Milan Design Week, also referred to as Salone del Mobile, has undergone a transformation. While it was traditionally an event where interior and home décor brands would debut their new collections for industry insiders, it has recently evolved into a second Milan Fashion Week, if you will. This shift is notable, particularly this year, as more fashion brands enter the design world and unveil their takes on home décor. As a result, the style set (think Alexa Chung and Pernille Teisbaek) is following, turning the city's narrow cobblestone streets into their runways.

Although Who What Wear editors weren't physically present in Milan, we still closely monitored the chic outfits and key trends on display. Ensembles featuring maxi skirts with ballet flats and tailored pants with pumps were certainly present, but the outfit formula we saw everywhere combined light-wash jeans with ankle boots.

Normally, light-wash jeans paired with ankle boots wouldn't catch our attention, but given the weather in Milan was in the 70s, it seemed a bit unexpected. With their structured, enclosed, and heavy nature, the shoes may not define spring style, but it did make sense that fashion people wore them with jeans. The truth is winter hasn't fully let go. In that context of chilly mornings and sudden temperature dips, boots are a practical choice. They also offer support for long days spent walking between Salone events.

The style set also made a case for boots and jeans by choosing a specific boot style—Western-inspired pairs. Western ankle boots offer built-in versatility that other styles lack. The slightly elongated, pointed toe and low, stacked heel make them feel less bulky and more adaptable, pairing well with lightweight jeans as well as flowy dresses and skirts in the spring.

If you're inspired to follow the lead of It girls in Milan who attended Salone, keep scrolling to shop the best light-wash jeans and ankle boots to pair with them.

How People in Milan Are Styling Light-Wash Jeans and Boots

Get the look: red bomber jacket + striped top + light-wash straight-leg jeans + brown ankle boots

Get the look: denim jacket + black T-shirt + low-rise light-wash jeans + suede boots

Get the look: black leather jacket + white button-down shirt + light-wash straight-leg jeans + black ankle boots

Get the look: oversize blazer + white T-shirt + light-wash raw-hem jeans + brown ankle boots

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While I definitely get excited to see the fashion month shows from the major houses, one of the things I look forward to the most every season are the up-and-coming brands. They’re the ones that usually leave me feeling the most inspired, from the unbridled collections to the shows that feel more like performance art. It's a special time to discover something new, whether it’s a familiar name continuing to challenge conventions or coming across a designer I haven’t heard of before.

This kind of discovery is one of my favorite parts of my work, and fashion month is the perfect time for it. As runways always do, this inevitably influences the ways we think about shopping for the season ahead.

For S/S 25, I wrote about the emerging designers that I loved at New York Fashion Week. This season, I'm expanding my focus to the entire F/W 26 fashion month calendar. Below, shop the designers that stood out to me on the latest runways across every city, from Copenhagen to Paris.

Fashion Month F/W 26 Emerging Designers

Brands to remember: Nicklas Skovgaard, OpéraSport, Caro Editions, Paolina Russo

Copenhagen Fashion Week consistently has some of the coolest brands in any market. This season, Nicklas Skovgaard, OpéraSport, Caro Editions, and Paolina Russo especially caught my eye. For me, Caro Editions truly epitomized the glamorous dressing trend, and it was one of the standout collections of the week. I’m also currently eyeing an OpéraSport baseball hat or bag for myself.

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Brands to remember: Gabe Gordon, Zoe Gustavia Anna Whalen, Mel Usine, Jane Wade, Colleen Allen, Pipenco

Living in New York, my hometown fashion week is, of course, New York Fashion Week. At Gabe Gordon, knitwear remains the signature, and there was a timely nod to ice skating as well. Zoe Gustavia Anna Whalen’s post-show press release cited “pre-industrial pregnancy corsets, sanitary belts, and maternity wear” as references, with materials like secondhand linens and vintage nylon bringing that vision to life.

Mel Usine, which debuted this past spring, continued building on its foundation with a second collection drawing from historical research, French lore, and medieval dressing. And Jane Wade’s The Summit brought her workwear lens outdoors, leaning into performance and expedition wear, including a shoe collaboration with Sorel.

Others who left the biggest impression on me include Colleen Allen, who has become one of the most beloved names at NYFW for editors, and Pipenco, a one-of-a-kind fantastical line designed by Romanian designer Lorena Pipenco.

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Brands to remember: Conner Ives, Chopova Lowena, Tolu Coker, Petra Fagerström, Pauline Dujancourt, Lucila Safdie

London Fashion Week truly might be my favorite part of the fashion month calendar. Beyond the household names like Burberry and Vivienne Westwood, I always love keeping up with the designers coming out of Central Saint Martins, along with the other emerging brands that show each season. For F/W 26, my top shows were Conner Ives, Chopova Lowena, Tolu Coker, Petra Fagerström, Pauline Dujancourt, and Lucila Safdie, many of which can be shopped at Nordstrom, Net-a-Porter, and Farfetch.

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Brands to remember: Avavav, Florania, Institution by Galib Gassanoff, Casa Preti

I like seeing what Avavav does each Milan Fashion Week. The label consistently puts on theatrical (and often satirical) shows with an absurdist approach to design. Founded in Florence and now based in Stockholm, it’s become known for its tongue-in-cheek runway presentations, and this season was no different. Beyond that, Florania, Institution by Galib Gassanoff, and Casa Preti were also particularly memorable.

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Brands to remember: Julie Kegels, Hodakova, Matières Fécales, Vaquera

Along with LFW, Paris Fashion Week has my heart. Some of the highlights included baby blue tights at Julie Kegels, a makeshift bra made of teacups at Hodakova, jaw-dropping, over-the-top couture-inspired looks at Matières Fécales, and an unexpected twist on bridalwear (with a baby's breath bouquet) at Vaquera, as pictured above. In terms of incorporating these brands into my own wardrobe, Vaquera's Pretty Boy T-Shirt, which has a graphic of a Chihuahua (my favorite dog), is currently on my wish list.

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Skinny jeans get a bad rep, and for good reason. I, myself, was happy to see them fall out of style in favor of styles with a bit more give. That being said, there are chic ways to reintroduce them into your wardrobe that won't make you look like it's 2013 again. For proof, just see how Laura Harrier styled a pair of Gucci skinny jeans while in Milan during Fashion Week. After analyzing her night-out ensemble, I'm convinced that skinny jeans aren't all bad. All it takes is the right styling, and suddenly, the controversial denim style feels far fresher in 2026.

For a dinner at Baretto celebrating Demna's first Gucci runway show, Harrier donned a look from his pre-fall 2026 collection, including black skinny jeans with a split hem, a cropped leather bomber jacket, and tall horsebit pumps. She finished off the ensemble with one of spring 2026's newest It bags, the Jackie Slim Small Shoulder Bag ($2450). The trick that made her skinny-jeans outfit work? Pairing the black style with classic pumps anchors the trendiness of the denim style, balancing the entire look. The timeless shoe shape also elevates skinny jeans, which can tend to err on the youthful side.

On Laura Harrier: Gucci Jackie Slim Small Shoulder Bag ($2450), Donna Pump ($1220), top, jacket, and jeans

The other trick to making skinny jeans feel sophisticated in 2026 is to opt for a slightly washed black wash instead of anything too light. It gives them the same smart look that cigarette pants possess, but with a touch more casualness, making them perfect for a night out in a chic city like Milan during Fashion Week.

Convinced to stop hating all skinny jeans and welcome certain versions back into your wardrobe? Keep scrolling.

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In a Milan season defined by transition, Dolce & Gabbana made a pointedly steady statement. While much of the city’s fashion houses are exploring new directions under fresh creative leadership, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana leaned into what they know best: a language of identity rooted in history, heritage, and unmistakable Sicilian emotion. Their fall 2026 collection, titled Identity, was less about reinvention and more about presence, a reminder that authenticity and tradition can be radical in a city chasing the next new thing. "Identity is the ultimate luxury," the show notes, posted on the label's social media, declared. "This is not nostalgia. It is presence."

Naturally, the runway felt like a manifesto of the house’s enduring codes. Black dominated the palette, tailoring reinforced the structure, and lace and texture layered sensuality atop authority. The silhouettes affirmed the body without hiding it, blending femininity (in the form of moody lace slips) and masculinity (in classic, oversize striped suits) in ways that felt both intimate and bold.

In a season of experimentation, Dolce & Gabbana stood as a quiet counterpoint, showing that remaining true to yourself can be its own kind of luxury and that a house rooted in its own story can still feel entirely of the moment. The Dolce & Gabbana fall 2026 show reminded Milan that confidence doesn’t come from change—it comes from knowing who you are.

A Bold Return to House Identity

At a time when Milan is in the throes of creative recalibration—new creative directors are tenures at houses like Gucci, Fendi, and Marni—Dolce & Gabbana stands apart in its refusal to dilute its irreverent codes. Rather than recalibrate with the rest of the market, designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana doubled down. The fall/winter 2026 show was steeped in Sicilian history—Catholic iconography, widow’s black, baroque sensuality—signaling not reinvention but reaffirmation in where the brand gets its historic roots.

Where other brands chase newness through minimalism or conceptual pivots, Dolce & Gabbana leaned into a vocabulary it has spent four decades refining. The sharp tailoring, corsetry, lace, and veiled drama were less about nostalgia and more about stability.

Milanese Color Codes

The runway was almost entirely submerged in black—a choice that felt both aesthetic and anthropological. Black, in Milan, is less trend than uniform. Unlike the flamboyant color narratives of Rome or the bourgeois polish of Paris, Milanese style has long communicated power through restraint. The city’s fashion DNA—industrial, pragmatic, quietly sensual—has historically favored sharp tailoring and a subdued palette.

Honoring Madonna

The presence of Madonna in the front row felt less like celebrity placement and more like homecoming. Few figures are as intertwined with Dolce & Gabbana’s ascent in the 1990s. They dressed her during the height of her erotically charged, Catholicism-reframing era—when lingerie-as-outerwear, crucifixes, and Sicilian widow silhouettes became global pop iconography.

Fall 2026 seemed to channel that precise moment: the dark lace slips, sharp corsetry, sheer veiling, and controlled sensuality evoked Madonna’s late-’90s wardrobe: powerful, slightly dangerous, steeped in religious tension. Her influence on fashion cannot be overstated—she legitimized the fusion of sacred and profane, a tension Dolce & Gabbana has long mined in its 40-year run.

Behold, Nonna-Core

Amid the high-gloss sensuality, there was elderly tenderness. Crochet shawls draped over shoulders. Needlepoint-embroidered handbags evoked heirloom upholstery and Sunday sitting rooms. The references were unmistakably nonna-esque—the Italian phrase for grandmother—but elevated beyond gimmick into respect. The designers behind Dolce & Gabbana have always cited their mothers and Sicilian upbringing as creative bedrock. Since their earliest collections in the 1980s, the archetype of the Italian matriarch—devout, resilient, commanding—has shaped their sartorial worldview.

Era-Defining Beauty

Beauty has always been central to Dolce & Gabbana’s storytelling, and fall 2026 sharpened that legacy. The makeup was unapologetically defined: inky eyeliner, sculpted brows, and bold lips in oxblood and deep crimson. Hair was sleek, controlled—often center-parted and smoothed close to the head—once again a nod to the first moments of virality the brand had pre–social media days.

The look echoed the house’s 1990s runway heyday, when supermodels embodied a distinctly Mediterranean glamour: polished yet faintly undone and sensual yet slightly unaware.

Last season may have been the one to capture countless headlines with its many historic designer debuts that shook up the major fashion houses, but the fall/winter 2026 shows are proving to be no less worthy of all the industry chatter. In Milan, there was so much to discuss, including several more designer debuts that demanded their own moment. So no, this season will not be overshadowed, at least if the Italian houses and the collections they're proposing for fall have anything to say about it.

First and perhaps the most buzzed-about was Demna's runway debut at Gucci. Marni was another label that ushered in a new era with the arrival of Belgian designer Meryll Rogge, who's taking the brand back to its quirky, art school–esque roots much to the delight of OG Marni fans. Meanwhile, Simone Bellotti at Jil Sander and Louise Trotter at Bottega Veneta both showed sophomore collections that kept the excitement going from last season's introductions. And who could forget Prada's innovative runway, which showed each look four times, each time discarding a layer to reveal a new element?

Now that the style set has packed up their things and headed to Paris to close out fashion month, let's sit down and discuss everything we just saw from the Milan Fashion Week F/W 26 shows—specifically, the top trends to know.

Collar Pop

The funnel-neck outerwear trend continues to develop, and designers put their stake in the ground as to where the trend will progress in 2026. While full-on funnel-necks are still as chic as ever, the fall collections indicated that soon all the chicest people you know will be wearing their jackets, coats, and blazers with the collars flipped up to create a sort of effortless, DIY-style high neckline.

Louche Layering

If the spring 2025 shows were all about preppy style and prim-and-proper layers, the fall shows took that idea and lived in it a little bit longer. The result is a series of ideas on layering that's much more relaxed, down-to-earth, and, well, how the busy women wearing these looks really get dressed.

Royalty

No need for Pantone—the Milan shows were resolute in their color predictions for fall. The consensus? It's all about purple, specifically this deep violet shade that's often referred to as royal purple. The richer the tone, the easier it becomes to wear, as it's akin to burgundy and therefore ripe for becoming your new fall staple color.

The Skinny on Pants

Designers have teased us with the return of skinny pants for the past few seasons. Although, what's happening on the street in any fashion capital right now tells a different story. But skinny-pant silhouettes seemed to dominate the runways in Milan this week, which has us questioning whether the tides will actually be turning sooner than later. Looks featured trousers that toed the line between pants and leggings (and even tights), and many were styled with boxy blazers and roomy coats to give the overall silhouette a sense of balance.

Low-Pile Fur

While maximalist fur has been a headline of winter style this year, designers are presenting the next gen of fur outerwear for 2026, and instead of bold statement pieces, it's all about a more discreet take on the texture with low-pile fur and calf-hair coats taking center stage.

Sciura Glam

In Milanese slang, the term sciura refers to a specific breed of older woman who can always be spotted dressed to the nines with no detail spared about her outfit. It's such a phenomenon that the Instagram account @sciuraglam documenting these stylish ladies has amassed over 400K followers. Clearly, they were on the minds of Italian designers this season, as calling cards of sciura style can be spotted throughout the fall collections, whether through a statement-coat-and-matching-hat moment or a pair of socks layered with polished pumps. In essence, we'll all be dressing like a fabulous nonna come fall.

Oxford Circus

Is this the death knell to ballet flats? There's no question that flat shoes will continue to remain on top, but as far as fall 2026 is concerned, derby shoes are set to be the It style to know. Designers including Bottega Veneta, Moschino, and Tod's showed minimalist versions of the lace-up flats that arrive with slim soles and glove-like fits, and given 2026's focus on preppy fashion, all signs point to these modern derby shoes becoming big.

Animal Instincts

Animal prints were notably absent from the fall collections, but in their place arrived animal embossing instead. Whether on jackets or boots, croc embossing was a detail that popped up countless times in Milan and while it's hardly a new trend, the finish is set to get a renewed emphasis this year.

Milano—season after season, you seduce us with your enduring glamour and inimitable cool. As the home of Prada, Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Fendi, Marni and more, the city thrums with creativity, and never more than during Milan Fashion Week. A high-shine confidence runs through its storied fashion houses. Unafraid of a little excess, Milan embraces sparkle, sequins and sheer with open arms, making other fashion capitals feel almost restrained in comparison.

Long considered a bellwether for the season ahead, especially when it comes to party moments, Milan Fashion Week’s autumn/winter 2026 collections delivered exactly what we hoped for: drama and decadence. After closely watching the runways and revisiting the standout shows, a handful of clear themes emerged—trends the city’s most influential houses seem unanimously aligned on.

Read on to discover the defining Milan Fashion Week autumn/winter 2026 runway trends to know now.

5 Runway Trends from Milan Fashion Week to Know Now

1. Royal Purple

Style Notes: If the past few seasons were defined by sumptuous burgundies and decadent browns, consider this their bolder successor. For A/W ’26, designers leaned towards a richer, punchier palette, with royal purple emerging as the standout shade. Long considered a tricky, even divisive hue, it has suddenly found favour among the industry’s most directional houses, including Gucci, Ferragamo and Sportmax. Whether worn in saturated, head-to-toe sweeps or tempered with inky black and dark chocolate brown—royal purple reigned.

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2. Colourful Cuffs

Style Notes: This season, designers punctuated looks with a flash of colour at the wrist. At Prada, Bottega Veneta and Ferragamo, sleeves were finished with vivid trims that peeked out beneath coats and knits. It’s a subtle styling trick, but one that feels primed for rapid adoption among the street style set.

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3. Frothy Collars

Style Notes: A romantic mood swept the runways, as ruffled, voluminous and deliciously frothy collars crowned dresses, blouses and outerwear. As Victorian influences continue to permeate pop culture—fanned by the recent adaptation of Wuthering Heights and the enduring pull of Bridgerton—fashion’s embrace of the trend feels right on time.

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4. Skirt Suits

Style Notes: Perhaps the most polished pairing of the week, the skirt suit found its feet in Milan. At Gucci, single-breasted, slim-fitting jackets were styled with knee-grazing pencil skirts for a sharp effect. Fendi offered a softer interpretation, presenting longer hemlines with slouchier, elongated blazers, while Jil Sander leaned into minimalism with marl-hued sets that gently skimmed the frame.

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5. Lace-Up Knee Boots

Style Notes: In place of prim Mary Janes, designers embraced sharper, more commanding lace-up knee boots. A progression of the knee-high styles that have dominated in recent years, these iterations come tightly bound, laced from ankle to calf in a subtle nod to Victorian dressing. Witchy and dramatic they tap into the same romantic undercurrent seen across the collections.

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In September 2025, Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani passed away at age 91, leaving a 50-year legacy. For the fall 2026 season, Silvana Armani—Mr. Armani's niece and collaborator for over 40 years—stepped into the role of womenswear creative director and debuted her first ready-to-wear collection at Milan Fashion Week.

Silvana's solo collection for the Italian house maintained the brand's timeless, elegant charm while adding a fresh sense of exploration. The brand described it in a press release as "a new perspective on the Armani style," emphasizing its drapey and "perfectly imperfect nature." The collection highlighted the harmony between contrasts—soft versus structured, constructed versus free-flowing. Outerwear lacked padding and rigidity, with long jackets flowing naturally and moving with the wearer. Trousers relaxed and skimmed the ground, while layered turtlenecks and sweaters wrapped the body comfortably. Rich materials like velvet, chenille, crepe, cashmere, and leather provided deep textures, complemented by classic hues such as gray, beige, dark blue, and black, along with earthy tones like sage green, introducing a fresh breath of air.

Concluding the show in an emotional way, "A Costo di Morire," an unreleased song by Italian singer Mina, was played, celebrating the late designer. The lyrics inundated the Via Borgonuovo theater, as the collection honored tradition while reinventing it and signifying continuity. Here, discover everything to know about Giorgio Armani's fall 2026 collection and what the new era of Armani looks like.

Silvana Armani's Debut

Silvana, who spent over four decades working alongside her uncle at Giorgio Armani, has successfully stepped into his role following his passing. Her collection felt distinctly created by a woman for women. Silvana focused on the redefined Armani woman—someone who confidently moves between past memories and the present. The collection treated the past not as something to forget but as a foundation to acknowledge, reinvent, and bring forward. This was achieved by combining practicality with elegance while staying true to Armani's heritage and design codes.

Fluid Tailoring

The fall 2026 collection was rooted in the concept of "Exploration as a state of mind in constant pursuit: a way of reading landscapes—even familiar ones—in ever-changing ways," as noted in the brand's press release. This philosophy was reflected in the collection's soft yet defined silhouettes, featuring fluid trousers and jackets stripped of padding. This approach to soft tailoring evoked the quiet power of landscapes. Like the layered shapes of peaks and valleys, the clothing was intentionally draped, creating a feeling that is protective, practical, expansive, and graceful.

The Armani Way to Layer

The fall 2026 collections so far have highlighted the art of layering. Key examples include Tory Burch's crewneck sweaters over collared shirts, Prada's sheer skirts over chunky knits and button-downs, and Burberry's hefty faux-fur scarves worn with double-breasted jackets. Armani, however, interpreted the trend in its own way. The brand focused on layering lightweight jackets and pullovers, revealing a sheer turtleneck underneath. This contrast, particularly between the sheer blouse and rich cashmere knits or wool outerwear, created an intriguing visual moment. Additional layering included long tunics over knit tops and relaxed trousers, as well as scarves wrapped around the upper body and tucked into leather belts.

The Burgundy Thread

Burgundy proved to be a consistent theme throughout the collection. Though most prominent on leather belts used to anchor trousers, the shade also appeared on long wrap jackets, dresses, trousers, and handbags. Known and loved by the style set as a chic alternative to black, Armani demonstrated the versatility of the deep bordeaux hue by pairing it with sage green, gray, white, charcoal, navy, and blue lapis.

Velvet Galore

Silvana closed the narrative of the Armani women's collection, focusing on rich velvet fabrics in deep burgundy and navy. These opulent materials were used in various ways: velvet cocooning jackets were paired with silk tops and pleated trousers, while matching velvet turtlenecks and pants were layered under embroidered open-style jackets. Silvana also used the fabric in dresses with deep-V, strapless, and high-neck styles, embellished with a delicate shimmer.

The problem with doing something great the first time is that it sets expectations on the ceiling. Fortunately, when you're Louise Trotter, that's not really an issue. The designer—who joined Bottega Veneta in December 2024 after Matthieu Blazy left his seat as creative director to take a new one at Chanel—shocked and awed the crowd at her debut runway show for the house from Vicenza, continuing the groundbreaking work she had started in her former role as creative director of Carven. Mesmerizing fringe was paired with artful uses of Bottega Veneta's signature Intrecciato, crafting (emphasis on the craft part) a collection for women by a woman.

On Saturday, the designer unveiled her much-anticipated second collection for Bottega Veneta at the brand's headquarters in the Palazzo San Fedele, showing a total of 81 looks for both men and women to a crowd that included Lauren Hutton, Daisy Edgar-Jones, Lauryn Hill, Julianne Moore, and Lux Pascal. The men's side was noticeably more tame, a ruffled collar and fringe jacket made of fiberglass being among the most obvious exceptions. For women, the collection felt far more varied, starting with quieter ensembles colored in soft neutrals that leaned heavily on Bottega Veneta's history as a leather-goods house, before developing into louder, more playful looks using the aforementioned fiberglass fringe she debuted for spring/summer 2026. This evolution accurately portrayed the duality of women—casual and laid-back one second and larger-than-life the next, captivating any room. In this case, it was with hot-pink outerwear and a bright-red hat, among other combinations. It also mimicked the duality of Trotter's adopted home of Milan (she's from London but has lived in the city for a year since taking this job), which she described to Vogue and other media outlets backstage as "very brutalist with a sensuality that's a little hidden."

Milan's shows have appeared to be a lot more about storytelling this season than just debuting beautiful clothing, and Prada's show was a lesson in dressing and undressing, peeling off layers as one passes through a day and a life. Bottega Veneta's fall/winter 2026 unveiling shares a similar sense of peeling back, showing the multifaceted nature of places and people. Comparing Look 1 to Look 80 might feel jarring at first glance, but are we to expect our wardrobe to show only one version of ourselves? The quietest or the loudest without any room for change? I would hope not, and the latest Bottega Veneta collection would suggest that Trotter is on my side.

Scroll on for more on Bottega Veneta's F/W 26 show.

Duality

We saw everything from an elegant, somewhat subdued ensemble fit for a well-dressed Milanese woman to wear throughout the first half of her day—grabbing coffee, chatting with friends, and catching up on work in the office—to a fantastical, furry look for the most special of occasions. That is the breadth of what Trotter debuted in her sophomore collection for Bottega Veneta. The Bottega Veneta woman is not just one thing. She is multifaceted, and her wardrobe should reflect that duality.

Hat Trick

Around 80% of the 81 models who walked in the Bottega Veneta show wore a hat—either a soft, fitted beanie or a coiffeur with a bit more pizzazz covered in shaggy fiberglass or beading that moved in waves like underwater seagrass caught in a current. As we know, women wear many hats, some that demand less from you and others that are more substantial.

Heels Are Out

Though a few pairs of furry heels were sprinkled throughout the 81-look collection, flats dominated, showing up in the form of soft-leather loafers, derbies, and spiky ballet flats, forcing us to wonder how pumps will fall in the shoe rankings come fall 2026. I'll always be a heel person, but a pair of little red moccasins with the teensiest heel might have to come home with me once they're available in stores.

Fall It Bags

Bags will always be Bottega Veneta's bread and butter, so getting them right was always going to be a top priority for Trotter, who already succeeded in this category with flying colors in her first collection and followed it up with a slew of fall It bags for the latter half of this year and into 2027. There was a lot of green—a rich, grassy color that feels new and fresh in a sea of classic black and brown options. Intrecciato was included on clutches, kiss-lock shoulder bags, and patent-leather tote bags, but so were other leather options, like ostrich leather and croc. There were styles for day and night, but all could easily be interchanged, as they are sleek and sophisticated enough to be worn for any occasion.

A Master Class in Textures

Leather has always been Bottega Veneta's signature fabric, something that Trotter leaned heavily into during her first season at the house. For her second go, she began experimenting more with fabrics that looked different than their makeup, tricking attendees of the show and making them look closer (or, in my case, zoom in on the grainiest detail). "An artisanal play of skin on skins brings Bottega Veneta handcraft to mimic fur textures in silks, fil coupé, knitting, and technical fibers, rippling across clothing, jewelry, and shoes," the press release stated. Plexiglass and silk were made to emulate fur and shearling, giving the latter materials, which tend to be stiff and somewhat constraining on the body, a lightness that wearers will certainly appreciate. It was one of those collections that people have to see in person to fully understand—full of surprises as you go beyond just sight to touch and feel each piece.

Ciao! With fashion turning its attention to the Italian sartorial capital for Milan Fashion Week, the birthplace of Prada and the Negroni Sbagliato has become a hotbed for impeccable street style. Within its ringed walls, local haunts like the Via Monte Napoleone and Palazzo del Senato have been transformed into runways in their own right.

Whilst it’s not unusual for the city’s natives to deliver a masterclass in everyday elegance—this is the place that pioneered dressing archetypes like the well-heeled and glamorous “sciura”, after all—the convergence of star-studded guests and incredibly sophisticated denizens have certainly dialled things up a notch. In fact, you could say that the outfits are nothing short of molto benne.

But given this is the place that hosts collection presentations from the likes of Fiorucci and Diesel, the one category that has piqued our interest the most has certainly been the denim. From dark blue Gucci Giglio tote bags to the ivory Bermuda shorts, denim of all varieties has been saturating the city faster than you could order an Aperol Spritz.

With this category being one of the most useful in any well-edited wardrobe, we thought it best to spotlight the notable looks that are actually wearable now and chronicle the key denim street style trends taking over Milan Fashion Week. Though the autumn/winter 2026 shows might be far more stirring in terms of what’s shown, it would be remiss of us to not to devote a little time to discussing the looks that are already turning heads.

From new washes approved by editors to the silhouettes adored by off-duty supermodels, keep scrolling through for the key denim trends defining Milan Fashion Week.

1. Upturned Cuffs

Style Notes: Take it from the best in the business. When needing to add an element of visual contrast, simply take the cuff of your jeans and turn it up a few inches. If it’s good enough for Bella Hadid—who achieved a major career milestone this week by walking Prada’s show four times—it’s good enough for me.

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2. Ultra-Baggy Silhouettes

Style Notes: The off-duty wardrobes of models have always served as inspiration. However, for those who pay close attention, you’ll notice that these ensembles are always the least flamboyant. Featuring practical details like oversized tote bags, functional flats and baggy denim that’s easy to slip in and out of backstage, you can always rely on this set to leave the more ostentatious displays to the collections themselves.

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3. Stovepipe Shapes

Style Notes: The Carolyn Bessette Kennedy effect has hit Milan. Fashion people aren’t immune to the whims of popular culture, so it’s no surprise to see attendees taking a page out of the beloved fashion icon’s handbook and sauntering through the city in her preferred cut of jeans—stovepipe.

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4. Barrel Legs

Style Notes: If the 1990s had razor-sharp shapes, then the 2020s have barrel legs. Slouchy through the thigh and tapered around the ankle, this horseshoe-esque silhouette injects a sculptural touch to outfits crafted from well-edited basics.

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5. Split Hemlines

Style Notes: The beauty of fashion week is being on the pulse of what’s to come next. Before collections hit boutiques, the style that’s displayed indicates the ways we will be dressing for months to come. Consider, then, split hem jeans to be the next frontier of denim. Despite this being a design element mostly relegated to trousers or ponte leggings, it’s refreshing to see this sliced edge being applied to your favourite pair of baby blues.

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6. Indigo Washes

Style Notes: We might finally have an answer for Leonard Cohen, who asked over a decade ago whether we wanted it darker. According to the Milan Fashion Week street style set, we do, with the chicest denim styles boasting a deep indigo wash. Featured on Khaite’s recent runway and the colour of the world’s first-ever pair of jeans designed by Levi’s all the way back 1873, as the weather warms, expect the dyes we wear to only get cooler.

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Today, Maximilian Davis, Ferragamo's creative director, unveiled his highly anticipated F/W 26 collection during Milan Fashion Week. The show was held at Triennale di Milano, a well-known museum, in a gallery space transformed with a sleek black carpet, dramatically dimmed lighting, and a sweeping navy curtain. These details created a sophisticated, after-hours atmosphere, setting the perfect mood for the collection's narrative.

The F/W 26 collection marks a deeper dive into Davis's ongoing exploration of the 1920s, which he began in his S/S 26 line. This was a foundational decade for the Italian house. During this era, Salvatore Ferragamo was an established Hollywood shoemaker, but later on, he returned to Italy and founded his namesake label. This season, the central inspiration is the allure of the speakeasy, which the brand describes in a press release as "a locus of liberation; a space where conventions of class and identity are disrupted." The garments were informed by the characters who frequented these hidden spots.

The early looks presented an aesthetic of elegance and utilitarianism. This balance was masterfully executed through exceptional outerwear and intricate knitwear, all styled with attention to proportion and fine detail. Davis demonstrated masterful tailoring, using considered buttons, deliberate lacing, and sharp cuts to elevate the house's codes with new clarity and control.

As the show progressed, the narrative shifted, introducing what the brand terms "liberated dressing." The latter half saw the emergence of flowing, sensual pieces, including molten gold midi dresses and pleated longline gowns. These statement pieces were anchored by sharp, high heels and paired with slick-back hairstyles, completing the look of a woman who is polished, powerful, and utterly in control of her own narrative. As for the color story, it was dominated by classic autumnal neutrals in navy, black, gray, and ivory but strategically punctuated by colors such as royal purple, deep cherry red, icy blue, and tangerine. Ahead, everything to know about the Ferragamo F/W 26 show.

Nautical Touches

Migration and reinvention were two major themes of the 1920s, and Davis tapped into them, focusing on the clothing of sailors who would go to sea to build better lives for their families. "That's something that both Salvatore and my own family experienced—he left his home in Italy for America before returning home, and my family moved from Trinidad and Jamaica to Manchester," Davis explains in a press release. "They all crossed the water to discover new beginnings." He hinted at this idea through niche details such as deconstructed forms, displaced buttons, and undone fastenings, as well as sailor collars, lace-up necklines, and a navy-and-ivory color palette.

Liberated Dressing

Davis sought to portray the celebration of freedom beyond flapper fashion. At the end of the collection, we saw a wealth of elegant outfits, including foiled-velvet lamé and floral-jacquard slip dresses, pleated longline gowns accented with sheer fabrics and smocking, and strapless midi dresses that sat low on the chest. Many garments were drenched in rich gold and bronze hues. "It's [the look] a translation of trying to imagine something from the past," Davis said. "In the original moment, it would have been vibrant—but now we are seeing it through the haze of history."

Functional Undertones

The collection showcased a blend of Italian modernity and functional practicality, particularly evident in the outerwear. Key pieces included workwear parkas crafted from textured nappa and cocooning, almost shield-like designs. These items emphasized warmth and utility through elements such as shearling-lined hoods, double-breasted closures, and funnel necklines with scarf details. Proportions were intentionally pushed, evident in broad shoulders and large double-front pockets on quilted and aviator-style leather jackets.

Power Pumps

Davis's footwear collection, integral to his vision of liberated elegance, included new pointed stilettos and slingbacks. These styles featured a deep V-cut vamp, inspired by a flat crafted by Salvatore Ferragamo in 1954. Some designs used colorful contrasts to create a modern, elegant dipped-toe look. The most distinctive style, however, was a sandal that reimagines Ferragamo's 1950s "shell sole" technique, where the sole wraps around the foot to create a curved line. The heel of this silhouette combined a traditional heel with a wedge. All these styles featured a sharp, elongated pointed toe, conveying a confident, feminine, and powerful energy.

The Updated Hug

The Ferragamo Hug bag, which debuted just three seasons ago in the brand's F/W 23 collection, quickly achieved It status. The original design, known and loved by celebrities like Kylie Jenner, Dakota Johnson, and Beyoncé, features a structured bowling-bag shape with smooth, rounded top handles and distinctive side straps that "hug" the bag, secured with hardware at the front. Since its initial release, the Hug has been reimagined in several variations, including a softer, unstructured silhouette with a single shoulder strap and a clutch style. For the fall, Ferragamo updated the beloved oversize clutch, introducing new colorways, including burgundy, red, and tan eel-skin leather.

Even though she's passed the Vogue U.S. baton to Chloe Malle, Anna Wintour retains her perch at the top of the fashion industry. She's still the global editorial director of Vogue and the global chief content officer of Condé Nast, so she has plenty of people to manage, deadlines to meet, and advertisers to court. Her outfits, however, are one thing she doesn't have to worry about. Why? Because she relies on a tried-and-true uniform that she never wavers from. In the winter, her formula consists of a long coat, a printed dress, and tall snakeskin boots. Oh, and her precisely sheared bob haircut and oversize black sunglasses, of course.

During the fall 2026 runway season in London and Milan, Wintour has been changing her coats and dresses to attend different shows, but hasn't strayed from her favorite snake-print heeled boots, of which she owns a few variations. I'm sure she has every shoe designer in the world at her beck and call, but she's not willing to ditch her reliable boots. If it's not broken, why fix it? Scroll down to see a few examples of how she's styled the snake-print boots with different outfits this fashion month so far.

5 Ways Anna Wintour Has Worn Snake-Print Boots This Month

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Milan Fashion Week street style always feels a little more experimental, a little less polished—and that’s exactly why I love it. As I scrolled through the street style moments this season, I noticed how personal everything felt. The outfits weren’t about perfection; they were about personality, layering, and taking risks that felt intentional rather than forced. And the trends worn were, per usual, notably on point.

What stood out most was the styling confidence. From unexpected proportions to bold outerwear choices, these looks weren’t trying to please everyone. This roundup captures the trend moments that made me pause—things I saw on the runway last season that had already made their way to the streets of Milan. This is the kind of street style that sticks with you. I will be referencing it in the months to come. Below are the seven trends to consider if you’re trying to nail the spring/summer 2026 aesthetic, and right on time.

High-Vamp Kitten Heels

High-vamp heels are having a bold resurgence. I first saw them scattered about, and now they’re on every single foot. They offer a more covered, elongated look that instantly sharpens an outfit. They feel a bit more on trend than your average pump, giving even a minimal look a fashion-person edge.

New Color Codes

New color codes are less about finding “the color of the season” and more about unexpected pairings. Think tonal dressing with a twist or clashing shades that somehow just work. It’s a shift toward color as styling language rather than a statement.

Calf-Hair Jackets

Calf-hair jackets are slowly but surely becoming the talk of the town, bringing texture back into the conversation in a way that feels directional but still wearable. There’s something inherently luxe about the finish; it adds depth to even the simplest outfit without trying too hard.

Color-Pop Scarves

Color-pop scarves are emerging as the easiest way to wake up a neutral outfit without overthinking it. Even the most minimalist of people you can think of have been seen wearing it lately. Toss one on at the neck, bag, or even in your hair—it’s low effort with high payoff.

Royal Purple

Royal purple is stepping in as the “new neutral” for those who want something richer than black but just as versatile. It carries a certain drama, but styled simply, it feels surprisingly wearable day to day.

Wear-on-Repeat Staples

Fresh off the debut of the Hulu series Love Story, something that drew light to minimal style and once again brought an uproar of the "quiet luxury" obsessed. Wear-on-repeat staples are defining the current mindset—aka pieces that aren’t just good for one moment, but many. It’s less about building outfits and more about building a wardrobe that actually keeps up with your life.

A-Line Midi Skirts

A-line midi skirts are quietly becoming the backbone of a modern wardrobe, thanks to Prada. Scattered among the attendees of the show, we saw this skirt everywhere and at other shows as well. It’s modest enough to feel polished, but easy enough to wear on repeat. They hit that sweet spot between tailored and relaxed, making them just as right with a crisp button-down as they are with a slouchy knit.

Last season may have been historic with its many designer debuts, but this Milan Fashion Week is giving us something equally as worthwhile to buzz about: Demna's runway debut at Gucci. After a career-defining run at Balenciaga and establishing his personal codes at Vetements before that, the designer has arrived at the helm of the Italian fashion house. Although the fall/winter 2026 collection isn't technically his first stamp on Gucci, it is his first runway show and therefore a major moment in the brand's new aesthetic direction.

Known for his polarizing perspectives and ultra-futuristic aesthetic, elements of the designer's signatures are appearing at Gucci now, too, but put through the lens of the Gucci woman. Now that we can finally experience the fullness of Demna's creative vision for the house, there's so much to analyze and unpack. Ahead, everything to know about Gucci's fall/winter 2026 show and what to expect from the new Demna era.

Welcome to the Demna Era

While Gucci will always be Gucci, the house continues to be remembered and cherished by the creative director at the helm. There's a clear distinction between, say, Tom Ford–era Gucci and Alessandro Michele–era Gucci, and with Demna's monumental arrival to the helm in 2025, a brand new dawn has begun at the Italian label. After a career-defining run at Balenciaga, the designer put out his debut Gucci collection for spring 2026, but the fall/winter season marks the designer's first official runway moment, and it's offered us even more view into the world he's creating. At first glance, it's one filled with nods to the '90s, loads of sex appeal, and a reverence for his predecessor Ford.

Everyone and Their Mother Walked the Runway

It's always exciting when a noteworthy celebrity walks the runway, but Gucci took its casting to a truly not-before-seen level of star power. Most notably was Kate Moss, who closed the show in a floor-length sequin gown with a iconic logo G-string. Before her came Emily Ratajkowski, Karlie Kloss, Elsa Hosk, Amelia Gray, and Gabbriette.

Tom Ford's Heritage

The collection had strong '90s overtones with looks that felt minimal but striking at the same time with an undeniable sex appeal throughout. It had many lifetime Gucci fans drawing immediate comparisons to the '90s and '00s when Tom Ford was famously at the helm. Logoed G-strings, super-slim suiting, and leather—all hallmarks of Ford's Gucci—were among the standout elements.

All Things Fitted

Get ready to throw out all your baggy clothes—at least, if Demna has any say. The designer took a hard stance on silhouettes: They need be as body-clinging as is logistically possible. These body-aware silhouettes are what Gucci refers to as the "ultimate seamless garments" with pieces cut as close as possible to the body. Through rigorous product development, they feature invisible heat-sealed edges and engineered curved hems, the brand shared in its collection notes.

The New (Old) Bags

It wouldn't be a Gucci collection if there weren't at least one iconic handbag pulled from the brand archives and reinvented. For fall 2026, that was none other than the Gucci Bamboo 1947 Bag. It was updated with a new, sleeker silhouette and a bamboo-shaped handle.

There’s always a certain pressure surrounding a debut but especially at a house as admired as Marni. We’re all now sitting with the show notes from Meryll Rogge’s first collection, but what stood out most wasn’t the need to reinvent—it was the intention to remember what made the brand one that she once obsessed over as a teen along with everybody else. Her first paycheck as a fashion designer went toward a pair of Marni shoes and thus began an obsession that would later turn into her new role. This must be why the collection felt like a tribute, not in a nostalgic, greatest-hits way, but in something quieter that could only be seen by those who truly knew what Marni was in the first place.

It’s a sentiment that echoed across the collection itself, which traded spectacle for something more grounded—clothes that feel lived-in, personal, and slightly offbeat in the way only Marni can. Forget trends; this collection is a whole vibe, an aesthetic, an entire closet you want to step into. There’s an emphasis on “real life,” as Rogge herself put it, but with just enough disruption—through texture, proportion, or unexpected pairings—to remind you that getting dressed can still feel like a creative act. It’s less about transformation, more about recognition.

The Meryll Rogge Era

Meryll Rogge has playfully dubbed her era as the third creative director the brand has seen as "chapter three," and she isn’t approaching it like a reset—she’s approaching it like a continuation. Her history with the brand runs deep, from buying that first pair of Marni platforms at the start of her career to building her own personal brand that felt quite aligned with the Marni vision. That familiarity shows in the way she sidesteps the pressure to define what this new era of Marni will mean. Instead of labeling it, she has simply sharpened it.

What emerges is a version of Marni that feels more wearable but not diluted. There’s a clarity to her perspective—clothes designed to move between everyday life and something slightly more elevated, without drawing a hard line between the two. It’s feminine but not delicate. Expressive but never loud. And importantly, it reflects a broader shift: a return to an overall aesthetic rather than quickly burning trends.

The House Codes

At its core, this collection is about honoring the essence of the Marni brand. Rogge revisits the visual language established by the brand’s founder, Consuelo Castiglioni. It’s no mistake that the off-kilter proportions, the clash of prints, and the signature polka dots look eerily familiar. It reframes the early collections of the brand through a modern lens. Many of the items in the collection look like something that you would find if you had the chance to dig through the Marni archives but unworn and brand new.

Rogge set out to honor what Castiglioni once created, even bringing back familiar icons—the Fussbett sandal, the Trunk bag—which are “reengineered” according to the show notes, rather than simply reissued. It’s this balance of memory and modification that makes the collection feel forward-looking without losing its footing.

A '90s State of Mind

Watching the collection walk down the runway felt like stepping into 1994, the year the brand was conceptualized. Spotlighting one of the fashion crowd’s favorite things about ’90s fashion, it’s the kind of wardrobe that doesn’t try too hard: a slightly oversize coat, a tactile knit, something with sequins worn during the day just because.

That sensibility aligns with Marni’s original rise in the ’90s, when individuality won over polish. Rogge taps into that same spirit here, favoring instinct over perfection and personality over trend. It’s less about re-creating the decade and more about channeling its ease—the idea that getting dressed should feel intuitive, a little imperfect, and entirely your own.

The Key Buys

Now, what would a girl like Rogge at the beginning of her career be saving up to buy from this collection? There were a lot of standouts that we need to discuss. Mid-show, it felt like there was a gorpcore takeover that combined party-girl essentials like sequin dresses with athletic clothing. The crowd was enamored with the animal-inspired coats, be it cow print or classic leopard—this outerwear was filled with statements worth making. Sweater-vests have fallen to the wayside lately, but when the cozy staple is expertly styled in a librarian-chic way, the world is about to fall in love all over again. Pencil skirts also couldn’t be missed. They came in lace, leather, and in the traditional sense as well—styled in ways that were anything but boring. The accessories borrowed from the Marni archives but became reborn and will certainly become It buys this fall. Fans of the brand are calling out that the iconic drop earrings are so back.

With Milan Fashion Week in full swing, the city’s streets are swelling with styling inspiration. Editors, buyers and insiders have descended on the Italian style capital to take in the latest collections from the likes of Miuccia Prada and Denma—and they’ve dressed accordingly.

Long considered a bellwether for the season ahead, Milan’s street style scene has a way of setting the tone for what we’ll all be wearing next. Between shows, I took a little extra time to observe the silhouettes and styling tricks making the strongest impression right now.

Set to filter into the rest of our wardrobes before long, these are the key looks to borrow from Milan’s best dressed this season.

4 Milan Street Style Trends Taking Off Right Now:

1. Funnel Neck Leather Jackets:

Style Notes: A sleek evolution of a perennial classic, funnel-neck leather jackets are breaking through as the outerwear hero of the week. Structured and slightly sculptural, styled with dark sunglasses, the slouchy leather brings an effortless, model-off-duty finish to casual looks. Pairing well with straight-leg jeans or sharper pencil skirts, the high-impact layer crafts a chic silhouette.

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2. Layers on Layers on Layers

Style Notes: This season, when it came to layering, more was certainly more. Shirts are doubled up, lightweight knits are shrugged over shoulders, and extra jumpers are tied at the waist, creating outfits rich in dimension and texture. Try wearing two crisp shirts at once or draping a fine knit over a blazer to recreate the look.

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3. High-Rise Stovepipe Jeans

Style Notes: Yes, it's true: low-rise, ultra-baggy denim is taking a back seat—at least in Milan. In its place, high-rise, slim-cut stovepipe jeans that elongate the leg are taking hold. This sleeker, more refined take on denim feels more in tune with the elevated styling the fashion week calls for. Worn with pointed-toe boots or classic loafers, these jeans offer one of the chicest ways to wear denim right now.

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4. Blue Bags

Style Notes: While black totes will always have their place, Milan’s fashion crowd is making a case for colour. Echoing the season’s broader shift towards brighter, more expressive hues, statement blue bags are injecting freshness into otherwise neutral looks. Whether styled against classic tailoring or pared-back denim, this punchy accessory feels like the easiest way to update your wardrobe for spring.

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Certain cities make for better fashion. I don't think there needs to be a solid explanation for why, but their inhabitants just naturally dress with more attention, making anyone who visits consider their ensembles more. Milan, one of the four major fashion capitals in the world, is such a destination, and during Milan Fashion Week, the style seen there is on an even higher level than usual. Kendall Jenner was one of those exceptionally dressed inhabitants this week, attending fashion week events like the Emporio Armani show and events for Armani and L'Oréal. While there, she did some running around, wearing a shoe-and-pant combination that fit right in with the chic Milanese residents: white pants with high-vamp pumps.

With spring just around the corner, white-pant season is coming quickly, so it's the perfect time to figure out how we want to wear them in 2026 to make them feel fresh instead of dated. The answer, according to Jenner? Skip sneakers and flip-flops in favor of high-vamp pumps, a recently refreshed shoe trend that's defined by a glove-like fit with a high vamp and short, block-like heel. This particular style was kick-started by Phoebe Philo's Club Slipper, and Reformation made a similar version called the Inez Pumps. The trend's fast fame caused others to jump on board, creating their own iterations with higher heels and varying toe shapes. But among fashion people like Jenner (plus Alexa Chung, Camille Charrière, and Annabel Rosendahl), the Club Slippers remain the most-wanted pair.

On Kendall Jenner: Phoebe Philo Club Slipper ($990); The Row Terrasse Bag ($3950)

On Kendall Jenner: Phoebe Philo Club Slipper ($990); The Row Terrasse Bag ($3950)

The shoe style gives white pants, which can feel ultra casual, a more elevated feel, something neither sneakers nor thong sandals accomplish in the same way. It takes them from being beach pants to a perfect choice for strolling around one of the most stylish cities in the world. Jenner more than proved that when she styled them with high-vamp pumps as well as a navy-blue sweater and short khaki car coat. The supermodel finished off the easy daytime outfit with sunglasses and The Row's sold-out Terrasse Bag, which she's been carrying throughout her time in Milan.

The transitional-weather outfit is perfect for any occasion this time of year, and once the weather warms up and spring actually arrives, it will be even better suited. Convinced to say goodbye to wearing sneakers with white pants and introduce a pair of high-vamp pumps into your rotation? Good. Keep scrolling. Below, you'll find the best pairs of white pants and high-vamp pumps for spring 2026.

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Happy Prada day to all those who celebrate, which, if you're reading this, probably includes you. On Thursday, the fashion set descended upon Fondazione Prada in Milan, ready to see what Co–Creative Directors Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons came up with to awe the industry once again. Hint: They got what they came for. Before heading inside, many stopped to see who would sit front-row, spotting gold medalist Eileen Gu, who extended her stay in Milan following the 2026 Winter Olympics to attend her first Prada show; WNBA player and frequent Prada wearer Caitlin Clark; Love Story star and New York City It girl Sarah Pidgeon; and more including Uma Thurman and Carey Mulligan.

Inside, the space gave attendees a sneak peek at the collection's messaging. "The set design was the clue for what was to come," wrote Linda Fargo, senior vice president of women’s fashion and store presentation director at Bergdorf Goodman, on Instagram. "A cross-section of a building, the layers when you take off the exterior and the facade." Once everyone had taken their seat, the show began. Just 15 models were cast, and yet, 60 looks debuted, with each walking a total of four times in slightly tweaked ensembles from the ones they wore before. A piece removed and a new outfit revealed, mimicking the way that real women dress and undress as they decide on what to wear on any given day.

With Prada, everything is always rooted in reality and authentic experiences, which explains why so many of us in fashion feel such a closeness to the brand. The story that unfolds at every show is one we've witnessed at different stages of life, done in a way that adds beauty to the mundane.

Dive into the F/W 26 Prada show ahead.

The Act of Getting Dressed (and Undressed)

What you see at a Prada show is never complete—you need to hear what Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons have to say afterward to really grasp what the intention behind the collection—each look and detail, the set, the casting, etc.—was. For F/W 26, everyone in attendance and watching from home understood that there was a significance to the brand's choice to only cast 15 models in the show, with each walking in four different looks. It wasn't until after that the co–creative directors explained why they chose to do this that everything clicked. This season, Mrs. Prada noted that the focus was all on "the idea of layering complexity, which is what exists in history, in politics, in life, and that reflects in clothes," she said to the media after the show. "So the continuous necessity of changing for living all the different personalities, moments, sentiments, [and] sexuality. This woman lives them together in a day, or in a life." The idea was that each time one of the 15 models returned backstage, they removed an article of clothing—from a coat to a dress—undressing, but also showcasing another way to wear an outfit—or a wardrobe. In my brain, this means that backstage looked a lot like my bed after I've tried on 100 different outfits, only better, because everything left behind is Prada.

Last Season's Frankenstein Skirts Are This Season's Slasher Skirts

Prada and fantastic skirts go hand in hand. For S/S 26, the brand debuted what we coined "Frankenstein skirts," which were fashioned out of what appeared to be multiple different skirts stitched together, creating a patchwork, Frankenstein-esque creation. Now, for fall, Prada and Simons kept on with that horror-turned-fashion inspiration. Introducing slasher skirts (and dresses). Basically, they're what would be left behind on the set of A Nightmare on Elm Street if Freddy Krueger only came after people wearing Prada. Solid-colored dresses and skirts were purposely cut in jagged, uneven ways to unveil brighter, printed fabrics underneath. Scary movies aren't really for me, but slasher skirts and dresses will always have a place in my closet.

New Outfit Loading…

Every fashion month, a few outfits debut on the runway that go on to become favorites around the style set, copied with existing wardrobe items or brought to life when the brand that first showed them releases its collections for awaiting customers. Already, we've spotted a few contenders during the F/W 26 season, but none have shown as much promise as Prada's chunky-knit-and-sheer-skirt formula that walked the runway on Thursday. We've seen arctic cardigans and Cowichans rise in popularity throughout this winter, but most people have been styling them simply, often just with jeans and boots to create a practical, cold-weather ensemble. Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons, of course, had other plans, designing elevated versions of the thick sweater styles and tucking them into sheer, knee-length skirts for a far more "fashion" approach. Underneath, models wore intricate skirts that peeked through with either embellished boots, kitten heels and knee-high socks, or derbies with colorful laces. Personally, I can't wait to see how fashion people bring this look to the streets, adding their own touches to the outfit everyone's talking about post-show.

Bella Hadid's Return to Milan

These days, it's rare to see Bella Hadid walking the runway circuit during fashion month. We usually spot her on the runway at one show, which, in the last few seasons, has been Saint Laurent in Paris. Earlier this week, though, we spotted the supermodel arriving at Milano Malpensa Airport, leaving us to wonder what show we could expect to see her walk in. Well, the answer arrived on Thursday morning, first when she was photographed arriving at Fondazione Prada and later when she debuted not one but four total looks for Prada. Suffice to say, her return to Milan was done in epic fashion.

From Gold Medalists to TV Darlings

The coolest crowd is always in attendance at Prada, and this season, that group consisted of a range of talents, from It actors like Sarah Pidgeon, who is currently starring in Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette, playing the latter, as well as elite athletes, like the WNBA's Caitlin Clark and freestyle skier and multi-time gold medalist Eileen Gu. Letitia Wright, Uma Thurman, Carey Mulligan, and more, too, popped over to Milan for the show.

WHO: Sarah Pidgeon

WHO: Eileen Gu

WHO: Caitlin Clark

WHO: Letitia Wright

The message for dressing next autumn? Good suiting should be the hallmark of your wardrobe. It’s only Day 3 at Milan Fashion Week, and by the looks of the influx both on-and-off the runway, sharp tailoring is already the overarching mood of the season—trends may come and go, but excellent suiting will never go out of style.

BOSS dipped into the archives to modernise old silhouettes. Late '80s, exaggerated shoulders were balanced with narrow waists, while double-breasted jackets were styled with single-pleat trousers (reader, there’s no corporate workwear here). Outerwear ran the gamut from louche, floor-grazing overcoats to cropped bombers. Materiality from nylon, particularly good in trench form, to leather and cashmere. Clothes to touch, and then some.

Printed silk and jacquard scarves—another trend du jour and easy styling hack—appeared as neckties, scarves and cummerbunds. If you are currently styling a fringed scarf around your attire, consider this your a/w '26 upgrade.

The well-heeled crowd and front row—including Cat Burns and David Beckham, dressed in a suit, shirt and tie respectively—added their own touches: the former wore a contrast blue tie with a grey suit, while the latter added a paisley print silk scarf to her black get-up.

Rendered in a palette of moody plums and grounding marls, the collection never wavered in its wearability. If anything, it sharpened BOSS’s position as the label for the modern 9-to-5er—though this season, they're just as considered after hours.

Discover the BOSS Autumn/Winter 2026 Collection:

Maria Grazia Chiuri's unveiled her highly anticipated collection at Fendi. Don't call it a debut; call it a comeback. The designer, who helmed Dior for nine years, is back at the Italian house she previously designed for from 1988 to 1999.

As one of the only female creative directors in fashion right now, Chiuri said she wanted to pay homage to the heritage of Fendi's five sisters—Paola, Anna, Franca, Carla, and Alda—the daughters of the brand's founders who took over in 1946.

Chiuri worked under them, and while today marks a new chapter in Milan, she wanted to acknowledge where the Fendi book started.

Less I, More Us

The show notes for the show were titled Less I, More Us, and that line was repeated throughout. The first line read, "Less I, more us. Maria Grazia Chiuri’s motto for this, her first collection for Fendi." The phrase is "a declaration of intent that is more necessary than ever today in order to reaffirm the complexity of the fashion system: the values of working together, of shared intentions and desires, the importance of understanding and acceptance of others, of the world around us."

The idea of acceptance also came through in the final song with a bold refrain that welcomes judgment but doesn't seem bothered by it: “Say what you want.” It felt as though Chiuri was sending a message to the masses she knew would be watching today.

The Fendi Girl Goes Rock 'n' Roll

Last season's collection was notably colorful, from it's peekaboo bags to organza dresses. Even the runway was multicolored. It felt like a futuristic kaleidoscope. Chiuri's collection was almost entirely black. Models wore sheer dresses, lace tops, high knee socks, and loafers. They wore furry black collars and lapels. It appears that the new Fendi will feel a bit more serious and rock 'n' roll than previously.

An Homage as Accessory and Double Bags as Necessity

A handful of looks featured a necklace that looked like the collar of a button-down top that had been removed from its shirt. It was a clear homage to Karl Lagerfeld and also another indication that the shorter necklace style, which was popular in the 2010s, might be making a comeback.

It wasn't the only accessory that made a statement. When models wore a Fendi bag, they were more often than not also wearing it with another bag. They were double-bagging it with a Fendi baguette swinging alongside a Fendi tote. This kind of nonsensical but fun styling has been percolating for a while, but maybe this season Chiuri can encourage it to stick.

Remember Balenciaga's $1800 pre-damaged sneakers, ACNE Studios' pilled knits, or Maison Margiela's Iron Burn white tank top? Fashion's fascination with imperfection, often showcased through deliberately stained or "ruined" clothing, has been ongoing for years. As trends tend to repeat, this stained aesthetic is making a comeback, and it may finally catch on.

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

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

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

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

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

See the Details of the Stained Clothing

See the Standout Runway Looks

At this point in the year, some people start to think about their New Year’s resolutions. But us? We’re thinking about the 2026 trends we can begin investing in now, before everyone else. We’d even go as far as to argue that shopping in this way is a resolution in itself.

Shopping now for the person you want to dress like next year is forward-thinking. It’s a way to get ahead of the “I hate everything I own” complaints we all fall victim to once a major seasonal shift hits. It’s also the ideal time to think about which runway trends from this past fashion month actually resonated with your personal style—and how it makes sense to integrate them into your daily wardrobe.

The shoe trends of 2026 are also shaping up to be fairly fun. It appears that the flip-flop craze of 2025 has led to a more toe-forward approach to all of the shoes everyone will be wearing, and pumps are also making a comeback after getting shafted for more comfortable sneakers following the pandemic.

Below, see four of the big shoe trends that are getting us excited for next year.

Elegant Pumps

It’s been a while since heels were hot. During the pandemic, most of us lived in flat shoes and cozy sneakers. With nowhere to go, there wasn’t a reason to wear pumps at all. Since then, it’s felt like heels, in general, have left the zeitgeist almost entirely. That kind of thinking is likely what led to the rise of flip-flops as fashion shoes. But now, the OG fashion girl staple is back, and elegant pumps are about to be very in again. This time around, though, they’re more comfortable, with reasonable heel heights and easier-to-wear silhouettes. And best of all, they weren’t really designed with a 9-to-5 office lifestyle in mind, making them far more fun to wear every day.

Peep-Toes

The rise of flip-flops means most of us are already accustomed to seeing toes everywhere. Apparently, it hasn’t been enough. On nearly every runway this past fashion month, even the most buttoned-up heels and serious stilettos featured small peepholes for toes to peek through. It’s a freaky little trend that reminds us fashion doesn’t have to be so weighty—it can also be quirky and fun. Just be prepared to budget for more pedicures than usual.

Freaky Flip-Flops

And given their discussed impact on other shoe trends, flip-flops also aren’t going anywhere. If anything, they’re only getting weirder. At Copenhagen and Paris Fashion Week, models wore flip-flops that challenged the very notion of what the shoe could be. Some were heeled. Some were shiny. Some had PVC straps. Some had all of the above. So if you didn’t go all in on the flip-flop trend last year, you still have time.

Embellished or Extra in Every Way

As we veer farther into maximalism after years of minimalism and quiet luxury, shoes are expected to become even more of a statement. Instead of relying on your loafers or sneakers next year, consider embellished or embroidered slingbacks. Backstage at Tory Burch, the designer couldn’t stop talking about finally perfecting an embellished heel covered in beading and embroidery. She’d been wanting to do it for seasons, but the timing felt right this time around—and clearly, she was onto something. Expect to see far more shoes with plenty of bling.

At fashion month, we got a preview of the trends that are set to be big for spring 2026—as well as how style is unfolding on the street style scene and the key buys of the season. In Milan and Paris, we always see a sense of elevated style alongside directional items, and this season was no exception. Attendees at the S/S 26 shows set the tone for how looks will unfold in the coming months, and showcased some key ways to pull off polished, elevated style.

Pieces such as sleek column skirts and half-zip knits were key players, as well as classic accessories such as leather ballerina flats and wayfarer sunglasses. 2025 has been marked by sophisticated style and we saw plenty of evidence of that during fashion month.. Ahead, see the top street style looks from Milan and Paris that tapped into elevated style and the key items to shop to execute it in your wardrobe.

Women In Milan and Paris Proved These 6 Items Will Always Make You Look Elevated

1. Column Skirts

Style Notes: Following on from the ‘office siren’ aesthetic we saw earlier on this year, column skirts are trending majorly at the moment. Sleek, polished, and easy to style, this longer and more fitted skirt style was spotted all over spring/summer 2026 fashion month, both on and off the runways. The key to making it look modern? Pair them with easy knits and laid-back kitten heels in neutral hues for an effortlessly chic look.

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2. Half-Zip Knitwear

Style Notes: If there was one outerwear trend that dominated last season, it was the funnel-neck jacket. And now, fashion people are emulating this sleek trend with their knitwear as well. Enter the half-zip sweater, a much softer version of the funnel silhouette that can be worn fully zipped or halfway zipped to create a collar, like the name suggests.

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3. Dark Denim

Style Notes: By the time winter comes around. I usually set aside my light-wash jeans for darker indigo and black hues, and fashion people have proven just how elegant it looks. These deeper washes are not only easier to style for more formal events, but their similarity to black tailored trousers means you can get away with them in the office as well.

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4. Cardigan

Style Notes: Want to make your cardigans feel ‘2026’? Take a cue from stylish dressers and wear them as a top with trousers, skirts, and jeans alike. Stick to neutral hues that feel elevated but won’t date in your wardrobes in the years to come.

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5. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: If there’s one shoe that trends in every season, it’s a ballet flat. Neat, easy to style, and most importantly, comfortable, ballet flats can be taken from day to night with ease. Not to mention, they’ll help to soften up your edgier fashion items.

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6. Sleek Sunglasses

Style Notes: There’s not a single outfit that a pair of chic sunglasses won’t improve. Not only do they give you that ‘off-duty’ model look, but they’re also an investment that you’ll get wear out of no matter the time of year.

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Fashion month is a whirlwind, but it's a creative, inspiring, and era-defining whirlwind. The four weeks of fashion-and-beauty madness began with New York Fashion Week, followed directly by London, Milan, and Paris (in that order). Who What Wear's intrepid team of editors covered hundreds of shows, delved into new and old designer collections, and boldly stationed ourselves amid backstage chaos. At the end of it, we were exhausted, but more importantly, we knew all the major trends that are heading our way come 2026.

This year, it seems we'll see a mix of old and new trends collide. There are wearable looks, like windswept hair and winged eyeliner, that are making their way back to peak relevancy. Then, there are the new, bold, and editorial looks that demand attention. Think statement-making lipstick (I mean that quite literally) and next-level, doll-like lashes. Ahead, see the seven most major beauty trends from spring/summer 2026 fashion month.

The first trend is all about rebuking the minimalist, "clean-girl" makeup look that's been almost omnipresent on social media over the last couple of years, and swapping it with bold, look-at-me lashes. Backstage at Ulla Johnson's NYFW show, models wore gold-dipped lashes (created by combining gold eye shadow with a mixing medium). At Mossi's PFW presentation, models were spotted with impossibly long, doll-like ones (a validation that we're smack-dab in the middle of baby-doll fall). Similarly, at Harris Reed's LFW presentation, models wore feathery, avant-garde falsies that reached well past their brows. Meanwhile, at Collina Strada, clusters of bright-pink lashes were placed on the outer corners of the models' eyes.

While colorful mascara is an easy way to re-create this trend, you can also opt for colorful and/or bejeweled falsies—anything that demands attention and makes your eyes the focal point of your look. Do as the designers did, and embrace this rather whimsical, otherworldly element in your makeup routine.

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Watercolor eye shadow was a major trend during NYFW, and it continued on to be a major trend throughout the rest of fashion month, too. First, there was Collina Strada, where models wore a wash of unrestrained pink eye shadow all over their eyelids, outer corners, and under-eyes. Then, there was Ashish, with a messy and striking brushstroke of cobalt blue. At LDW, Toga's models wore a wash of canary-yellow eye shadow, and at PFW, Gabriela Hearst's models wore a subtle powder-blue shadow just on the inner corners of their eyes. It's a blink-and-you-might-miss-it makeup element that feels right in line with French-girl fashion.

In 2026, fashion people aren't putting up with basic lip combos. They're branching out and testing bold new looks. Chloé's S/S 26 show featured models wearing bright, powdery-pink lipstick. At Sportmax, models wore bitten-berry lipstick. At Roksanda, models wore a black-to-red lip color that was topped with a vinyl-like finish for good measure. Simone Rocha took the trend to another level by sending models down the runway with sayings and phrases painted on their lips. Talk about a statement-making lip (literally). Take this as your sign to dust off the bolder lip colors in your collection, whether that's a vampy berry shade, crimson red, or punchy pink. And don't be afraid to doctor it up, either. Try blotting it out for a blurred effect, layering a high-shine gloss over top, or blending two shades for an ombré effect.

We've seen all sorts of skin-focused trends over the last couple of years. There was "glazed donut" skin, spearheaded by Hailey Bieber and her trusty Rhode skincare line. There was "glass skin," which made its way Stateside from South Korea. There's also been "dewy dumpling" skin, created by celebrity makeup artist Nam Vo. According to S/S 26 runways, the internet's obsession with glowing skin won't slow down in 2026. Instead, it will ever so slightly evolve.

It seems we'll see a more restrained take on super-dewy, highly reflective skin finishes. Instead of an allover glow, makeup artists send models down the runway with softly radiant skin. Some complexions were velvety matte. Others had a precise, shimmer-free highlighter placed on the cheekbones, nose, brow bone, and Cupid's bow. Regardless, it's all about creating a healthy-looking, lit-from-within radiance.

For this look, skin prep is everything. The softer, smoother, and more hydrated the skin is before makeup, the better. (Yes, that means glow-boosting masks, essences, and primers.) Then again, a touch of some expertly formulated, well-placed highlighter doesn't hurt either. Shop our top picks below.

As makeup looks become louder and bolder, hairstyles seem to be going the opposite direction. Throughout fashion month, designers debuted their new collections with models who wore natural-looking, windswept hair; the list includes Valentino, Stella McCartney, Roberto Cavalli, Erdem, Dior, and more. It seemed as if hairstylists embraced or at the very most highlighted the models' natural texture, and it gave them the effect of walking down a city street on a breezy day. Think slightly ruffled, tousled hair that could have just been revealed from under a scarf or a hat. We love when high-fashion embraces a wearable, effortless trend, and this is it. So put down your heat tools because 2026 is going to be big on natural-looking, lived-in hair.

Here's another beauty trend that kicked off in a big way during NYFW: nail embellishments. At Grace Ling, models wore a single chunky gem on each long, claw-tipped nail. At Kim Shui, models wore what we can only describe as bold, silver nail brooches. At Di Petsa, models wore minimalist mermaid-esque opals atop their silvery manicures. Last but certainly not least, at Christian Cowan, models wore silver-studded, translucent nails. It seems that, in 2026, the best manicures will be unique, creative, and feature 3D elements. Prepare by picking up a set of studded press-ons or a pack of individual nail gems.

If winged liner feels rather… 2016 to you, you're not alone. Blame it on the "clean girl" trend that's dominated social media over the last couple of years, but eye makeup has been on the decline (until now). People have abandoned their eyeliners, eye shadows, and even mascaras. (The no-mascara trend was major this year.)

According to a set of high-fashion houses, though, that's changing for 2026. At Sandy Liang, models wore a subtle brown flick. At Attico, models wore a smoky version of the same look. Meanwhile, some models walked the Fendi runway wearing a bold black wing with red lipstick (an utterly classic look). Dolce & Gabbana also embraced a classic black wing. So, yeah, it's official: Whether it's black or brown, smoky or sharply cut, winged eyeliner is back, baby.

Every time a new Prada or Miu Miu collection is presented, one specific part of the show is always my favorite, and it's probably not what you think. As a self-proclaimed Miuccia Prada devotee, I love the designer's creations and the world she crafts around them, from the set to the guest list to the music. But it's her outfits, unveiled at the end of every show, that top my priority list each season. Chic, sophisticated, and effortless, Prada's ensembles are always a fan favorite, and for her two spring/summer 2026 bows in Milan (Prada) and Paris (Miu Miu), she wore different versions of the same item, instantly alerting me to a forthcoming trend.

The piece in question was a scarf—specifically a fichu, which is an 18th-century triangular shawl designed to be wrapped and tied around one's shoulders. At Prada's show earlier this season, the designer stepped out from backstage alongside her co-creative director, Raf Simons, wearing a simple white shirtdress that hit just below the knee with equally understated black pumps. The star of the show? An orange satin fichu with rhinestone embellishments not unlike the bejeweled moments on pieces in the S/S 26 Prada collection. She wore it tied around her chest, adding interest and intrigue to the otherwise pared-back show-day ensemble.

In a post after the show, the Instagram account @whatmiuccia, which is dedicated to Prada's outfits, posted a video of the designer after her spring/summer 2021 show wearing the same fichu. According to the video's caption, the piece is a "variation of FW 2004 elements."

When the designer greeted her audience again after unveiling her latest collection for Miu Miu during Paris Fashion Week, viewers quickly noticed a similarity to her Prada show ensemble. They were different colors, sure, but both outfits included an understated, knee-length dress (this time, it was a three-quarter-sleeve taffeta style with a crewneck in mushroom brown) and a colorful, embellished fichu (in rich turquoise with a champagne-colored satin lining). She finished it off with drop earrings, a few stacked bangles, and black Prada pumps.

Suffice it to say, in the wake of fashion month, everyone with good taste will be following Prada's lead and investing in a few oversize scarves, stoles, shawls, and fichus to capture her essence this fall. Shop the bubbling trend below.

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Fashion month is far from over, and yet we are already talking about the spring/summer 2026 season as one that will be written about in history books and remembered years from now. It gives me chills just to think about the fact that we get to watch fashion history play out in front of us. How lucky are we? Of the many, many significant moments that have happened so far, Milan has been the scene of the crime. All eyes were on MFW this past week as we celebrated the year's most-anticipated creative director debuts, witnessed heartfelt farewell collections, and ushered in a fresh new chapter in fashion's aesthetic direction.

Perhaps the most notable runway was at Bottega Veneta, where Louise Trotter's inaugural collection returned to the heritage of craft and material innovation that the house is known for. At Versace, Dario Vitale brought his signature Miami sex appeal and a heavy '80s bent to his post at the Italian house.

Meanwhile, Simone Bellotti's futuristic tailoring and serene minimalism proved to be the perfect match for Jil Sander. Finally, Giorgio Armani bid a bittersweet farewell with a final collection conceived by the late designer himself. And who could get past the Miranda Priestly—er, Meryl Streep—sighting front row at Dolce & Gabbana?

Now that the style set has packed up its things and headed to Paris to close out fashion month, let's sit down and discuss everything we just saw from the Milan fashion week S/S 2026 shows that gave us plenty to discuss and dissect.

Color Theory

Color, color, and more color! Bright, vivid tones have popped up on the New York and London runways, but in Milan, designers took it to another level with looks that combined shades from across, diagonal, and adjacent the color wheel. Orange and pink; red and blue; purple and green—it seems the more off-kilter the pairings, the better.

Prep School

Preppy aesthetics are to be expected from heritage American labels, but the European houses are putting their lens on modern prep, and it's one trend we're already expecting to majorly come spring 2026. Prada tapped in through sporty jackets, Boss highlighted crisp tailoring, and Missoni took a layered approach with sweaters and sweatshirts that could almost be collegiate.

Out From Under

If you were on Tumblr between approximately 2010 and 2014, you're probably getting flashbacks right now from the exposed-bra aesthetic. The look, especially layered with lariat necklaces and dainty body chains, was all over during that era, and it seems like just over a decade later, it's once again returned. Prada's take involved dramatically large bra tops that reminded us of cutout doll clothes, while The Attico took a much more 2000s-inspired approach with push-up bras peeking out from under fitted cardigans.

Futuristic Tailoring

Tailoring is getting… freaky. Between Jil Sander's trousers with slit-like cutouts at the hips, The Attico's twisted blazers, and Max Mara's halter-top vests, suiting is going on a creative bent with futuristic silhouettes that are taking tailoring as we know it into a brand-new age.

In Motion

While the Bottega Veneta fiberglass pieces were among the most talked-about looks of Milan Fashion Week, it wasn't the only runway that featured texture and movement. At Ferragamo, 1920s-esque fringe was attached to satin scarves and hung from beneath tailored jackets for an elegant and evening-ready twist, while at Alberta Ferretti, crochet felt airy and light.

Layer Cake

Spring and summer usually connote less clothing, not more, but this season brought a new perspective on layering for the warmer months. Poplin shirts were nestled underneath suede jackets at Missoni, and cardigans were tied around the waist of pencil skirts at Versace (just a few of the many ways designers experimented with lightweight layers).

Intricacies

Sequins and embroidery were the standout details of the week that I promise are worth zooming in on. Intricate beading popped up as a feature on pieces like bra tops and briefs that, when styled with more conservative, quiet items, had an especially chic effect.

We've witnessed a slew of celebrity fashion moments and an array of new and old fashion trends to look forward to for spring 2026. What's amazing about this season is the street style from all the fashion weeks, but from Milan Fashion Week, in particular. Milan's essence regarding fashion seeks whimsy, yet is reserved enough for everyday styling, and most of all, is easy to implement into anyone's closet.

The trends we've seen from the fashion set this season range from classics like oversize blazers and wide-leg trousers to more exploratory trends, such as sporty jackets and embellished skirts in various shapes and sizes. Milan's street style embodies the casual sensibilities of spring and the just-right layering techniques of fall, the best of both worlds. Keep scrolling through to learn more about the five trends that stood out the most during Milan Fashion Week, and then shop the trends for yourself.

Embellished Skirts

Gone are the days of plain long skirts. Embellished skirts are taking over for fall, and I am so glad. I'll be adorning myself in skirts with eye-catching details like these below. What's great about this trend is that you can make this custom to your personal style. Maybe you're into bold prints, or maybe you love tiered layers. Either way, there's an embellished skirt out there for everyone.

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Sporty Jackets

Thanks to Miu Miu's spring 2025 runway, sporty jackets have been in all year. Now, the trend is expected to stick around for fall. They're a mainstay in my closet, and should be in yours too. Sporty jackets come in a range of styles that can fit anyone's wardrobe.

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Suede Handbags

Suede handbags were all over Milan Fashion Week. They came in a range of shapes and sizes, from East West to bowling bags to slouchy silhouettes, styled to perfection. I'd wear mine like the latter with a casual outfit consisting of a plain T-shirt, jeans, and flats.

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Wide-Leg Trousers

My personal favorite trend was all over the streets of Milan: wide-leg trousers. These are so chic and practical for everyday wear. They're the essential pants to have year-round.

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Oversize Blazers

Oversize blazers are a forever trend. They've risen in popularity over the past few years and aren't going anywhere. They're easy to style, as you can see below, and have become a bit of an addition to the fall uniform.

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Between the inevitable glamour of Milan Fashion Week and the excitement of four new designers making their debut, this spring/summer 2026 season always promised to be one for the history books. We witnessed thoughtful reinterpretations of legacy labels and bold creative shifts that marked the start of new chapters for others.

With heavyweights such as Prada, Fendi, Bottega Veneta, and Jil Sander anchoring the schedule, the week was packed with show-stopping moments. Demna turned Gucci into a cinematic exploration of Italian stereotypes, whilst Versace transported us back to the unapologetic glamour and grit of the ’80s.

After studying the collections closely, I’ve distilled the standout themes into five key trends that will shape the season ahead. Some offer clever twists on beloved silhouettes, whilst others feel like a fresh departure entirely. Either way, these are the runway trends from Milan that are destined to define summer dressing.

1. Knee-Length Skirts

Style Notes: This season, knee-grazing hemlines edged out the micro-minis of recent years, signalling a swing towards polish and sophistication. Versace styled theirs with weighty leather bombers for a tough-luxe edge, whilst Jil Sander kept things sleek with neat knits. Whether paired with slinky sandals or sharp pointed pumps, this length emerged as one of the most directional shifts of the season.

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2. Single-Breasted Blazers

Style Notes: The Milanese runways were all business this season, and the single-breasted blazer was the ultimate power player. A contrast to the bomber jackets dominating street style, these streamlined silhouettes—seen at Jil Sander, Fendi and MaxMara—were worn with pencil skirts, tailored shorts and straight-leg trousers, hinting at a sharper, more intentional take on summer tailoring.

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3. A Palette of Grey

Style Notes: Subtle yet striking, slate grey emerged as the new neutral of choice. At Bottega Veneta, it was softened when styled alongside warm beige tones, whilst Prada used it as a cool counterpoint to bolder hues. With its versatility and modern edge, this shade is well on its way to challenging black as the season’s most reliable base.

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4. Bloomer Shorts

Style Notes: Injecting a playful energy into summer wardrobes, voluminous bloomer shorts are back in rotation. Designers offered variations from ruched styles to breezier, billowy shapes, positioning them as a lively alternative to the pencil skirt. Lighthearted but statement-making, they embody Milan’s more playful spirit.

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5. Textured Treasures

Style Notes: Whilst many shows leaned into slinky summer minimalism, others turned up the volume. Bottega Veneta introduced fluffy scarves and richly textured dresses, and Alberta Ferretti experimented with skirts finished in tactile tassels. This maximalist embrace of texture brought drama and depth, proving that summer dressing doesn’t always have to mean simplicity.

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Fifty years later—almost to the day—from the very first runway he staged as a young designer in 1975, Giorgio Armani presented the last collection he would work on before his passing at the age of 91. It was a particularly emotional and touching show for the Italian house, but also for the city at large, as it capped off a monumental season for Milan Fashion Week, whose designer debuts along with this cherished farewell will go down in history.

The designer is beloved for his elegant tailoring, and the collection was likewise imbued with many of his signature codes like fluid tailoring and "Armani gray" that have made his clothing so recognizable for the past half-century. It felt like a poignant retrospective on his life's work but forward-looking and timeless, too, with a sense of lightness and ease throughout the fabrics, silhouettes, and color palette. Here, discover everything to know about the Giorgio Armani spring 2026 show during Milan Fashion Week and the late designer's farewell collection.

A Cast of Familiar Faces

To honor a half-century of the brand, the runway cast many of the models who have historically been linked to Armani and who embody "his idea of a woman" per the show notes, some who have starred in campaigns from as early as the '80s and '90s. They included names such as Gina di Bernardo, Olga Serova, Veronika Pospisilova, Veronica Ruck, and Olga Sherer. It gave the show an even deeper sentiment, serving almost as a retrospective of the Armani world.

The Armani Uniform

Perhaps the most enduring mark of Mr. Armani's legacy was his suiting. The designer's tailoring remains one of the brand's most iconic features, and the spring 2026 collection gave a nod to his signature silhouette with several looks that tapped into one specific outfit formula: fluid trousers, a great jacket, and a polished handbag. The look is as timeless as it is "now," and seeing it in the first half of the show felt like it set the tone for how the designer would like to be remembered best.

Tassel Details, Cont.

Tassels are a trend we've been reporting on for several months now, and Armani's idea further cemented the detail as a mainstay in 2026 wardrobes. On the runway, tassels were affixed to the ends of rope belts and used as ties on sweeping gowns, giving these evening looks a sense of regality.

Pantelleria Blue

Pantelleria, the Mediterranean island nestled between Italy and north Africa, held a special place in the late designer's mind, and the show notes point to its dark volcanic terrain set against the endless blue of the sea as specific sources of inspiration. That manifested as shades of deep midnight with a swath of looks in the middle of the collection arriving in full monochrome, from chiffon maxi dresses to intricately beaded evening jackets.

The Key Buy: Satin Pants

As a shopping-minded editor, I couldn't help but narrow in on the piece I'll be looking to shop first when this collection arrives in stores next year, and that's none other than the trousers made from luscious heavy satin that anchored a number of looks in the collection. They were styled with mandarin-collar jackets and asymmetric blazers that gave an overall sense of effortless elegance.

New York Fashion Week is known for its celebrity sightings, and London for its experimental dressing, but when it comes to sleek street style inspiration that will put you ahead of the upcoming seasonal trends, then Milan will always be my first port of call.

While most of the talk will inevitably be focused on what's on the spring/summer 2026 runways (which we'll share our thoughts on soon), I spent the weekend browsing through all the sleek outfits that were spotted on the streets as well, in hopes to pick out the trends that I’ll be adding to my wardrobe for the autumn/winter season.

With the perfect blend of fashion-forward chicness and timeless elegance, I know that I can always rely on Italian street style to provide me with outfit ideas that effortlessly combine form and function. This year in particular, I spotted seven key trends that I'll be wearing from now on and well into the winter season.

From bright pops of colour to boost your mood to bold silhouettes that will add a touch of refinement to your outfits, keep scrolling to discover the seven street style trends I spotted at Milan’s spring/summer 2026 fashion week.

7 Street-Style Trends That Dominated Milan Fashion Week

1. Animal Print

Style Notes: It seems like animal print is always trending these days, but the truth is that fashion people just can’t get enough of it. There’s just something about it that looks so stylish, and it all lies in the fact that the pattern is interesting enough to elevate an outfit, whilst the monochrome hues will still allow it to be paired with everything you own.

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2. Check

Style Notes: If you’ve already started your autumn shopping, you’ve most likely noticed that checks are everywhere this season. And the streets of Milan are no different. I spotted this ‘dark academia’-inspired print on loads of chic dressers in the form of everything from houndstooth trousers to plaid flannel shirts.

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3. Exaggerated Shoulder Pads

Style Notes: I first spotted these dramatic silhouettes on last year’s runways when looking for autumn coat inspirations, and the Milan fashion set is taking it to a new level for autumn 2025 with even more exaggerated shoulder styles. Whether you opt for a blazer, shirt, or dress, this ‘80s power dressing’ aesthetic is sure to make you look put-together and intentional.

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4. Pinstripe

Style Notes: Pinstripes are not a new trend in any way; however, 2025 has seen a revival of the print in the form of styles that go way beyond your typical work blazer. I’m particularly interested in investing in a midi skirt in this elegant print, much like the Miu Miu iteration below.

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5. Chocolate Suede

Style Notes: It should be clear by now that chocolate brown suede has the hearts of fashion people and celebrities alike. However, this fashion week, I also spotted the luxe fabrication in the form of trousers and trenches, as well as your classic boots, loafers, and handbags. I’ll personally be investing in real suede for the season, but the high street also has plenty of expensive-looking vegan options depending on your preference.

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6. Tomato Red

Style Notes: It's probably not a surprise to fashion lovers that red is trending yet again this season. In fact, it’s been “trending” for so long that you may as well just count it as a neutral these days. For autumn 2025, stylish dressers are turning to even brighter, more coral-toned tomato reds that are sure to make a statement.

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7. Minimalist Leather

Style Notes: The more pared-back dressers among us will be pleased to know that minimalist leather separates were spotted all over the streets of Milan this weekend. Avoiding more dramatic patent finishes and instead opting for more matte fabrications in simple silhouettes, the Milan fashion proved that less is always more.

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Day five of Milan Fashion Week has come to a close, leaving behind a trail of unforgettable moments. Among the highlights was Louise Trotter's highly anticipated debut for Bottega Veneta, which certainly delivered and received no notes from us. Maximilian Davis showcased his 1920s-inspired collection for Ferragamo, which beautifully blended style and sophistication. And who could forget Dolce & Gabbana's spring collection titled PJ Obsession? It had everyone on social media gabbing for many reasons.

First, let's discuss the unexpected—and utterly iconic—appearance from Meryl Streep and Stanley Tucci, who surprised attendees by arriving fashionably late in full character as Miranda Priestly and Nigel Kipling from The Devil Wears Prada. Draped in couture, the pair glided into the venue as though stepping onto a film set—perhaps they truly had, as @stylenotcom noted the unusually high number of cameras around them. The crowd, comprising industry insiders and editors, erupted in applause and began taking photos. Anna Wintour, sitting front row on the opposite side of the runway, responded with a gracious smile, acknowledging the noteworthy moment, matching Streep in dark sunglasses and a bob.

As for the collection, the Italian fashion house dove headfirst into the world of pajamas, transforming sleepwear into high fashion. Founders and creative directors Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana took classic, menswear-inspired pajama sets and infused them with a modern flair. Some pieces were sculpted with sharp, precise lines that radiated sophistication, while others featured a more relaxed, oversized fit. Adorned with crystals and stones, these once-simple sleepwear essentials transformed into bold statement pieces. On their feet, models wore slides made of faux fur, resembling elegant women's slippers. For outerwear, several models wore oversize faux-fur coats that served as luxurious blankets—pieces that bring the comfort of home into the world.

Read on to discover more highlights from the Dolce & Gabbana S/S 26 show during Milan Fashion Week.

The Devil Wears Dolce & Gabbana

The devil may wear Prada, but she also wears Dolce & Gabbana, as seen at the brand's spring 2026 show. Streep wore a Dolce & Gabbana patent-leather camel trench coat cinched with a leopard-print belt over black trousers. Tucci, her director in the film, sat beside her in a gray tuxedo. Actress Simone Ashley, rumored to be Priestley's new assistant in the sequel, sat directly behind in the second row wearing a black strapless bustier and sequinned skirt.

Pajama Party

Like its spring 2026 menswear show, Dolce & Gabbana's spring 2026 ready-to-wear runway was an elevated pajama party. It began with cotton pajama shirts and pants redesigned for daytime wear, featuring clean cuts and luxurious details that added freshness and elegance. As the show progressed, the atmosphere shifted to a more alluring tone, with pajamas made from black sheer fabrics, highlighting the brand's note on sophisticated sensuality that is meant to be seen. Models displayed sheer robes over bustier dresses or paired with lace tops and transparent trousers. Accessories such as thigh-high or mid-calf black socks balanced glamour with comfort. Dolce & Gabbana's reinterpretation of pajamas was more than just a styling choice—it was a statement. It encouraged dressing without rules, allowing wearers to choose between seductive, sheer pajamas or conservative cotton ones.

Florals for Spring? Groundbreaking

Dolce & Gabbana doubled down on florals for spring, exploring them in a range of luxurious variations. They were interpreted through prints seen on sheer playsuits and maxi dresses, offering a literal celebration of nature's beauty. Elsewhere, they appeared more abstractly through 3D appliqués, embroidery, and crystal embellishments. These beautiful details adorned everything from relaxed striped drawstring pants to crisp button-downs, cropped blazers, and bralettes.

Signature Elements

Staying true to its DNA, Dolce & Gabbana's collection incorporated all the signature elements that have defined the brand for decades: lace, bustiers, tailoring, and animal prints. These designs were reinterpreted to match the season's relaxed, pajama-inspired aesthetic. Delicate black lace layered under sheer fabrics added a sense of lightness to slip dresses and tops, while bustier dresses worn under striped button-down shirts as well as waist-accentuating corsets over ribbed tank tops balanced softness with classic D&G softness. Tailoring became a key feature in the collection, with pajama shirts and trousers cut with masculine precision, giving a refined edge to the flowing silhouettes. And because no Dolce & Gabbana collection is complete without animal-inspired patterns, leopard print made a statement this season in outerwear. It was evident in a stunning cape-style coat, as well as a mid-length, utilitarian-style jacket.

Faux-Fur Accessories

The use of fur in spring collections has been one of the most talked-about trends this fashion month, and Dolce & Gabbana has fully embraced this moment. Out of 66 looks, approximately half featured faux fur, in line with the brand's 2022 Fur-Free Policy. The eco-conscious fur was elegantly crafted into outerwear, showcasing bold leopard-print designs and an exquisite powder pink floor-length coat that turned heads on the runway. However, the real standout pieces were the top-handle and shoulder bags, also used as clutches, along with the plush, furry slides that completed many of the looks.

It's Prada day, which means that fashion people all over the world came together, no matter what time it was, to bear witness to Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons's latest creations as they made their debut. I watched the show from the steps of Prada's SoHo store among Parsons students as well as editors, stylists, and influencers who didn't travel to Milan this season. Our editorial director, Lauren Eggertsen, viewed the unveiling from Fondazione Prada, the art institution where the Italian house holds its runway show every season. Many more watched from their iPhones and laptop screens, zooming in on every last detail and taking screenshots to inspect later.

The Prada show is always a look into the future. During it, you'll rarely see anything similar to what other brands are debuting. It's always fresh and different, and it paints a picture of what fashion will soon look like. The biggest takeaway from spring/summer 2026 is that minimalism will soon be ushered out of the spotlight, making room for louder (yet still refined) aesthetics to take the stage. Clashing combinations of orange, purple, red, and pink will replace muted neutrals in our spring wardrobes. At the same time, eccentric accessories—like satin opera gloves, colorful drop earrings made with oversize gemstones, and rhinestone-crusted pumps—will soon take over from calmer alternatives.

As a result, a sense of serenity didn't blanket viewers like it does at some shows. Instead, everyone seeing the collection for the first time appeared to be taken over, filled with inspiration, and invigorated about the future of fashion. "People seemed to really love it," Eggertsen told me over Slack post-show. "Everyone was excited and chatty and cheering!" New eras will have that effect.

Meet the Frankenstein Skirt

You might be wondering what a Frankenstein skirt is right about now. Well, let me tell you. Essentially, it's a silhouette only Prada could make chic, wherein multiple skirts appear to have been stitched together, creating a patchwork-like creation. The brand debuted a more tailored and pared-back version of this in its fall/winter 2024 show with backless skirts meant to be worn both frontward and backward styled with a bevy of slip skirts underneath that you could mix and match with your mood. For spring/summer 2026, it appears that you have fewer options to change up your skirts but instead should embrace the intentional chaos of having part of a ruffled orange taffeta skirt attached to a lace slip, among other materials and styles. Another version saw a model donning a gray satin skirt that also featured a pink, tiered taffeta skirt. Why choose one piece when you can have them all?

Prada and Simons Are Bejeweling Again

There was a time when rhinestones and jewels always made an appearance at Prada (and Miu Miu!), but it's been a while since such decadent detail work has played a role in the brand's collections. They're back for spring/summer 2026, though. Pearl-encrusted collars showed up on heavy satin tunics, and colorful baubles appeared on square-neck tops worn on top of buttoned-to-the-top shirts. Even the kitten heels got the rhinestone treatment, with diamond drippings hanging off the backs of many of the collection's pumps like a "just married" sign on the back of a pristine vintage car.

Car Coats for Spring

If you thought car coats were big for fall, just wait until you see the options Prada presented for spring 2026. From old-school Prada options in cool khaki shades to pastel-painted leather versions that could turn any outfit into a statement, every type of car coat you could ever want made the cut. This outerwear staple is beloved for its simple design—a knee-length hem combines with a single-breasted closure to create a top layer that's easy, timeless, and practical. Prada and Simons, of course, made them their own, particularly through styling, pairing them with bold skirts and long gloves in shocking hues.

Deep Vs, Coach Jackets, and Polo Collars Add a Tinge of Prep

It appeared at Prada that the preppy trend we first reported on following Michael Rider's debut at Celine back in July was no passing fad. Instead, preppy codes are continuing to show up in the lead-up to spring 2026 in unique takes on polo collars in primary colors being paired with tiny, peach-colored briefs debuting at today's show as well as bright-yellow coach jackets styled with button-down shirts and deep-V-neck sweaters tucked into suspender skirts. Low-profile suede sneakers that gave off an almost boat-shoe vibe, oversize glasses, and Peter Pan collars attached to faded-leather coats only added to the preppy energy reverberating through Fondazione Prada.

Zoom In for More

Often, the best part of a new collection is getting up close and personal with the pieces. There are always more details than what you can see during the show, and for spring/summer 2026, those arrived in the form of exposed stitching on thick satin gloves and drawstring bags, both painted in pastel shades of pink and yellow. Elegant pumps featured a sexy touch of toe cleavage as well as delicate bows and the aforementioned rhinestone waterfalls. Sunglasses and eyewear were fitted with surprise baubles that could only be seen because of the models' slicked-back 'dos. Re-sees for Prada are like playing Where's Waldo, but instead of a tiny man in a striped shirt, you get to hunt for minute crumbs of exquisite craftsmanship in a sea of beautiful things.

Friends of Prada

There was no shortage of top talent in the front row at Prada's MFW show, with everyone from Kerry Washington to Maya Hawke flocking to Fondazione Prada to see what Miuccia and Raf had cooked up for spring 2026. Also in attendance were Emma Chamberlain, Eiza González, Felicity Jones, Carey Mulligan, Rita Ora, Benedetta Porcaroli, Nia Smith, and Sadie Sink, all of whom wore Prada from head to toe—satin pumps, tinted eyewear, distressed leather, beaded organza, and all.

When a new designer takes over at the helm of a major fashion house (as is the case nearly everywhere this fashion month, with spring 2026 marking over 15 anticipated debuts), the expectation is that they'll overhaul the work of their predecessor and put forth a collection that's completely and totally their own. But the first few glimpses of Simone Bellotti's Jil Sander debut are already revealing a different story. The Italian designer, formerly of Bally, took a much more democratic approach, marrying his own sensibilities with those of the label to create one harmonious blend of the two.

In its first few social media posts unveiling the collection, the brand described it as "a tightly edited expression of contrasts," and it was, indeed, bursting with a sense of joy and optimism that's so often lacking in today's minimalist designs. While the looks were largely restrained, consisting of high-neck tailored jackets, knee-length skirts, and solid-colored knits, the color combinations were vivid and electric, offering a fresh vision that pierced through the loud maximalism we've seen elsewhere so far this season.

Here, discover everything to know about the Jil Sander spring 2026 show during Milan Fashion Week and designer Simone Bellotti's debut collection.

A Jil Sander Homecoming

The runway, which was staged at the historic Piazza Castello in Milan, returned to the brand headquarters for the first time since 2017. It's a decisive move for Bellotti's debut and one that undoubtedly signals his plans to return to core house codes and honor both his own Italian heritage and that of the label.

Color Combinations to Covet

Vivid primary colors and not-too-sweet pastels were layered and combined to have the most harmonious effect. Come spring, we'll all be wearing more color, and these are the specific color combinations we'll be looking to emulate: cherry red and ultramarine blue; purplish navy and the faintest butter yellow; avocado green and strawberry milk pink.

The Flats Everyone Will Buy

While at Bally, Simone Bellotti earned a loyal fanbase of fashion insiders who were specifically drawn to his footwear. It was really good, especially the elevated boat shoes that our editors sent many Slack messages about. Luckily for our closets (but not our credit cards), Bellotti's has brought that same energy to Jil Sander. This collection featured a tight edit of flat shoes like soft leather Wallabees, minimalistic derby shoes, and square-toe oxfords that I already know will be sellouts come spring.

Tailoring That Whispers (But Still Speaks Volumes)

Bellotti perfected his signature restrained yet architectural tailoring at Bally, and the designer has arrived at his new job with his résumé to show for it. This collection was defined by suiting silhouettes that were equally restrained but still highly interesting, like jackets with curved sleeves and dramatic hourglass waistlines or dresses with chest cutouts paired with matching bralettes. While many of his peers are leaning into loud maximalism, Bellotti understands the power in pieces that don't have to speak up to be heard.

A new era is upon us at Gucci. The famed Italian house's new creative director, Demna Gvasalia, formerly of Balenciaga, has just unveiled his debut collection during Milan Fashion Week. Instead of a traditional runway show, however, he decided to share the collection in a series of unique ways, both online and IRL. First, he revealed the lookbook photos on Gucci's Instagram account yesterday. Today, he hosted a celeb-filled "premiere event," as he called it, in which the new looks were worn by Gwyneth Paltrow, Demi Moore, and many other celebrities. Finally, Gvasalia released a short film by Spike Jonze and Halina Reijn, featuring many of the same actors who attended the event today. Phew! It's a lot to keep up with, but I'm buckled in for the ride.

As for Paltrow, her outfit immediately stuck out to me because it revived a very 2000s trend: logomania. Featuring an allover GG monogram, her outfit included a pussy-bow blouse, A-line midi skirt, and knee-high boots. I have a feeling that her boots, in particular, will soon spark a huge commotion with Gucci shoppers. Scroll down to see Gwyneth Paltrow's logomania outfit and shop the boot trend for yourself.

Gwyneth Paltrow's 2000s Logomania Outfit

On Gwyneth Paltrow: Gucci outfit

Shop Logo Boots for Fall 2025

Welcome to Who What Wear Travels, a series of curated guides to destinations the fashion set loves. Consider this your download on everything from the chicest stays to the most memorable meals to the perfect travel wardrobe, all vetted by stylish locals and well-traveled fashion folks.

"In a nutshell, Milan is like a very big small town," says J.J. Martin, founder of lifestyle brand La DoubleJ. The Italian fashion capital has long been an endless trove of style inspiration, and while we keep a close eye on what's happening there during Milan Fashion Week each February and September, the city, which normally possesses a cozier quality, is currently rising among the ranks as a European force to pay attention to throughout the rest of the year too.

Now, with an exciting game of musical chairs happening at the major labels, all eyes will be on Milan and what unfolds as new designers—Louise Trotter at Bottega Veneta, Demna at Gucci, and Simone Bellotti at Jil Sander—present their debut spring/summer 2026 collections. Without a shadow of a doubt, Milan is the moment.

Fashion is one thing, but Milan is also a huge design city and home to Salone del Mobile, the annual interior design fair that draws a stylish international crowd to rival that of fashion week. "On top of that," Martin continues, "the city is just swirling in the Italian juiciness of craft and quality and beauty and food and all of the things that make living in Italy just delightful." Of course, what Milan lacks in romance compared to other cities in Italy it gains in elegance and tradition, two things that flourish when it comes to Milanese dining and the unique art deco architecture it's known for.

Silvia Dusci, founder of jewelry label Le Sundial, says that wandering through the narrow historic streets—admiring the beautiful building entrances, gardens, and old doors—is a treasured pastime. "It's a great mix of Italian charm and international energy," she muses. Lately, though, she admits that Milan is earning even more attention and seeing much more growth, making it a perfect moment to spotlight the city and all of its most classic spots.

Where to Stay in Milan

You're just as likely to see the Milanese stopping by for an aperitivo underneath the sweeping porticos of the Portrait Milano as those vacationing, says Kristen Nichols, Who What Wear associate director of special projects, thanks to its prime location and stunning décor. Beloved by locals and visitors alike, the hotel is housed in a former ancient seminary, giving the space a sense of stately significance. The inside, however, tells a different story. It's all sleek, modern furnashings with jewel-toned accents that blend the contemporary with the art deco. It should come as no surprise to learn that it's owned by Italian fashion royalty, the Ferragamo family, and has, therefore, earned a spot as a fashion-person favorite.

Bulgari hotels are the most sought-after stays among the fashion crowd, but none are quite as iconic as the Milan destination, which was, of course, the jewelry house's debut in hospitality. The space is marked by Zimbabwean black marble, teak, and Vicenza stone that give it a quiet grandeur and make it a much-welcomed oasis that, despite being situated adjacent to Milan's main shopping street (Via Monte Napoleone), feels like an exclusive hideaway.

Who What Wear Travels tip: Milan is best enjoyed away from the summer months when many of the shops and businesses are closed for the Ferragosto holiday. Dusci suggests avoiding trips during July and August.

"A little old school" is how Martin describe the Grand Hotel et de Milan, but both she and Dusci effuse their love for the historic gem. "There are definitely some dusty corners, but there's just something stuck in time about this hotel, which I appreciate. It actually has one of the most beautiful restaurants in all of Milan hidden inside. It's like you're in a duke's library," Martin says.

Where to Dine in Milan

"Da Giacomo is my personal favorite," Dusci shares. "I absolutely love their spaghetti with clams. Oh, and you must try their famous Bomba di Giacomo."

Who What Wear Travels tip: Trust your server, insists Martin: "Most Italian waitstaff are truly invested in you enjoying your meal and will give you their honest opinion about the best items and specials on the menu."

"This place never gets old," Martin says of Bice. "It's an upscale classic trattoria. The food is great, and everyone there treats my dog like royalty. Remember, the reason that I like these places is because I know them, and they know me—it's very personal. Keep in mind that, as a tourist, the experience might be different."

The fine dining destination near the Duomo di Milano is a pillar of traditional Italian dining and, although its roots are Roman, feels right at home in the northern capital.

Who What Wear Travels tip: While classic institutions offer a quintessential Milanese dining experience, Dusci warns not to limit yourself to just the popular and well-known restaurants. "In Italy, especially in Milan, small traditional trattorias often serve the best food," she says.

Classic Aperitivo Bars in Milan

"The classic, gritty design haunt," describes Martin. "Still caught in the 1960s, this has a kind of slummy Milan vibe but in the best way possible. Go for the Negroni sbagliato that arrives in a goblet the size of a small child. There are always cool people hanging out there."

As one of the oldest sandwich bars in Milan, Bar Quadronno is an institution known not only for its famed panino with salami, ham, and cheese but also its lacquered wooden bar that make it quintessentially Milan. Come for a bite to eat, but stay for a classic aperitivo.

Who What Wear Travels tip: Take an evening stroll after your aperitivo. Martin notes that the Italian ritual of taking a passeggiata, or a stroll around 7 p.m., every evening has become a favorite pastime to bump into friends and neighbors and take a break from the workday. "It's a beautiful lesson in being present," she says.

Newcomer Minerale is where you'll want to head to experience artisanal and natural wine in the heart of the Corso Genova district. The modernist space draws the city's most in-the-know crowd, so you're sure to have plenty of good people-watching too.

The Best Pasticcerias in Milan

There's something transportive about a stop at Marchesi 1824, whether you're in Milan or London or elsewhere. One of the oldest and most renowned pastry shops in Milan, the elegantly designed space makes it a landmark in its own right. You can stop in for a maritozzo or a box of its very giftable cookies or simply admire the towering cakes in the window display.

Who What Wear Travels tip: "Always drink your coffee at the bar," Dusci insists. "This is a true Italian experience you don't want to miss."

Martin isn't shy about her favoritism toward Pasticceria Cucchi. "At La DoubleJ, we've done product collaborations and takeovers with Cucchi twice here in Milan where we totally redid the café," she says. "I know the original owners that opened the space in 1966. It's now under new management, which actually means you can get your cappuccino within the hour now! I love it for aperitivo as well as for a coffee, but they now do a very decent lunch as well."

Dusci shared a number of her favorite spots for Italian pastries, including the famed Sant Ambroeus, which, she says, really captures the authentic Milanese vibe. "Plus, the food and coffee are absolutely delicious—truly yummy treats that make every visit special," she adds.

Where to Shop in Milan

A spot that Dusci highly recommends for shopping in Milan is Cavalli e Nastri. "They offer an amazing vintage selection," she says, adding that her finds from the boutique include such incredible pieces as a Saint Laurent Rive Gauche shearling coat and a Japanese shantung silk kimono. "It's one of the more put-together vintage stores in the city," Martin confirms.

It doesn't get any more iconic than the city's landmark shopping destination at 10 Corso Como. Now with locations in Seoul, Paris, New York, and Doha, the original Milan address houses a meticulous curation of sought-after designer items, skincare, art, food, and so much more.

"Mazzolari Capelli is a real Milanese institution for hair accessories, from headbands and clips to brushes—everything you need for haircare," Dusci shares.

Who What Wear Travels tip: Don't miss the vintage markets, a perfect spot to find unique treasures, held every third Sunday of the month in Brera and the last Sunday of the month along the Navigli, Dusci insists.

What to See in Milan

For fashion people, no trip to Milan is complete without a pilgrimage to the Prada Foundation, the art foundation dedicated to contemporary art and culture that Miuccia Prada and and her husband Patrizio Bertelli have cochaired since 1995. Spend a day wandering the galleries and then enjoy an aperitivo or slice of princess cake at the Wes Anderson–designed Bar Luce attached to the space.

"Though often seen and revisited, Villa Necchi never loses its quiet elegance. It continues to feel timeless and effortlessly inspiring," Dusci notes.

If you look for it, Milan is a visually rich city filled with beautiful details that reference its past. To fully admire its architecture, Dusci says to head to the Stazione Centrale for incredible art deco features.

Who What Wear Travels tip: Do a church hop. Martin says popping into one of the many baroque churches peppered throughout the city is a favorite way to view Milan's beauty. "I've stumbled upon so many beautiful mosaic ceilings, tiled floors, spectacular stained-glass windows, all by accident," she notes.

"Robertaebasta Gallery is one of those rare places where charm and excess coexist beautifully," says Dusci. "Every piece tells a story, and none of them whisper. Incredible curation."

What to Pack for Milan

When packing for Milan, channel your inner sciura. It's a colloquial term the Milanese use in reference to the city's many glamorous and impeccably well-dressed older women—just peek at the account @sciuraglam to see what we mean. Prada should always be a packing reference, naturally, but also the unofficial uniform of Prada herself: a simple knit sweater, a full skirt, and pretty pumps. It's a walking city, but not as much as its neighboring capitals, meaning you can get away with a little bit of a heel. To dress the part of a local, you'll certainly want to.

The number one rule for Milan dressing is to, well, dress up. "Don't wear sweatpants out of the house or workout gear to the office," warns Martin. "While Milan has certainly become a little more gentrified over the past decade, it still hasn't fallen into the West Coast 'athleisure all day' trend." Leaning put-together, elegant, and chic is the move. Of course, that mood extends even to the airport, where you'll be greeted with the world's most stylish travelers the moment you touch down at Malpensa, and nothing makes as chic a statement as arriving with a Rimowa Rollaboard in tow.

The fall/winter 2025 season has officially come to a close, with Paris Fashion Week wrapping just a few days ago after a slew of highly anticipated collections from Miu Miu, Saint Laurent, and Chanel. But if you think our coverage of the season’s fashion is winding down, think again. We’re really just getting started.

Over the past six weeks, I’ve been taking detailed notes and saving screenshots of the F/W 25 pieces I’m ready to preorder (or at least draw inspiration from) when they arrive in about six to eight months. Think Miu Miu’s satin bras, Fendi’s leather chevron dress, and Tory Burch’s microscopic peep-toe pumps. In total, 15 items made my fall 2025 editor wish list. Keep scrolling to see which ones earned a spot on my carefully curated cut.

Prada Pumps

These distressed leather pumps from Prada were a definite standout for the WWW editors in Milan for fashion week. We audibly gasped at the detailed work on them at the brand's re-see of the collection, with Lauren Eggertsen, our editorial director, and I swearing to purchase them as soon as they arrive in stores.

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Colleen Allen Blue Velvet Coat

This blue velvet coat dress from Colleen Allen’s presentation in New York tugged at everyone’s heartstrings. The color alone was breathtaking, but it was the high slit, sumptuous velvet, and impeccable construction that truly made this piece worth the investment.

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Bally Green Skirt

Simone Bellotti's final Bally collection was easily one of my favorites from his time with the brand and a great indicator of his future success with Jil Sander. The offering was tailored to perfection but also playful, with this green, leather pencil skirt being one of those pieces that balances the two seamlessly.

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Givenchy Sculpted Black Dress

Of all the pieces in Sarah Burton’s debut collection for Givenchy, the two that dominated my Instagram feed after the show was the sculpted black dress above and its gray mini counterpart. The impeccable tailoring beautifully highlights the curves of a woman’s body. And while I adore the gray version, black will always be my top pick—the longer silhouette feels far more versatile for a variety of events and occasions.

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Khaite Leopard-Print Jacket

Leopard print can be hit or miss, in my opinion, but Khaite’s take, which debuted on the catwalk at New York’s Park Avenue Armory this season, was an undeniable hit. The structure and quality of the pony hair were spectacular, and I especially loved how these two pieces were styled together, fully embracing the concept of loud luxury.

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Miu Miu Satin Bra

Delicate bras were everywhere at Paris Fashion Week, but unsurprisingly, Miu Miu did them best. Miuccia Prada debuted a series of pointed satin bras that I want to buy—if only to say I own one. That said, they were styled in such a practical, approachable way that they felt like both a work of art and a genuinely wearable piece.

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Saint Laurent Green Coat

Saint Laurent’s F/W 25 collection was full of bright colors and dramatic silhouettes, and this Kelly green, broad-shouldered coat was easily one of my favorites. The color alone makes it worth the investment—it instantly elevates anything into an outfit. I’ll probably wear it most with a white tee and jeans, but I love that it can just as easily be styled on its own with tights and a great pair of pumps.

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Prada Fur-Trim Coat

Let’s face it—finding a coat as good as Prada’s F/W 25 gray-and-black fur-collar peacoat is nearly impossible. I spent a solid 10 minutes inspecting every detail at the re-see, completely in awe of its construction. But if you can’t wait until fall, I’ve got the perfect solution: grab a fur collar like the one from Ducie below. Attach it to any coat in your closet to channel the Prada vibe for less.

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Tory Burch Peep-Toe Heels

We’ve been predicting a major peep-toe comeback for quite some time now, with everyone from Alaïa to Khaite embracing the “dated” shoe style in recent seasons. Personally, I’ve always been drawn to Tory Burch’s take on them, and the pairs she presented for F/W 25 are definitely her best yet. *Adds to preorder list.*

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Victoria Beckham Leather Jacket

A truly great leather jacket that’s both timeless and on-trend is hard to find, but Victoria Beckham nailed it at her Paris Fashion Week show. This longline piece checks all the boxes for 2025 while remaining versatile and wearable for decades to come. Sold.

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Kallmeyer Trousers With Flannel Tie

Unfortunately for those who can’t wait, no one does it quite like Daniella Kallmeyer, so you won’t find anything like these flannel-tie trousers until she releases them. That said, you can re-create the look ahead of their autumn arrival by tying a flannel shirt around your waist and pairing it with tailored black pants.

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Fendi Leather Dress

Fendi’s F/W 25 collection was a dream, from the satin peep-toe wedges (and the colored-toe tights styled with them) to the fur coats and skirts. It was Fendi’s Fendiest offering in years, a point everyone in fashion appreciated. One such house-coded piece was this chevron-printed leather dress with a V-cut and spaghetti straps. The dress also came in a pencil skirt form that was styled with matching knee-high boots. I, of course, want them all.

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Loro Piana Leopard-Print Hat

Don’t even try to tell me that you aren’t at least somewhat interested in purchasing a leopard-print hat of some sort to channel Audrey Hepburn or Jackie Kennedy in 2025. If you do, I won't believe you. Loro Piana’s pony-hair version that debuted at the Italian brand’s presentation during Milan Fashion Week is the gold standard and will 100% be in my shopping cart come September.

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Carven Wrap Coat

As someone who fully grasps the importance of buying a great coat when fall and winter roll around, I start shopping for mine early—like six months early. Right now, I already know that my winter 2025 outerwear of choice will be this navy blue robe coat from Carven’s first collection under the creative direction of Louise Trotter’s successor, Mark Thomas.

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I'm usually a staunch supporter of traveling with only one carry-on suitcase. Checking luggage is a risk, especially for someone whose sartorial possessions are akin to children (don't come for me, please), so unless it's absolutely necessary, keeping my travel companions by my side at all times is essential to flying stress-free. Attending Milan Fashion Week, however, is the exception. Between shows, dinners, presentations, and parties, I already needed a lot of outfits. Add in the idea that I won't have my closet to fall back on if something I thought I wanted to wear didn't click the day of, and you can probably see why ample options were important. In the end, I picked out two pieces of luggage: Tumi's International Carry-On and Rolling Trunk, both in aluminum for maximum protection.

Luggage Details

But you didn't click into this story to read about my luggage (or maybe you did). You came for outfits, of which there were many. Ahead of my trip, I do what I always do before fashion week: add photos of every cool item I own into a Google folder that I then reference to create a plethora of worthy outfits. That way, while I pack and get dressed, I'm not panicking about what to wear. There are a million things to think about during fashion week—my own outfits shouldn't be one of them.

Below, see exactly what I wore during Milan Fashion Week to Gucci, Max Mara, and more.

Day One: Gucci

Milan Fashion Week started off with a bang at Gucci's F/W 25 show, the Italian brand's first since news broke that Sabato de Sarno would be stepping down as creative director. For my first Gucci show, I wore an easy blue button-down shirt tucked into a red velvet Blazé Milano midi skirt. The color combination felt very Gucci to me, especially with the velvet. Since it was raining and slightly chilly in Milan this day, I added a pair of tights to keep me warm, as well as a pair of chunky-heeled, round-toe pumps I recently got at Massimo Dutti. They're so comfortable and great for walking between shows. To finish off the look, I wore all black accessories, including Khaite x Oliver Peoples wire-rim sunglasses and my 1995 Re-Edition Prada bag.

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Day One: Dinner at Ristorante Berton

I flew to Milan with the luxury watch brand IWC for an event it held in the Italian fashion capital ahead of fashion week, so in the evening, we had a welcome dinner at the fine-dining restaurant Ristorante Berton. The food was incredible, as was the company. For the dinner, I wore an Altuzarra dress from the brand's F/W 24 collection that I've loved ever since it debuted on the runway. The fabric is really thick and luxurious, making it fit in all the right places. I also wore it during New York Fashion Week and didn't care at all that I was repeating outfits—it's that good. With it, I added a burgundy patent-leather Bulgari bag and black patent-leather Ferragamo boots.

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Day Two: Antonio Marras, Diesel, and Brunello Cucinelli

Day two's calendar included a mix of shows, presentations, and cocktail events. Oh, and shopping—we stopped by an old Céline pop-up at the boutique at Modes. For the day, which started at 10 a.m. and ended around 1 a.m., I kept my look pretty simple and easy, opting for a navy blue sweater, vintage Tom Ford for Gucci leather pencil skirt, and the only coat I brought on the trip, a chocolate-brown car coat that I scored at a recent Fforme sample sale. I've been loving pairing pencil skirts with tall boots, especially slim-fitting ones like these vintage Jimmy Choo suede stiletto boots. Finally, I tied in my navy sweater with my navy nubuck-leather Alaïa Le Teckel shoulder bag that surprisingly fits so much.

Day Three: Max Mara, Blumarine, Emporio Armani

When in Milan, one must wear Prada, and that's not just me being dramatic. It's practically the law. For day three then, I really had no choice but to bring out the baby-pink satin miniskirt from the S/S 22 collection that I scored at a truly unbelievable price at an outlet mall outside of Barcelona last summer. Since it wasn't actually miniskirt weather yet in Milan, I paired the skirt with a black Proenza Schouler sporty jacket, taking cues from Prada's S/S 25 collection, where formal skirts and dresses were "wrongly" styled alongside technical outerwear. Lastly, I threw on a gray cashmere J.Crew sweater, black Prada handbag, and slingback Prada wedges that are shockingly easy to walk in.

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Day Four: Sportmax, Moschino, Missoni

Whenever I can wear a piece by the brand showing, I'm going to, which is how I ended up in this cream, split-hem midi skirt by Sportmax that I recently ordered from Cettire after months of searching for the slightly different black-and-white version. (I'm still on the hunt for that one if you've seen it—my DMs are very much open.) I repurposed the navy blue cashmere polo I wore in an earlier outfit, tucking it into the skirt and adding a pair of brown Calzedonia tights, my Alaïa bag, and Massimo Dutti pumps. It's crazy what changing a skirt can do to make an outfit feel completely new and different.

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