For winter 2026, there are a variety of trends that are super easy to pull off. One of my current go-tos is a great pair of cool kitten-heel boots. The style is pretty much a classic at this point. Plus, they can be worn with everything from dresses to denim. Another favorite pick right now is bootcut jeans. There is an array of options for this denim style that easily fit into any fashion aesthetic. Keep scrolling to check out five wearable trends I recommend you try now.

1. V-Neck Sweaters

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2. Bootcut Jeans

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3. Kitten-Heel Boots

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4. Scarf Coats

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5. V-Cut Flats

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Ahead, you will find a selection of standout V-cut flats at a variety of price points in colours ranging from black to brown in both leather and suede. I also included four stellar outfit ideas to show you how to wear your favourite pair. Keep scrolling to shop V-cut flats that will make a tremendous impact on your wardrobe this season and beyond.

How to Wear V-Cut Flats

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Below, you'll find everything from the leather jacket and basic trends to prioritize this year to the shoe brand all the cool in-the-know girls are losing it over. Keep scrolling to see who's wearing what and shop some of 2026's first wardrobe-improving It items.

Satin Button-Down Shirts

Given that satin everything (skirts, shorts, shoes) have taken their turns being It items as of late, it should come as no surprise that satin button-down shirts are up next. They're suddenly popping up everywhere, and if Elsa Hosk is on board, I'm on board.

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Logo-less The Row Bags

I suppose it's a bit redundant to refer to a logo-less The Row bag, since they are either devoid of logos or have very subtle ones, but it's noteworthy nonetheless. It girls love The Row bags now more than ever, and the latest style seen here, the Peggy Clutch, is quickly becoming the style to buy in 2026.

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Cinch-Waist Leather Jackets

While leather bomber jackets aren't going anywhere, cinch-waist leather jackets have officially become the leather jacket style to shop for in 2026. It's impossible to not look like a cool fashion person in one of these flattering toppers.

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Jude Heels

Jude is the new cool-girl shoe brand, with fans that include Dua Lipa, Vittoria Ceretti, Pia Mance (seen here) and many more. The sculptural shoes are forward yet timeless, and the fact that they're always flying out of stock should come as no surprise.

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Gray Socks

White socks are boring and red socks had their moment, but the new It-girl sock color for 2026 is gray. It goes with everything and feels a bit unexpected—in a good way. Emili Sindlev's Miu Miu pair sent me shopping for gray socks in an instant.

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Bucket Hats

The bucket hat trend comes and goes, but this season, they're very much "in"—but in the form of wool cloche-style bucket hats. It'll be interesting to see if the trend transitions into spring, but I have a feeling it will, if this Alexa Chung photo is any indication.

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Half-Zip Pullovers

The first major basic trend of 2026 is undoubtedly the half-zip pullover. The slightly sporty, slightly preppy piece comes in many forms—from cozy knits to more casual fleece iterations.

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Burberry Bikinis

Last but not least, a little something for warm weather to come. It girls like Alexa Chung are wearing elegant Burberry bikinis on their beachy mid-winter vacations. I predict they'll be wiped out by the time spring break arrives, so I suggest ordering one now.

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Taking your favorite hat trends, like the pillbox hat and newsboy cap, and flocking them in a fluffy finish, the faux-fur trend has revitalized a key part of winter fashion. Providing warmth, the hat is no longer just a functional garment. It is a fashion statement.

Spotted in Paris and Copenhagen, the faux-fur hat trend has reached global recognition. Embrace the maximalist nature of the faux-fur hat—like French fashion person MV Tiangue, who wore a plaid skirt, a chore coat, long leather gloves, and a faux-fur crown. Alternatively, Mary L. Jean took a minimalist approach, pairing the pillbox hat with an oversize belted coat and a leather shoulder bag. Both outfits feature the fluffy addition as the finishing touch. If you're looking to level up your outfits in 2026, I highly suggest adding the faux-fur hat trend to your rotation.

If you'd like to try the faux-fur hat trend, scroll on to shop chic luxury finds from Nour Hammour and Toteme, plus affordable faux-fur finds from Zara, Madewell, and Revolve.

Shop the Best of the Faux-Fur Hat Trend 2026

7 Colour Trends London Fashion People Are Backing in Spring 2026

1. Chartreuse

Style Notes: Chartreuse is the colour trend that I don’t think was on any fashion person’s bingo cards for spring 2026. However, it’s much more wearable than you think. Very akin to the BRAT green that dominated the summer of 2024, I like to think of chartreuse as the sophisticated older sister of the green/yellow hybrid family. It brings an undeniable touch of optimism and playfulness to an outfit, which is precisely the kind of energy I want to invoke in the next season.

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2. Espresso

Style Notes: Deep espresso brown is not a new trend by any means, but that doesn’t mean that this expensive-looking colour will be any less popular in 2026. From supple suede jackets to sleek leather accessories, this hue is stylish, timeless, and a fail-proof way to look put together.

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3. Fiery Red

Style Notes: Deeper burgundy hues dominated the winter season, so to make the colour feel fresh for 2026, London fashion people are turning back to brighter, fiery red shades that are sure to draw eyes and earn loads of compliments. Not to mention that this hue will pair seamlessly with both neutrals and bold clothing alike.

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4. Lilac

Style Notes: If you're not into bright colours, you’ll be pleased to know that elegant lilac hues are set to be just as popular as rich royal purples this spring. Adjacent to the powdery pinks that we saw take off last spring/summer, this pretty shade lends itself particularly well to warm-weather dressing.

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5. Pale Yellow

Style Notes: Pale, buttery yellow has been trending for a few years now, but it feels no less fresh for 2026. A warmer alternative to white, this shade will pair just as well with black, chocolate brown, or even bolder hues and patterns. Me personally? I’ll be using it to brighten up my black tailored trousers for the office.

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6. Cloud Dancer

Style Notes: White is timeless, and after Pantone announced ‘Cloud Dancer' as their colour of 2026, it should come as no surprise that this frosty hue is set to dominate the streets of London this spring. A colour that will add an instant level of coolness (pardon the pun) to your look, I’ve spotted the UK’s chicest dressers going head-to-toe in this classic shade.

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7. Ice Blue

Style Notes: Pastels are synonymous with the spring season, and for 2026 specifically, it’s pale blue that is set to dominate. Not only does it pair well with neutrals and bright shades alike, but you’ll be grateful for this pretty colour trend when wedding-guest season arrives.

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One look inside my closet will no doubt have you questioning why I could ever possibly need another pair of shoes, but wait! I own brown boots, black boots, burgundy boots, and grey boots, all of which I do love. (Why else would I waste precious New York City real estate housing them?) What I don't have in my possession are tan boots, which I personally believe are chicer than all of the above. Specifically, I either want The Row's Liv Boots that appear to be sold out everywhere—I'll hunt them down, don't worry—or a vintage pair of leather Chanel stiletto boots with a fitted calf and pointed toe.

While I go about my days thinking endlessly about these two things, I don't expect anyone else to follow suit. That's why I went ahead and rounded up the best tan boots on the market in 2026, from lighter suede pairs to darker leather alts, all of which feel elevated, elegant, and different from the shoes everyone else is wearing. Plus, they're just as versatile and easy to style as all the other neutral-coloured boot options, except that tan boots have a Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy vibe to them, which makes them that much more desirable.

Ahead, see how fashion people are styling tan boots in 2026 and shop the year's top pairs.

How to Style Tan Boots

Style Notes: The easiest way to style tan boots? Follow TikTok's sandwich rule and wear them with a matching tan faux-fur jacket and a pair of black jeans and a handbag.

Style Notes: This leather jacket and tan boots outfit is effortlessly chic.

Style Notes: Tan suede + tan boots = a match made in heaven.

Style Notes: Tan boots pair so well with darker neutrals like black or chocolate brown. Use them to brighten up an all-black outfit as shown above.

Style Notes: Lighter tans are perfect for spring. Wear them with matching jeans, a white tee and a striped button-up to freshen up this classic look.

Style Notes: There's something about tan boots that feel inherently western. Fully embrace the look with a suede fringe jacket and patterned scarf.

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The Outfit Formula

Long Coat + Relaxed Jeans or Pants + Adidas Sneakers

3 Chic Ways to Pull It Off

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More Key Outfit Pieces to Shop Now

Living in the Big Apple doesn’t just mean having impeccable taste, though; it makes you predisposed to reaching for comfortable footwear—because you can only scale so many subway stairs in soaring stilettos. The solution? Chic sneakers that never sacrifice looks for practicality. And one scan around the city is all you need to spot the three 2026 sneaker trends bubbling to the top of the fashion scene.

Take some NYC style notes and steal the fashion girls’ favorite kicks this season. Ahead, you’ll find popular tennis shoes from Prada, Adidas, Miu Miu, and more, ranging from investment pieces to affordable versions. They’re so polished and easy you’ll never want to take them off.

Satin Sneakers

Feminine, delicate, and utterly dreamy, satin sneakers are having a moment. They’re the ultimate flirty pick-me-up, sweetening everything from denim and sporty dresses to winter jackets.

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Slim and Lightweight Sneakers

I'm not saying chunky dad sneakers are out, but barley there kicks are taking center stage. Suede and leather add an instant cool factor, while their low profiles make them effortlessly wearable with just about anything.

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Primary-Color Sneakers

Capsule wardrobes will always be chic, but sometimes you just need a little pop of color. Vibrant cherry reds and lemony yellows liven up an ensemble, making it look both intentional and fashion forward.

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As a minimalist dresser, I have to admit, wearing colour doesn't come naturally to me. I usually lean towards muted hues and neutral tones as opposed to dopamine-inducing brights. That said, one goal I’ve set for myself this year is to introduce more pops of colour into my wardrobe—while still staying true to my personal style.

With this in mind, I’ve done some research and headed to the Instagram pages of my favourite European influencersfor inspiration, looking closely at the colour trends they’re embracing for spring. Neutrals, unsurprisingly, continue to play a key role thanks to their timeless appeal and versatility. But much like last spring, butter yellow is set to make a comeback, and I’m pleased to report that chocolate brown isn’t going anywhere either, along with some other colour trends that the chicest Europeans are already backing.

So, without further ado, scroll on for the five colour trends European women will be wearing throughout spring 2026 and beyond.

5 European Colour Trends for Spring 2026:

1. Chocolate Brown

Style Notes: Chocolate brown was arguably the colour of last year and I’m thrilled that it’s here to stay. It’s such a versatile colour that works so well no matter the season. It’s rich, deep tone gives a much softer finish than black, and can be easily styled with an array of different colours, or likewise an all chocolate brown outfit to make an impact.

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2. Butter Yellow

Style Notes: Butter yellow was a huge trend in 2025, and its back for 2026. It’s soft, pastel like hue allows you to consider it as a neutral when it comes to styling – I love it paired with deeper tones like chocolate brown or grey for a chic contrast. Spring and butter yellow go hand-in-hand for a fresh finish.

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3. White

Style Notes: There’s just something inherently sleek about white – it gives such a clean, polished finish to any look. I love how Hanna has paired hers with black for a chic monochromatic look, whereas white is one of those colours that works flawlessly with any colour.

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4. Olive Green

Style Notes: There’s just something about olive green that scratches something in my brain. I’m not usually a huge fan of green in general, but olive green is that anomaly that just gives such a sleek edge to an outfit without being too much. I’m absolutely going to recreate Julie’s look as soon as the temperature warms up.

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5. Grey

Style Notes: Grey is such a classic colour to have in any wardrobe and is one of those that, no matter the shade, looks so timeless and chic. Whether it's paired with other neutrals, or instead brighter hues like red, burgundy or green, it contrasts so well and gives an elevated finish to any look.

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The key to styling a cream coat this year is leaning into contrast without overcomplicating things. Think rich black layers underneath, deep chocolate browns, or muted charcoal tones that ground the lightness of the coat. Texture matters here: Smooth leather, chunky knits, and crisp tailoring all work to give the look depth. The result is an outfit that feels styled, not styled at—effortless but unmistakably chic.

What ultimately makes the cream coat so powerful this season is its versatility. It works just as well with polished, minimal looks as it does with relaxed, everyday outfits, instantly upgrading both. In a year where personal style is about refinement rather than reinvention, this is the outerwear piece that quietly does the most. If an outfit looks better the moment you put it on, chances are it’s because of the coat.

See our favorite cream coat outfits for 2026 below.

Get the look: Cream coat + Fringe scarf belt + Midi dress + Leather gloves + Flats

Get the look: Cream coat + White T-shirt + Jeans + Sneakers

Get the look: Cream coat + Turtleneck + Leather skirt + Pillbox hat + Boots

Get the look: Cream coat + Loose white T-shirt + Light-black jeans + Leather belt + Gold jewelry

Get the look: Cream wrap coat + Cream jeans + Thin turtleneck + Heels

Get the look: Cream coat + Black turtleneck sweater + Trousers + Leather loafers

Get the look: Cream coat + Cream hooded scarf + Jeans + Ballet flats

Get the look: Cream coat + Chunky cream turtleneck + Cream jeans + Ballet flats

Get the look: Cream coat + Turtleneck + Jeans + Pointed-toe ankle boots

Get the look: Cream coat + Chunky cream turtleneck + Lace skirt + Heels

Lucky for you, I'm not a gatekeeper, so have gathered a list of the names you need to know this year. From fashion editor favourite luxury brands, shoes fit for the very best-dressed First Lady or knitwear and jewellery in team Who What Wear's saved folders, these are our definitive cult designer brands to know in 2026.

10 Cult Designer Brands to Know In 2026

1. Tolu Coker

A rising star on the London Fashion Week schedule, Tolu Coker has been on the radar of fashion editors and buyers for a few seasons. Before relaunching her namesake brand in 2021, the British-Nigerian Central Saint Matins graduate had a few stints at J.W. Anderson, Maison Marigela and Celine. Since the relaunch, Coker put her energy into creating tight capsule collections with sustainable focus, using mainly deadstock fabrics and creating often unisex pieces, which have been worn by the likes of Rihanna, Tyla and Little Simz. Expect contemporary silhouettes made with traditional techniques like loom weaving and hand-embroidery that create pieces that are wearable but wonderfully unexpected and unique.

2. Miista

Founded in 2011, Miista is hardly an emerging brand, but cult? Oh yes. Worn by London and New York's chicest, case in point: the First Lady of New York, Rama Duwajian, wore the brand's lace-up Shelley boots for her husband's ‘swearing in’ ceremony as the Mayor of New York. Be it lace-up ‘witchy boots,’ mules with a harsh square-toes or sandals that your mum would probably describe as ‘ugly,’ founder Laura Villaseñin and her team create shoes and a small curated collection of clothing just one step ahead of the curve, for people who want something just a bit…Different. If you don’t already know Miista, get to know it now.

3. Gohar World

2026 is the year of the hostess, with many embracing their home as the ultimate destination for dinner parties, drinks and other social gatherings. As such, curating our home and having objects of desire has become just as important as curating a wardrobe. No brand has been photographed, admired and moved straight onto my Net-a-Porter wish list as quick as Gohar World. The New York brand offering the most aesthetic items for your kitchen, dining room and dressing table, Gohar World takes the most every day staple items and makes them works of art. Think silver swan lemon squeezers, mother-of-pearl dessert spoons and shell jewellery and napkin rings, it’s my immediate go-to when looking for birthday or wedding gifts (or, let’s be honest, a special treat for myself). If you’re that girl that spends half your life saving swan-adorned cakes, crochet lace doilies and pearl jewellery to your moodboards, there’s no doubt you’ll be a Gohar girl.

4. Conner Ives

Another Central Saint Martins graduate but this time by way of New York, Conner Ives has been dressing fashion’s It girls for years. His eponymous label offers a mix of sportswear-inspired casual as well as sultry elevated pieces which, to me, feel inspired by summer wardrobes in the early ‘00s. Mirrored details on skirts and shell sash-belts on capri pants and spandex dresses have become a signature that you’re likely to see on repeat when scrolling the Instagram feeds of London’s best dressed women. With a very good Jimmy Choo collaboration under his shell-adorned belt, as well as being the 2025 BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund winner, this is a designer that is only going to get bigger as seasons pass.

5. Soft Goat

When it comes to cashmere, few brands compare to Soft Goat. Founded in Sweden in 2011 by Stephanie Bergström and Erik Magnuson, the brand designs not only sumptuously soft knits, but elevated essentials that you would have for years. Sustainably made with OEKO-TEX® certified yarns with a big focus on ethical, long-lasting production, this is a brand that takes quality production to the next step. But this isn’t even the best part. The product is simply exquisite. Even the most staple pieces like v-neck jumpers or high neck tank tops possess the simplest elevations and details that make them feel anything but basic.

6. Verafied

Lately, all I can think about is refined slender handbags. That soft, smooth leather, a top handle or shoulder strap with a rectangular east to west shape, it’s a simple silhouette that evokes a 1950’s ‘Lady’ bag. Whilst many designers are taking note, there’s one New York brand that I think does it better than them all: Verafied. You have probably seen its bags without even realising. Every well-dressed woman on my Instagram seems to be carrying the Vera style, which is named after the brand’s founder: none other than Vera Wang. Whilst Wang herself is one of the most celebrated designers of her time, her handbag brand is, I would argue, still slightly under the radar. Elevated and oh-so elegant, its accessories are a minimalist’s dream. What’s more, is that they’re very reasonably priced, with smaller bags starting at around £130 and going up to £400, what’s not to love?

7. Vaquera

Subversive ready-to-wear label Vaquera was founded in New York in 2013 by duo Patric DiCaprio and Bryn Tabbensee. Standing against traditional luxury fashion, Vaquera’s aesthetic and philosophy is punk to the core, and as such, attracts a cult fashion following. Worn by the likes of Julia Fox and Rihanna, you have likely seen its iconic lingerie-print t-shirts, ‘80s-inspired voluminous leather separates and ironic-slogan adorned pieces before. Having collaborated with Converse on a pair of oversized All Star trainers (or maybe we should call them boots?), as well as Comme des Garçons on a fragrance, something tells me 2026 will bring even bigger things. Watch this space.

8. Front Row Shop

Leaning slightly more on the affordable side, Front Row Shop is the contemporary womenswear label offering cool girls a capsule wardrobe that feels anything but boring. Slouchy tailoring, funnel neck trench coats and shearling accessories, these are pieces you’d wear to work, but still feel sexy whilst in them. If you're looking for chic classic pieces with a twist, Front Row Shop is for you.

9. Lili Curia

London-based Lili Curia is the newest brand on my list to hit the scene. Founded in 2025, its slogan is “for women who lead, not follow,” and the designs speak to exactly this. Inspired by designs from different eras and celebrating the ‘whimsy and the theatre of everyday life,’ the first collections have delivered footwear with a mix of moods. Think knee-high lace up boots in leather or rococo floral prints, round-toe icy blue heels as well as bow-adorned loafers, sporty kitten heels and embroidered sneakerinas. If you’re a lover and collector of unique shoes, get ready to be a fan.

10. Talia Byre

Talia Byre is the London-based designer making pieces people actually want to live in. Designed with intention, quality and craftsmanship, she brings refinement to everyday styles, by fusing block colours with unexpected prints and sporty fabrics and details. Loved by London fashion editors after only five years since the brand’s conception, Talia Byre is a name you’re about to hear a lot more.

5 Colours Our Editors Feel Are Outdated in 2026 and 5 They'll Be Wearing Instead

1. Pausing: Charcoal Grey, Wearing: Rich Teal

Style Notes: "I’ve always turned to charcoal grey as a lighter alt to black; however, I have to be honest and say that the shade is starting to feel just as “samey”. Of course, the colour is timeless, and I’ll never get rid of my grey items. But for 2026, I’ll be adding in rich teals that can pair just as well with my neutrals, yet feel just that little bit fresher for the new year. Sitting somewhere between dark grey, navy, and emerald green, this “neutral-plus” hue is flattering, sophisticated, and, most importantly, easy to style." — Brittany Davy, editorial assistant.

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2. Pausing: White, Wearing: Icy Blue

Style Notes: “Let’s be honest, white will never go out of style. But me personally? I’m getting tired of only having neutral hues to choose from. Icy blue is sure to brighten up my outfits, and can also easily take the place of the white, cream, and ecru that I typically opt for. Not only does it look extremely expensive, but you’ll also be grateful for this pretty colour trend when wedding-guest season arrives.” — Rebecca Rhys-Evans, acting deputy editor.

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3. Pausing: Lime Green, Wearing: Chartreuse

Style Notes: "I was all about BRAT green in the summer of 2024, but with a new goal to add a touch of sophistication to my outfits, I’m turning to its older sister, chartreuse. It’s a controversial one for sure, but I just can’t stop picturing wearing a satin slip and heels in this bold colour when summer finally arrives. To me, it’s optimistic and fun—exactly the energy I want to bring with me into the new year.” — Sophie Robyn Watson, acting fashion editor.

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4 Pausing: Pale Pink, Wearing: Royal Purple

Style Notes:“I lived in baby pink hues last year, but for 2026, I’m craving something bolder. And it’s not the bright Barbie pinks you might initially be thinking of. After spotting royal purple on the likes of Zoe Kravitz and Jennifer Lawrence, I’m ready to fully embrace this shade in my wardrobe. It’s unexpected, yes. But I also think it’s a versatile shade that will pair well with black, cream and khaki alike.” — Natalie Munroe, news writer.

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5. Pausing: Butter Yellow, Wearing: Canary Yellow

Style Notes: "Butter yellow has been trending for so many years now that it’s practically become a neutral in the wardrobes of fashion people. Instead, I’ll be looking to brighter, dopamine-boosting canary yellows that feel fresh for 2026. Not only will the shade pair well with my indigo denim, but I can also picture myself wearing this playful hue with other rich colours such as plum or chocolate brown." — Felicia Pennant, acting senior fashion & beauty editor, branded content.

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For instance, despite it still being January, I've already pinpointed the items that chic dressers will be wearing and buying in February. My extensive research—watching TikTok videos, scrolling through Instagram, reading articles from respected fashion Substack writers, and integrating the trend forecasts of other Who What Wear editors—has culminated in a list of over 60 items. These are the pieces that experienced, innately stylish shoppers will add to their closets next month if they haven't already.

From two new bags, DeMellier's Stockholm and Verafied's Club, to two pairs of shoes, Khaite's Clive boots and Dior's J'Adior Flats, and so much more, keep scrolling to discover the items guaranteed to help you master It-girl style. I don't want to toot my own horn, but this is my best work to date.

Deep, highly saturated and reminiscent of the lurid tones found in supermarket sweet aisles, royal purple is preparing to become a key shade for 2026. Long dismissed by the style crowd—perhaps thanks to collective memories of school uniforms and overzealous branding—this is not a colour many of us were prepared to welcome back.

To be clear, this isn’t about soft lilacs or washed-out lavenders, which reliably resurface each spring alongside pastels. This season, it’s purple’s louder, richer sister that has found new life on the spring/summer 2026 runways.

Spotted across collections at Balenciaga, Valentino, Prada and Celine, designers opted for full saturation, cloaking models head-to-toe in the contentious colour.

Whilst the royal shade might have you recalling the late Queen Elizabeth, whose penchant for the punchy hue is well documented, this season's iterations saw the tone take to more playful silhouettes. At Celine, sparkly purple minis were styled with practical flats and party-ready bags, tempering the colour’s boldness. Valentino took a sharper approach, pairing knee-length pencil skirts with mustard blouses—a clash that made the traditionally formal silhouette feel modern and slightly offbeat.

The colour may be culturally familiar, but for many of us it also carries a distinctly childhood association. If you grew up with a sister, chances are one of you was assigned pink while the other was handed purple. That lingering association with youth gives the shade a naturally energetic quality that lends itself to particularly peppy energy.

If going all in feels like a stretch, royal purple works just as well in smaller doses. A pair of purple tights can lift a black or grey look, whilst a thick scarf in the shade adds depth to an otherwise minimal palette without tipping into novelty.

It may not be the colour trend you expected to meet with in 2026, but the runways have spoken. Royal purple is back—and resisting it may prove harder than expected.

From Prada to Zara, read on to discover and shop the purple colour trend below.

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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.

The natural shade of white, chosen for its serene, calming influence feels particularly apt as we head into 2026 with a desire for a fresh perspective and clean palette. Designers proved the cloud-like color is anything but boring, with fashion houses such as Bottega Veneta, Balenciaga, Jil Sander, Celine, and Carven (to name but a few) showcasing the hue in a range of textures, fluid fabrics, and bold silhouettes—encouraging us to get creative with the color.

The dreamy hue is elegant, refined, and most certainly has undertones of I only travel first class, so whether you go for a head-to-toe look, or incorporate the calming color via a chic sweater or statement coat, the hue is guaranteed to add a refined touch to your looks. Expect your dry cleaning bill to rise—and your outfit game to rise right along with it!

Keep scrolling to see how the fashion set are already embracing Pantone's Cloud Dancer, and shop some of our favorite natural white pieces to lean into the trend this year.

Along my travels around the world, be that at countless fashion weeks, holidays and extended city breaks, I've come to notice a distinct group of hot spots which are, like London, routinely setting the tone in the style stakes, and launching trends quickly and, dare I say it, effortlessly. I've been taking a magnifying glass to the street style of the Danes, New Yorkers, Parisiennes, Düsseldorfers, and, of course, Londoners, to see what they are bringing to the fashion table in 2026. Off the bat, I'm seeing some emerging outerwear styles, heirloom-feel accessories, key colour trends, and elevated knitwear, which, for me, come together to lay great foundations for a capsule wardrobe for the coming seasons ahead.

Whether you count yourself as a pared-back dresser or are into the idea of dipping your toe into more niche trends, read on for my style file on what the most chic cities are wearing now, plus how to shop them for yourself.

The Coolest City Trends to Note for 2026:

1. London: Icy Blue

Style Notes: London will always hold a dear place in my heart, and I adore chronicling the fashion moods and movements each season brings in The Big Smoke. Our editors have been tipping numerous trends to hit the big time soon, including Napoleon jackets, Victoriana boots and nouveau animal-prints. But I think the breakout star is a simple, but fresh colour, which London girls have started to adopt now.

Cool blue is the shade of the season, and its soft, icy, and pastel undertones allow it to be mixed and matched easily. It partners well with denim, naturally, as well as slate grey, classic black, chocolate brown, and, more surprisingly, red (whether that's pillarbox or burgundy, you choose). Find it across jackets, knitwear, accessories and even hosiery this year. Get the London look!

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2. Paris: Brooches

Style Notes: I feel like this city and its residents need little to no introduction. Here at Who What Wear UK, we have been charting the classic, anti-trend and unanimously elegant dressing ways of Parisiennes for some time, often envying their unwavering eye and sophisticated outfits. They know good trench coats, classic white shirts, cigarette jeans and ballet flats like no other, but are also experts in the finite details and finishing touches that can make or break a look.

Sylvie Mus is an authority on this and has started reaching for antique and vintage-leaning brooches, peppering them into her everyday looks. She adds them to outerwear for a wealth-whispering touch, but I have also spotted stylists and women in the know adding them (sometimes in multiples) to jackets, blazers, and even knitwear. Très chic!

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3. Copenhagen: The Funnel Neck

Style Notes: Copenhagen Fashion Week has become shorthand for the place to be to seek out the most cutting-edge designers, under-the-radar labels and spot some of the most head-turning street style trends. The Danes are also known for their hygge sensibilities, leaning into cosy moods, wellbeing and enjoying simple, wholesome pleasures—the "soft life". No wonder they have mastered the art of great outerwear, keeping them warm, protected and stylish in equal measure.

As we move further into 2026, I foresee the funnel-neck trend developing and finding its way onto other coat and jacket styles not yet explored. Spring's favourite trench coat is ripe for this high-cut finish, and the Danes are already starting to invest in it now. Expertly modelled by Anna Winck, she perfectly pairs her pale funnel-neck trench with the neutral palette of her flared jeans and shoulder bag, but punctuates it with burgundy heels. Vidunderlig!

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4. New York: V-Neck Knitwear

Style Notes: I'm noticing a return to classic styling, vintage-feel silhouettes and heirloom-like accessories, and New Yorkers can't get enough. From floor-skimming wool coats, tailored trousers, pillbox hats, pencil skirts, pointed heels, tassel necklaces and heritage knitwear, the limit to all the traditional and anti-trend tendencies truly does not exist with our stylish friends across the pond.

Purveyors of excellent taste, I am seeing many reach for a jumper style I didn't see making a comeback. The V-neck sweater fell out of favour for a long while, but has been making a comeback over the past year. Simple? Yes, but effective, too. With a slight '90s, '00s feel, the humble V-neck is particularly good when worn in a bolder hue. Tuck yours in, just like Coco Schiffer here, to show off your belt and to give a pop of colour to an otherwise understated ensemble.

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5. Düsseldorf: Chartreuse Shades

Style Notes: This city may be bubbling under the style sphere's surface, but let it be known that it is stealthily making a roundabout turn into a destination for some real aesthetic mavericks who are making and breaking niche trends now. Düsseldorf is home to 'fit-pic influencer Lara Bußmann, who is firmly putting the city on the fashion map. Her trademarks include oversized silhouettes, colour-blocking, fun hats, unexpected layering, and clashing patterns. Right now, she is pioneering the chartruese trend, wearing this weird and wonderful shade across knitwear, socks and fluffy beanies. It's Brat Green 2.0, and will no doubt be everywhere this spring.

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Take Parisian content creator Franny Fyne, for example, who took to the streets of Paris just last year in a trench coat, jeans and monochrome Adidas Samba’s. Topped with a beret, her trainer's outfit felt equal parts chic and sophisticated and perfectly in keeping with her luxe French aesthetic. And, she’s not alone. For her food shop in the capital, Anne Laure Mais went monochromatic as well in a pair of slim Onitsuka Tiger trainers, while Ellie Delphine showed that designer trainers are always a chic choice in Miu Miu’s suede Plume trainers alongside a tonal beige look.

What this all proves is that French women aren’t just big fans of trainers, but they're actually at the forefront of many of the biggest trainer trends. So, I thought, why not turn my attention to the trainers they're wearing right now to get some insight into the trainer trends that are set to take over in 2026? Keep scrolling for my findings alongside some of my favourite styles so you can recreate the looks yourself…

The Trainer Trends French Girls Are Wearing In 2026:

1. Tennis Trainers

Style Notes: I already mentioned Franny’s chic trench coat and trainers look, so let’s take a closer look at her kicks in more detail. Featuring a contrasting gum sole, sleek, slim upper and nostalgic 80’s style design, tennis trainers are a favourite with fashion IT-girls around the globe. For a French girl spin, opt for a monochrome style like Franny, or experiment with colour or print for a more statement look.

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2. Slim Trainers

Style Notes: Slim trainers have been gaining popularity for a few months now, so of course, French girls are already adding them to their wardrobes. Onitsuka Tiger’s nostalgic shape is the chicest way to go for a trend-led look, or, head to the high street, where many brands have dropped their own versions of the streamlined style.

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3. Ballet Trainers

Style Notes: If there’s one trainer trend that feels absolutely fitting for French women to get on board with, it’s the rise of the ballet trainer. Bridging the gap between ballet pumps and trainers, these hybrid styles offer a lighter finish than traditional chunky shapes, making them the perfect pairing for skirts and dresses as well as slim-leg jeans and trousers.

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4. Gymcore Trainers

Style Notes: For something a little more classic, chic French women are still reaching for their traditional gymcore trainers like New Balance’s 530s and On’s plush Cloud trainers, especially in walkable cities like Paris and Marseille. If you’re tapping into this trend, just ensure they’re box fresh for a clean look and pair with luxe coords and denim for an easy everyday look.

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5. Suede Trainers

Style Notes: Offering an elevated, elegant finish, it’s unsurprising that suede trainers have become a common sight on the streets of Paris among the style set. When it comes to tones, tan, chocolate and beige styles are proving most popular; however, in recent weeks, I’ve also spotted navy and khaki suede styles making an appearance, offering a more unexpected twist on the soft-touch trainer trend.

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This resurgence is happening at Prada. During Milan Fashion Week, Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons unveiled their F/W 26 menswear collection, Before and Next. Rooted in history yet relevant today, the collection challenged the notion that clothing grows with the wearer and reflects their experiences.

Alongside tilted hats, leather Dopp kits tucked under the arm, layered trench silhouettes, colorful capelets, and a palette of aubergine, khaki, and navy, pre-stained garments stood out. Stained cuffs, adorned with intricate cufflinks, peeked from figure-skimming coats and scoop-neck sweaters. Even tank tops, long-sleeve shirts, and zip-up jackets were designed to look as if they had been splattered with coffee.

Though initially appearing unusual, these worn appearances serve a distinct purpose. The marks, discolorations, and even wrinkled fabrics are a testament to the passage of time. They also stand as a rejection of the expectation of appearing "perfect."

Prada views clothing not merely as fabric but as objects that carry memory. The idea is that garments, like a stained coat from your grandfather, serve as testaments to a life fully lived. In its press release, Prada highlights this perspective, stating, "Carrying impressions of life, they [clothing items] underscore the significance of duration" and that "to remember is a sign of respect." This powerful message—that clothing holds memories—is the driving force behind the anticipated influence and success of Prada's stained pieces.

Keep scrolling to see detailed images of the stained garments and standout looks from Prada's F/W 26 menswear collection.

See the Details of the Stained Clothing

See the Standout Runway Looks

It’s something leading fashion houses have done for decades, with Monsieur Dior including leopard print in his debut show for the eponymous Maison back in 1947. (A house code that has since been adopted by all subsequent artistic leads since he launched the “New Look”.) Chanel did the same, with freshly-appointed creative director Matthieu Blazy updating this code of the house in the 2026 Métiers d'Art show, with longline skirts that evoked the textures of insects and jungle cats. It’s not enough to say animal prints are being pulled into the cultural mainstream after years spent in the archives, however, as the leading animal prints of 2026 prove to be fresh trends altogether.

“Animal prints always resurface during moments when people want to express confidence and individuality again,” explains Helle Hestehave and Rikke Baumgarten, the founders of Copenhagen-based brand Baum und Pferdgarten. “Fashion feels more playful right now and there’s a desire to dress with personality rather than perfection,” they add.

“Animal prints are timeless,” the duo notes. “They instantly add character, as even the simplest outfit, jeans and a knit, or a classic coat, becomes more expressive with an animal print. They’re also surprisingly versatile: you can dress them up or down, and they work year-round.” London-based label Rixo echoes this sentiment, with co-founder Orlagh McCloskey revealing that the brand’s use of animal print has risen from a “strong element of nostalgia…which adds to its popularity”.

“For RIXO, animal print has always firmly sat in the timeless camp. The brand was founded on a deep love of vintage, and [animal prints] is one of those prints that consistently appears across decades. We love that it has been worn by strong, stylish women in every era,” she adds. But for this era? Hestehave and Baumgarten divulge that “we’re seeing interest move toward more abstract and unexpected interpretations” of animal prints, including “blurred [styles], hybrid patterns, or animal motifs rendered in unusual colourways.”

As these trend-setters are proving, there’s no need to run for cover when you see this trend. But before you wear it out in the wilderness, acquaint yourself with the leading animal print trends of 2026, below.

The 8 Key Animal Print Trends of 2026

1. Bambi Print

Style Notes: It’s been 84 years since Disney’s iconic fictional fawn, Bambi, graced the screens. But as the adage goes, good things come to those who wait, as for the first time in close to a century, the illustrated doe has been thrust back into the spotlight. Rather than taking tentative steps, as the titular character did on ice, deer prints have dashed right into the throes of the sartorial zeitgeist.

From Tory Burch putting her Manhattanite spin on the print to Sofia Richie Grainge adopting the textured pattern for the debut collection of her ready-to-wear label SRG Atelier and perennial downtown darling Sandy Liang featuring it in her collaboration with GAP, these endorsements are proving that a trip to Richmond’s Old Deer Park can be achieved simply through the pieces you wear.

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2. Dalmatian Print

Style Notes: What’s black, white and spotted all over? Whilst this might sound like the start of a bad joke, it’s a fitting description for the rise of the dalmatian print trend. Cemented in popular culture through the beloved Disney cartoon, 101 Dalmatians, the virality of the trend might just have you wanting to emulate your inner Cruella de Vil, given the posh and sophisticated qualities associated with the print.

Conjuring images of Regent’s Park and long strolls through London’s well-heeled neighbourhoods, it’s only right that this dotted motif come to the forefront in 2026, especially since 2025 was mostly defined by a proliferation of polka dots. With the former mostly evoking an essence of bygone glamour mostly associated with the socialites from the ‘50s and ‘80s, this version of the circular pattern feels far more cosmopolitan.

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3. Zebra Print

Style Notes: If Azzedine Alaïa had leopards, then John Galliano had zebras. A crucial part of the British designer’s sartorial vocabulary, the striped fabric appeared in many of what are to be considered his magnum opus collection, including the Cleopatra-meets-Nancy-Spungen collection he presented for his eponymous label during the autumn/winter 1997 season and the venerated Christian Dior spring/summer 2008 collection that channelled Marlene Dietrich tailoring and New York street appeal.

All this to say, those in the know have always been aware of the power of a punchy animal print. Featured in collections from Conner Ives and Ganni, this is a style that stays under the radar but is equally elegant.

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4. Tiger Print

Style Notes: Another style that’s on the prowl for 2026 is tiger print. Under the reigns of Belgian creative director Pieter Mulier, Alaïa has shifted allegiance in its preferred feline, with the rainforest- dwelling cat now taking precedence. This was demonstrated in the French Maison’s Resort 2026 collection, where feline coats rendered in “Guggenheim silhouettes”, as the designer called it in a press release, made a repeat appearance. (The piece was later given its maiden voyage when Rihanna wore it for a night out with her rapper boyfriend A$AP Rocky).

But across the City of Lights and a year earlier, Chloé too had fallen in with this proverbial pride, showcasing an equally covetable tiger-print coat for its own Resort 2025 range. They say birds of a feather flock together, but something equally seismic is clearly at play here.

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5. Cow Print

Style Notes: From the paddock to Provence, cow print has become the latest prairie-inspired fashion trend to turn mainstream. Though this style first reared its head at the beginning of the decade—who here amongst us can attest to investing in the trending cow prints from brands like Emma Mulholland on Holiday or blasting Doja Cat’s breakout single “Mooo!” during the depths of the pandemic—it’s now taken a sleeker approach for 2026. It’s less rodeo and more Rodeo Drive, whilst still fuelling our desires for designs that are unexpected and organic.

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6. Tortoiseshell Print

Style Notes: If you were to look at any tasteful dresser throughout history, you’d be bound to see a pair of tortoiseshell frames perched on the bridge of their nose. From Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’s bug-eyed François Pinton sunglasses to Joan Didion’s Celine Triomphes—a pair that were first immortalised in the brand’s 2015 eyewear campaign and later sold for $27,000 USD at auction following the author’s death—an animal print that’s always been associated with the sophisticated and elite.

Now, following on from this rise in wearing ostentatious pieces every day, tortoiseshell is garnering new interest. From combs to hair clips, headbands and resin bags, imitate these polished few by adding this subtle accent. You know it would earn Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s tick of approval.

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7. Mock Croc Print

Style Notes: Pieces like the Diamond Himalaya Birkin, a rare Hermes bag made from crocodile skin, have always been heralded as the acme of luxury. (And always come with eye-watering price tags.) But in 2026, the mainstream is shifting away from these exotic materials and into something more environmentally conscious: mock crock.

The tail end of 2025 saw a slew of mock croc appearances, from the buttery heels worn by Alexa Chung to The Fashion Awards to the razor-sharp embossed pair adorned by Victoria Beckham for her husband David’s knighthood investiture ceremony. Elevate the trend further by considering other arenas where mock crocs can be saturated in, including, but not limited to, the strap of your watch, the fabric of your winter gloves and even your go-to belt.

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8. Leopard Print

Style Notes: A leopard never changes its spots, which is why you’ll find leopard print trending year after year. There’s been a leopard print to suit every decade and desire, from the more upmarket iterations worn by Elizabeth Taylor to the rock’n’roll versions seen on Kate Moss and hybrid styles that straddle the two, adorned by the likes of the Olsen Twins and Jennifer Lawrence.

“We’ve had the leopard print in our collections since the beginning,” says Hestehave and Baumgarten. “[This print] signals confidence and sensuality, and it’s unapologetic and strong,” they add. With qualities like this, why ever adjust?

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