The return of fall always brings plenty of denim inspiration, but if you ask me, the most interesting outfits this season don't involve jeans. Fashion people are leaning into pieces that instantly make an outfit feel more intentional, whether that’s a polished pair of tailored pants, an elegant midi skirt, or an easy dress that only gets better with layers. They have the same versatility as your favorite denim, but they deliver a noticeably fresher look.

There's something undeniably appealing about building a fall wardrobe around pieces that don't rely on the usual jeans-and-sweater formula. Rich textures, fluid silhouettes, and elevated tailoring are giving everyday outfits a more directional feel while remaining just as easy to wear. The best part is that these staples transition effortlessly from warm afternoons to crisp evenings with only a few simple styling tweaks.

If your closet could use a refresh this season, I'd start here. Ahead, I’m highlighting the fall pieces that stylish women consistently reach for when they want to look a little cooler than everyone else. From chic skirts and effortless dresses to the pants silhouettes quietly replacing denim, these are the wardrobe heroes you’ll end up wearing on repeat all season long.

Anti-Denim Outfits for Fall 2026

Silk Pants

The non-jeans essential: Silk pants

Silk Maxi Skirt

The non-jeans essential: Silk maxi skirt

Midi Dress

The non-jeans essential: Printed midi dress

Capri Pants

The non-jeans essential: Loose capri pants

Mid-Calf Skirt

The non-jeans essential: Mid-calf skirt

Cargo Pants

The non-jeans essential: Cargo pants

Leather Skirt

The non-jeans essential: Leather skirt

White Trousers

The non-jeans essential: White trousers

Long-Sleeve Minidress

The non-jeans essential: Long-sleeve minidress

Sheer Pants

The non-jeans essential: Sheer bottoms

Linen Pants

The non-jeans essential: Linen pants

Bermuda Shorts

The non-jeans essential: Long and loose shorts

Balloon Pants

The non-jeans essential: Balloon pants

Printed Midi Skirt

The non-jeans essential: Printed midi skirt

Boardwalk Pants

The non-jeans essential: Boardwalk pants

As a fashion editor, I find late summer to be one of the most exciting times for getting dressed. While some see it as an awkward in-between stage, I see it as the best of both worlds. Granted, I'm more of an autumn girl at heart, but my favourite part of summer dressing is being free from the restraints of practicality. To me, late summer feels like being able to take full advantage of that freedom, but with a broader selection of pieces to play with.

The cooler temperatures allow you to bring the lighter elements of your autumn wardrobe back into play, like long sleeve t-shirts, trench coats and denim. By pairing them with summer fabrics and accessories you can create looks unique to this time of year, then build on them for next season.

It's also a great opportunity to rediscover the potential of your own wardrobe. If you're planning a wardrobe sort-out any time soon I highly recommend experimenting with new outfit combinations before you pack any summer pieces away. Try a dress or skirt over jeans and linen with tailoring to give those summer favourites longevity.

So whether you're like me and are excited to find new ways to experiment with your summer staples, or you're simply looking for ideas that make transitional dressing easier, I've found five outfit formulas that will tick every box. Read on to find out more.

5 Late-Summer 2026 Outfit Ideas

1. Trench Coat + Capri Pants + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Capri pants are already a great transitional piece of kit. Longer than shorts with a slimmer fit, they are the stylish answer to fluctuating temperatures. The proportion play of adding a trench coat elongates the overall look, while the cropped-hem keeps the outfit from feeling to heavy.

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2. Linen Shirt + Column Skirt + Oversized Sunglasses

Style Notes: Don't put all your linen away just yet. Hold on to pieces in darker neutrals such as black, brown, khaki and navy as these pair effortlessly with tailored items like blazers, trousers and skirts. Keep the look tonal or monochromatic and you'll have an outfit that's timeless and adaptable to the fickle changing of temperatures.

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3. Denim Shirt + Straight Leg Jeans + Thong Sandals

Style Notes: Start bringing denim back into your outfit rotation with lighter pieces such as loose denim shirts and straight-leg jeans. Together they make for a statement combo that requires little else to feel stylish, while the shirt alone can add depth to lace maxi skirts and basics like white t-shirts and tank tops.

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4. Cardigan + Overlay Trousers + Top-Handle Bag

Style Notes: The cardigan is perhaps the perfect late-summer piece, which can be worn on its own now and layered later or on cooler evenings. Use it to create a textural contrast with more fluid items like satin or linen trousers, and in a bold shade like red or cobalt blue will make an impact with minimal effort.

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5. Midi Dress + Cardigan + Loafers

Style Notes: Give your dresses an end of season upgrade by simply adding loafers, socks and a cardigan. This is a great time to explore how cardigans can be used as an accessory, following on from the scarf belt trend. Simply tie around your waist or throw over your shoulders to give the illusion of layering without the added bulk.

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As a fashion editor, it's my job to be on the look out at all times for upcoming trends. Sure, I could tell you about the key colours to wear (hello, red + purple) or the prints (stripes are set to take over from polka dots) but sometimes it's the little non-trend pieces that become popular. Enter: Henley tops.

Previously part of a rowing uniform, and aptly named after Henley-on-Thames, the collarless tops with half button-down detail have become a favourite among stylish women all over Europe. French girls Anne-Laure Mais and Salomé Mory have been pairing their long sleeve versions with satin skirts and shorts. Meanwhile, in London, Kim Turkington wore a T-shirt version with timeless jeans and Trishna Goklani has given everyone an outfit to copy when the weather gets cooler.

This non-boring basic is set to be big news this season, so here's five ways to wear it over the next few months.

1. Henley Top + Satin Shorts + Woven Bag

Style Notes: As a basic, it's a building block to play around with. So yes, you absolutely can dress it up a Henley top with satin lace-hem shorts, a luxe leather woven bag and fancy sandals. I'll be embracing bare leg weather for as long as I can.

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2. Henley Top + Lace Midi + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Anne-Laure is one of my favourite women to follow on Instagram for chic outfit inspo. Every element of this look is considered, from the super thin Henley top to the chic satin slip skirt and the polished accessories—perfection.

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3. Henley Top + White Jeans + Long Coat

Style Notes: Trishna's autumnal look is proof that white jeans can work for the cooler months. One to copy when the temperatures drop, this colour co-ordinated ensemble has got me so excited for new season styling.

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4. Henley Top + Cargo Trousers + Flip Flops

Style Notes: Monikh is the queen of relaxed looks, so of course she's chosen to wear laidback cargo pants with a slouchy Henley. And where's the best place to find them? In the men's sections. The oversized fit is perfect for luxe loungewear.

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5. Henley Top + Black Jeans + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Instead of a classic crew neck T-shirt or baby tee, opt for a Henley top. The simple popper detail worn buttoned to the top like Kim just gives a little something extra to a jeans, T-shirt and jumper look.

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There's no point fighting it. Skinny jeans, in all their sleek, body-skimming glory, are coming back for autumn 2026. Crucially, however, there's a specific shoe pairing that the coolest early adopters are relying on to make the divisive denim trend feel entirely fresh. Rather than reverting to tired styling formulas, the chicest people I know are wearing their skinny jeans with ballet flats instead.

Crafting a nostalgic look that still feels perfectly apt for 2026, the pairing taps into a two-piece formula that has long lived in the wardrobes of fashion's most stylish. Whilst skinny jeans and ballet flats were a fixture amongst fashion crowds throughout the early 2010s, a few subtle updates have taken place to ensure that the combination feels decidedly fresher this time around.

For one, today's skinny jeans aren't quite the elastane-heavy, ultra-sculpting styles you might remember. Instead, the new generation has a slightly stiffer, more structured finish that sits close to the frame rather than clinging tightly to it, creating a relaxed silhouette that feels effortless rather than overly polished, and altogether cooler as a result.

Paired with ballet flats, the jeans take on an easy, comfortable quality that makes the combination ideal for everyday styling.

I'm calling it: skinny jeans and ballet flats are set to become one of autumn's most-worn pairings. If you're ready to get on board, read on to discover my edit of the best skinny jeans and ballet flats to shop now.

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If you're anything like us, you've solved all manner of unsubstantiated 'I've got nothing to wear!' melodramas over the years by reverting to your favourite pair of jeans. The most reliable hero of just about any wardrobe, they're one of the very few staples that truly transcend seasons and occasions. Styled well, they can be worn from everything from a day in the office to your best friend's engagement dinner, a walk on the beach or Sunday morning brunch.

But how, then, do we keep things interesting season after season? While other wardrobe items may come and go with trend cycles, for one piece to continue to get us excited about getting dressed means that we need to dig a little deeper by way of sartorial inspiration. Luckily, for anyone feeling somewhat unimaginative right now, our favourite Parisian It girls have done a lot of the moodboarding for us.

Serving up endless style inspo, you'd be forgiven for thinking that these ultra chic wardrobes are reserved for, well, the ultra chic. But few cities see better every-day street style than Paris. And what's more every-day than denim?

Keep scrolling to discover the 7 ways our favourite French fashion girls will be wearing their jeans this autumn, and shop our edit of the best pairing pieces.

7 Ways French Girls are Updating Their Jeans Outfits for Autumn:

1. Tuckable Boots

Style notes: If you thought the 'French tuck' was all about your shirt, then welcome to 2026. Sure waistbands can still host that little half-tuck if you so wish, but according to the very coolest Parisian wardrobes this autumn's tucking is all about your jeans and your boots. Crucially this is no skinny-jean-in-your-Ugg-boot situation, but rather a much looser-fit boyfriend style jean smushed (technical term) super casually into a pair of slouchy, typically heeled, boots. Effortless casual is the new elevated polish, so says the French capital.

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2. Red Accents

Style notes: I know, I know, I'll stop harping on about the red trend soon, I promise. But until then it's very much still happening, and there are few cooler ways to wear it than as a pairing piece. Worn as the main event (think red dresses, two-piece sets, high-waisted trousers etc.) they can feel a bit obvious and overthought, but casually worn via accessories or smaller outfit details they appear a lot more relaxed and authentic. And outfits don't get much more relaxed than when centred around your favourite jeans. Whether you go for a tomato splash across your shoes and bag or a soft cashmere knit, it's a great way to modernise and breathe new life into your seasonless, staple denim.

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3. Oversized Knits

Style notes: Oversized knitwear is no new phenomenon, but for Parisians (who have long favoured a more streamlined silhouette), the trend will be making particular waves come autumn. Generally pared back in palette, the French fashion set are tending to lean towards oatmeal beiges and charcoal greys for theirs, but we have spotted a small number of pastel hues punctuating the sea of neutrals, too. They're being worn most typically with straight leg, light-wash denim and ballet flats, and if that isn't the perfect transitional look then we challenge you to find better.

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4. Sporty Zip Ups

Style notes: Track jackets, technical-wear, 'gorpcore', bombers... Whatever you call them, the sport-inspired zip-up has been picking up fans in the fashion world at breakneck speed over recent months. Of course, with seven hundred heatwaves under our belt so far this summer, synthetic polyesters and nylons have served only to dampen collective enthusiasm for the look. As we approach autumn though, those who've been desperate to jump on the trend will do so with gusto. In order to avoid looking as though you're really slacking on your Sunday morning run, make like the Parisians and skip the double athleisure look in favour of pairing it with your go-to denim.

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5. Rugby Shirts

Style notes: Rugby shirts are everywhere in the UK right now, but it seems we're not the only nation obsessed with the look. And while we may be on entirely the wrong side of the calendar to chalk it up to Six Nations spirit, the Parisian street style set apparently need no excuse to jump on the aesthetic. Striped iterations are undoubtedly the most ubiquitous, while monochrome styles are a little more understated and elevated. Both pair perfectly with jeans, and it looks as though ballet flats or loafers are the French-girl-approved go-to shoe to complete the aesthetic.

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6. Logo Sweatshirts

Style notes: This one was an interesting one to spot, as our favourite French wardrobes typically steer clear of overt designer logos. Once seen as a bit flashy, Parisian It girls have long-favoured a more subtle approach to designer dressing, with instantly recognisable silhouettes and popular high-end staples filling their feeds over their closets. Now, perhaps with a touch of irony, it seems that these bold logo-emblazoned pieces are more in-demand than ever. Dressed down, crucially, they're worn in a super relaxed way, splashed across oversized sweatshirts and paired with relaxed denim, as if to suggest that high-end fashion is merely an every-day throw on (and hasn't just cost them over £1,000).

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7. Elevated Eveningwear

Style notes: If you thought jeans were a casual staple, you were wrong. Well, you weren't wrong, but you weren't giving them as much credit as they deserve. After all, while they look great paired with your favourite sweatshirt and worn-in Birkenstock Bostons, they can look particularly great when paired with more formal, elevated accessories. From cropped silk blazers to bold, gold jewellery and heeled pumps, keeping the rest of your look monochrome via rich, textural fabrics and statement hardware will really elevate your go-to denim in an entirely new way.

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It should come as no surprise that, as someone who works in beauty, I’m a little bit obsessed with all things fragrance. And I’m not trying to brag, but I get a lot of compliments on how I smell. From my commutes to work to nights out with friends, rarely a day passes by when someone doesn’t ask me what perfume I’m wearing. But I’ll let you in on a secret: most of the time I’m actually wearing a body mist.

In my opinion, some body mists can smell just as good as your favourite luxury fragrances. Luckily for me, one of my favourite high-end fragrance houses has launched a range of body sprays that are giving my perfume collection a run for its money. Enter the Penhaligon’s body mists.

With the brand's first scent launching back in 1872, this British fragrance house knows what it’s doing when it comes to creating exquisite perfumes. It’s gained a cult following amongst fragrance experts, editors and beauty lovers alike due to its luxurious packaging and storytelling-driven scents. However, with eau de toilettes starting at £180 and eau de parfums at £220, it definitely sits in the luxury market. Which is why, when I heard that the brand had taken some of its most popular scents and created a line of lighter body mists, all at £62, I knew I had to give them a try. Keep scrolling to read my honest review of Penhaligon’s new body mist collection.

Penhaligon’s Body Mists

The Bottle

First of all, how gorgeous do they look? These might be the chicest body mists I've ever laid eyes on. Packaged in a weighty sage green glass spray bottle with a slightly darker metallic green cap, they were made with your dressing table in mind. The mist is very fine and lightweight, dispersing evenly rather than as a direct stream of liquid that can stain or dampen clothing.

The Scents

Halfeti

Well regarded as the brand’s most popular scent, Halfeti now comes in the form of a slightly more affordable body mist. The moody floral fragrance contains notes of rose and spices, giving it impressive depth. However, unlike the original perfume, the lighter essence of the mist makes it work for both day and night. If you're looking for a captivating and opulent scent, then this might be the one for you.

Luna

Inspired by the softness of moonlight, Luna is an ethereal, bright floral scent with notes of bergamot, rose and balsam fir. It starts bright and citrusy but then gently settles into a delicate rose base that feels elegant and sophisticated. Not to mention that its airy nature means it's virtually impossible to overdo it. Citrus notes don’t usually call to me, but this scent is so addictive and moreish. In fact, out of all three body mists in the range, this is by far my most complimented.

Empressa

If you’re looking for a bold, attention-grabbing scent that’s guaranteed to earn you compliments, then I highly recommend Empressa. With notes of blood orange, patchouli, vanilla and peach, this vibrant fragrance is sweet yet luxurious, perfectly toeing the line between feeling playfully bright and seductively rich and deep. It works well for both the day and night; however, I personally think it’s better suited for more formal events and evenings out.

The Verdict

Overall, I'd highly recommend Penhaligon's body mists. Whether you want to try one of the brand's most iconic scents before investing in the perfume itself, or simply want to use these as on-the-go fragrances for top-ups throughout the day, these body mists are long-lasting, smell expensive and look just as good as a luxury perfume.

At £62, they sit at a significantly higher price point than other body mists on the market; however, the quality of the scents, sophistication of the packaging, and the fine mist make them feel way more elevated than your standard body spray.

Shop the Penhaligon's Body Mists

How I Tested

As a fragrance-obsessed beauty writer, I tested these body mists myself to put them through their paces and see if they are worth the investment. I tested them not only for their scent profiles, but also for their longevity and the quality of the packaging in comparison to their price point.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

No matter how aesthetic the reformer class is, or how oversubscribed the bootcamp session is, I'm still going to dread it. Of course, I've never actually regretted working out; endorphins are very real, but what can make me rethink an early wake-up call is the state of the changing rooms. Especially if it's a luxury gym, the likes of which are springing up one a penny across the capital.

I don't even hate to admit it: slathering myself in santal-scented body butters and drying my hair in seconds with the GHD Speed makes running to my first meeting of the day worth it. Bonus points if the gym is so luxe that I can show up empty-handed, without any of my beauty essentials in tow, right down to my cleanser, dry shampoo and deodorant.

It's not just me who takes this seriously; if we're paying top dollar, we expect our beauty routines to be locked down, too. Equinox made the news when, after just one year, it swapped out Grown Alchemist, which provided its hair, body and face products, for cult New York brand Le Labo. The choice to switch to Grown Alchemist in the first place was a big deal for its patrons after 13 years with Kiehl's—some even went so far as to cancel their memberships.

Fashion PR Enrique Soza pays over £250 a month for his Third Space membership. "I can't afford it at all," he tells Who What Wear UK, "but having Cowshed products makes a difference. Good-quality body wash, shampoo and conditioner are a must. It's always good to see premium haircare, and I'd also like to see some skincare included in the price. The reality is, if they're cutting back on consumables, they're probably cutting back in other areas. Beauty products might seem like a small detail, but they're an indication of the overall standard. No one wants to use a communal bottle of Lynx Africa."

Other gym-goers tell me that they opt for more expensive establishments simply because of the beauty offering. "I go to Psycle more than anywhere else because I think they invest in us by giving us nice products," says one, whilst another adds: "I'm less likely to want to use the showers if I know the hair products will dry me out, or, god forbid, they have a 3-in-1 hair, face and body wash. [When] I spot Aesop by the sink, we're in for a good time. Same goes for Dyson."

So, in the name of journalism, I visited the most esteemed and exclusive gyms in London to get to the lowdown on their beauty offering. Here are the establishments where you can get a sweat on without towing over half your bathroom cabinet. It makes that monthly charge just that bit sweeter.

1. Third Space

Across its 15 gyms in London (a dozen of which boast pools), Third Space offers everything from reformer pilates, barre and yoga to HIIT, weightlifting, boxing, HYROX and cycling.

How Is the Beauty Selection?

The amenities at Third Space aren't to be scoffed at. They start off strong with chilled eucalyptus face towels, perfect for wicking away any sweat after your spin class. Then it's straight into the shower with a selection of Cowshed products; there's shampoo and conditioner (which either come in their soften or boost ranges, depending on your location), and their body wash.

If you have any make-up that still needs removing, there's Garnier Micellar Water and then Cowshed's Essential Daily Moisturiser, which is suitable for all skin types. Pair that with their deodorant, the Ineos Skin Science Aerosol and Mist, and you're nearly ready to go.

At all clubs you have GHD hair straighteners and curling wands, but at Group Plus Clubs, you'll also have Dyson Airwraps and hair dryers. The product offering is excellent, though—it's Arkive, formulated by London-based celebrity hairstylist Adam Reed. There's The Prologue Hair Primer, The Mastery Liquid Hairspray, The Reset Dry Shampoo, The Veil Hairspray and The Good Calmer Moisture Cream.

2. The Method

Perhaps the most beautiful studio I’ve ever stepped into, The Method in Notting Hill is more a curated lifestyle offering than a traditional gym. It has everything from dance cardio and reformer Pilates to strength training, sculpt, mobility, conditioning and HIIT. There’s also an on-site “Lab” for recovery, with sauna and cold-plunge contrast therapy, massages and an infrared lymphatic roller. End your visit in the members’ lounge and terrace before breezing out feeling a million bucks, smoothie in hand.

How Is the Beauty Selection?

The white, airy changing rooms are stocked with LA-born body-care brand Salt & Stone, known for its vegan, cruelty-free and gluten-free formulas. Expect to find their Bergamot & Hinoki shampoo, conditioner, body wash and lotion in the giant shower pods, but not their famous aluminium-free deodorant. No, you'll be using the Bionsen Dermoprotective Spray Deodorant (which luckily is also sans aluminium).

There's also Bioderma Micellar Water, the GOAT that is Living Proof's Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo and Flex Hair Spray. Finish off your style with Cloud 9's hairdryer and straighteners. Plus, there are Grace and Green period products.

3. Equinox

NY-born Equinox currently has three London clubs, offering a roster of classes spanning Pilates, yoga, barre, cycling, boxing, HIIT, strength training, running, dance and martial arts, alongside personal training, spa treatments, saunas and steam rooms. Whilst none of its London clubs has pools, E by Equinox St James’s takes a more personalised, performance-led approach, with everything from body-composition analysis and metabolic testing to physical therapy. There are also juice bars, a complimentary laundry valet, Hydrafacials, and of course, their signature eucalyptus-infused towels.

How Is the Beauty Selection?

You'll find Equinox's sleek, hotel-like changing rooms fully stocked with Le Labo's Basil range, which spans shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, face cleanser, moisturiser and body and hand lotion. There's also Curie's Full Body Deodorant, which comes in an exclusive juniper eucalyptus scent to mimic the brand's chilled eucalyptus towels. It's aluminium-, paraben-, and baking-soda-free, to boot.

And they don't skimp anywhere else; there are Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryers, and GHD styling tools, as well as combs, shaving kits, toothbrushes, toothpaste and mouthwash, for all your hygiene needs.

4. Surrenne

If you want extreme luxury, it doesn’t get much better than Surrenne—an ultra-exclusive subterranean gym, longevity and wellness members’ club and spa in Belgravia. It houses the first-ever UK workout studio by celebrity trainer-to-the-stars Tracy Anderson, a wellness café menu curated by nutritionist Rosemary Ferguson, facials in collaboration with Stella McCartney’s sustainable skincare line, as well as FaceGym treatments. Spanning four levels and designed by Rémi Tessier, it even has a 22-metre underground lap pool with an underwater sound system. Oh, and there are robes designed by Temperley London.

How Is the Beauty Selection?

Surrenne's changing rooms are mini design marvels, and their beauty offering is fittingly curated. They have their own hair, bath and body collection, Ascend, which has only just been made available to purchase online and in Maybourne hotels. They feature a distinctive scent, developed by neuroscientists to enhance mood and energy, whilst the formulas feature adaptogenic botanical blends.

They are also outfitted with Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryers and the brand's Corale Hair Straighteners. Surrenne also provides additional products seasonally; right now, members can find the Density hair collection by Flora Lab Paris, and deodorant sprays from Weleda.

5. Psycle

Now with seven studios across the city, Psycle has moved the high-energy spin category into the boutique space, with additional classes offering everything from reformer, barre, strength and yoga to sculpting classes in an infrared-heated studio. Their cleated cycling shoes are always complimentary, and their Bank branch allows you to grab a recovery shake on the way out, courtesy of plant-based Energy Kitchen.

How Is the Beauty Selection?

Inside Psycle's sleek changing rooms, you'll find the algae bioscience bodycare brand Sachajuan, which provides its shampoo, conditioner, body wash, body lotion and hand soap. Hairdryers and straighteners come courtesy of GHD, with diffusers available too. There's also dry shampoo from Batiste, deodorant from Dove, feminine products, and of course, fluffy white towels.

6. KXU

When it opened in Chelsea, KXU brought the luxury members' club premise to its city-dwelling, busy clientele by offering pay-as-you-go classes. There are 14 class concepts, spanning HIIT, strength, barre, spin, functional fitness, yoga, plus HYROX. There's also a medi-spa focused on recovery, replete with an infrared sauna, as well as a fully stocked nutrition bar.

How Is the Beauty Selection?

KXU's rose-gold lockers are speedy-access and boast phone chargers, so you can load up as you work out. After you're done, head to their showers, which are kitted out with Aesop's Volumising Shampoo and Conditioner, Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser, as well as the Resurrection Aromatique Hand Wash and Geranium Leaf Body Balm.

GHD Air Hairdryers, as well as the Classic Curl Tong, Classic Curl Wand, and the Platinum Professional Straightener. Plus, period care products and deodorants from Nivea.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

As the excitement around maximalist styling settles in, fashion's coolest dressers are embracing a more restrained approach for fall. The outfits catching my attention aren't built around loud trends or endless layers. They're defined by thoughtful proportions, elevated basics, and the understated details that quietly make an entire look feel expensive. It's less about doing more and more about getting every piece exactly right.

That shift toward minimalist dressing doesn't mean outfits are boring. In fact, the chicest fall looks often rely on subtle contrasts that make them feel incredibly modern: sleek tailoring paired with relaxed silhouettes, rich textures mixed with clean lines, and timeless wardrobe staples styled in fresh ways. The result is an effortless aesthetic that feels polished enough for the office, relaxed enough for weekends, and sophisticated enough for everything in between.

If there's one takeaway from this season's street style, it's that simplicity is officially having a major moment. Instead of constantly chasing the next micro-trend, stylish women are investing in versatile pieces they can wear on repeat and style in countless ways throughout the season. Ahead, discover the minimalist-but-cool outfits that will define fall and make getting dressed every morning feel infinitely easier.

15 Minimalist Fall Outfit Ideas of 2026

Get the look: Black silk top + Skinny scarf + Midi skirt + Black leather flip-flops

Get the look: Sweater + Pearl necklace + Silk midi skirt + Flip-flops

Get the look: Sweater + Tank + Black trousers + Flip-flops

Get the look: Leather jacket + White T-shirt + Loose sweat shorts + Mule heels

Get the look: Oversize button-down shirt + Fitted tank + Loose sweats + Peep-toe heels

Get the look: Silk button-down shirt + Silk pants + Pointed-toe heels

Get the look: Black sweater + Silk midi skirt + Flip-flops

Get the look: White long-sleeve shirt + Lace shorts + Loafers

Get the look: Loose shirt + Sheer shirt + White block heels

Get the look: Layered tanks + Loose white trousers + Belt + Leather sandals

Get the look: Wrap top + Black capris + Pointed-toe heels

Get the look: White button-down shirt + Capris + Ballet flats

Get the look: Fitted top + Midi skirt + Leather flip-flops + Oversize bag

Get the look: Neutral jacket + Tank + Black shorts + Block heels

Get the look: Striped button-down shirt + Linen skirt + Mules

This season, oversized textured brooches are to an autumn wardrobe what bandanas were to a summer one: a low-effort, high-impact way to elevate your styling in one fell swoop. And whilst autumn is still technically on the horizon, we're already getting a strong sense that this is set to be one of the forthcoming season's most impactful accessories. How do I know? For starters, the frothy accessory has already found its way onto some of Copenhagen Fashion Week's chicest attendees.

These voluminous, often feathery brooches were pinned onto some of the week's best looks, adding a playful textural element to blazers, knits, tees and tanks. Fuzzy, tactile and eye-catching, the of-the-moment accessory offers an easy way to have a little more fun with your styling, whilst still feeling polished.

Destined to take off, the autumn/winter 2026 runways were already hinting at the accessory's arrival, with key names such as Chanel sending textured brooches down the runway, pinned onto the house's traditional two-piece looks. Speaking to the playful, enchanting spirit of the modern Chanel girl, it's no surprise that the trend has been picked up straight from the runway and is already making its way into some of the chicest new-season looks less than six months later.

While the trend is only just beginning to bubble up, brands are starting to weave textured brooches into their new-season collections. And until the trend hits the mainstream, marketplaces such as Etsy are already brimming with handmade designs in a rainbow of shades, making it easy to get ahead of the look now.

Already shaping up to be one of autumn's most important accessory trends, read on to shop the textured brooches I'm recommending now.

Shop Statement Brooches:

If you've been monitoring the trends as closely as I have, you may have noticed that a chic group of fashion people have begun swapping their go-to black bags and shoes for an exceedingly more playful colour. Shelving their staples in favour of something a little more unexpected, some of the chicest dressers on my radar are accessorising with turquoise bags and shoes right now.

Now emerging as a seasonal staple, this punchy colour trend brings a vibrant energy to an outfit, making it a natural addition if you want to breathe new life into some of your wardrobe's simpler pieces. Often spotted in the form of an aquamarine handbag, I've seen model Elsa Hosk swap her go-to black and brown styles for this energising shade time and time again this season. Worn with a simple black knit and jeans, as Elsa so chicly demonstrated, a turquoise bag can bring instant energy and dimension to an otherwise pared-back outfit.

Worn alongside brighter shades, turquoise taps into the new season's maximalist mood, making it easy to create a chic, elevated outfit. And while turquoise bags are having a moment, I've also spotted plenty of turquoise ballet flats and heels peppering the outfits of some of the chicest women I follow.

Suddenly, one of the coolest ways to elevate your look, turquoise is encouraging even the most dedicated minimalists to have a little fun with colour. Read on to shop the turquoise accessories I'm recommending below.

Shop the Turquoise Accessory Trend:

If you're someone who loves jeans but gets bored easily, step into my office. The first order of business is fall shoes. The easiest way to spice up a denim outfit is with a pair of cool, trendy shoes. That being said, I say trendy with a caveat: Certain shoe trends work better than others when it comes to which ones to pair with jeans. Something too chunky or with too high a heel can look off, and if it's cooler outfits I'm seeking, I tend to veer away from plain, boring shoes and toward trends that are a bit more fun. It sounds like a lot to think about, but luckily, you don't have to—that's what I'm here for.

Below, you'll find a tight edit of five specific fall shoe trends that'll make your jeans look cooler in one fell swoop. They run the gamut from classic to subtly flashy, and each looks as chic with denim as the next. So, before jeans season—or fall, if that's what you call it—arrives, keep scrolling to shop the shoe trends you'll see all the fashion people (yourself included, perhaps?) wearing with jeans of every wash.

Jewel Tones

Since jewel tones were all over the 2026 runways, it should come as no surprise that they're going to be all over everyone's feet this fall. Think shades of royal purple, emerald green, ruby red, and cobalt blue. They all pop against denim and quickly become the main character of an outfit—in a good way.

Shop Jewel-Tone Shoes to Wear With Jeans

Embellished

Ever since those embellished kitten heels became an instant It shoe upon making their debut on the Prada F/W 26 runway, shoes adorned with beads and baubles have become a thing again. Pro tip: Pair them with a simple denim outfit to let them be the stand-out component.

Shop Embellished Shoes to Wear With Jeans

Two-Tone

Ever since Matthieu Blazy breathed new life into Chanel’s signature two-tone shoes, the fashion world has been enamored with the trend. After all, two shoe colors are better than one—when they’re as chic as the styles below, at least. Whether cap-toed, trimmed, or geometric, all are welcome, and all add interest to any jeans outfit they’re paired with.

Shop Two-Tone Shoes to Wear With Jeans

Satin

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: Satin shoes are the prettiest shoe trend of 2026. When it comes to specifics, the fashion crowd is partial to wedges, mules, and simple ballet flats in any and every shade of satin. And of course, denim and satin are a match made in heaven.

Shop Satin Shoes to Wear With Jeans

Ballet Heels

If you like the delicate look of ballet flats but prefer a bit of a heel, good news: Ballet heels are trending, which means that there are plenty of options to choose from on the market. It’s a low-key, pretty way to dress up your jeans.

Shop Ballet Heels to Wear With Jeans

I still vividly remember the first time I saw a pair of Tabis in real life. I was a fashion intern attending a PR event, and at the time, Tabis felt like the ultimate anti-fashion statement—the kind of deliberately challenging shoe reserved for the industry’s most avant-garde dressers. And yet, when I spotted that unmistakable hoof-like toe peeking out from beneath a pair of wide-leg pinstripe trousers, something clicked. Yes, they were objectively a little strange, but why did I suddenly want to rip off my decidedly boring trainers?

Of course, the Tabi’s ability to provoke is nothing new. The moment Martin Margiela debuted his now-iconic Tabi boot in 1988 is etched into every fashion person's brain; models walked—in white lab coats—down the runway with the soles dipped in red paint, leaving those unmistakable split-toe footprints behind them. They quite literally left their mark. In the years that followed, the Tabi expanded beyond the original boot into loafers, heels and, eventually, the ballet flats that have become one of the house’s most recognisable designs.

Margiela didn’t invent the split-toe silhouette, though. Its origins can be traced back centuries to Japan, where Tabis were traditionally split-toe socks designed to be worn with thong sandals. It was this traditional design that reportedly inspired Margiela after a trip to Japan, eventually becoming the foundation for one of fashion’s most recognisable—and divisive—shoes.

But 2026 feels like the year the Tabi has finally crossed over. Once a badge of honour for fashion’s more anarchic dressers, the controversial shoe is suddenly everywhere. Perhaps our collective appetite for “ugly” footwear has grown, or perhaps we’ve simply had enough time to come around to its charms. Either way, I now spot Tabis on stylish women on the Underground during my morning commute, on the Instagram feeds of people who might have dismissed them as “ugly” three years ago and, most recently, on Kylie Jenner, who wore hers whilst cycling around New York on a Citi Bike. Casual.

Naturally, where a cult shoe goes, the rest of fashion inevitably follows, meaning you no longer need to spend a cool £700 to own a pair. Split-toe flats are increasingly appearing beyond Maison Margiela, with brands including Anthropologie, Jeffrey Campbell and Steve Madden offering their own interpretations. Elsewhere, Massimo Dutti, COS and Free People are tapping into the same slightly offbeat mood more subtly, with angular and square-toe flats that deliver some of the Tabi’s unconventional appeal without committing to the full split toe.

Keep scrolling to shop Maison Margiela’s cult Tabi ballet flats, along with the split-toe and Tabi-inspired styles putting the once-divisive silhouette firmly into the mainstream.

Shop The Best Tabi Ballet Flats

Shop Square-Toe Ballet Flats

It may be hard to believe but, even the pickiest members of the Who What Wear UK team make *some* mistakes when it comes to shopping. Whether it was an impulse sale purchase that never saw the light of day again, or a trend-led piece that fell out of favour a year later, we're not too proud to admit, we haven't always gotten it right.

It was this exact topic of conversation that got our group chat fired up this week, and had us thinking about all of the pieces we regretted buying the most, and which we wish we'd invested in instead. Knowing that you too probably feel the same way (or are at least curious to see what made our hit and miss list), we rounded up our answers in order to save you from buyers remorse.

So, if you wondered how Who What Wear UK editors really shop when no-one is watching, keep scrolling to see our final edit of the pieces that are really worth buying now.

Things We Regret Buying, According to Who What Wear UK Editors

Natalie Munro, News Writer, on Wedge Mules

"This is an easy answer, but hard to admit. I have some really chic mule wedges, but I can never wear them because they tear my feet up the very moment I leave the house. Heeled mules can be beautiful to look at, but less practical to walk in (it takes a lot of work to stop them from slipping off), so in hindsight I'd look for a style with a little more support."

What She'd Buy Instead: Minimalist Slingbacks

Toeing the line between polished and simple, a pared-back slingback is the kind of shoe you're never going to regret having in your wardrobe. Whether you're styling it up with tailoring, or keeping them casual with jeans, this versatile shoe is a certified all-rounder, just make sure you look for heel heights that are comfortable enough to wear all day.

Humaa Hussain, Junior Branded Content Editor, On Micro Bags

"I bought a tiny bag for a wedding once, and ended up never using it again. I'm sorry to say, it’s sitting in it’s dust bag in my wardrobe. I like Mary Poppins-esque big bags that I can fit everything inside, and it might be sound very millennial of me but, maybe mini bags are best left to Gen Z."

What She'd Buy Instead: Dressy Shoulder Bags

Yes, there is a happy middle ground (pun very much intended), as a medium shoulder bag can transition between everyday and all of your evening plans too. Minimalist, 90's styles are having a moment right now (conclusive proof that the classics can still look just as good 30 years later), and a neutral colour palette means that your bag is guaranteed to go with everything.

Remy Farrell, Fashion Editor, On Knitted Dresses

"Okay, I'll preface this by saying I don't hate all knitted dresses, but I'm unlikely to buy another thick, wool maxi dress after profusely sweating my way through what became a bobbly, misshapen lump after just one wash. Even in the coldest winter months a full length wool dress can feel a bit much, but I've learned my lesson, and even though something has hanger appeal, it doesn't make it the most practical wear. Always. Try. Things. On."

What I'd Buy Instead: A Cashmere Jumper

A cashmere crew neck knit can do far more than just being thrown on with jeans, and if you want to wear a dress and a stay warm in the cooler months, layer a knit over (even under) your dress, or tie it around your shoulders or waist for easy access. It's much easier to temperature regulate than a knit dress, and can be the foundation of so many great looks. A good quality knit that is well looked after can last for a lifetime, making the cost per wear even more impressive.

Rebecca Rhys Evans, Acting Deputy Editor, On Cheap Button Ups

"What I had thought would be a quick solution to buy some affordable basics turned out to be more hassle than it was worth. The high street is great for so many things, and I will never spend over the amount that something is worth just because it has a designer name attached, but after watching as four buttons, yes four, recently fell off a top that I'd only worn twice, I realised the importance of investing in quality over convenience."

What She'd Buy Instead: Premium Basics

You don't have to spend four figures on a plain white tee to know you're getting your money's worth, but there are some great independent brands and premium labels that put a lot of thought into making high quality clothes in exceptional fabrications so that your clothes are designed to stick around for much longer than a season.

Brittany Davy, Junior Writer, On Flared Jeans

"Honestly, mine is probably flared jeans. As much as I loved the trend and immediately bought into the thought of them, I found it near impossible to find a flat-shoe style that actually looked good with them. Too flat and the hems dragged, too small and demure and they were swamped by denim, too big and clunky and it was an unintentional 2000s throwback. In my opinion, they only really wear well with heels."

What She'd Buy Instead: Straight Leg Jeans

There's a difference between "boring" and "classic", and straight leg jeans might not be reinventing the wheel, but if it isn't broke, sometimes you don't need to fix it. Not only are straight leg jeans perfect with ballet flats, loafers and sandals, well, just about any flats, they're also going to work with heels and tucked into boots too (hello, autumn).

Marina Avraam, Senior Shopping Editor, On Balloon Trousers

"I had thought of mesh ballet flats (ultimately they're just too trendy and I find them difficult to wear in the city), but balloon trousers were a real problem for me. At 5ft2 they just drown my short frame and end up looking like a skirt. Love the idea, but less the execution—now I'm much more focused on finding trends that work for my body, and not the only way around."

What She'd Buy Instead: Petite Tailored Trousers

If you've been shopping the regular sections and finding the hems too long or too short, you don't have to settle for ill-fitting clothes for the sake of "ease". Start with tall and petite sections to find a more tailored fit that reduces the risk of returns later down the line.

Megan Storey, Social Editor, On Suede Sneakerinas

"Easy—white suede sneakerinas. So fun in the moment, but nothing practical about them. Suede shoes are hard enough to keep clean, but throw in such a light colour and with autumn around the corner, there just isn't enough room in my rotation for such a springy, trend-lead shoe."

What She'd Buy Instead: Leather Ballet Flats

There are only are handful of shoes that really do work all year round, and a pair of leather ballets are one of them. Wear them with jeans and cardigans in spring, tees and mini skirts in summer and blazers and long skirts in autumn, and you're sorted. Just like leather jackets, white t-shirts and great denim, ballet flats are one of those eternally effortless pieces that everyone should have in their wardrobe.

Nicole Pereira, Junior Social Media Editor, On Bodysuits

"There aren't many pieces that I regret buying, but a designer body is one of them. Bodysuits just don't work on me and i fell into the hype too quickly. It was only later that I realised, it just was not my style, and that's okay. Would I buy one again? Not likely."

What She'd Buy Instead: Tank Tops

There's no such thing as too many basics, and the tank tops you've been wearing throughout summer are going to be just as useful in autumn too. Under blazers, suede jackets, cardigans and over tees, a good tank top will also tuck into your high-waisted jeans and skirts, so you can channel the energy of a bodysuit without regretting it later.