Now that the holidays are over and I can put gift buying behind me, I've shifted my focus to wardrobe building for 2026, a year when I'll be filling my closet not with every single one of the latest trends but instead a mix of modern, elevated basics and statement items that will blend seamlessly with what I already own. Think a jewel-toned velvet column skirt, a satin car coat, and a timeless clutch, as well as sleek sleeveless turtlenecks, nonbasic alternatives to classic crewneck T-shirts, and slim-fitting jeans that look refined instead of sloppy. It's going to take the entire year to fully complete this task, and I want it that way. Crafting the perfect 2026 wardrobe doesn't happen overnight—it takes time, and for once, I'm going to be patient.
To hold myself accountable, I'm sharing my expansive (and likely to change) 2026 wish list with the world and will be checking off items throughout the next 12 months. Things like The Row's Peggy Clutch in a gorgeous shade of rich tobacco, Chanel's new patent-leather slingbacks, and Diana Milkanova Studio's IYKYK Mia Coat are at the top of the list, but so are more affordable buys like Heaven Mayhem's elegant new Odette Earrings and a khaki-colored pair of 501s. Pieces start at just $36 and work their way up to the $1000+ price category, giving me (and any of you who are interested too) plenty of range to work with. This wish list took me weeks to compile, so trust me, it's a treasure trove.
Scroll down to see what I'll be buying in 2026. Who knows? Maybe you'll be inspired to do some shopping of your own.
My 2026 Fashion-Editor Wish List
If you've been considering adding a bag from The Row into your rotation but don't want to spend as much as a Margaux or Marlo costs, the Peggy Clutch is the handbag for you. It's very buzzy right now; however, it's also a classic, minimalist shape that won't go "out" in a matter of weeks, months, or even years.
This is one of those buys that looks super expensive but won't cost you. It reminds me of something Carolyn Bessette Kennedy would pair with a camel-colored column skirt and boots.
I know sweatpants are trendy right now, but I prefer this luxe but still comfortable alternative from Dôen, especially when styled with ballet flats and a fur coat.
If you loved Chanel's patent-leather moccasins as much as I did, you'll adore this slingback version. Who wants to join me on a flight to Paris to buy my pair in 2026?
I've been thinking about this silk minidress for months. Finally, I'm ready to add it into my wardrobe.
This Diana Milkanova coat can't stay in stock, probably because the shape is so classic yet uniquely elegant.
If you haven't yet considered adding a cummerbund into your wardrobe for 2026, I'm sorry, but you're behind. It's such a chic way to make your black coats look fresh and stylized.
Ever since I saw Alexa Chung wearing yellow-lens, cat-eye sunglasses during an NYC snow day on her Instagram, I've needed a pair.
Personally, I'm so excited for the end of big, statement earrings from the '80s. This simple drop pair is way more up my alley.
Trust someone who owns this cashmere sweater already in two colors—you do not need to spend $1000+ to get a heavy, butter-soft knit for winter.
The perfect subtle touch of Western to add some playfulness into your wardrobe.
I rarely buy jeans, because I really do feel like I own great pairs as it is, but I've been lusting over Khaite's Farley fit in this super-dark rinse. It's almost trouser-like in a way that feels formal and elevated.
These brown suede loafers look just like the $500-and-up pairs I always see on celebs. Fortunately, they cost less than $100.
For $40? Say less.
If I could, I'd only wear Attersee for the rest of the year, but if I can only invest in one piece, it'll definitely be this tassel-hem, brown-and-black skirt.
I love the idea of pairing this silky but structured bralette with the above Attersee skirt and the below satin car coat for an elegant but sexy ensemble to wear out on the Upper East Side this spring. Something to look forward to once winter is over.
I've been dreaming about this satin coat ever since I saw Julia Rabinowitsch, founder of The Millennial Decorator, wearing it in Paris. It's the perfect transitional topper.
Yes, these gorgeous wedges cost just $96, but I won't tell if you won't.
This is the kind of jewelry item you can toss on with anything and it'll make an outfit interesting. Now that is an accessory worth investing in.
Wrap cardigans are having a major comeback this season. It's giving "I'm coming to the cottage," if the cottage in question weren't a giant glass mansion and were, instead, made of wood and featured fireplaces in every room.
Kendall Jenner just wore the short-sleeve version of this boatneck tee with an open back, so now I need the same one, but I prefer this three-quarter-sleeve option in arguably the richest color ever.
This is the kind of trouser you can dress up for dinner in the city or down for a long-haul flight.
I find ankle boots to be strangely so difficult to shop for, so when I saw this pair at Zara for just $129, you know I had to add it to my wish list.
From the color to the satin fabric—everything about this clutch is perfect. It's the perfect statement item to dress up understated outfits, whether you're going to lunch in jeans and a T-shirt or to a black-tie wedding.
I already have this skirt in red velvet, which is how I know that I need this new, rich blue version. When I find something I love that fits well, I'll never refrain from buying it in another color.
Take a simple coat or cardigan to entirely new heights by adding this shearling Prada collar. I know I will.
Investing in a good leather jacket will never be a bad plan. It's the kind of outerwear that only gets better with age and wear.
If you need to give your blue jeans a break, try a khaki pair instead of settling for white or black. The camel color makes them feel more elevated and high-end. Plus, if you ask me, there's no better pair of jeans than a 501.
I own these Charvet slippers in olive green and wear them every single day when I get back from work or work from home; therefore, adding another pair to my collection feels like a no-brainer.
Styling tip: Tie this scarf on top of a long winter coat like a belt.
Banana Republic's cotton-silk sweaters are so luxurious. I own this with a crew neck, and now that there's a high-V option, I'm ordering it immediately.
I have a pencil-skirt shopping problem and have accepted that I need one in every possible material. Denim, you're up!
The only shoes to wear with pencil skirts are knee-high stiletto boots. Just saying.
Finally! A work bag that zips closed and has a long strap.
I just got this alpine cardigan from Dôen, and it might be the softest thing I've ever worn.
A perfect T-shirt doesn't exist… oh wait.
The fit and wash on these Levi's jeans is next-level.
Cozy and cute. My two favorite descriptors.