2026 Will Be My Best-Dressed Year Yet—7 Elevated Outfits That Will Get Me There

From classic trench coats to simple knit dress looks, these are the seven easy but elegant outfits to try in 2026. Scroll down to see and shop them.

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@nlmarilyn, @deborabrosa, @josefinehj, @chloekathbutler,@abimarvel
(Image credit: @nlmarilyn, @deborabrosa, @josefinehj, @chloekathbutler,@abimarvel)

The start of the new year is just over a week away, and in order to be well-prepared, I’ve already started to think about the outfits that I’m going to wear. Whether it be to the office, out with friends, or a solo trip into the city centre, I’ve made an early New Year’s resolution for 2026 to be my best-dressed year yet. Now, I’m aware that this is a very bold goal. I think we can all agree that looking our best when we just want to feel comfortable can be a challenge, especially at the beginning of the year when the temperature really drops. But never fear, as I’ve already worked out a solution.

After hours of scrolling on my Instagram feed, I realised that there are a few outfit formulas that are easy to copy and elegant, and most importantly, prioritise comfort and style equally. The thing they all have in common? Utilising elevated basics with a mix of timeless staples. Think a sophisticated scarf coat paired with classic blue jeans and boots, or swapping out your usual tailored trousers for a cord iteration. 2026 is all about looking refined with minimal effort required.

So if you, too, are in need of elegant outfit inspiration for the upcoming new year, keep scrolling to discover seven cosy—yet effortlessly chic—outfits to copy in 2026.

7 Elegant Outfit Ideas to Copy in 2026

1. Scarf Jacket + Blue Jeans + Pointed Boots

@nlmarilyn

(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

Style Notes: I’m just a little bit obsessed with scarf coats and jackets at the moment. Equal parts fuss-free and practical, this elegant outerwear style feels fresh for 2026, but will also work hard in your wardrobe for many years to come. Simply add a pair of classic wide-leg jeans and pointed boots to finish off the look.

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2. Argyle Knit + Pencil Skirt + Loafers

@chloekathbutler

(Image credit: @chloekathbutler)

Style Notes: There was a time when argyle knits were considered dated; however, this year firmly secured their place as a cold-weather staple in every fashionable wardrobe. The key to making it look ‘2026’? Take a cue from Chloe (pictured above) and pair it with sophisticated staples such as a pencil skirt, chunky socks, and loafers.

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3. Ecru Long Coat + Funnel-Neck Knit + White Jeans

@josefinehj

(Image credit: @josefinehj)

Style Notes: I’ve already mentioned my love for white winter outfits, and I can’t wait to try one out in 2026. To make them feel less daunting and more wearable, I’ll be following TikTok’s ‘2x2’ outfit formula and adding some black into the mix.

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4. Polo Sweatshirt + Midi Skirt + Heels

@deborabrosa

(Image credit: @deborabrosa)

Style Notes: Polo jumpers add a more relaxed energy to an outfit that feels cool and effortless. To make it feel less casual, a pleated midi skirt and high heels will dress it up for any occasion, from the office to dinner with friends.

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5. Wool Coat + Check Shirt + Camel Jeans

@sarahlouiseblythe

(Image credit: @sarahlouiseblythe)

Style Notes: It doesn’t get more timeless than a classic black wool coat, but to make it feel fresh for the new year, pair it with a button-up shirt in a trending checked print and camel-wash jeans.

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6. Bomber Jacket + Midi Dress + Slingbacks

@abimarvel

(Image credit: @abimarvel)

Style Notes: The cold weather often has us reaching for trousers or jeans, but a knit dress is an easy, yet just as practical, throw-on style on those days when you don’t know what to wear.

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7. Leather Jacket + Corduroy Trousers + Leather Accessories

@alexisforeman

(Image credit: @alexisforeman)

Style Notes: If you’re bored with your classic jeans, corduroys are one of the hardest-working trouser types you can have in your wardrobe. These ninties-esque trousers can be worn with everything that denim can, but feel just that little bit more elevated.

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Brittany Davy
Brittany Davy
Editorial Assistant

As WWW UK’s editorial assistant, Brittany focuses on creating compelling fashion and beauty content for site. She supports the fashion team on shoots and with styling, and works closely with the Managing Editor on recurring columns and franchises. She has a passion for all things fashion, beauty and lifestyle related, but is particularly fond of fragrance, with a personal collection to rival any beauty editor's!

Prior to Who What Wear, Brittany worked as the Shopping Assistant at Reach Plc and across a number of publications, including OK!, Notebook, S Mag and The Mirror. In this role, she was responsible for creating on-site beauty and fashion content, compiling shopping grids and filming and editing weekly video content for the brand’s social media account.