach, Saint Laurent, Victoria Beckham and Loewe, indicating that the demand for oversized eye protection has gone global. I think this trend works best with tortoiseshell frames to keep things a little bit classic, and smoked-out, tinted lenses to give that paparazzi-fleeing factor.

Shop The Trend:

2. Celestial Crystals

Style Notes: Celestial fashion has gone viral, and I am taking note of this trend waving its sparkling hand over earrings, necklaces and hair accessories, too. XXL crystals, bursts of silver, tangles of fine chains and asymmetrical gems resemble galaxies and nebulae far, far away—and I'm all for it. Simona Rocha, Chanel, Givenchy and Dries Van Noten handled this trend best, adding eye-catching jewellery to otherwise simple looks and garments, such as trench coats, tuxedo shirting and t-shirts, for a final, twinkling flourish.

Shop The Trend:

3. Utility Belts

Style Notes: Historically, I don't think belts get enough airtime. That is all to change in 2026, as designers look to give this accessory a serious rebrand. I've noted some of fashion's biggest players adding utility features, such as clips, key chains, phone holders, and even AirPod cases to belts, making them more useful and more stylish than ever. And hold the boring black belts. Runway brands such as Toga, Miu Miu, Meryll Rogge and Coperni are bringing us pop-colour tones, braided fabrications, and chunky buckles, as well as even doubling up on belts, further cementing this accessory as something which can be fun, playful and all the while, functional.

Shop The Trend:

4. Princess Gloves

Style Notes: Princess treatment, or bare minimum? I know which one I prefer! This humble accessory is going full girlie for 2026, with lace, sequins, satin and pastel tones coming to the fore, giving a pretty, lady-like touch to dresses and skirt outfits. Yes, gloves were the item du jour on the runways for spring/summer 2026, with Valentino, Simone Rocha, Yuhan Wang and Prada showing us how it's done. I believe this trend taps into the desire to dress up, get glam and put on your most decadent togs, so add this mood to your 2026 vision board if you're ready to take up the gauntlet. Pun intended!

Shop The Trend:

5. Chunky Chains

Style Notes: Another jewellery trend, if you will. I took note of extra-large, chunky chain motifs taking over at Bottega Veneta, Balenciaga, Celine and Chanel (four of fashion's most in-demand brands), across necklaces and statement earrings. One part surrealist, two parts maximalist, but 100% glamorous. Add an unexpected twist to your daytime looks by mixing gold and silver, twisted knots, oval links and industrial feel chains into your jewellery rotation. Into heavy metal? This one's for you.

Shop The Trend:

Blazy's first collection for the fashion house during Paris Fashion Week S/S 26 was perhaps the buzziest of the season, as a new era at Chanel had clearly arrived. He solidified plenty of trends during the showing as he set out to reimagine the signature Chanel look. For the Métiers d'Art 2026 collection, which is an annual off-season pre-fall showing that Chanel embarked upon in 2002 to highlight the artistry and craftsmanship at the heart of the brand, Blazy furthered his vision for Chanel, showing his take on tweed, the casual side of Chanel (more on that below), and a slew of future It items.

Read on for all of the details on the show, from the subway setting to the celebrities in attendance to the trends the fashion crowd will embrace in 2026.

The Subway Setting

Chanel has a long history of staging its Métiers d'Art shows in unexpected locations, with the previous one in NYC, in 2018, under Karl Lagerfeld taking place in front of the Temple of Dendur at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The decommissioned Bowery subway station chosen for the 2026 showing was no exception, and it was as quintessentially New York as you can get. There was even a model wearing Chanel's take on an I Love New York tourist tee. After the celebrities and fashion crowd in attendance descended the stairs to the platform, the models arrived via an actual subway car, with said platform serving as the runway.

The Starry Front Row

As per usual, when it comes to Chanel, the stars showed up in full force. A slew of high-profile attendees with a connection to NYC and-slash-or Chanel commingled on the platform, including the brand's newest ambassador, A$AP Rocky; Ayo Edebiri; Jon Bon Jovi; Bowen Yang; Tessa Thompson; Emily Ratajkowski; and too many more to name—all dressed in pieces from the new collection.

WHO: Ayo Edebiri

WHO: A$AP Rocky

WHO: Margaret Qualley

WHO: Sofia Coppola

WHO: Adwoa Aboah and Emily Ratajkowski

WHO: Kristen Stewart

WHO: Tessa Thompson

WHO: Jessie Buckley

WHO: Teyana Taylor

WHO: Riley Keough

The Matthieu Blazy–Approved Trends

It's clear from his first two collections that Blazy is taking wearability into careful consideration for his Chanel designs. The prominent trends that made their way down the subway platform runway last night for pre-fall 2026 were a reflection of that. Below are a few you're likely to see on all the cool fashion people in the coming year.

Bouclé Plaid

Blazy gave the F/W 25 plaid trend a fresh Chanel twist, presenting it primarily in the form of bouclé outerwear. Consider it the Chanel tweed jacket 2.0.

Fringe Trim

Is fringe trim the new lace trim? Blazy seems to think so. (Although, the collection wasn't devoid of lace trim.) We know from his Bottega Veneta days that he's a fan of fringe, and he's carrying that over to Chanel via coats, skirts, and dresses.

The Basics

Some of my personal favorite looks in the collection were the ones that were pared-down and suitable for everyday wear. There were half-zip pullovers, oversize white tees, loose-fitting jeans and pleated trousers, crewneck sweaters, and button-down shirts, all accessorized with statement-making jewelry, trend-forward heels, and future It bags.

Elegant Animal Print

The animal-print trend shows no signs of fading, and the Chanel take on it is as elegant as can be. To name a few examples, Blazy designed topcoats in graphic leopard and zebra prints, a textured tiger-print sheath dress, and embellished animal-print skirt suits.

Pointed Cap-Toe Heels

It wouldn't be a Chanel collection without cap-toe shoes, and the 2026 iterations have pointed toes, V-cut vamps, and T-straps. In many cases, the cap toe was loosely imagined, taking the form of a triangle shape or a stripe.

Leather Trenches

Don't cast aside your leather bomber jacket, but the Métiers d'Art indicated that the leather jacket style people will be craving in 2026 is elegant trench coats, some of which even had a moto-jacket feel to them.

This season, the runways carried a distinct sense of reset—a collective exhale from heritage houses newly helmed by fresh creative leadership at maisons like Bottega Veneta, Chanel, and Dior, among others. With so many designers stepping into top roles, handbags became a focal point for reimagining what a brand’s codes could look like in 2026 and beyond. Instead of treating bags as mere complements to the ready-to-wear, creative directors used them as declarations: sculptural new clutches, softened pastels, and sharp-edged silhouettes (quietly but confidently) signaled a shift in perspective.

The result? A season defined by shape play, revived nostalgia, and modern utility. Clearly, the spring 2026 handbag trends are acting as handheld manifestos of where fashion’s biggest houses intend to go next. Below, scroll through the best runway handbag trends you'll see fashion people adopting next season.

This season’s clutches—spotted at brands like Bottega Veneta and Coach—break from the classic envelope, embracing sculptural experimentation; from elongated east-west profiles to perfectly rounded circular forms. Designers treated them less as accessories and more as objets d’art, meant to be tucked under the arm with effortless nonchalance.

Shop right-now alternatives:

Pastels are emerging as the quiet power move of the season, with Dior, Bottega Veneta, and Prada sending delicately soft hues down the runway. Think powdered lilac, buttery foam, and blush meringue, rendered in luxe leathers and satins that make sweetness feel sophisticated.

Shop right-now alternatives:

The “frazzled lady” bag channels lived-in glamour, embracing silhouettes that feel gently worn, carried askew (perhaps even open), and charmingly imperfect. These pieces evoke vintage-store treasure: slouchy top handles, softened corners, and shapes that sit just right in the crook of the arm as their wearer rushes between appointments.

Shop right-now alternatives:

Drawstring pouches continue their ascent into the trend cycle this season, with houses like Loewe and Valentino elevating the silhouette from casual to couture. Their softly cinched bodies, made in ruched fabrics or soft leathers, bring a tactile romanticism to the runway.

Shop right-now alternatives:

Designers are embracing the single strap, streamlining silhouettes once defined by twin handles. The result is a cleaner, more modern take on an everyday handbag (albeit one that’s more prone to pickpockets!).

Shop right-now alternatives:

Square, doctor-bag-inspired silhouettes are having a revival, with Chanel and Miu Miu leaning into sharp geometry and vintage medical-case charm. Clean lines, top handles, and boxy proportions lend an old-world professionalism that still feels approachable enough that the new Gen Z It girl will be picking up a square-shaped bag soon.

Shop right-now alternatives:

To me, some of the strongest spring collections were the ones that didn't attempt to reinvent the wheel, but inspired innovative ways to wear some of the most essential core pieces. At Celine, that looked like silk scarves which were tied over jackets and layered elegantly underneath the collar of trench coats. At Khaite, blazers weren't worn traditionally but instead with the lapels flipped up to create a sort of mock funnel neck silhouette. None of them involves trends that pushed the needle. As you'll see ahead, each of these styling ideas features items we all probably have in our closets already.

Dresses over pants! Scarves tucked into coat collars! Innovative color combinations! Here, discover the seven S/S 2026 styling ideas that have me rifling through my wardrobe to put together combinations I would have never thought of before now.

Silk Scarves Tied Underneath Blazers

In both the spring 2026 and summer 2026 collections, satin scarves stole the show. They featured prominently throughout many looks where they were tied over and under blazers and layered around the collars of trench coats. The ideas were seemingly endless and made me look at my collection of vintage silk scarves in a completely new light. I'm inspired to try them all, but ultimately, the one I'm most excited to re-create first is wearing a printed scarf around the neck with a structured blazer. It's simple in theory but so sophisticated in practice.

Leggings With Flats

We may be shifting away from wearing leggings as pants in 2026 (and even wearing leggings at all), but if you must wear a pair of black leggings, then look no further than Altuzarra's idea on how to make them look utterly elegant and chic. The key is to pair them with items that are on the opposite end of the athletic spectrum, most importantly, a pair of sleek, pointed-toe flats. Layering on an ankle-length trench coat creates a lengthening effect that feels intentional, and while underneath the coat is a choose-your-own-adventure type of situation, Altuzarra has the right idea with the choice of a great blazer.

Sweaters Tied Around the Waist

In 2026, we're wearing our sweaters anywhere but actually on our bodies. Draped over the shoulders, yes, but perhaps even more on-trend is wearing a knit tied around the waist. At Kallmeyer, not just one, but two striped sweaters were styled around the waist of a relaxed pantsuit, giving the tailoring a relaxed, lived-in feel that's easy, insouciant, and cool as can be. The best part about this styling idea is that there are few instances where it doesn't work: deploy it with trousers, jeans, skirts, and even dresses to give any look a more informal air.

Blazers With the Collar Upturned

Hello, blazers, meet your 2026 destiny. Since I know we're all owners of at least one classic blazer, you'll want to keep this cost-free styling idea in mind. Instead of wearing it traditionally, try the Khaite-approved move and flip up the lapels to create a new silhouette that feels more akin to a trending funnel-neck jacket. It's modern, sleek, and transforms the blazers in your closet that may have been starting to feel stale.

Double Pendant Necklaces

What's even better than wearing a cool pendant necklace? Wearing two. According to Michael Kors, it's time to double down on the trending accessory for a modern boho approach (even better if one of them is a wallet pendant, which we saw in so many of the New York shows this season) to create an interesting and dynamic look. I'll be tapping into Kors' classic outfit base of a button-down shirt and black trousers, and using the necklaces to make my wardrobe staples feel very 2026.

V-Neck Sweaters Over Button-Downs

Twenty-twenty-six is set to be the year of preppy fashion, and Toteme is responsible for the prep-inspired way everyone will be wearing their sweaters next year, aka layered over a contrasting button-down shirt. Now this works whether you wear it with a crewneck or V-neck, but there's just something so chic and intentional about the latter, especially when the knit is on the fitted side as Toteme's interpretation.

A Pop of Cerulean

I've said it once, and I'll say it again: Cerulean, or Capri blue, is the 2026 color trend to know. It might even be the *only* color trend to know for next season, but only time will tell. So many designers tapped into the oceanic hue, but it was Tory Burch whose idea is inspiring me the most. The runway featured looks with just a singular pop of the bright-blue color, where it was paired with more muted tones like navy and stone blue. If, like me, you're hesitant to go beyond neutrals, this is one way to add the punchy color to your outfits in a way that still feels approachable.

To celebrate Who What Wear UK's 10th birthday, we had to take a look back at the most iconic fashion week moments that have captivated us over the past decade. Over the years, we've seen it all, having attended countless runway shows in London, Paris, Milan and New York, reviewed numerous collections and revelled in (and shopped!) the biggest trends each season brought. What fun!

Our all-seeing fashion eye has picked apart every show from 2015 till now, and we've curated the best-of list. From the return of '90s supermodels at Versace to an endless pink runway at Jacquemus and seeing double at Gucci, there have been so many jaw-dropping moments, but only 10 could make the cut. It's not up for debate: these are the 10 most iconic runway shows of the past 10 years. Let's get into it!

The 10 Most Iconic Fashion Runways from the Past Decade

1. Chanel A/W 17

Karl Lagerfeld's tenure at Chanel delivered so many iconic moments, and one of the most impressive shows in recent memory was staged at Paris's famous Grand Palais. From a hyper-real supermarket to a man-made beach and an Arctic landscape to a Parisienne brasserie, nothing was too ambitious for Lagerfeld's wild imagination. Our favourite, however, was the space-station set for the women's autumn/winter 2017 show, complete with a Chanel-emblazoned rocket ship, which seemingly took off through the ceiling as models wore NASA-inspired looks. Think silver glittery boots, classic boucle twin sets and galaxy-print dresses as Elton John's "Rocket Man" played through the speakers. Beyond!

2. Versace S/S 18

Donatella Versace is undoubtedly one of the most legendary figures in fashion. For the House of Versace's spring/summer 2018 show, she honoured her late brother and House founder, Gianni, presenting a collection that played to his iconic prints, use of gold and sexy silhouettes; with a finale that saw a whole host of supermodels pay homage. Striding down the runway herself, Versace was joined by Carla Bruni, Claudia Schiffer, Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford and Helena Christensen, harking back to George Michael's hit song "Freedom! '90" and its accompanying music video, in which many of these supers featured. Nothing will ever come close to this heartfelt and special moment.

3. Jacquemus S/S 20

Simon Porte Jacquemus started his eponymous label in 2009, dedicated to his late mother. The virility of his designs skyrocketed him into mainstream popularity, with playful handbags, enormous hats and skin-revealing ready-to-wear. For his spring/summer 2020 show, the brand's 10th anniversary collection, Jacquemus staged a co-ed runway show within the lavender fields of the French countryside, a couple of miles from his childhood home. Models strutted down a seemingly endless carpet of fuchsia pink, flanked by rows of purple lavender—both hues are synonymous with the brand. Mixing colour-pop brights, muted neutrals, printed scenic landscapes and watercolour florals, the show and its collection were completely and utterly striking and cemented Jacquemus' place in the fashion, social and pop-culture spaces. Needless to say, we were tickled pink!

4. Loewe A/W 22

Since Jonathan Anderson took the creative director reins at Loewe in 2013, with a tenure lasting a whopping 11 years, things were never again the same. Embuing art, craft and high-concept design into all of his collections for the House, the Irish designer has not only become a (fashion) household name, but has managed to firmly place Loewe at the top of the list of the most desirable designer labels of now. For the brand's spring/ summer 2022 show, he employed surrealist shapes, extreme drapery, backwards-worn garments and high-shine metal breastplates. Accessories, too, tapped into pop-art themes, with heels resembling roses, birthday-cake candles and broken eggs. Not only was this collection extremely directional, forward-thinking and fun, but it was also super wearable. Kendall Jenner gave this it serious celebrity kudos when she was famously spotted in one of the jersey tank dresses, with an all-over digital print of fuzzy colours.

5. Miu Miu S/S 22

When Miu Miu launched its spring/summer 2022 collection, you couldn't walk a mile without seeing one of its looks on the cover of every magazine on the stands of your local newsagent or supermarket. The collection was applauded for its preppy suiting, poplin shirts, cable knits, pleated twill skirts and flashes of logo-adornded lingerie, many pieces of which were slashed and cut to show off abs, legs and undies, in typical bad-school-girl style. Mixing sexiness, structure, sportiness and pretty 3-D florals, this collection was a Miuccia classic. This is where the much-hyped New Balance sneaker collab was previewed, which has since become every influencer's favourite off-duty trainer of choice. Now, everyone, "Thank you, Mrs Prada!"

6. Bottega Veneta S/S 23

Matthieu Blazy had a brief but successful three-year stint at Bottega Veneta before moving to the powerhouse that is Chanel. His spring/summer 2023 show at Bottega was truly spectacular, tapping artist and architect Gaetano Pesce to craft a kaleidoscopic poured-resin floor and handmake around 400 unique chairs for guests, all of which have become collector's items. Some of the standout looks from the collection appeared quite simple and understated, but a closer look revealed many pieces crafted from soft, luxurious leather for a trompe-l'œil effect. Kate Moss's normcore outfit, consisting of a plaid shirt, white tank and jeans, also played with deception by tapping into the craving for quiet luxury at the time in an unexpected way. The look remains a mainstay on every fashion enthusiast's mood board to this day.

7. Gucci S/S 23

Only Alessandro Michele could send 68 pairs of identical twins down a runway. Yes, you read that correctly! Never one to miss an opportunity for theatricality and the wow-factor, Michele's time at Gucci was full of jaw-dropping moments that no one else could re-create if they tried (see the Aria, Love Parade and Cosmogonie collections). The Twinsburg show of spring/summer 2023 stunned guests and fans alike. Models took to the runway in typical Michele fashion (think decadent prints, pussy-bows, monogram handbags, '80s suiting and bucket-loads of sequins)—but double it. Only at the show's finale did the curtain rise to reveal the paired looks and their twin models, who came together in single file holding hands. Inspired by Michele's mother and her twin sister, this show was mesmerising and mind-bogglingly good.

8. Simone Rocha S/S 24

Simone Rocha debuted her eponymous line at London Fashion Week in September 2010. 15 years on, and the label is still one of the biggest, most exciting moments on the fashion month calendar, and always the hottest ticket in town. Known for her subversive yet pretty collections, full of pearl, ribbon and lace adornments, Rocha has become a celebrity favourite, with the likes of Alexa Chung, Bel Powley and Fiona Shaw lining up to wear her collections on the red carpet and have their turn on the runway for her. The spring/summer 2024 show featured pink roses throughout, some held by models and some sewn into the bodices of dresses. Sarah Jessica Parker wore a dress-and-coat ensemble from this very collection in an episode of And Just Like That..., further cementing Rocha's merit in the fashion sphere and wider public eye.

9. Maison Margiela S/S 24

Celebrated designer John Galliano's final show at Maison Margiela, after 10 years as creative director at the esteemed house, was the talking point of many a fashion and beauty group chat for weeks after it was presented. A little X-rated and a lot of exoticism (Galliano's potent combination), models danced, staggered and gingerly stepped through the underbelly of Paris's streets, inspired by the images of Hungarian–French photographer Brassaï. The haute couture spring/ summer 2024 collection featured corsets, sheer dresses and 1920s doll-like suits, with Pat McGrath's famous painterly makeup set with a spray lacquer to give a high-shine, glass-skin finish. Gwendoline Christie's marionette-like walk for the finale look was like poetry in motion. Truly unforgettable.

10. Saint Laurent S/S 25

Anthony Vaccarello has been nothing short of a hit-maker for Saint Laurent since his spring/summer 2017 debut, crafting a vision which is at once sexy, desirable and classic. It has become one of the most illustrious, trend-setting brands on the planet, and celebs and shoppers can't get enough. The spring/summer 2025 show meant serious business, with an array of sharp, exaggerated suits, complete with shirts, ties and '80s eyewear, resembling the brand's famed founder, Yves. Nostalgic but modern, dapper but wearable, stars such as Elsa Hosk and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley have since been spotted wearing these ensembles, fresh from the runway. Bella Hadid's black suit-and-tie combo was a standout, serving classic power suit. Hot!

Of course, some shows were more shoppable than others, and of them all, Matthieu Blazy's Chanel debut was the most tempting. I've actually never once bought anything from Chanel, but Blazy's freshman collection will be the one responsible for changing that. I already have four items I want to purchase, two of which are shoes—the aforementioned mules and a pair of shrunken cap-toe pumps. (The other two you'll have to keep scrolling to find out about.) At Louise Trotter's Bottega Veneta debut, bags stood out the most to me, especially the navy versions and anything with a kiss-lock closure. Celine's trenches, Khaite's denim skirts, and Tory Burch's metallic jackets all stood out too. But that's enough of a preview. Scroll down to see my entire shopping list come spring 2026.

Celine Trench

Michael Rider's sophomore Celine collection was just as impressive and influential as his first, singlehandedly proving that if a coat is chic enough, it *can* be the entire outfit. Just add sandals and a really big bag. This silk-lined trench, in particular, is coming home with me.

Shop a right-now alternative:

Chanel Mules

Chanel's shoes, as I already mentioned, were incredible. Everyone in fashion's been talking about them nonstop since the show, and they'll continue to until the French house stocks them in stores next year. My personal favorite pair was this tan-and-black mule made of lush suede. It's simple, yet new, and I can already see myself wearing it with vintage Levi's and a cool jacket.

Shop a right-now alternative:

Khaite Denim Pencil Skirt

Khaite's S/S 26 collection had a lot of showstoppers, and trust me, they're all even better IRL. But of all the winning new pieces, one stood out the most: a cuffed denim pencil skirt in a super-dark wash that walked the runway paired with a shrunken tan jacket and cognac-colored court shoes. Just look at it—it's perfect.

Shop a right-now alternative:

Loewe Amazona 180 Bag

Spring 2026's top bag reveal? Loewe's new Amazona 180, a single-handle, oversize version of the house's famous Amazona bag that comes in luxurious suede color options, as well as smooth leather and even a vibrant blue croc print. Everyone—and I mean everyone—will be fighting over this bag come spring, myself included.

Shop a right-now alternative:

Calvin Klein Balloon Pants

If you're as obsessed with genie-slash-balloon pants as I am, you'll lose it over the extra-billowy bottoms at Calvin Klein. I just saw them in person at the brand's New York City resee and fell even more in love. These are a true statement piece that will make every outfit cooler and more noticeable.

Shop a right-now alternative:

Tory Burch Metallic Top

Whenever I'm looking for a fun, playful piece of clothing to add to my wardrobe, I always go to Tory Burch first. The designer's work, especially in the last few years, has a joyful touch to it that makes buying and wearing it extra exciting. For spring, my investment will be a metallic-gold, crinkled-fabric shirt that I took about 10 videos of at the show in Brooklyn back in September.

Shop a right-now alternative:

Bottega Veneta Navy Bag

Bottega Veneta is a bag house, and that's what it will remain under the creative leadership of Louise Trotter, the brand's new designer. Trotter took archival styles and made them feel 2026-ready, using fresh color options like cement gray and midnight, and leaning into croc and Intrecciato. I personally am in love with this navy-blue kiss-lock purse that's both cool and elegant at the same time.

Shop a right-now alternative:

Chanel Beaded Earrings

If you want to make an outfit better, just add dangly, statement earrings. It works every time, as proven at Chanel's S/S 26 show, where one model donned a pair of black, beaded chandelier earrings that I simply must purchase ASAP.

Shop a right-now alternative:

Carven Satin Pants

I try to buy Carven pieces whenever physically possible, especially if I'm in Paris and can shop them up close. The collections are just so wearable and refined, with a focus on tailoring, fabrics, and elegant beauty. The French house recently hired a new creative director, and his debut show proved that Trotter, the brand's former creative director, left it in good hands. My first buy for spring 2026? These luscious satin trousers.

Shop a right-now alternative:

Altuzarra Fur Skirt

This furry Altuzarra skirt is one of my favorite pieces from the entire season. It's such an unexpected and fresh-feeling design, and I just know I'd get so much wear out of it (which is good because I expect it to be quite the splurge purchase). For now, I'm thinking of investing in a pony-hair skirt to scratch the itch until this skirt arrives in stores.

Shop a right-now alternative:

Calvin Klein Scoop-Neck Blazer

I love a peekaboo bra moment, mostly because it feels so true to the female experience. Something's always a little out of place in a beautiful way because we're constantly doing too many things at once. With that said, I fell fast for this scoop-neck blazer that was styled at Calvin Klein with a white, sheer balconette bra so it showed on the top. So chic.

Shop a right-now alternative:

Chanel Shrunken Cap-Toe Shoes

And last, but not least, (shocker!) another pair of Chanel shoes that I'm counting down the days until I can buy. The shrunken toe cap on these is so Chanel but also unique and different for the house. I can't wait to be a part of Matthieu Blazy's interpretation of the brand.

Shop a right-now alternative:

The best place to look for trending flat-shoe styles? The runway, of course. After spending hours browsing the autumn/winter 2025 runway shows, I found 5 flat-shoe trends that strike the perfect balance between elevated, wearable, and classic enough to last in my winter capsule wardrobe for many years to come. And the best part? I found all of these shoe styles on both the designer and high-street markets, meaning you can incorporate these trends on any and every budget.

From elegant velvet fabrications for those with a minimalist fashion sense to playful maximalist trainer styles for the dopamine dressers, there’s something for everyone below. Keep scrolling to discover the five flat-shoe trends set to dominate winter 2025.

5 Winter Flat-Shoe Trends From I'll Be Wearing From Now Until 2026:

1. Snake Print

Style Notes: It should come as no surprise that animal print is trending yet again. After having a resurgence in the past few years, everything from leopard to cow print has been trending in the form of jackets, handbags, and shoes alike. For winter 2025 specifically, snake print is at the forefront of people’s minds. Different enough to make an outfit look intentional but neutral enough to slot easily into a toned-down palette, this might just be the first flat-shoe trend I buy into this season.

Shop the Trend:

2. Maximalist Trainers

Style Notes: I practically live in trainers year-round, but they can start to feel a little bit boring, especially when paired with my darker winter palette. The solution? I’ll be opting for bolder, maximalist styles like the iterations I spotted on the Off-White and Cecilie Bahnsen runway shows to elevate my otherwise minimal wardrobe.

Shop the Trend:

3. Lace-Up Boots

Style Notes: Every year, luxury designers manage to find subtle ways to tweak classic boot styles to make them feel fresh for the new season. Lace-up boots are not in any way a new trend; however, after the years of sleek Chelsea styles dominating the boots scene, I, for one, am happy about this edgier flat shoe style taking the forefront to make my winter outfits look just that little bit cooler.

Shop the Trend:

4. Velvet

Style Notes: I must admit, this shoe style will not be the most practical on those rainy winter days, but when the weather allows, a pair of velvet shoes will instantly add a touch of elegance to every look. Usually, this is a fabric that I’d only really consider for party season; however, after seeing luxe velvet shoes from the likes of Emporio Armani and Anteprima, I’ll be wearing this classy style way beyond December.

Shop the Trend:

5. Sporty Ballet Pumps

Style Notes: I love ballet flats in the warmer months, but when the temperature drops, I always turn to cosier flat shoes that will not only ensure my feet are warm but also keep hemlines off the wet ground on my commute to work. Luckily for me, the runways have decided that sporty ballet pumps are the style to opt for in winter 2025. With the comfort and practicality of a trainer along with the elegance of your typical ballet flat, I can see this shoe trend sticking around in my wardrobe for many years to come.

Shop the Trend:

Some of the buzziest looks incorporated bourgeois dressing, incorporating printed satin scarves, knits tied in various manners, and double-breasted jackets and coats. A sense of optimism and joy brought energetic prints, color, and '80s-style coats to the forefront. Intricate layering breathed new life into closet staples such as button-ups and preppy polos. The coat stood out as a central investment piece. Clashing colors turned the neutral, quiet luxury palette on its head. If you're looking to get a head start on directional dressing, ahead is an editor-approved shopping list of the pieces to add to your closet now—all under $400.

Take a styling note from Khaite and flip up the hem of a denim pencil skirt. Then, pair it with a polished jacket and kitten-heel pumps

Tap into the opening look at Chanel with a checked jacket and trousers. Affix a brooch to the jacket while you're at it.

Auralee always breathes a cool, modern spin into classic preppy looks. Add a punchy-colored polo underneath a car coat.

At Boss, we saw new spins on traditional sportswear. It all comes down to the palette and proportions.

Altuzarra brought a grown-up take on a leggings look to the runway. Cigarette pants make this outfit feel extra polished.

At Celine, Michael Rider is making a strong case for printed scarf details.

Add dimension to your look by adding a pastel knit tied around the shoulders as spotted on the Bottega Veneta runway.

From expensive aubergine to bitter chocolate, Yves Klein Blue to whipped cream and pumpkin-spiced latte, I've spotted seven key colour trends that pull from nature, art and yes, food. Good enough to eat, these shades will help break through the typical black and slate tones we associate with the colder months, so you can step out feeling and looking expensive and infinitely chic, all the way through to February. To get ahead of the curve and lighten up your life, read on for the key colour trends that A/W 25 has to offer, with a selection of key shopping pieces to help get you into the mood.

1. Lavender Haze

Style Notes: Powder pink dominated this summer, and so soft lavender feels like a natural progression as we move into the winter months. Miu Miu, Valentino, Gucci and Giambattista Valli toyed with this shade across flowing dresses and knitted separates, for a kitsch and nostalgic approach to styling. Not to be scoffed at, this hue pairs well with slate grey, and most surprisingly, mustard yellow. The sweet shade is spot-on for party season as a chic departure from black and dark tones.

SHOP THE TREND:

2. Scarlet Obsession

Style Notes: Pillar-box red always finds its place in winter wardrobes, adding a festive flair. I took note of the biggest designers using this tone for head-to-toe looks, namely McQueen, Balmain, Chanel and Blumarine. Burgundy will always be chic, but scarlet-hued pieces have a much more eye-catching appeal. Don't hold back—the brighter the red, the better. This shade of red makes for a great choice for eveningwear looks and festive ‘fits, as well as statement knitwear. Go bold and go red.

SHOP THE TREND:

3. Bitter Chocolate

Style Notes: Chocolate brown will always have a place in my heart. When worn in a full ensemble, this hue just has a knowingly expensive allure. This winter, go a touch darker to an almost black-brown shade, giving a bitter-chocolate feel. I saw this trend in full effect on the runways of Ferragamo, Burberry, Victoria Beckham and Chloé, and it hasn't left my mind since. Softer than true black, this is the shade elite dressers are already wearing now that the clocks have gone back.

SHOP THE TREND:

4. Whipped Cream

Style Notes: Butter yellow had us all drooling over the spring and summer months, but as we move into greyer days, I'm seeing this hue muted into more of a cream, nougat and milky palette, which is as delectable as it is wearable. Teaming well with black or bitter-chocolate leather accessories and boots, cream tones have waved a soft hand over knitwear, dresses, trousers and even jackets. Chloé, Sacai, Dior and Toteme were the flag-bearers of the trend, all showing how tactile and comfortable this shade looks when worn head to toe.

SHOP THE TREND:

5. Yves Klein Blue

Style Notes: If you're feeling blue in an artful way, reach for the classic Yves Klein shade this winter. I spotted Gabriela Hearst, Issey Miyake, Akris and Dries Van Noten (designers who often pull inspiration from the arts) utilising this shocking shade on their runways to full effect. If scarlet red isn’t your thing, Yves Klein Blue is likely more for you, and it’s a colour that will never go out of style—just ask anyone in the art world. To dip your paintbrush into this trend, try chunky knitwear, coats and accessories awash in the shade.

SHOP THE TREND:

6. Pumpkin Spice Latte

Style Notes: For something a bit more punchy and in tune with spooky season, pumpkin-spiced latte shades are a fun way to experiment with your look. Fendi, Miu Miu, Hermes and Coach gave this tonal palette a go, with clothing and accessories in true pumpkin orange, burnished brown, rich ochre, cinnamon and nutmeg, drawing inspiration from both nature and your favourite seasonal hot drinks. These tones are so easy to mix with dark brown, burgundy and mustard yellows. Mine's a full-fat with extra foam, please!

SHOP THE TREND:

7. Expensive Aubergine

Style Notes: Another foodie trend has swept over winter fashion, and this time it comes in the form of aubergine. This shade is a rich, earthy purple, and I’ve already spotted it doing the rounds on looks sported by Instagram's best dressers. It started on the runways, predominantly at The Attico, Alaïa, Christopher Esber and Chloé. Not burgundy and not chocolate-brown (but it does certainly pair well with them), this deep and expensive-looking shade of purple gives a rich, regal appeal and looks great on leather outerwear, trousers, dresses and skirts alike. A once maligned colour, purple is undergoing a rebrand—this is how to do it now.

SHOP THE TREND:

By the end of each runway season, I'm usually brimming with styling ideas and an ever-growing wish list of designer items. But after the spring/summer 2026 shows, one, in particular, seemed to occupy most of the space in my sartorial brain. In the span of 76 looks, Louise Trotter's debut collection for Bottega Veneta has completely impacted the way I want to get dressed, both immediately for the remainder of 2025 and in the season ahead, when I will finally be able to shop her S/S 26 creations.

Ahead, discover some of my takeaways from the show, including the spring color trends I can't wait to wear and how I plan to style them with pieces in my own closet.

WHITE ON WHITE

Ever since Michael Rider’s debut at Celine, I’ve been craving a soft white shoe to pair with everything, and this Bottega collection just intensified that need. (In fact, I bought these Phoebe Philo flats immediately after the show.) Another intense desire that solidified was for more texture, particularly white-on-white or monochrome textural layering. Craft has been a strong theme among luxury houses in the return of maximalism (or more so “simple with impact,” as Phoebe Philo’s viral quote so eloquently put it). I think there has been a collective boredom with quiet luxury and “elevated essentials,” but many of us are not ready to be full-blown maximalists just yet. Texture feels like a natural step in that direction—slowly turning up the volume on our dressing (both literally and figuratively). I love how Trotter paired summery poplins with feathers usually reserved for holidays and how heavy, textural knits were balanced with simple, lightweight trousers. I picked up these Colleen Allen cotton pants that I’ll wear with chunky knits and perhaps this Dries clutch. I also scored this ruffled McQueen top to pair back to simple ivory trousers.

NAVY EVERYTHING

I’m resisting the urge to declare “navy is the new brown” (because brown will obviously still be around and actually looks great as a companion to navy, as evident in several of Bottega Veneta's S/S 26 looks), but there’s no denying that navy was the star of the show. Once again, the textural layering of navy on navy made one of the strongest arguments for how we should be dressing next season. What particularly pushed me to start an immediate shopping search, though, were the navy bags. I don’t know that I’ve ever considered a navy bag, but now I need one desperately. This Liffner clutch and Loewe bag are currently holding top spots on my wish list.

GRAY AS THE ULTIMATE NEUTRAL

We’ve seen gray on the runway countless times, but there’s something about how Trotter presented it—playing with pops of yellow, beige, and camel—that made it feel so fresh and desirable. It’s also a very specific, cool-tone gray. The coolness paired with these warmer neutrals is what really sang for me. I plan to re-create this immediately with pieces I already own, and I have my eyes on that same Dries clutch in gray or this Khaite bag to help get the job done.

PINK + MAUVE + BURGUNDY

When this mauve suit walked down the runway, punctuated with that gorgeous pink pony-hair clutch I never knew I needed, I literally gasped. The pale-blue button-down peeking out from underneath was just icing on the cake. I had already been on a hunt for more burgundy this fall, but now mauve and pink have entered the chat to play alongside. I just might invite pale blue to make a guest appearance as well.

POPS OF GREEN AND YELLOW

On the same note of color inspo, Trotter’s use of green and yellow throughout the show should be taught in color theory courses. She used both shades like they were neutrals, and now I want to do the same. I will be pulling out my trusty butter-yellow Jil Sander sweater, which I usually reserve for spring, to pair with more neutral wintry looks. I’m also already on the hunt for a bag in the perfect shade of green. These yellow pumps from Bernadette are also calling my name (as are the gray).

We spotted the new It colour all across the spring/summer 2026 collections at brands such as Tory Burch, Loewe, Saint Laurent, and Victoria Beckham, the latter of which showed a runway positively drenched in deep blue. For their debut Loewe collection, creative directors Jack McCullough and Lazaro Hernandez doused several looks with deep cobalt blue while Simone Bellotti likewise showed it for his Jil Sander debut. The shade was central to both the runway looks and new branding for the fashion houses and it marks a step towards an overall new chapter of vibrant technicolour that has been defining autumn 2025 and spring 2026 fashion at large. Of all that vivid colour, though, it seems Capri blue is the first official "It" hue to stand on its own. Here, discover how designers interpreted the colour and shop our buy-worthy blue picks.

We always come away from the Tory Burch show with a trove of new styling ideas, and this season was a very specific colour combination—a bright blue funnel-neck coat paired with chocolate brown trousers. If you're a smart shopper, you'll be taking notes on how good this shade of cerulean looks with the trending brown hue.

This Ashlyn look was shared on social media by all the fashion editors who attended the show—always the sign of a fan favourite—and its ruffled drop waist and vivid blue colour immediately reminded me of a retro figure skating dress that Tonya Harding might have worn but, of course, far chicer.

At Loewe, sleek pieces like a straight-cut leather jacket and leather mini dress were given the Amalfi Coast blue treatment.

If you've seen Dakota Johnson's dress in The Materialists, you know what I'm talking about when I say that everyone needs a slinky satin blue dress in their closets. Fforme was two steps ahead when they designed this maxi number with a perfectly languid shape.

This '80s trench coat moment at Saint Laurent proves just how much the colour styles itself—little to no effort needed here.

At Jil Sander, designer Simone Bellotti introduced rich deep-blue cobalt into the wardrobes of even the staunchest minimalists. The color appeared in hourglass coats and sculptural, almost futuristic dresses whose silhouette and tone spoke for themselves.

Sporty windbreakers are one of the key pieces in fashion people's wardrobes right now and Victoria Beckham is already cluing us into their 2026 evolution with this saturated cobalt style she showed on her runway.

Valentino's blue veered more oceanic and arrived into soft, fluid shapes like this stunning draped silk dress.

Coloured denim is one trend we haven't seen bubble up in quite some time, so when Versace put a vivid blue pair in their spring 2026 collection, it had our full attention. The jeans were an '80s-inspired "mom" fit and they accompanied several other cobalt-blue looks that highlighted the colour in both denim, loose trousers, "dad" jackets that all possessed the retro appeal.

Conversations throughout fashion month centered on the wave of change that is thrusting us into the future of fashion. It was a season about newness and challenging old ideas as designers presented collections that were doing something fresh and different. It was a palpable shift that ushered in shows that were cinematic, disruptive, bold, and optimistic. Sex appeal returned to the runway with seductive and provocative looks, off-kilter silhouettes reimagined femininity in fashion, and inventive styling including bold color clashing and advanced layering will influence editorial moments, red carpet looks, and how the fashion set is getting dressed. It was arguably the biggest fashion month ever, marking an unprecedented moment that will undoubtedly begin a new chapter in fashion. Ahead, read more on the 10 spring 2026 trends that are set to dominate fashion.

The Great Debut

Debuts! Debuts! Debuts! There was an undeniable sense of newness on the runways that stemmed from the fresh creative leadership. At Chanel, Blazy took this head-on. "We can go two ways," Blazy told Tim Blanks in an interview for Business of Fashion. "Either we do a clean, modern, by the codes, by the book Chanel show, and it's a first step. Or we do this show as if it was our last. I took the last option." The collection he unveiled was confident and new, including the finale look that embodied the joy and renewed energy we’ve been eager to see unfold. Though it infused the heritage and house codes from Coco Chanel, it was distinctly Blazy. This was mirrored at other debut shows too, including Anderson at Dior, Vitale at Versace, Trotter at Bottega Veneta, Pierpaolo Piccioli at Balenciaga, and Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez at Loewe, who each brought their distinct visions to the runways.

Sexually Explicit

If there were one collection from the entirety of the spring 2026 runway season that proved without a shadow of a doubt that sex is back in fashion, it was Hermès, a brand known to many for its more modest, sophisticated approach to dressing. The French house strayed from the norm this season, though, with Creative Director Nadège Vanhée embracing tighter and more revealing silhouettes made almost exclusively out of supple leather. Hermès wasn't the only brand to err on the risqué side this season, though. Mugler's new creative director, Miguel Castro Freitas, used his debut as a chance to do what the house has always done best: explicitly seductive tailoring. Meanwhile, Haider Ackermann's second Tom Ford collection brought back the provocative look the brand's founder is known for introducing at Gucci when he took the helm in 1994. From the ambiance to the clothes, everything at Ackermann's sophomore show was both daring and sensual, bringing sexy back in a way that fashion people were all too willing to give a blatant two thumbs up for.

Gone Bourgeois

A bourgeois aesthetic has been percolating in fashion. Rider kicked the aesthetic off for spring 2026 at his debut Celine collection in July and doubled down on it for his summer 2026 sophomore show. Rider is distilling Left Bank Parisian style and American sportswear through a modern eye, making classic pieces like satin scarves, tailored trench coats, and colorful accessories feel cool and covetable once again. Rider has stated that his vision for Celine is built on "quality, for timelessness and for style," and his designs emphasize well-crafted, collectible pieces that are meant to last and be worn for the long run over ephemeral trends. This attitude toward design was mirrored on the runways at more brands with a vision of the modern investment wardrobe. At Bottega Veneta, sumptuous pastel knits were styled with suiting. At Kallmeyer, printed satin scarves were draped over sleek navy jackets. At Tom Ford and Ralph Lauren, crisp white suiting interplayed with shirting and tied-up knits. It's peak good taste.

Optimism! Joy! Delight!

With so much happening in the world around us, our phones constantly buzzing with alerts about another piece of bad news, it felt like a welcome reprieve to see fashion that felt optimistic and full of joy for once, instead of muted and minimalist. It wasn't just bright colors, either. Though, those certainly did show up at Tom Ford, Jacquemus, and Chloé. Better, however, was the overall fresh energy, with floral patterns big and small mimicking the start of a new season for top houses like Chanel, Bottega Veneta, and Balenciaga. This feeling of delight was perhaps best seen at Blazy's Chanel debut, when he stepped out from behind the metaphorical curtain to receive his standing ovation from the awed crowd, as well as an ear-to-ear smile and hug from his first Chanel bride, played beautifully by Awar Odhiang, who donned a skirt covered in a feathery melange that met the moment immaculately.

Advanced Layering

While designers are presenting silhouettes and ideas that are entirely new this season, they’re also challenging us to rethink how we’re wearing the clothes that are already sitting in our closets. Inventive styling on the runways brought the most dialed-back staples such as button-down shirts, pencil skirts, and gloves together in fresh ways that breathe new life into them with layering. At Loewe, poplin shirts were worn one on top of the other in too many layers to count. At Prada, button-down shirts, sheer skirts, exposed underwear, and stackers were sandwiched together. At Versace, cardigans were tied around the waist, fanning open from where a single button was secured at the top. This will shake up personal style and open up an aspirational way to dress with advanced layering.

About the Coat

The best part about winter dressing is that, if in possession of a really great (preferably, really long) coat, you can basically wear anything underneath with nobody the wiser about its quality. Sweatsuit? No problem. Leggings and an oversize sweater? No one has to know. It's every fashion person's trick, one that's been in practice for years, but rarely do we see it put to use post-March. Once spring hits, our coats go into storage and out come lighter layers, and eventually, no layers at all. For spring 2026, however, designers clearly wanted to change that, debuting hero coats with the power to become your entire outfit, even when temperatures are above freezing. At Tom Ford, apple green and sleek burgundy trenches did all the work of a whole ensemble entirely on their own, while Saint Laurent models strutted outside the Eiffel Tower in sporty yet sleek trench coats made of billowy bylon that spoke for themselves. (Just add some ludicrously capacious earrings and an even larger pair of sunglasses.) For a more laid-back approach, Fforme, Celine, and Bottega Veneta all served up options that gave a more elevated yet effortless look, all of which completely hide your outfit underneath.

'80s Rewind

It seems like the rest of fashion is finally picking up what Anthony Vaccarello's been putting down at Saint Laurent for the last few seasons, which is 1980s-inspired, well, everything. Think big shoulders, small waists, pussy bows, and punchy colors and patterns, ranging from loud florals to more refined polka dots. The French house leaned into the era even further for spring 2026, with Vaccarello pulling from Rive Gauche archives, combining flowing fabrics and bold colors to dress "enigmatic women asserting their power," according to the show notes. Chemena Kamali and Dario Vitale took a brighter, more optimistic approach to '80s dressing, with Kamali shifting from Chloé's signature '70s boho to '80s L.A. glam and Vitale marking his debut at Versace with a crowd-pleasing collection full of looks we can imagine a modern-day Fran Drescher wearing if she reprised her role in The Nanny all these years later.

Color Clash

Color was a through line this season, often appearing with the use of joyful, optimistic shades such. There wasn't one standout color but rather a rainbow of contrasting hues that were paired together in unexpected ways. Versace had a bourgeois '80s meets '90s Miami Beach palette that brought together colors such as lilac, cherry red, and cobalt all in one look. Other looks in the Versace collection had just as wild color pairings that shouldn't work on paper but simply made sense when brought together in the outfits on the runway. This theme continued across fashion month, including at brands such as Loewe, Fendi, Prada, and Proenza Schouler, where clashing shades infused color back into the runway in a way we haven't seen in many seasons. In collections such as Valentino and Tory Burch, we also saw the addition of punchy hues in a subtler way. We tracked the rise of powerful color pairing throughout the season and expect it to make one of the biggest impacts on how people will be getting dressed in 2026.

Off-Kilter

After years of ready-to-wear collections being described as pretty or wearable or hushed, spring 2026 brought up a very different conversation. For the season, designers at Tory Burch, Prada, Khaite, and Dior appeared to be driven by the "so wrong it's right" mentality, drawing inspiration from imperfection and visual oddities as opposed to what's traditionally been considered beautiful by society. In Prada's show notes, Co-Creative Directors Raf Simons and Miuccia Prada discussed their use of "unexpected and unanticipated" elements being united on the body. They focused on liberating pieces from "seemingly inherent hierarchies," using spring 2026 as an opportunity to make people think twice about how things have always been done. "There are radical reconsiderations of the fundamental properties of clothes—skirts find their points of suspension from the shoulder, brassières have shape without structure," the show notes state. Frankenstein skirts, or garments crafted out of various opposing fabrics and cuts, became a primary example of the off-kilter nature of fashion in future seasons. At Tory Burch, the designer shared another comparable vision, noting "the complexity of women and different facets of their style," and how both result in a mix of "precision and imperfection." Clashing styles and juxtaposed aesthetics on the runway went to show how fashion is changing its approach, moving away from what women are expected to wear and toward what feels the most natural to them, which isn't always clean lines, refined styling, and muted color palettes.

A+ Prep

Preppy dressing is back. Auralee has been linked with the preppy style resurgence for the past several seasons. Its take on pieces such as polos and cable-knit sweaters is bringing a refined and modern perspective on the classic styles. At Miu Miu, collared polo shirts in shades like tangerine were styled with midi skirts and printed scarves. At Loewe, polo shirts were also prevalent, often paired with V-neck sweaters on top in contrasting colors. Tory Burch, a brand closely connected to prep and American sportswear, brought elegant and sophisticated spin on the aesthetic. The collection was infused with inventive styling, including sports jackets with pops of bold color and layers of beaded necklaces. Perhaps the most unexpected brand to highlight the aesthetic was Prada, which featured crest-detailed polo jackets in shades such as Kelly green that are primed to be a cult buy next year. It's a new lens on prep that is bringing preppy dressing back for 2026.