Working in fashion, everyone has their thing, whether it's an extensive collection of vintage jeans or a penchant for shoes. At Who What Wear, for many of us, it's designer bags. For me, it started when Coach bags were everywhere in middle and high school and evolved to my very first adult designer purchase from Vivienne Westwood and eventually to receiving the classic Prada Tessuto nylon tote as a gift a few birthdays ago.

As an editor, I often analyze shopping data, which made me wonder: Which designer bags are our readers buying right now? To answer this, I reviewed a month of data from June 25 to July 25, and the one brand readers shopped the most didn't come as a surprise to me. With nine transactions in a single month, two of which were the Soft Margaux 15, The Row was definitely the front-runner. Our editors love the designs, and since our readers do as well, it makes complete sense. (Clearly we have expensive taste.)

In second place, Loewe had four designer bag sales over the past month. And Gucci, YSL, and Coach followed with three each, while Jacquemus accounted for two. Others with single orders included Zimmermann, Toteme, Tory Burch, Tod's, Strathberry, Ralph Lauren, Mulberry, Louis Vuitton, Lanvin, Khaite, Jimmy Choo, Isabel Marant, Ferragamo, Dragon Diffusion, DeMellier, Chloé, Burberry, Balenciaga, and Alémais.

Readers shopped these directly from the labels' websites or through retailers like Bloomingdale's, Net-a-Porter, Nordstrom, and Shopbop. Below, a look at the designer bags our readers bought over the past month.

Shop Reader-Favorite Designer Bags

The Row Soft Margaux 15

The Row Soft Margaux 12

The Row Park

The Row Sally

The Row Alma

The Row Leila

The Row Agnes 12

Loewe Squeeze

Loewe Anagram Basket

Loewe Dice Pocket

Loewe x Paula's Ibiza Swing

Gucci Paparazzo

Gucci Lady Lunetta

Gucci Jackie 1961

YSL Uptown Pouch

Coach Tabby 36

Coach Tabby 26

Coach Soft Empire 40

Toteme Clip Clutch

Jacquemus Le Grand Bambino

Jacquemus Le Bambola Moyen

Khaite Kye

Balenciaga Rodeo Sling Pochette

DeMellier The Stockholm

Tory Burch Lee Radziwill

Tod's Micro Top-Handle

Strathberry Barra

Polo Ralph Lauren Polo Play

Mulberry Small Boston

Louis Vuitton Speedy Bandoulière 25

Lanvin Nano Pencil Cat

Isabel Marant Bolton

Ferragamo Gancini Mini

Dragon Diffusion Castello

Chloé Small Marcie

Burberry Mini Margate

Alémais Limelight Barrel

Jimmy Choo Bon Bon

Zimmermann Goldentime

There are a few key spring and summer events that help our editors keep an eye out for inspiration and trends, runways, of course, red carpets, after-parties and The Met Gala.

This year Hunter Schafer wore one of our team's favourite red carpet looks of the night, which was a custom Prada gown inspired by Gustav Klimt's "Mäda Primavesi." Then, for the Saint Laurent after-party at People's Bar in New York City, she changed into a custom dress by emerging British designer Steve O Smith and carried one particular accessory: Prada's Wish Pouch.

That made me think back to the Italian luxury house's spring and summer 2026 runway show, where the bag appeared multiple times throughout the collection, taking an essentials-only approach to dressing: phone, keys, wallet. The silhouette comes in three materials—silk, Re-Nylon, and leather—and in a range of shades including black, grey, orange and even pink.

Pouches also appeared at Loewe's, Miu Miu's, and Valentino's spring and summer 2026 shows and even at Celine's autumn and winter 2026 presentation—a nostalgic eveningwear aesthetic reminiscent of the dainty styles dating back to the late 18th century.

Below, shop Prada's It bag for summer 2026 along with more designer pouches from Bottega Veneta, Chloé, Saint Laurent, The Row, and more.

On Prada's Spring and Summer 2026 Runway

On Hunter Schafer

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For some, the start of summer is marked by the summer solstice. Others depend on the first heatwave to confirm the new season's arrival. For me, it's the first sighting of a Loewe basket bag.

Whilst the summer temperatures may not be predictable, there are certain iconic buys that we can certainly depend on. A.Emery's sandals will come back every season, Dôen's dresses return to pride of place, and when it comes to handbags, Loewe's distinctive styles can be spotted in cities and seasides across the globe.

Each time the mercury rises, basket bags return to our everyday wardrobes. Bringing a summer edge to our outfits, from smart tailoring to flowing summer dresses, these bags are primed to be trusted companions throughout the warm days, whether laden down with laptops and water bottles or SPF and beach towels. For decades, this iconic bag has remained a staple of warm-weather dressing, but in 2019, JW Anderson emblazoned a basket bag with the iconic Loewe anagram, and ever since, the fashion crowd has been completely enamoured by this one style.

Whether you know it or not, you’ve probably spotted one of Loewe’s iconic bags during the summer months. The classic styles see a raffia weave with luxurious leather handles and the eye-catching Loewe logo applied to the side. Whilst distinctive for us fashion people, the bag remains subtle, nodding to the designer branding only through the swirling letters. Other styles have since taken a more subtle approach, with the brand's name embossed onto handles or in small stitches on the side of the Puzzle Fold.

As Loewe’s basket bag has held its It status, the brand has continued to update the style with various silhouettes, colourways and sizes. Now, there’s a style for everyone, ready to be a smart investment piece now and continue to earn its keep in your summer wardrobe every single year. If you’re looking to add one great basket bag to your collection, scroll on to explore the best Loewe Basket Bags right now.

1. Basket Bag

2. Eclipse

3. Anagram Basket

4. Braid Basket Bag

5. Punch Hole Hobo

6. Puzzle Fold

7. Font Tote

This summer, sunglasses aren't finishing the outfit—they're becoming the outfit.

Across the spring/summer 2026 runways, maisons in Paris and New York seemed to arrive at the same conclusion: If you're going to wear sunglasses, they may as well take up half your face. Shield sunnies are dramatically sweeping from temple to temple. Rounded bug-eye frames are swallowing statue-esque cheekbones. At times, oversize glasses designers relied on as accoutrements for their collections felt less like accessories and more like wearable attitude amplifiers.

The trend has been brewing for a few months, but it hit a tipping point this season. At Tory Burch, oversize frames added an air of polished anonymity. Saint Laurent leaned into exaggerated proportions that amplified the drama of its sharp tailoring and hearkened to founder Yves Saint Laurent's classic eyewear. Balenciaga treated sunglasses like futuristic armor, while Celine revived the bug-eye silhouette with a distinctly Jackie O energy. Collectively, the message was impossible to miss: Fashion wants its sunglasses to be loud again.

There's something undeniably appealing about eyewear that refuses to blend in. In an era dominated by personal style, statement dressing, and images designed to stop a scroll, freaky sunglasses offer instant impact. If the tiny sunglasses trend of the late 2010s was about having an air of nonchalance, today's bug-eyed supersize frames are about declaring presence. The bigger they are, the better they look—and fashion's coolest brands are betting heavily that we'll all want a pair by the time July 1 rolls around.

Below, shop the best designer bug-eyed sunglasses.

On the Runway

On the Style Set

On Our Editors

Shop the Best Designer Bug-Eye Sunglasses

It seems that almost every major fashion house is reissuing an archival bag these days, and honestly, we're here for it. While we enjoy seeing the well-known styles make a comeback, we also know that the most exciting reissues are the understated pieces—those that never fully disappeared because they continued to be a staple in the closets of true fashion people.

That's exactly where the Loewe Amazona 180 bag comes into play. This style was recently rereleased to celebrate Loewe's 180th anniversary, accompanied by a campaign starring Loewe global brand ambassador Julia Garner, actress Sissy Spacek, American painter Kara Walker, and others.

Before we get into any more details about the new Loewe bag, let's take a step back. The original Amazona was introduced in 1975 and was designed not as a trendy item but as a classic, practical everyday bag. It features a structured square shape with rounded edges and a sturdy top handle. In the 1970s, it was a culturally significant luxury item because it symbolized independence and mobility for working women.

By the 1990s, the Amazona had truly established itself in the fashion zeitgeist. Its popularity was not driven by headlines. Rather, it was popularized by Loewe's loyal, tight-knit clientele who appreciated elegant but understated designs. Then in the early 2000s, celebrities began to embrace it.

Sarah Jessica Parker was spotted wearing the bag while filming I Don't Know How She Does It in NYC right after her Sex and the City days. Kate Moss, known for her designer-bag collection that featured everything from grunge to minimalist styles, sported the classic black Amazona, carrying it in the crook of her arm. On-screen, Leighton Meester, who played Blair Waldorf in Gossip Girl, wore the red colorway, solidifying it as the epitome of Upper East Side luxury at the time.

Now, with reinterpretation by the house's creative directors Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, the Amazona 180 bag marks a milestone for Loewe. The new silhouette retains the DNA of the original while reflecting how quiet luxury is shifting from polished minimalism to relaxed craftsmanship. It has a very casual, almost lived-in feel and a design intended to be worn slightly open. It features a top handle and detachable shoulder straps for versatility, and it comes in mini, small, and large sizes and a wide range of colors and materials—from brown suede to red leather.

Following its spring/summer 2026 runway debut, the bag quickly appeared on the arms of It girls all over the world. Bella Hadid wore the large black one in L.A. with her chic denim outfit. Sarah Pidgeon donned the small suede style with white jeans and a leather top during Paris Fashion Week.

As fashion editors, we understand what it takes for a designer bag to be worth the investment, and we can confidently say the Amazona 180 is. It combines history, storytelling, and style. Keep scrolling to shop the bag for yourself and see how celebrities styled the original in the early aughts versus how they're styling the reissued silhouette now.

The Amazona Bag on Celebs in the 2000s

WHO: Sarah Jessica Parker

WHAT: Filming I Don't Know How She Does It in NYC

WHO: Leighton Meester

WHAT: Filming Gossip Girl in NYC

WHO: Madonna

WHO: Kate Moss

The Amazona 180 Bag on Celebrities in 2026

WHO: Sarah Pidgeon

WHAT: attending Paris Fashion Week

WHO: Bella Hadid

Shop the Loewe Amazona 180 Bag

The first Monday in May always marks the Met Gala—one of the biggest events in the fashion industry. Aside from the runways, it's a key places editors keep an eye out for inspiration and trends, from the red carpet to the after-parties.

Hunter Schafer wore one of our team's favorite red carpet looks of the night, which was a custom Prada gown inspired by Gustav Klimt's "Mäda Primavesi." Then, for the Saint Laurent after-party at People's Bar in New York City, she changed into a custom dress by emerging British designer Steve O Smith and carried one particular accessory: Prada's Wish Pouch.

That made me think back to the Italian luxury house's S/S 26 runway show, where the bag appeared multiple times throughout the collection, taking an essentials-only approach to dressing: phone, keys, wallet. The silhouette comes in three materials—silk, Re-Nylon, and leather—and in a range of shades including black, gray, orange, blue, brown, and a now-sold-out pink.

Pouches also appeared at Loewe's, Miu Miu's, and Valentino's spring/summer 2026 shows and even at Celine's F/W 26 presentation—a nostalgic eveningwear aesthetic reminiscent of the dainty styles dating back to the late 18th century.

Below, shop Prada's It bag for summer 2026 along with more designer pouches from Bottega Veneta, Chloé, Saint Laurent, The Row, and more.

On Prada's S/S 26 Runway

On Hunter Schafer

Shop Prada's Wish Pouch

Shop More Designer Pouches

Over the past few weeks, I've noticed that stylish people across the globe are reaching for the same sleek bag. Surprisingly, it isn't a fresh off the runway style or even a last season release, but a style that has held its place in the chicest wardrobes around for over a decade. Eleven years from its first runway sightings, the Loewe Flamenco bag has held its contemporary feel, and it's about to be everywhere this spring.

As a shopping editor, I'm often asked what the best purchases are. Of course, I could start with a list of capsule wardrobe heroes, or current trending styles, which will instantly rejuvenate your most worn looks, but above all, the greatest purchases are the smart ones. For me, that's a harmonious balance of practicality, timelessness and sophistication. Often, certain pieces can check off one or two of these features, but only a few great designs cover all three. If you're wondering what is at the top of my smart shopping list right now, it's the Loewe Flamenco bag, and clearly, I'm not alone.

When it comes to the greatest designer brands around, Loewe sits comfortably on the list. The consistent draw comes from the breadth of expertise, from playful designs of tomato-shaped bags and rose heels to the most refined staple jackets and jeans. From quirky to classic, the brand has held the fashion world's attention, and within its greatest creations sits the Flamenco bag. Year after year, praised for its ease, versatility and refined look.

The Flamenco bag is a soft clutch style, identifiable by its cinched closure and knot drawstrings. The supple form, whether you go for the soft leather or woven raffia, fits neatly tucked under an arm or held in hand, but the Flamenco is all about versatility. Not only is the form able to withstand moving trends, but internal hardware allows the wearer to add a detachable strap to transform the clutch into a crossbody or over-the-shoulder style. And in turn, Loewe has a series of playful straps that can be swapped in and out to personalise the bag to your aesthetic. Currently, the Flamenco is available in three sizes: mini, medium and large. As great handbags go, the Flamenco is sophisticated in form, practical as it shifts from clutch to shoulder bag, and has already proven that timelessness is at the core of its design. Now, fashion people are once again reaching for their Flamenco bags. Keep scrolling to explore the Loewe Flamenco bag below.

Shop the Loewe Flamenco Bag

There’s always something special about getting a front row seat to someone's star-making ascent. Sarah Pidgeon’s performance as Carolyn Bassette Kennedy in FX’s new anthology series Love Story has been nothing short of this. Every shot of her smirking, tousling her hair or seeking cover behind the lens of her Selima Optique sunglasses has propelled Pidgeon further into the spotlight, with the show’s costuming spawning countless replicas for those hoping to imitate her wardrobe filled with Prada knitwear, Yohji Yamamoto white shirts and Levi’s jeans.

On screen, she dazzles as the former Calvin Klein publicist who captured the heart of America’s Prince, John. F. Kennedy Jr., who is played by the equally captivating Paul Anthony Kelly. Off duty, the actress approaches fashion with the same effortless elegance and sophisticated insouciance as her character, quickly making her both one to watch and one with a wardrobe worth lusting over.

It’s a Hollywood template we’ve seen out before—a breakout star becomes an overnight sensation, with their runaway success making them a fashion darling in no time. And whilst the limited series has only just drawn to a close, she’s already curried favour with the likes of Chanel after wearing a series of new season designs from incumbent creative director Mattieu Blazy on the show’s press tour, tried her hand at method dressing by wearing custom Calvin Klein, including a clutch inspired by the CK One perfume bottle, to the Vanity Fair Oscars After Party and made a splashy fashion week debut after cropping up at Prada and Loewe’s shows.

Still, given the mystique that surrounds CBK, it feels as if almost her vein of understated coolness has transposed itself onto Pidgeon somehow. Call it some strange form of sartorial osmosis, but Pidgeon’s own street style has become the stuff of fashion fodder. One must wonder if the second she ditches this ‘90s minimalism and returns to her natural chocolate brown hair colour, the fantasy will wear off. Regardless, this conscious choice to marry her own career advancement with the styling of the role she portrayed is one that’s inspired and certainly influencing how many of us are dressing this spring.

Meticulously curated by her stylist Emma Jade Morrison, Pidgeon has come to embody the lightness and brevity of the season at hand. From coats brimming with personality to pencil skirts that add some movement to the moment, every ensemble is a masterclass in refined simplicity. I know I’m not alone when I say this is the exact way I want my spring outfits to feel, so I’ve taken it upon myself to break down the bare essentials you need to channel Sarah Pidgeon’s best street style looks thus far. From tailored jackets to slouchy knitwear, uncover her capsule wardrobe staples ahead.

See Sarah Pidgeon's Best Street Style Looks of 2026

Shop Sarah Pidgeon's 2026 Style Essentials

For me, the way to read the fashion mood at any given time comes down to the It bags of the moment. In the age of maximalism, the overarching feeling was displayed in bold logos and monogrammed patterns, whilst the boho eras were distilled in slouchy silhouettes and intricate leather work. For spring 2026, the resounding theme in luxury is a return to heritage, and its clearest marker is the reinvented Loewe Amazona 180 that fashion people and celebrities can't stop carrying.

Our first sighting of the Loewe Amazona 180 bag came from the spring/summer 2026 runways, and immediately, fashion people took note. For those in the know, it was a defining moment for the brand, reinventing one of its most beloved styles, which first launched in the 1970’s, now updated for the present day.

The Amazona 180 is a celebration of Loewe’s heritage and expertise in leather. Loewe was founded almost two centuries ago, and with 180 years of extensive craftspersonship, iconography, and a slew of It bags, Loewe has been cemented as one of the most impactful luxury brands around. Now the Amazona 180 bag celebrates the extensive history of the brand and has joined the lineup of the best Loewe bags.

The original Amazona bag was introduced in 1975 as an everyday style with softened edges and a polished look. In turn, it became an iconic style for the brand, and over the years, it has been reconfigured and updated with fresh colourways and fabrics to suit the changing times. But the ease and sophistication of the bag have always been maintained.

Loewe’s approach to handbag design has always focused on timelessness. From the Puzzle to the Squeeze, its best creations have earned their It credentials through elegance and ease, rather than loud branding. The Amazona 180 follows this, with a classic shape featuring contemporary accents to ensure a harmonious balance of new yet enduring.

Now, for 2026, the bag has a slouchy attitude, crafted to be worn in various ways depending on the mood of the wearer. The refined silhouette can easily be contrasted when worn slightly open, a form that the brand has considered by placing the Loewe branding in sight when the zips are undone. The bag also comes with three strap options: a short handle, a removable shoulder strap and a crossbody, which we’ve already spotted stylish people move between depending on their outfits. Inside, two compartments are separated by a suede-lined divider, and an internal pocket for treasured possessions. With a series of sizes and a playful arrangement of colour options, now is the time to add the Amazona 180 bag to your collection.

Shop the Loewe Amazona 180 Bag

Mini Amazona 180 Bag

Shop the Small Loewe Amazona 180 Bag

Large Amazona 180 Bag

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While there are parts of my wardrobe where I’m happy to be a little more maximalist (a statement shoe here, a bold trouser there) I like my accessories to feel timeless. When I’m investing in a handbag, I naturally gravitate towards clean lines, minimal hardware and silhouettes that will feel just as relevant in ten years as they do now. In other words: quiet luxury. And when it comes to the best quiet luxury bags for spring 2026, there are a few standout styles that feel particularly strong right now.

Starting with The Row’s Marlo. The successor to the now-discontinued Margaux—loved by Kendall Jenner and Jennifer Lawrence—it carries that same softly structured, pared-back aesthetic that helped define modern quiet luxury. Bottega Veneta, too, continues to deliver timeless silhouettes. While the Andiamo remains a favourite, it’s the newer Veneta style that stands out this season. Recently spotted on Olivia Dean and Elle Fanning (and Jacob Elordi!) its curved shape and signature intrecciato finish strike the perfect balance between statement and subtle.

For something a little more understated, the Tory Burch Romy Tote offers a slouchy, spacious alternative that feels effortlessly polished, and of course, the Saint Laurent 5 à 7 remains a modern classic. Sleek, minimal and finished with subtle gold hardware, it’s the kind of bag that works just as well for day as it does for evening.

Rounding out the edit are a handful of similarly refined styles—from Demellier's Stockholm to Loewe's Flamenco, each one is grounded in longevity over trend. Keep scrolling to shop the best quiet luxury bags below.

Shop The Best Quiet Luxury Bags For Spring 2026

1. The Row Marlo

Style Notes: A chic successor to The Row’s Margaux, the Marlo delivers the same timeless appeal with a slightly more refined, everyday edge. The softly slouchy silhouette feels relaxed yet considered, holding its shape while maintaining that signature minimalist ease. Unlike the Margaux, it features a zip-top closure for added practicality, while the absence of side buckles lends it an even cleaner, more pared-back finish.

2. Bottega Veneta Veneta Bag

Style Notes: The latest addition to Bottega Veneta’s already impressive handbag line-up, the Veneta feels like a natural evolution for the brand—so much so, it shares its name. Crafted from supple nappa leather and finished with the house’s signature intrecciato weave, it features a softly structured, crescent-shaped silhouette that sits neatly under the arm. Understated yet instantly recognisable, it strikes that perfect balance of quiet luxury.

3. Saint Laurent Le 5 a 7

Style Notes: Designed as part of Saint Laurent’s Le 5 à 7 line—named after the transition from work to evening—the shoulder bag embodies effortless day-to-night dressing. With its sleek, ’90s-inspired silhouette and softly structured, rounded rectangular shape, it feels both polished and modern. Finished with the iconic Cassandre logo and an adjustable shoulder strap, it’s as practical as it is chic.

4. Demellier Stockholm

Style Notes: DeMellier’s Stockholm bag is the epitome of polished minimalism. With its structured top-handle silhouette and clean, architectural lines, it brings an instantly refined finish to any outfit. Thoughtfully designed with practicality in mind, it offers just enough space for daily essentials while maintaining a sleek, elegant profile.

5. Tory Burch Romy Tote

Style Notes: A favourite among celebrities, Tory Burch’s capacious Romy tote taps into the growing demand for bags that balance function with elegance. Spacious enough to carry everything from a laptop to daily essentials, it’s an ideal work bag, while the softly structured silhouette keeps it looking polished. Finished with a slim belt detail, magnetic closure and long shoulder straps, it’s as practical as it is refined.

6. Loewe Flamenco

Style Notes: A true modern classic, Loewe’s Flamenco bag blends craftsmanship with a relaxed, contemporary feel. Defined by its supple leather and signature drawstring closure, the softly slouchy silhouette feels both effortless and elevated. Finished with subtle knot details, it’s the kind of understated statement bag that works just as well day-to-day as it does for evening.

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In the immortal words of Miss Congeniality, the perfect date is one that falls in spring, as it’s not too hot, not too cold, and all you need is a light jacket. The pageant star might’ve conflated her favourite day of the Gregorian calendar with a question aimed at sparking romance, but the point still remains.

When leaving the house during these tranquil, transeasonal moments, you’re able to move lightly without being weighted down by heavy winter warmers or engulfed in summer heat. Truly, the cornerstone of our wardrobe becomes these hard-working, albeit extremely nimble, staples designed to complement your trousers, skirts and saccharine dresses.

As for what styles to layer, the runways were saturated with a plethora of notable spring jacket trends. A season marked by triumphant debuts and an overall joyful mood, the collections presented across each of the style capitals felt buoyant, triumphant and bright. As a result, the outerwear intended for the chic natives in Manhattan and Le Marais feels lighter, more effortless and designed to be thrown on before running out the door.

It’s this understated sophistication that makes these styles so easy to piece together. Without elaborate decoration or fussy details, these pieces are underscored with a quiet strength that makes them as breezy to build an outfit around as they are to wear. So, without further ado, scroll on ahead for the 6 key spring 2026 jacket trends, as seen on the recent runways.

6 Key Spring 2026 Jacket Trends

1. Nipped at the Hip

Style Notes: It's the cult style worn by Jacob Elordi, Michelle Obama and Sarah Pidgeon. Debuted on Matthieu Blazy's freshman collection for the French maison, the cropped blazer has swiftly become one of the most in-demand shapes. Recontextualising the laissez-faire and freeing silhouettes pioneered by Coco Chanel over a century ago, this spring jacket trend tries a more architectural approach with sharp shoulders and clean cuts.

Shop the Trend:

2. Cargo Carryalls

Style Notes: Mrs. Prada is the perennial pragmatist, though you’ll never catch her designing something that’s solely utilitarian. Underscored with wit, humour and intelligence, her designs always straddle artistic expression with real-world aptitude. So, for a collection inspired by uniformity, functional cargo jackets were juxtaposed with inherently ladylike pieces. Because in a world where everything sometimes feels at odds with each other, what’s more fitting than pairing a decorative satin skirt with a jacket designed for practicality?

Shop the Trend:

3. Night at the Opera

Style Notes: If you ever needed an excuse to dress up, take the tuxedo jacket trend as an invitation to do so. A style that featured heavily through Johnathan Anderson’s first womenswear collection—which was an homage to Monsieur Dior’s New Look—jackets that feature contrasting lapels and single-breasted fastening also took over Conner Ives’s recent autumn/winter 2026 range. Soiree season might not be till the end of the year, but why not embrace the merits of black-tie elegance all year long?

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4. Gone With the Wind

Style Notes: Less Scarlett O’Hara and more Sporty Spice, windbreakers have become one of the most ubiquitous spring jacket trends for 2026. It’s not surprising considering how much high-fashion has courted the streetwear set—lest we forget Demna closed his inaugural runway show for Gucci with an after-party hosted by Scouse rapper EsDeeKid—but technical anoraks and waisted shell jackets have begun cropping up. From aquamarine styles at Loewe to elasticated silhouettes at Lii Studio, time to ride like the wind.

Shop the Trend:

5. Queen's Gambit

Style Notes: After making a screaming return from the ‘90s, you didn’t think the grunge-inspired flannel shirt trend would go away quietly, would you? Taking a more airy format for spring, the style has translated into checked spring jackets that fuse Sloan Ranger sensibility—thanks to the Prince of Wales print—with an alternative edge. Because when the style is backed by cool independent brands like Damson Madder and Friends with Frank, why wouldn’t you give it a go.

Shop the Trend:

6. Blazing Glory

Style Notes: If you hadn’t noticed, preppy fashion is an overarching trend that’s defined most of the leading spring jackets. Whether it be through leaning into the traditional codes or eschewing them completely, most jackets permeate with an insouciant, elite and collegiate ease. The most apparent version of this is through the rise of single-breasted blazers. However, keeping things modern, these styles are being rendered in innovative fabrications, including embossed leather and mock croc.

Shop the Trend:

Why Trust Us

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

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

As I write this, my copy of Lauren Elkin's Scaffolding sits face down to my left, exposing its cobalt blue back cover against my chocolate brown desk. It’s a fitting symbol—and lede, for that matter—for the way that this exact hue has saturated the zeitgeist to become somewhat of an overnight sensation.

Whilst the electrifying colour has always held a place in the sartorial landscape, from Phoebe Philo’s fixation with Yves Klein Blue during her tenure at Celine to the richly pigmented Dieu Bleu shade of Yeux Paint liquid eyeshadow from French beauty maven Violette, concurrent sightings of the tone on the runway and red carpet have seemingly thrust cobalt blue into the spotlight. Indeed, it appears that fashion has a new favourite colour to play with, and it’s bound to pique interest.

For the uninitiated, cobalt blue is a deep and vibrant tone that sits somewhere between the darker ultramarine and a lighter capri blue. It has been a prominent feature in culturally relevant works for centuries—some say since antiquity—like Chinese porcelain forged in the Ming Dynasty, to the works of 19th-century French Impressionists like Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Claude Monet.

Yet, for spring 2026, the cobalt blue is taking on new meaning, with the shade signalling a shift away from winter blues—both literally and figuratively—and ushering in a wave of fresh energy. Because what could be more synonymous with the languid days ahead than a colour dotted across parasols on the Côte d'Azur or nestled into the cacti in Marrakesh’s famed Majorelle Garden?

So, how did cobalt blue come to usurp the pop of red trend and butter yellow as the latest primary colour to covet? Blame it on having the best publicity or an increase in visibility, but you only need to look to the spring/summer 2026 season to see why, with cobalt blue commanding new season collections.

Even back in September during Paris Fashion Week, there were signs of cobalt blue’s supremacy. At Celine, Michael Ryder brought a touch of California cool to the Parisian maison with tie-dye long-sleeves, colour-blocked rugby shirts and—as a standout—a pair of cobalt blue derbies. At Loewe, Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez presented their debut collection with rubbery coats, neoprene dresses and slouchy separates that evoked the balmy essence of Ibiza’s coastline.

Just this weekend during London Fashion Week, Toga delivered a collection of moulded tailoring, with upturned skirts and scrunched up knitwear rendered in the piquant tincture.

The moment felt like a precursor to the vivid custom Chanel gown worn by Jessie Buckley to the 79th British Academy Film Awards, which was a crushed blue velvet inspired by Matthieu Blazy’s landmark Métiers d'art 2026 collection and paid homage to the late director David Lynch. With the two sightings of the shade occurring less than 24 hours apart, it’s proof that cobalt blue is only just getting started.

But the eagle-eyed amongst us, you’d know that cobalt blue is already everywhere, if you have the attention to detail to look out for it.

From the packaging of everyone’s favourite summer shoe brand, Ancient Greek Sandals, to the palette of 2000s-inspired surfwear brands like Rashi World, the Entire Studios ensemble worn by internet heartthrob Connor Storrie and even Chanel Beauty’s new indigo denim Le Vernis nail polish shade, the reign of cobalt blue is already upon us.

Ahead, uncover the best cobalt blue pieces to shop and provide your spring wardrobe with a much-needed boost.

Shop the Cobalt Blue Colour Trend:

From Addison Rae opening her self-titled debut album, Addison, with the lyrics “Take a bite of the big apple”, to Lily Allen closing her magnum opus divorce record, West End Girl, with a song titled “Fruityloop”, it seems like popular culture is obsessed with all things seed-y. And where music goes, fashion soon follows, with Chanel’s apple heels quickly becoming a breakout star in its own right.

Whilst visiting Sydney to celebrate the launch of Rhode into Australian beauty juggernaut Mecca, the skincare model and mogul attend the launch wearing a pair of heels that paid homage to her home state of New York. (Yes, she was born in Tuscon, Arizona, as her husband’s viral song “Yukon” hints at, but she was raised upstate in a cosy town by the Hudson River.)

The slingbacks in question featured all the bearings of the French maison’s signature design, from the two-toned colourway, thin strap and contrasting toe cap. However, in the reigns of creative director Matthieu Blazy, the style was given a more contemporary update to feature a sweet little apple perched on the heel.

The shoes actually debuted as part of Chanel’s 2026 Métiers d'art show, which itself was a love letter to the city and the chic Manhattanites that inhabit it. Set in a downtown subway station, the collection featured obvious homages to the borough, like the Empire State Building being rendered into a flippy skirt and flap bags that took the shape of the squirrels that dart through Central Park. (And that’s not even mentioning the half-zip polo jumper that opened the collection.)

Of course, it’s not the first time fashion and food has intersected, especially where footwear is involved. In the first Loewe show following the COVID-19 pandemic, Jonathan Anderson brought some joyfulness and joie de vivre back into the craft-led Spanish house with strappy sandals accented by cracked eggs, bars of soaps, melting candles and even rose buds.

But for Blazy, this shoe is just another feather in the cap of an artist who seemingly can not be stopped—at least when it comes to creating pieces that fashion’s obsessed can’t stop fixating over. The shoes also come on the heels of his new cone heels from his spring/summer 2026 range for the house, proving that he knows a thing or two about taking women to new heights in his creations.

Is it too late to put Charli XCX into these during the press run for her upcoming film, The Moment, and get her to do the viral dance that accompanies her Brat single “Apple”? Or, have Kristen Stewart, who declared she’s “committed” to directing a Twilight remake, wear these when making the project official in an homage to the book’s original cover?

Either way, we know all too well the effect Hailey Bieber herself has on influencing our wardrobes, so even if not for the love of the style, its connotations and the context that surrounds it, you can rest assured that this fruit-bearing heel is bound to get a lot of airtime. Rotten Refined to the core…

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Unlike other facets of our wardrobe, the accessories we carry with us throughout the year aren’t as susceptible to climate-related shifts and thermal changes as categories like jeans, jackets, and shoes. However, if the spring 2026 bag trends are any indication, it’s that parting ways with your dependable carry-all that’s served you dutifully for the past few years should be something you take seriously. Why? The influx of new styles available are simply too irresistible.

This is a message coming from someone who could count on one hand the number of bags they own. (Which, for the record, includes a woven leather St. Agni workhorse that doubles as my laptop bag, a supple bucket bag from New Zealand-based label Yu Mei, a vintage Jil Sander clutch and a Mini Kara silver shoulder bag from Tory Burch.) I know what it’s like to watch the seasons come and go and withhold from investing in a designer bag or partaking in a niche aesthetic by purchasing a novel piece of arm candy. Which is all to say that when I tell you just how covetable the key spring 2026 bag trends are, you would benefit from believing me.

So, why this exact moment to step off the sidelines and play the field by courting a fresh style? It comes down to a few factors, with the most important being that this is the season of the mammoth creative director reshuffle that saw numerous designers take the reins and present their debut collections for heritage houses back in September. For weeks now, I’ve been counting down with bated breath for the moment Jonathan Anderson’s new suede bags at Dior land in the French maison’s boutiques, or watched how everyone from Dua Lipa to Hailey Bieber tease Matthieu Blazy’s first It bag for Chanel, the dual handle flap bag.

I’ve had an endless amount of time to pore over every still, look and angle presented on the spring 2026 runways and really work out what bag trends will have longevity. And, for the most part, the key spring bag trends are new updates on archival silhouettes, meaning that these pieces are forged with a storied history and proven track record of desirability. Better still, the lag between when the collections were presented and when the designs hit stores has proved opportune for me to mentally compile a wishlist for shapes, cuts and colours I’ll be shopping once they’re available for purchase.

Thankfully, that time is nigh, with many of these trends already trickling in. In the immortal words of Addison Rae, I’ve always wanted more, so scroll on ahead for the 6 biggest 2026 bag trends to covet now.

6 Key Spring Bag Trends for 2026

1. Chain Reaction

Style Notes: Leather straps have somewhat become the handle du jour over the past decade. Now, a bevy of luxuriates are relegating this motif to ready-to-wear, making these black nappa straps exclusive to pieces like a Ludovic De Saint Sernin top or a Khaite belt. Usurping this traditional detail is the prevalence of shiny chains. From Valentino Garavani’s chevron-quilted Panthea shoulder bag to Loewe’s slouchy Squeeze tote, this is a trend that offers a soft and industrial edge to any look. Heavy metal and reflective, indeed.

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2. Open Book

Style Notes: On the heels of the quiet luxury aesthetic, discerning shoppers are using even rudimentary styling techniques, like the closing fixtures of their bags, to convey wealth. This trend first began after a herd of Hermès stalwarts thought it novel to wear their Birkins and Kellys with the straps and flaps unfastened. Now, designers are pre-baking this look into their bags, with this undone accent cropping up everywhere from Balenciaga’s Rodeo to Fendi’s new slouchy Way bag. A pickpocket's delight, indeed.

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3. Nouveau Suede

Style Notes: Fashion continues to hedge its bets on suede. But instead of the conventional rich chocolate or lighter latte hues, many designers are rendering the texture in a more tropical and botanical colour palette fit for the season at hand. From Ferragamo’s croc-embossed clutch that’s finished in a perfect clementine shade to Australian-based brand Rylan Studio’s royal purple gathered micro tote, these are styles that are bright, airy and indicative of the warmer weather on the horizon.

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4. Space Cadets

Style Notes: As a self-identified perennial schleper, I know the plight of lugging around all my worldly possessions in one single bag all too well. Much to the dismay of my already irritated shoulder, spring will bring in a new wave of extra-large tote bags—perfect for anyone who loves carrying everything-the-kitchen-sink at the bottom of their purse or wants to recreate that iconic photo of Ashley Olsen arriving at an airport in Mexico back in 2006 wearing a bag that’s literally half her size.

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5. Origami Edges

Style Notes: The Japanese art of origami has long been a source of inspiration for Jonathan Anderson. From Loewe’s Puzzle bag, which emulates the ridges of folded paper, to Dior’s newest Ciagle bag, a style inspired by a Monsieur Dior original dress from 1952, the Northern Irish designer has always found ways of incorporating pleats and clean lines into his accessories. Now, his cohort is taking note. From Prada’s new Passage, a shape that emulates a bag-within-a-bag with a doubled-over front to Saint Laurent’s dimpled Mombasa re-issue, expect to see more sculptural bag shapes come spring.

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5. Duchesse Pouches

Style Notes: Fashion has long been obsessed with ladylike purses. Now, they’re turning their attention to duchesse pouches. Most notably a fixture of Prada’s spring/summer 2026 collection, these dainty sacks are accentuated by a soft fabric and ultra-fine strap that’s designed to be worn around your wrist or clutched in the palms of your hands. Because as the winter layers start to shed, shouldn’t the bags we carry get breezier, too?

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

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

It's clear by the state of things that the fashion set's love for sneakers is not waning anytime soon. My own appreciation runs deep. I don't think there has ever been a time, trendy or not, that sneakers weren't in my closet. I strive for easy dressing that doesn't compromise style, so cool sneakers hold a special power in my outfit planning. A standout pair can do a lot of the heavy lifting, transforming and elevating even the most basic of outfits.

With that in mind, I'm always keeping an eye out for a stellar new pair to add to my collection. This weekend, I put together a list of sneakers that have a major cool factor right now. I included finds from the likes of Adidas, Vans, Onitsuka Tiger, Salomon, Golden Goose, Nike, and more. Unfortunately, I backed myself into a corner because now I can't pick just one. Scroll on to shop 30 sneakers that are so cool no one will even be paying attention to the rest of your outfit.

Shop Cool Sneakers for 2026

There I was, perusing Loewe Perfumes's first U.S. pop-up store, an immersive visionary garden and welcome respite from the ever-congested Rockefeller Center. As I meandered through the self-guided labyrinth, sniffing my fair share of eau de parfums and candles along the way (FYI: Black Sesame is divine), I picked up a conversation about "fragrance hot-spotting" as a surefire way to smell delectable. Immediate halt. I had to know more.

It turns out, this quick technique is more common than you think, and after trying it out for the last few weeks, I can confirm it takes your scent to an 11/10. Scroll ahead to start dabbling.

What Is Fragrance Hot-Spotting?

Quick perfume lesson: Your pulse points are your hot spots—literally, as they're where your blood vessels are more prominent and thus emit more warmth. Heat amplifies an aroma, which is why applying directly on these pulse points (wrists, neck, and behind the ears and knees) will help your fragrance linger for hours. "These react with the natural fluctuations in your body temperature and, in turn, emit your scent throughout the day," Vince Spinnato, cosmetic chemist, perfumer, certified nose, and CEO of Turnkey Beauty, previously told WWW about applying fragrance.

Now, to give your scent more depth (and help it last longer, while you're at it), experts recommend layering your go-to perfume with one that features complementary notes. "For instance, pairing a vanilla-based gourmand scent with a floral or woody fragrance can enhance depth without overwhelming the sweetness," DSM-Firmenich perfumer Nicole Mancini once shared about fragrance layering. Usually, you'd apply the heavier fragrance first—in this case, the vanilla—then follow up with the lighter spritz to brighten the overall equation.

That said, you don't necessarily have to layer one perfume directly on top of another. Instead, you could apply different perfumes to distinct "hot spots" (such as one on your wrists and another on your neck) to ensure each blend stands out on its own while still blending throughout the day. And there you have it: fragrance hot-spotting.

While the "heavier first" rule doesn't necessarily apply here, you can and should be strategic with your picks. See, the fragrance on your wrists will be more "public-facing" than the one settling on your neck, as your hand movements will cast out the aroma for others within reach. The scent on your neck, however, will have a more subtle projection—just for you or whoever you choose to invite into your orbit. One scent invites people in, while the other provides an olfactory surprise for those who come close. In a way, it's like gatekeeping your most treasured blends for your innermost circle.

I've relied on this technique since the holidays, and honestly, I've never received more compliments on my scent, especially from friends and family members. A perfume that causes strangers to stop you on the street is one thing (a very impressive thing at that!), but it feels like even more of a win when a loved one you see regularly hugs you and immediately says, "Oh, wow, I must know what perfume you're wearing." Even if I don't embrace anyone all day, catching whiffs of myself makes me feel undeniably chic—like I have a little scent secret.

Shop My Favorite Hot-Spotting Combinations

Loewe 001 and Iris Root

With notes of jasmine, linen, and musk, Loewe 001 is a clean, understated blend that never fails to make me feel elegant. I practically douse my limbs in the floral musk (it's light, so you won't have to worry about overwhelming your senses), then follow up with a spritz of Iris Root on the sides of my neck. The latter has a similarly soft composition thanks to, of course, iris, which has a creamy, powdery projection many compare to a luxurious red lipstick; but it also comes spiked with spicy angelica seed and Timut pepper, plus neroli, clary sage, cashmeran, and tonka bean, which always surprises others who lean close. The $485 price tag is certainly nothing to scoff at, but trust me—the fragrance feels like such a treasure.

Lake & Skye 11 11 Vanilla and Phlur Afterglow

For a sweeter combo, Lake & Skye and Phlur make quite the sizzling pair. The former features the brand's signature 11 11 musk with a touch of vanilla créme and marshmallow, adding a delicious facet to the crisp "skin scent." Phlur's Afterglow has a similar splash of sweetness by way of coconut and lavender milk, but the sparkling citrus and apricot skin provide such a stunning contrast. Perfumer Clément Gavarry
had "the spark of a first connection" specifically in mind when creating this blend, so, of course, I must add an extra spritz to my neck on date nights.

Perfumehead Cosmic Cowboy and Canadian Tuxedo

The whole WWW beauty team is certifiably obsessed with this Perfumehead combo. You can totally layer them on top of each other, but recently, I've been playing around with Cosmic Cowboy (a warm, spicy blend of cinnamon bark, orris butter, Whiskey a Go Go, tobacco leaf, amber, and musk) on my wrists and Canadian Tuxedo (a woody concoction featuring coriander, orange flower, cumin, patchouli, cedarwood, and tonka bean) on my neck. The former is playful and a little dangerous (in the best way), while the latter adds a comforting, laid-back touch. Try it—you won't be sorry you did!

Victoria Beckham 21:50 Rêverie and Cyklar Cedar Supreme

When I find myself in a fragrance rut, I grab Victoria Beckham's 21:50 Reverie. It's at once warm, earthy, and sweet with a combination of tobacco leaves, plum, vanilla, tonka bean, and cedarwood, making it a universal crowd-pleaser. I swear, I receive at least three compliments every time I wear it. Recently, I've been rolling Claudia Sulewski's Cedar Supreme oil behind my ears as a last-minute touch, and the aroma somehow becomes even more alluring. It also features cedarwood and tonka bean at its base, so rest assured, the two elixirs effortlessly mingle on the skin.

Byredo Alto Astral and D.S. & Durga Pistachio

Byredo's Alto Astral is the coconut perfume that made me fall in love with coconut perfumes. With incense, jasmine petals, milky musks, sandalwood, cashmere, and amber, the dry-down is earthy and sophisticated—a far cry from the "summer in a bottle" vibe you might associate with a coconut-forward blend. Given that seductive edge, it makes a fabulous year-round fragrance that reads spicy in the summer yet cozy and mysterious in the colder months. Pistachio has a similar creaminess to coconut that has such an addictive quality, so I recently decided to pair Alto Astral with D.S. & Durgo's pistachio-infused perfume. I initially worried the two bold blends would be way too overpowering, but somehow, it just works!

Depending on what type of sneakers you choose to wear with leggings, they can take on a completely different look. Athletic sneakers give them an instantly sporty feel, while, say, a low-profile sneaker gives the legging outfit more of a retro look. On the other hand, the sneakers Margot Robbie just wore with her leggings give them that undeniable “I’m a fashion person” look.

The sneakers in question that Robbie paired with her sweatshirt and black leggings recently in Los Angeles were a highly coveted pair of designer It sneakers: the Loewe Flow Runners. The '70s-inspired sneakers are constructed of suede and technical fabric and feature a swirling logo and a dramatically turned-up toes.

Specifically, Robbie's shoes are the Ballet Runner 2.0 Sneakers, which have a slimmer, less-chunky look than the originals that inspired them. In addition to giving her leggings that fashion-y look, they dressed the ultra-casual outfit up significantly. The elegant, cool-girl sneakers are constantly selling out, so if you decide to splurge on them and spot them in your size, I wouldn't hesitate to snap them up.

Keep scrolling to see Robbie’s legging outfit and shop her Loewe Ballet Runner sneakers in every color I could miraculously find in stock.

On Margot Robbie: Dune Suncare sweatshirt; Chanel Bag; Loewe Ballet Runner 2.0 Sneakers in Nylon Calfskin ($890)

Shop Margot Robbie's Sneakers

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November 2025 marks Who What Wear UK’s 10th birthday. Yes, we’ve been writing about the trends to take note of, the luxury pieces worth investing in, the beauty heroes and hacks we can’t wait to share and the outfits the team have been rotating for a whole decade! We hope you’ve enjoyed reading our stories as much as we’ve loved creating them. To celebrate the occasion, you’ll find a range of special ten-year-anniversary content across the site this month, from retrospective looks at the biggest fashion moments to the couples who defined the decade and the products that have earned true cult status. Keep an eye out for our 10th-birthday badge and enjoy the milestone with us! Thank you for being part of our story so far.

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

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

The 10 Most Iconic Fashion Runways from the Past Decade

1. Chanel A/W 17

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

2. Versace S/S 18

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

3. Jacquemus S/S 20

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

4. Loewe A/W 22

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

5. Miu Miu S/S 22

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

6. Bottega Veneta S/S 23

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

7. Gucci S/S 23

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

8. Simone Rocha S/S 24

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

9. Maison Margiela S/S 24

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

10. Saint Laurent S/S 25

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

I’ve been wearing the same silver aviator frames for two years, and I’m growing fatigued of my signature look. I’m ready for something new, and have been on the hunt for a new pair of glasses that communicate “I’m stylish, and cool.” So far, I’ve narrowed my choices down and now I’m in between a rectangular, silver pair and a black, rounder frame.

For those of you who wear prescription glasses like me, picking a pair is no easy feat. There’s so much to consider when you’re also a fashion person. Your frames become part of your outfit, so you have to be mindful of what your wardrobe already consists of to ensure they blend in with your aesthetics. I love that glasses can change up your whole vibe, though. Once I got my aviator frames to replace my vibrant green backup pair, I looked a lot more elegant and quite reserved. I still think about the Miu Miu oval pair that went viral amongst fashion people.

Glasses have become such a fun accessory to implement into our wardrobes. I enjoy seeing others express themselves through interesting, optical frames. Which is why I decided to share the other 30 pairs of glasses that I’m considering with you. Keep scrolling through to find your new signature pair of stylish glasses.

Ten days before Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez debuted their first collection as co–creative directors at Loewe (a job Jonathan Anderson—now the creative director at Dior—held for 11 years), they released a teaser meant to introduce "a new dialogue" for the Spanish fashion house. "The campaign begins to define a tone, a spirit, and the beginnings of an intent," the duo behind Proenza Schouler wrote in the teaser's release. "In it lies a vibrancy and tactility rooted in craft that feels fundamental to the house, a sunniness and sensuality that feels inherent to its Spanish roots, and ultimately an optimism and spirit that we recognize as deeply personal to us as individuals." It was shot by photographer Talia Chetrit, featuring colors that feel both familiar to the designers' work at Proenza Schouler and right at home at Loewe, perfectly setting the stage for an exciting next chapter in their new home: "Something hopeful and unfolding."

Now that we've all seen their debut collection, which was unveiled on Friday in front of a crowd that included Solange Knowles, Emma Chamberlain, Sarah Paulson, and Tracee Ellis Ross (to name a few) in Paris, everything portrayed in the teaser proved to be true. A new era has arrived for Loewe, yes, but the brand still exerts the same playful, craft-focused energy that it did under Anderson's leadership, proving that LVMH was right to hire Hernandez and McCollough for the job. Except this version has an added level of wearability and sleekness that was always evident at Proenza Schouler. It's downtown New York meets Madrid, and the combination of the two is an absolute treat.

Read all about the spring 2026 collection below.

From Proenza Schouler to Loewe

There was never a question in anyone's mind that Hernandez and McCollough would make beautiful clothing for Loewe, but when a changing of the guard happens in fashion, you simply never know how fluid or easy the transition will be until that first show. Today's debut quelled any residual worry. There will be no gradual adjustment. In the case of Proenza Schouler's founders making their move to Loewe, everything appears to be smooth, with just enough of what everyone in fashion loved from their past combined with codes from their present, which is why the spring 2026 collection was such an exciting hit. According to StyleNotCom, nearly everyone in attendance at the show was smiling, including Anna Wintour and Delphine Arnault. Julie Gilhart, the person who ordered Hernandez and McCollough's first Proenza Schouler collection back in 2002, called it a "Perfect 10—a show that ticked all the necessary boxes" on Instagram. "The vibrant standing ovation was real," she continued.

New Prep

The prep trend continued at Loewe, a brand that's long displayed hints of preppiness, but always just subtly. This season, logo-embellished V-neck sweaters in pastel shades were styled on top of loosely buttoned collared shirts with loafers in a way that felt very after school. Sporty coaches' jackets were worn above layered button-down shirts and turtlenecks, while knitwear was draped over the shoulders of models donning dress shoes and textured denim. It's not classic prep by any means, but a version that feels flipped on its head. Nothing about skipping pants but wearing three striped Oxford shirts on top of each other screams Ivy, even though the actual items seen on the runway are inherently preppy.

The New Amazona

And just like that, one of spring 2026's It bags has made its grand entrance, and trust me, it's worth waiting a few months for. The handbag in question is a fresh take on Loewe's iconic Amazona. It's rectangular in shape with a zip-around top and ample interior space. The best part, though? The handles, or better yet, handle (singular). Most bags in this style feature a handle on both sides of the entrance, but not Loewe's new design. Instead, only one side has a handle, giving an "off" look to it that feels just different enough to get people excited enough to hand over their credit cards. According to a press release, it will be called the Amazona 180 and is set to seal the collection's overall laid-back attitude.

Solange! Tracee! Sarah!

Chic women are Loewe women, which explains why the likes of Solange Knowles, Sarah Paulson, and Tracee Ellis Ross were all sitting front-row at the S/S 26 show dressed in the brand from head to toe. They weren't the only stars in attendance, either. Emma Chamberlain, Parker Posey, Emily Ratajkowski, Yara Shahidi, Sarah Snook, and Milly Alcock all too had a close-up view of Hernandez and McCollough's Loewe debut. The best part? Some of the above, including Paulson and Posey, were already carrying their Amazona 180s, becoming the first people spotted in one of next season's most-wanted handbags.

When it comes to fashion, certain items are truly worth the investment. From sleek handbags to high-quality outerwear, there are particular instances where exceptional craftspersonship makes splurging that bit of extra cash worthwhile. Trainers, however, don't typically fall under this umbrella for me. In fact, the high street currently has so many options that higher-priced iterations rarely catch my attention.

However, when I want a pair that is just that little bit more trend-led, that will also stand the test of time in my wardrobe, there are a few slightly more expensive trainer brands that I turn to. These brands sit at a (sometimes significantly) higher price point than their high-street counterparts, but due to their cult status as well as their undeniably fashion-forward designs, I think they're well worth the cost.

From ultra-luxury cult brands to slightly more affordable favourites, with even a few buzzy collabs in the mix, I’ve rounded up the seven fashionable trainer brands to invest in this season and beyond.

The 7 Best Fashionable Trainer Brands, According to an Editor:

1. Puma

Style Notes: I had to start this round-up with the brand that brought us arguably the most popular trainer style of 2025 so far: Puma. The Speedcat took centre stage this year, with both celebrities and fashion people alike falling in love with this retro silhouette; however, there are plenty of other styles to choose from that will earn you just as many cool-girl points from fellow stylish dressers.

Shop Puma Trainers:

2. Adidas

Style Notes: We all know that when it comes to It trainers, few can be called as iconic as Adidas's pairs. From the viral Samba to the hype over the SL 72 that followed, these more minimalist trainers always seem to be a hit amongst fashion people. And the best part? The pared-back silhouettes ensure that they’ll never date.

Shop Adidas Trainers:

3. Loewe

Style Notes: Loewe may be best known for its excellent handbag selection, but the trainers are not to be slept on. True to the brand’s identity, they perfectly blend a fun, slightly avant-garde approach with functional elegance, resulting in two retro-inspired styles that I’ve been desperate to add to my wardrobe. Not to mention, the label has also collaborated with trending sportswear brand On, creating a sell-out trainer that everyone wants to get their hands on (more on that later).

Shop Loewe Trainers:

4. New Balance

Style Notes: New Balance is by no means a new trainer brand (it was created in 1906), but its revival of some iconic retro styles like the 530 and the 327 (shown on Francesca Saffari above) was a great move, as they're constantly selling out. In 2025, you’d be hard-pressed to find a fashion editor without the super-comfortable but no less fashionable trainers in their wardrobe.

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5. Miu Miu

Style Notes: If you keep up with current trends, then you most likely already know about Miu Miu’s sell-out collab with New Balance. Notoriously hard to get your hands on, you now have to be a Miu Miu member to invest in these cult trainers. But don’t fear, as the designer brand also has a number of trainer styles that you can buy without the fuss. However, I must admit that the hybrid pair remains my absolute favourite from the brand.

Shop Miu Miu Trainers:

6. Nike

Style Notes: With Nike's Cortez trainers experiencing a major revival right now, it should come as no surprise that more and more fashion people are turning to the brand for other throwback styles as well. My personal favourite? The chunky Air Max I’ve owned and loved since I was in secondary school. They’re cushion-y, durable and are the perfect style to wear with jeans, skirts and dresses alike.

Shop Nike Trainers:

7. On

Style Notes: Originally designed as running shoes, On's trainers have an interesting-looking sole that’s made of ventilation holes to add cushion and support. However, these practical pairs also have a stylish element, with the coolest dressers pairing the sporty trainers with their everyday looks to add a point of difference. In fact, the brand has become so popular that in 2022, it collaborated with luxury House Loewe (as mentioned above). The collection did so well that it has become an ongoing partnership between the brands.

Shop On Trainers:

Welcome to The Great Try-On. With autumn 2025 well and truly in the air, we seized the opportunity to try on some of the best new-in pieces from some of your favourite brands, documenting the process along the way. We believe that the best way to shop online is to see an item IRL and to read candid reviews, so we hope that this leads you to your most successful purchases of the year.

In my humble (read: expert fashion editor) opinion, there is no better time to invest in your wardrobe, than at the beginning of autumn. This is especially true if you're looking to make a few luxury purchases. Let me explain why: September is one of, if not the most pivotal moments of the fashion calendar. First of all, it's obviously the start of the autumn/winter season—a moment when the trends for the next six months, if not longer, really begin to emerge and cement. Within the industry, it's the time when we start to see which microtrends and cult pieces people actually want to invest in—the predictions from February that will manifest, and those that won't. It's also just culturally a time of 'new beginnings', there's a feeling of a fresh start that comes alongside that 'back to school' mood. As such, it's a significant time for publications to release their fashion issues, in which they forecast the season ahead.

There's also of course the weather, which seems almost cliché to point out, but it does have an impact. After months of wearing barely anything, we're always ready to get back into our wardrobes with full looks of layers, textures and a multitude of different occasions to dress for.

Because of all this, there's no better time to make carefully calculated investments, because if you're going to spend a little more on a bag, a coat or a cardigan, you want to ensure you have the most time to wear it, right? But, this begs the question: what should we really be buying? We want to look fashion-forward, being ahead of the season's trends, but also yearn for longevity, wearability and versatility. But that's where I step in! I went out and tried on multiple different luxury items, so I could report back and tell you which were the best for the season ahead. From the top trending trainers by Loewe to the most lavish and lovely suede and leather jackets from Róhe and Toteme, these cult luxury items are the ones I think are worth your time (and money). Consider me your fashion fairy godmother, and you can thank me later!

The Best Luxury Buys for Autumn 2025, As Tried and Reviewed By an Editor:

1. The Investment Piece: Toteme Suede Coat

My Review: We've spoken about suede jackets and coats mutliple times in the last few weeks on Who What Wear. Because, despite every autumn always bringing us a variety of sumptuous suede styles, this year the offering feels stronger and more compelling than ever. Toteme's suede coat is a true investment piece, but is the absolute definition of timelessness. Its soft creamy-beige hue will see you wear it in early spring, and it has a neat yet slightly boxy fit that feels a little reminiscent of Jennifer Anniston (read: Rachel Green) in the late '90s. It's made from 100% calf leather, has welt pockets, a rounded collar and an ever so slightly oversized fit—which is great for fitting a jumper underneath.

Pros: It's simply stunning, and won't fail to achieve compliments. I'm careful in my considerations for recommending products that are a higher price point, but this coat really does feel and look like its price tag.
Cons: The cream colour is definitely a little risky, please don't be drinking any black Americano coffees whilst wearing this! It's also, ultimately, a suede coat, so is not going to keep you warm in the coldest months. But for September and early October, as well as April and May, this will be a stand-out piece.

2. The Perfect Tailored Trousers: Róhe

My Review: What would the autumn season be without tailored trousers? And as a matter of fact, tailoring in general! I know when we talk about tailored pants, we often think of a working wardrobe, but I really think sartorial styling is incredibly sexy, and is just as good worn for dinner dates or drinks as it is in an office environment. So, it was important to me to find the very best of luxury's tailored trousers when curating this list. Róhe's grey trousers here are the best I tried on. Granted, they're long, but I'm happy to have my tailoring altered to achieve the best fit. The waistband is just over an inch, which is slightly more generous than your usual tailored pants, and I think makes a real difference to the silhouette and fit that outlines the body. It also means you can wear it with a thicker belt—I can't stand it when my belt loops don't fit my favourite belts! The pleated detail at the sides of the hips also helps flatter the form. At 98% wool, 2% elastane, they feel soft with some slight movement, without being too hot—perfect for these more transitional 'in-between' weather days.

Pros: The trousers also have a matching blazer and waistcoat, so if you love them as much as me you could also purchase the full set. Other advantages are the pleated detail on the sides, and a aforementioned generous depth on the waistband.
Cons: They're incredibly long—great for those who are 5ft10, but those with a shorter stature will need to have them altered.

3. The It Bag: Loewe Flamenco

My Review: It's hard to land on the ultimate It bag, because really it depends on your needs and style. After careful consideration though, as well as testing a few different options, I landed on the Loewe Flamenco. Why? Well, with Jonathan Anderson's departure from the brand, and the Flamenco being one of his signature designs, there's icon status automatically given here, and who knows how long it will be available under the house's new leadership. But in a more practical sense, when trying out and carrying the different styles from a range of brands, this is the bag that felt the most customisable. With different straps and handles that are already part of the design (the side two drawstring-style handles on either side, as well as the attachable crossbody strap), as well as the multitude of chain straps that can be purchased separately, the Flamenco just felt like it was the most personal to the buyer. The most bespoke. What's more is the size. I road tested all the options, I loved the larger one with a shoulder strap–perfect for a laptop, by the way—but the medium felt like the most versatile; both a clutch for the evening, but a casual day bag when worn crossbody or with the attached shoulder-length chain. Also, the Loewe Puzzle has reigned supreme for a long time, and I think this is the next to take its place.

Pros: Very customisable with different straps, depending on needs and style. Lovely soft supple leather that I think will only get better with age. Comes in every colour under the sun, and some!
Cons: Less practical internally, only the larger style has compartments.

4. The Hero Staple: Róhe Leather Jacket

My Review: This jacket has probably been the most talked about leather item in our office in the last few weeks, so when tasked with doing the luxury try-on, this was top of my list. My word, it didn't disappoint. First of all, a little anecdote for you. Before I'd got to the Róhe rail in Selfridges, I was looking at other leather jackets by other luxury brands, the sales assistant actually pointed me in the direction of this one, saying "if you're looking for a leather jacket, I have a stunning one that is a more attainable price," before guiding me to this guy. I know what you're thinking, £800 isn't exactly cheap, but for luxury leather? It's not so bad. I can't not mention these gorgeous toggle ties—really the detail that makes this jacket not just a leather jacket.

Pros: It's made with the softest, most supple leather. It also comes in other fabrics and colours, I love the cream wool one too, which has a higher neckline. The fit is also very accurate—not tight, not oversized.
Cons: The leather, like a lot of leather, quite easily scratches. But perhaps this sense of aging will add to the overall look.

5. The Ultimate Denim: Toteme Jeans

My Review: Everyone that has worn denim knows how it feels when a pair of jeans just fit. It's possibly the hardest category of clothing to shop for, which is why knowing those fail-safe brands is key. Toteme denim is a favourite for the Who What Wear team and its audience. These particular Toteme Low Straight-Leg Denim Jeans are a great everyday, classic style. The fit? Perfection. They come in true to size (with sizing coming as waist sizes, i.e. 26, 27, 28 etc), they hug at the hips so neatly, without feeling too tight and lie at the ideal place on the body. They're marked as 'low', but they're not actually low waist, just lower than your usual high-waist fit, which is ideal for those who fear the comeback of trousers slung below or on the hip bones.

Pros: The biggest pro is definitely the fit, as mentioned, as well as the general quality and feel. They're breathable, and have a slight stretch, without being made with so much elastic that they make you sweat. I also really like the wash colour, this mid-to-light wash feels fresh without being summery.
Cons: For my 5ft3 height, the length is just o-k. If you're a similar height as me, and happy to wear shoes with a slight heel, or even wear them a little baggy, then fine, but if you're more petite or fairly tall, the length probably won't work for you.

6. The Cult Sneaker: Loewe Ballet Runner 2.0

My Review: Loewe sneakers have been on my radar for a while. Long gone are the days of the chunky trainer or the 'dad sneaker'—we want this slimmer silhouette these days. This category is a competitive one, with Miu Miu also giving it a run for its money and Dries Van Noten's leather trimmed style garnering more and more popularity. The Loewe Ballet Runner 2.0 just clinches it though, with it's fresh take on its original silhouette, the Ballet Runner, it has a slightly curved toe that feels a little culty and cool.

Pros: Comfortable, comes in multiple colourways and has a slightly 'fresher' take on the classic slender trainer shape.
Cons: There are parts of this sneaker that make it feel a little unfinished, like the exposed internal sponge on the top of the tongue.

7. The Chicest Knit: Toteme Cardigan

My Review: In case you missed it, grey is the colour to invest in for autumn. Especially so for knitwear. Of course, there are multiple grey knits out there right now, but what I think allows this Toteme to take first prize, is that it's a cardigan with a collar. It gives it something a little different. It's 100% cashmere, so you just know how soft it feels, and it hangs beautifully on the body. I'm a size 12, and am wearing a medium here. There's no gaping between the buttons, it finishes just on the hips, I would say it's a slightly oversized fit, but is fine enough that I could tuck into a high waisted skirt if I wanted to.

Pros: Lovely tortoise shell buttons, comes in multiple colours including black and cream.

Cons: I'm not sure that you could really consider this a con, but because this style has a collar, it does make it slightly less restrictive on the ways of wearing it. Cashmere also has a tendency to stretch slightly as you wear it, so I also worry a little that this oversized fit would get even bigger after wear. If you like a neat look, go for a size down to your usual.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.We regularly try on pieces ourselves—everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes—and speak to external experts and fashion insiders, staying closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise, and each and every buy we feature has to meet our exceptional taste standards—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

The first memory I have of the Loewe Puzzle bag will stay with me forever. I was a fresh university graduate who, at the tender age of 20, had begun her first-ever, full-time, "big girl" job at one of Sydney's most prestigious PR firms. The Spanish luxury brand, which was then helmed by fashion designer Jonathan Anderson, was one of the agency’s clients.

When the time came to present the latest range to the Australian market, I watched as the stark white walls and bright pink floors of the showroom transformed into a temporary Casa Loewe—the term coined by the brand to describe their flagship boutiques. There, amid the feathered headpieces, baroque-inspired heels and bustle-like drop waist dresses of the spring/summer 2020 collection, I saw it—the Loewe Puzzle bag perched on a marble-esque plinth in all its glory.

Style Notes: The aforementioned showing featuring the first ever Puzzle bag I laid eyes on in person.

You see, the Loewe Puzzle bag was still a relatively novel design, but nonetheless had veritably reached cult status to the point where every fashion lover—even the most nascent ones—had made this the object of their affections. The silhouette introduced the next era for the crafts-focused heritage house. Under the creative control of the Northern Irish visionary, Anderson ushered in a new era for the brand. This direction cemented itself in his inaugural spring/summer 2015 collection when Loewe’s first-ever iteration of the Puzzle bag—and notably, the first-ever new Loewe bag for the brand since the 1980s—hit the runway.

Style Notes: The first-ever Loewe Puzzle bag design on the spring/summer 2015 runway.

The initial iterations were a patchwork of suede, leather and snake-effect cutouts that were pieced together like a jigsaw. (Hence the name.) A lot has changed in the decade since the Loewe Puzzle bag made its debut. The brand’s artistic reins have now been handed to Proenza Schouler founders Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez and Anderson is now at Dior, but the Puzzle bag nevertheless remains one of the most popular designer handbags of all time.

This is by no means a small feat, especially when its desirability is on par with the Hermés Birkin, which was created in 1971, or the Prada Galleria, conceived in 2007. So, when the time came to review the Puzzle bag to understand why the style has such a rich legacy, I jumped at the chance to finally take home (at least for a little while) a bag that’s sat at the top of my wish list for five years straight.

Is the Loewe Puzzle bag worth it? Will the Loewe Puzzle bag retain its value? Why is the Loewe Puzzle bag so popular? These are the questions that I get hurled at myself quite often as a fashion editor with a niche for luxury bags. Uncover all my answers, ahead.

Shop the Loewe Puzzle Bag:

A Deep Review of the Loewe Puzzle Bag

I’m walking through Bayswater in central London and I begin to notice the glare of people’s eyes as they pass me. This is an unusual sensation for me, but I chalk it up to their envy as I’m carrying my latest prized possession: The Loewe Puzzle bag.

Earlier in the week, I was put on an assignment by my editor to test-drive the bag and see if, ten years on, it continues to live up to the hype. But as you would with any high-ticket item, I opted for the freshest model. In celebration of the Loewe Puzzle bag’s 10th anniversary, the brand released the Featherlight Puzzle, a style “defined by its distinctive geometric lines and cuboid shape and crafted in an innovative featherlight nappa lambskin,” according to a press release.

To accompany the launch, a campaign starring Bones and All star and Loewe runway model Taylor Russell was released, where, posing in woodlands, the actress highlighted the lightweight and soft feel of the sheep leather silhouette. Still, in the bustling English capital, these were the qualities that stood out the most to me.

I’m typically a schlepper, meaning I carry every necessity you can think of (and then some) with me at all times. My bags are never micro-sized as I want to be prepared for anything. Yet, I was chomping at the bit to trade my ludicrously capacious signature woven leather bag for the small-sized Featherlight Puzzle.

A fair warning for you. This size won’t fit your laptop or emotional-support water bottle. But it is homely enough for me to tote around several lip glosses, a bottle of perfume, a digital camera, a La Bonne Brosse hairbrush, plus some essentials like my sunglasses and wallet. How’d I manage to fit it all? Easy. The Puzzle bag comes with secret pockets, including one tucked away on the detachable leather luggage tag.

I rarely go hands-free during the week. Though on this occasion, I gladly traded up. The first stop of the day was a pastry run to fuel myself for a busy day of meetings, writing and schmoozing—you know, all the glamorous things us magazine journalists get up to. (Kidding!) Slinging it into the crook of my arm à la a Miu Miu autumn/winter 2023 model, I was instantly impressed with how buttery the leather was. Truly light as air, I felt that carrying this bag alone made me stand a little taller and look a little brighter. This may explain the cursory glances I got earlier, although I’m blaming it on the bag’s sumptuous touch.

The puzzle also comes with a cross shoulder strap, which gave me extra security when I was commuting to and from appointments on the underground. While I took the utmost care of it while in my possession, I did rest easy thanks to the built-in gold metal feet that help protect against scratches and stains. These additions also kept my bag sitting pretty and upright when resting on a café table or at my desk.

On that note, the bag will eventually become the focus of most discussions that you’re having. When I brought it into the office, the response was like I had just arrived with a newborn. (Cue: countless cooing, fussing and asking “Can I have a hold?” .) The thing that piqued interest the most? The sweet balloon bag charm that came with the style and decorative logo embossed onto the front flap. The compliments didn’t stop there either. As it came with me to after-work drinks with a few girlfriends, everyone gushed over how sleek the shape felt. This comes down to the fact that the design takes inspiration from the Japanese art of paper folding, origami. It’s slightly slouchy, sleek and chic all the same, thanks to the distinctive folds giving it a unique look compared to other styles.

Is the Loewe Puzzle Bag Worth It?

To answer your hotly anticipated question, I'm going to go out on a limb and say I do believe that the Loewe Puzzle bag is worth the investment. Retailing at £3,250 for the small, it’s a very expensive style for a bag that you can really only wear during the daytime, to dinner and cocktail functions where you don’t mind toting a bit of a bulkier accessory. For the same price, you could also buy something like the Miu Miu Arcadie or even two of The Row’s ‘90s shoulder bags. However, in these styles, you’re surely lacking the space and versatility that the Puzzle bag provides.

It suits an array of settings, including walks through the city, business lunches and even grocery hauls. (If you like to bring a touch of luxury to running errands, that is.) I also didn’t waste time in front of my wardrobe wondering what I would wear with it to make it the hero piece of my outfit, like I would if styling the very boxy Gucci Horsebit or Y2K-coded Balenciaga City bag.

The Puzzle bag’s appeal is that it doesn’t require any help to make an impact; the singular shape does that all on its own. Don’t get me wrong, though, it’s probably one of the least flashy designer bags around. In saying that, the currency range available, from the confetti style released to celebrate the bag’s 10th birthday to the rich merlot colour I burnt red colour I wore, is expansive enough to service any need. Whether you want a style that turns heads or fades into the background, Loewe has a Puzzle for you. (Talk about finding the perfect fit.)

My only qualm with the bag was that the handle only allowed you to carry it by hand or to rest it on your elbow. I don’t mean to ruffle feathers, but I personally loathe the look of cross-body styles when out and about. There’s something dragging a bag across my torso that makes me feel so touristy, so when I don’t need to wear it this way to ward off pickpockets, you’ll always find me carrying a bag on my shoulder. This isn’t possible with the Puzzle, however, it wasn’t a deal-breaker for me. Sure, the Loewe Puzzle bag won’t fit a laptop, but what you’re buying into is more important than that.

To me and many others, the Loewe Puzzle bag is indicative of a wider movement. Each season, Anderson designed a Puzzle bag to reflect the temperature of the culture, whether that be collaborating with animation titans Studio Ghibli or artists including Ken Price or William Morris. London-based digital native and social media strategist Connor Downey echoes this sentiment.

In 2024, Downey retweeted a photo of an heirloom tomato, adding that the ridged fruit was “so Loewe I can’t explain it”. His statement instantly went viral, even becoming picked up by Anderson himself. In the following months, Loewe created a tomato clutch inspired by Downey’s espousal, an act he dubbed being “harvested from a viral moment.” Moments like these and the design of the Puzzle bag hark back to what Downey describes as the brand’s “artistic blend of traditional craftsmanship with a modern aesthetic”. These qualities make the brand “the epitome of understated elegance”.

“Under Anderson, Loewe was never flashy; it was real,” he says. “The brand responds to art and culture with an authentic take on what everyday people are wearing, twisted with surreal elements that give it a unique identity.” The Puzzle bag is symbolic of how Downey notes Loewe “essentially tore up the rulebook on luxury being elitist”.

He adds: “They made the Loewe world fit into the existing world. They’re not selling you a dream, they’re luring you into a world where fashion is fun, playful and in the know with what people are talking about.”

Why Is the Loewe Puzzle Bag So Popular?

But why the Puzzle when there are other styles like the Flameco or Basket Tote to contend with? Well, it comes down to the fact that the Puzzle was the inimitable original. “The puzzle bag is a great example of Loewe’s commitment to craftsmanship through its construction,” Downey acknowledges. “It’s a timeless piece that has evolved over the years through collaborations and new iterations such as the tote, which means it has never lost its appeal,” he adds.

“I think its adaptations over the years show that it’s a timeless piece that works for everyone, establishing it as an essential. There’s also an appetite for good quality everyday bags — I see a lot more people are keen to invest in a designer bag on the premise of durability and its ability to fit into people’s lifestyles. I think the bag’s longevity has proven it’s [a classic], and its many versions show the many ways why this bag is a hero piece!”

Will the Loewe Puzzle Bag Hold Its Value?

On a statistical level, founder and CEO of leading consignment company Sellier in Knightsbridge, Hanushka Toni, tells me that she’s seen a “steady and consistent interest” in the Puzzle bag.

“Loewe has a refined and contemporary aesthetic that doesn’t rely on obvious logos or trend-led gimmicks,” she explains. “It centres around innovation and its uncontested expertise in leather—unsurprising given that it's one of the oldest luxury fashion houses in the world.” According to her, the Puzzle “holds its value well, particularly in classic colourways and limited editions”.

“There’s been a noticeable uptick in demand recently, likely linked to the 10th anniversary, with a 20% increase in purchases YOY, and we expect that to continue, especially as Loewe’s visibility on the runway and among high-profile figures continues to grow,” Toni adds.

Downey summarises it best here: “The Puzzle bag proves that Anderson is, and has always been, miles ahead of anyone.” Owning a Puzzle bag is like being part of one of fashion’s most revered chapters. To me, being part of this history doesn’t have a price tag.

Shop the Loewe Puzzle Bag:

Loewe Puzzle Bag Key Information:

Sizes: Small and Mini

Colours: Currently seven, including black, shell grey, aquamarine, dark butter, dark brownie, pecan and burnt red.

Main Material: Featherlight Nappa Lambskin

Strap Length: 92 -112 cm

Strap Drop: 46 - 56 cm

Handle Drop: 7 cm

Weight: 0.5 kg

Height: 16.5 cm

Width: 24 cm

Depth: 10.5 cm

Made in Spain

Celebrities Wearing the Loewe Puzzle Bag

Style Notes: Loewe broke the internet when casting the then 88-year-old Dame Maggie Smith for its spring 2024 pre-collection campaign. Consider us spellbound.

Style Notes: Loewe's appeal also comes down to the brand's ability to tap burgeoning stars on the cusp of making it big in their careers. Case in point: Ayo Edebiri doing press wearing head-to-toe Loewe in 2024. The brand has gone on to dress her for the Met Gala, the Emmys and Golden Globes.

Style Notes: Beyoncé is always an early adopter of trends before they become mainstream. In 2016, the Grammy Award-winning musician wore one of the first iterations of the Puzzle bag to a basketball game in Los Angeles.

Influencers Wearing the Loewe Puzzle Bag

Style Notes: Influencer Rebecca Ferraz-Wyatt proves how easily adaptable the Loewe Puzzle bag is with this look. Even with such a bright colour, the bag seamlessly complements her outfit without overpowering the look.

Style Notes: Those who prefer more minimalist fashion will enjoy this suede version seen here on Lizzy Hadfield.

Style Notes: As Marianne Smyth showcases, the Loewe Puzzle can serve you through all seasons.

The Loewe Puzzle Bag on the Runway

Style Notes: The bag appears on the brand's spring/summer 2025 runway.

Style Notes: Worn with a long-sleeve top and skirt on the brand's autumn/winter 2022 runway.

Style Notes: The first-ever Loewe Puzzle bag design on the spring/summer 2015 runway.

Why Trust Us

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

We regularly try pieces ourselves, everything from bestselling jeans to designer shoes, speak to external experts and fashion insiders and stay closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise and has to pass our exceptional taste levels—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

The Puzzle, the Flamenco, the Hammock—Loewe has made a name for itself as a brand that knows how to create a great designer bag, and with summer's arrival, in-the-know fashion people are unpacking the seasonal accessory they always turn to for luxury, style and practicality: the Loewe Anagram Basket Bag.

There may be some dispute over the official start date of summer, but I always mark the season's arrival by my first sighting of a basket bag. The style is synonymous with the warmer months and is my litmus test that it's time to start assembling my summer wardrobe.

For a long time, the basket bag flew somewhat under the radar as a stylish way to transport our essentials, whether exploring European cities or heading to the beach. But that all changed when the former creative director of Loewe, Jonathan Anderson, brought the bag firmly into the fashion conversation in 2017.

Many brands have turned their hand to the humble basket bag, but Loewe has become known for its excellence in creating this particular style, pioneering the straw bag to bring it into the luxury space. As soon as the original Loewe basket bag hit the runway, the fashion crowd caught on quickly. It became the It bag of the season, and since then, the brand has turned its playful hand to reinventing the summer accessory over the years.

Loewe has carved out a unique brand perspective that balances both the timeless and the extraordinary; any brand that can create buzz with a pigeon clutch and a coveted basket bag should be applauded. And whilst its bolder moments like tomato-stamped hot air balloons and striking collaborations will always catch our eye, its minimalist handbags are still celebrated for their craftspersonship, elegant designs and recognisable features.

The Anagram Basket Bag is one such piece that exemplifies the brand's success in timeless design. Starting with the understated appeal of the woven basket bag, luxury is added through the high-quality leather accents of sturdy handles, and, of course, the Loewe brand anagram. As an investment buy, you can rest assured that this is a piece you’ll gladly come back to every summer for years, if not decades, to come, and the subtle branding supports this. Whilst many designer bags shout their high-end origins, the simple feature of the anagram hints at its luxurious roots to those in the know, whilst the construction and elegance tell those that aren’t familiar that this is a designer buy.

Since its release, Loewe's Anagram basket bag has become one of the most desired of all designer bags. With such popularity, the brand now offers the bag in three sizes: small, medium and large, with a variety of designs and leather colourways to choose from. The open silhouette gives a relaxed feel to this grab-and-go summer bag, ready to be filled with all your daily essentials, whether picky bits for a picnic in the park, or a towel, SPF and books for a day at the beach. Some of my fellow fashion followers even swap out their work totes for this summery style when the weather heats up, and as it's gained its icon title, who could blame them?

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EXPLORE THE LOEWE ANAGRAM BASKET BAG

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There's a reason straw bags come back every summer: they're eternally chic. Since the days of Jane Birkin stepping out with her wicker market bag, anyone looking to nail understated, timeless summer style has turned to a basket bag as the ultimate warm-weather accessory.

Of course, you can pick up any old raffia bag at a market on holiday to do the job, but if you're a dedicated basket lover and you're looking to invest in a style that feels more elevated than your average, and of the very best quality to pull out and rely on every summer, I'd recommend turning to one of the best designer basket bags on the market right now.

Honestly, if you're looking for luxury in your raffia companion, you're spoiled for choice for summer 2025. Loewe's classic tote may have been one of the first designer forays into logo basket bags, but now every luxury brand worth knowing about has tapped into the trend. From the mega-giants like Prada and Saint Laurent to smaller, emerging premium brands like DeMellier, there are options to fit your bill.

In fact, there are so many summer bag options in raffia, woven and wicker fabrications in all shapes and sizes nowadays that for this list of the best of the best designer basket bags, I wanted it to be focused on exactly that—traditional, larger, market-style tote baskets that you can throw over your shoulder and chuck all those summer essentials in. These bags all work perfectly as beach bags and travel carry-ons, but since they have that luxurious polish they all look right at home in the city with your smartest workwear as well.

From Saint Laurent's beautifully understated Panier to Loewe's modern take with the Puzzle Fold, DeMellier's more affordable leather-trimmed style to The Row's logo-less Emilie. If you've been thinking of investing in a designer basket bag, this is your definitive list of the chicest styles available for summer 2025.

These Are the 9 Best Luxury Basket Bags to Invest in Now

1. Saint Laurent Panier

2. Loewe Puzzle Fold

3. Prada Raffia Shopping Bag

4. The Row Emilie

5. Loewe Anagram Basket

6. DeMellier Santorini

7. Celine Panier

8. Chloé Woody

9. Miu Miu Raffia-Effect Hobo Bag

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I won't make you wait, prolonging your ability to find out what mysterious pants trend made you click on this story. It's "genie pants." Well, that or harem pants, or peplum pants, or bubble pants. Fashion and the internet haven't quite decided what they want to call this sartorial phenomenon, but even if it's technically nameless, that doesn't change the fact that it's here.

Over the last two weeks, I've been busy saving Instagram photos of the platform's best dressers debuting their best billowy bottoms, skipping capris, cigarette pants, barrel trousers, linen pants, Bermuda shorts, and, yes, skinny jeans, in the process. People clearly want comfortable bottoms that also make a statement, and genie pants check off both boxes, making them primed for a comeback this summer.

On the runway:

Though social media is where the genie pants trend took off, it got its start on the runways back in September of last year, when Pieter Mulier sent models (including Kendall Jenner) down the runway (the spiral pathway inside of the Upper East Side's Guggenheim Museum) at Alaïa's S/S 25 show wearing the formerly outdated bottoms in a mix of pastel shades and neutrals made of jersey, taffeta, and more with bandeau tops and thong sandals. Later that season, in Paris, Loewe and Chloé too displayed genie pants in their runway shows, Loewe in leather and floral silk, and Chloé in see-through lace.

Now, months later, those pieces we saw on the catwalk are arriving in stores, and elite dressers and stylists like Hanna MW and Oumayma Elboumeshouli are wearing them.

How to wear genie pants:

But designer pairs aren't the only bubble-shaped bottoms going viral right now on fashion's internet. A very specific pair from Zara that costs $129—hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars less than those aforementioned luxury options—is making the rounds, too. They're made of cotton yarn and are white with drawstring bottoms. Plus, they're from the ZW Collection, which real Zara experts will tell you is the brand's highest-quality line, meaning that when these pants arrive on your doorstep, you know they'll be good.

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Convinced yet? I know I am. For proof, just see the five different pairs of genie pants that are currently calling my shopping carts home. Scroll down to shop them all and more.

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One of the most distinct accessory updates arrives every summer. Whilst our black leather bags will continue to serve us, there's nothing quite like swapping in a woven tote to bring a summer look together. In the warmer months, our outfits tend to be made up of just a few ingredients—perhaps just a dress, sandals and a bag—giving even more importance to each element. Because of this, I've been considering the best designer bags for summer.

A few years ago, I invested in an iconic Loewe basket bag, and with each passing summer, it has been firmly by my side. As a careful shopper and handbag enthusiast, I consider myself an expert when it comes to investing in a luxury summer bag. Not only will I walk you through the various styles that come to the fore when the weather heats up, but I've hand-selected only the best that are truly worth spending a little more on.

Summer is the season of texture. Whether you're adding beaded jewellery to your looks, considering the suede sandal trend or steaming your linen wares, the season demands updates in materials, and this is most prevalent in the season's bags. Most recognisable is woven raffia, which forms our beachside basket bags and features on shoulder bags that are perfect for al fresco dining. Intricate weaving is another reigning feature of great summer bags, formed from supple leather or crochet to bring a textural contrast to our elegant looks. Finally, canvas fabrics in light neutrals are a sign of summer that I always look out for when the warm weather appears.

Below, you'll find my carefully curated list of the best designer summer bags, featuring a host of the most well-known luxury brands. There are spacious bags that will easily store all your seaside essentials and more compact styles for dressing up over the next few months. Some of the most iconic bags around have had a summer-ready update, like the Gucci Jackie, which is now available with a woven leather panel, and a raffia-clad Saint Laurent Le 5 à 7, which I have my eye on.

Whilst they all fall into different handbag categories, they're united in their timeless appeal. With classic design elements, high-quality fabrics and thoughtful details, these bags will feel just as fresh in your wardrobe in three, five or 15 years.

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Explore the Best Designer Summer Bags

Best Designer Basket Bags

Style Notes: The humble basket bag is one of those summer heroes that comes back every single year. Identifiable by its woven exterior and spacious tote-like shape, it's a bag that will serve you well over the summer season, whether you're bringing a warm-weather edge to office dressing or packing it full of beach-day must-haves. The very best summery designer buys have a classic feel, with straw-coloured fabrics and leather handles for extra durability.

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Best Designer Woven Leather Bags

Style Notes: Since early spring, I've watched fashion people slowly integrating woven leather bags back into their wardrobes. Honestly, it's a style you can wear all year round, but the intricate weave has a certain warm-weather feeling that makes it even better when the sunshine arrives. If you tend to lean towards leather when making a handbag investment, this is a great summer bag to consider.

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