Next year is Ralph Lauren's milestone 60th anniversary. It's hard to believe that Ralph Lauren (the man) has remained at the helm of his namesake brand for its entire six-decade-and-counting run, but alas, there he was taking a bow at the end of today's runway show. So what does the beloved American designer have up his sleeve this time? "Spring 2027 is an irreverent take on romance that creates a new elegance," Lauren stated in the show notes. "It’s about ways of dressing that celebrate ingenuity, originality, and character—the freedom and fun of creating a style that is truly personal."

The show notes also provided a peek behind the curtain at some of this season's ingenious design methods: "Throughout, artisanal treatments enhance the clothes. An intricate woven construction lightens a fluffy, ombré shearling vest. 'Spritz and tumble' laundering rumples full-skirted dresses. Hand-painted and burnout techniques make for highs and lows of color intensity, giving silk lames and velvets an aged patina. One skirt’s embroidery was wrought in gesso-painted thread; the oversized sequins of another were coated to dull their shine. And an intricate spray-paint process imbued silk brocade with an impressionistic mystique."

Scroll down for everything you need to know about Ralph Lauren's spring/summer 2027 collection presented at NYFW today.

Breaking Down the Ralph Lauren S/S 27 Show

After Dark

The show notes highlighted some of the collection's best clothes meant to be worn after dark: "Evening offers a bounty of options: fluid wrap dress, engineered with only a single seam; shimmering navy tank dress covered in micro sequins that release into fringe over trousers; poetic, embroidered velvet robe over ethereal white blouse and gesso-painted floral-print jeans."

Well-Suited

"In an homage to the first suit Ralph Lauren designed for women, two stark, sharp pantsuits were built in an Italian menswear facility, where the focus is on highly defined structure," the brand explained in the show notes.

Archival References

This collection reminded our editors of some of Ralph Lauren's most enduring shows of the past, including spring/summer 2003. Over 20 years ago, Natalia Vodianova (pictured below, left side) wore a long coat with delicate florals in between pastel stripes, while today's show featured a similar Bridgerton-worthy jacket that was cropped in the front and long in the back.

Laid-Back Looks

Ralph Lauren thinks your 2027 jeans should be ripped, faded, baggy, and low-slung. This season, denim was paired with everything from cropped jackets (sans shirts) to floral-stamped button-down shirts.

Finishing Touches

Straw boater hats were some of my favorite accessories this season, but I also appreciated the impressive range of chic brooches, floral scarves, white handbags, oversized clutches, lace-up flats, delicate strappy heels, and more. And don't forget about the jewelry. Chandelier earrings were the perfect match for many of Ralph Lauren's most elegant evening looks.

The start of a new season is always a good time to take stock of our wardrobes and look at what is and isn't working, and there's no better time to clean the slate than fall. There's just something about the arrival of back-to-school energy and the promise of cooler weather that puts a pep in our step, and nothing is more quintessential to fall shopping than fresh denim.

This fall, we're ushering in six major denim trends that have been seen on the runways, celebrities, and our favorite fashion people. But with the arrival of anything new, it naturally calls into question what doesn't feel as relevant, and I'll be the one to say what we're all thinking: Ultra-baggy jeans just aren't the default for most of us anymore. Instead, the jeans that fashion insiders are talking about, shopping, and wearing the most right now are more fitted, only slightly relaxed, and, yes, even cropped. (I know.)

Here, discover the six major denim trends taking over fall 2026, from bootcut jeans to rich-looking earth-toned washes.

The Top Denim Trends of Fall 2026

1. Modern Bootcuts

Bootcuts are so back. With 2000s bohemia reviving itself, it was only a matter of time until the denim trend made its return to the forefront. In 2026, the jeans are taking on a modern feel with high rises that look best with a shirt tucked into them. Instead of styling the jeans with literal boots, though, the move is to wear them with a pair of pointed-toe heels for a sleek finish.

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2. The Color Wheel

Cherry red! Ballet pink! Cobalt blue! Designers are dialing up the saturation on jeans, and a number of specific hues are bubbling up as the chic alternatives to classic blue denim. On one hand, we're seeing softer shades like pastel pink and, on the other, bold primary tones like red and cobalt. Fashion people are pairing theirs with a neutral top to let the denim take center stage.

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3. The Big Slouch

Instead of the ultra-baggy styles that had been trending for a few years, looser-fitting jeans are taking on a new look with less volume and more subtle slouch. It's all about a longer hemline that slightly pools around the ankle to create a relaxed vibe.

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4. Alt Waistbands

One small detail that's defining some of the coolest new jeans on the market is a nontraditional waistband. Whether that's the snap-closure tab on Still Here's 11 Jeans, the drawstring closure on the Citizens of Humanity Brynn Jeans, or a raw cutoff waistband, brands are backing this alt detail en masse for fall.

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5. Earth Tones

While I'm seeing bright colors on one end of the spectrum, earth tones like sand, khaki, and brown are undeniably trending on the other. Fashion people have been experimenting with these washes all year, and with runway cosigns, the trend is set to skyrocket this fall and winter. At Altuzarra, models paired dark-brown denim with argyle sweaters and big-buckle belts, which is how I expect to see chic people styling earth tones this season.

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6. Cropped Jeans

I'm sorry, or you're welcome—cropped jeans are about to make a comeback. For too long, cool jeans have been almost exclusively defined by full-length and baggy hemlines, but cropped cuts are slowly but surely on the rise. I'm spotting cropped-jeans outfits on both the Celine fall 2026 runway and cool people in Paris, and I only expect the momentum to keep going.

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With fall right around the corner, I decided to revisit the fall/winter 2026 runways. Whenever I go through a show, I'm always searching for styling inspiration to help inform how I think about shopping for the season ahead.

During Copenhagen Fashion Week, Baum und Pferdgarten styled a statement faux-fur coat with white tights (a micro-trend for fall 2026), and Caro Editions inspired me to wear a monochromatic white dress-and-shoe combination. At New York Fashion Week, Kallmeyer had one of the chicest looks of the season: an argyle sweater with a tailored miniskirt and sheer black tights.

In Milan, Simone Bellotti's designs for Jil Sander included a stunning high-neck wool coat—the perfect fall outerwear reference where the coat is the outfit. And Prada pushed me to rethink color pairings by mixing unlikely hues: a red wool scarf and an orange zip-up cardigan over a '50s-inspired baby-blue silk fit-and-flare dress.

Across the fashion month calendar, Paris is always my favorite, along with London Fashion Week. This time, Miu Miu was one of my most-loved collections, specifically dreamy knee-high boots with a poplin shirt and pencil skirt, referencing the house's late-'90s and early-2000s archives. Paloma Wool, typically known for muted palettes, surprised me with pops of bright color, such as a vibrant hot-pink sweater. The Row left me wanting to try a taupe trench coat with neutral tights and pointed-toe pumps, and Toteme showed another way to style a statement coat, with opaque black tights and tiger-print flats.

Ahead, see all of these runway looks and how to shop each one for less.

My Favorite Fall 2026 Runway Looks

Baum und Pferdgarten

Styling formula: Faux-fur coat + white tights

Shop the look:

Caro Editions

Styling formula: White dress + white shoes

Shop the look:

Jil Sander

Styling formula: High-neck wool coat

Shop the look:

Kallmeyer

Styling formula: Argyle sweater + tailored miniskirt + sheer black tights

Shop the look:

Miu Miu

Styling formula: Poplin shirt + pencil skirt + knee-high boots

Shop the look:

Paloma Wool

Styling formula: Hot-pink sweater + knee-length skirt

Shop the look:

Prada

Styling formula: Red scarf + orange zip-up cardigan + baby-blue skirt

Shop the look:

The Row

Styling formula: Neutral trench coat + neutral-toned tights + pointed-toe pumps

Shop the look:

Toteme

Styling formula: Faux-fur coat + opaque black tights + tiger-print flats

Shop the look:

With autumn less than a month away, it’s time to start thinking about the new clothing I’ll be adding to my seasonal capsule wardrobe. We can all probably agree that choosing the right colour can make or break an outfit. And even though darker neutrals typically dominate the autumn season, for 2026 specifically I’m determined to find elegant, easy-to-wear shades that are different from my typical black and brown wardrobe. My first port of call for inspiration? The runway, of course.

Designers across the globe, from London to New York, showcased a number of sophisticated but effortless colour trends on the autumn/winter 2026 runways, and it was clear that the shades we opt for will very much do the heavy lifting when it comes to taking an outfit from simple to elevated this season. So after hours spent scrolling through ready-to-wear lookbooks, as well as plucking the brains of my fellow editors who attended the shows earlier this year, I was able to narrow my attention down to five key colour trends set to dominate autumn 2026. And you'll be pleased to know that from refined carbon greys to bold plum hues, there’s something to suit both minimalists and maximalists alike.

So if you, like me, have been feeling that urge for a new-season colour palette refresh, keep scrolling to discover the five easy but elegant colour trends that are set to be everywhere in autumn 2026.

5 Elegant But Easy-to-Wear Colour Trends That Will Dominate Autumn 2026

1. Midnight

Style Notes: Arguably the closest shade to black, midnight hues dominated the autumn/winter 2026 runways. Effortlessly elegant, expensive-looking. any price point and just as versatile as any neutral, it's the perfect colour for minimalists like me to invest in this season. And don’t just take it from me: the likes of Ferragamo, Gucci, Burberry and Victorita Bekcham are all backing this shade for the new season.

Shop the Colour Trend:

2. Plum

Style Notes: Whilst the deep burgundy hues that dominated last autumn were undoubtedly sophisticated, for 2026, I’m looking for something that feels just a tad more elevated. And the bold plum ensembles that were showcased on the runway from brands such as Miu Miu and Hermès feel like the perfect fit for my personal style. It feels equally as grown-up as it is fun, and also surprisingly versatile, pairing well with creams, black and even chocolate brown. To me, it adds just the right amount of colour to my minimalist wardrobe without feeling overbearing.

Shop the Colour Trend:

3. Carbon

Style Notes: Versatile, grown-up, and effortlessly cool, carbon grey has long been a part of my capsule colour palette. And luckily for me, designers are also placing this colour at the forefront for autumn 2026, with brands such as Prada, Bottega Veneta and Sportmax showing head-to-toe looks in this chic hue. From outerwear to heels, I’m very ready to embrace the “groutfit” this season.

Shop the Colour Trend:

4. Moss

Style Notes: Green has been trending on and off for a few years now, but instead of the warmer, olive-y iterations we saw last year, muted moss green is at the forefront of designers’ minds for the new year. But never fear, as it’s proving to be no less versatile. Seen on the runway on the likes of Fendi and Emporio Armani, moss green will pair effortlessly with black, white, and brown alike, proving its easy-styling ability. Me personally? I’d wear this elegant hue head-to-toe with pops of cream to break it up.

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5. Scarlet

Style Notes: Practically a neutral in the wardrobes of fashion people, it should come as no surprise that scarlet red is back for yet another season. From Chanel to Chloé, it seemed like luxury fashion houses couldn't get enough of this eye-catching shade. And the best part? It’s a foolproof way to earn you compliments no matter the price point you decide to invest in.

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We're expected to spend summer living as freely as possible, and the same goes for summer outfits. Loose layers, stripped-back styling and easy-breezy effortlessness that can be thrown on at a moment's notice? The truth was more sticky discomfort while navigating heatwave after heatwave. After weeks of under (then over) dressing for the temperatures, I've found myself desperate to be chilly again. Note: that does not mean cold, but rather mild enough to warrant at least two layers of clothing up top. In short, I want to get back to wearing autumn clothes again.

Autumn doesn't have to mean bundling up against bracing winds (leave that to winter); in fact, it's actually the best of both worlds. New collections drop at the same time we fall into the excitement of "back to school" energy, and we get to wear all of our newness at once instead of saving it for later. Knitwear, jackets, jeans and closed-toe shoes; I'd argue that autumn is actually much more comfortable than summer clothing, but if you fall into the trap of relying on a functional capsule over enjoying the best of autumnal styling, I'd urge you to look to the runways for inspiration.

Prada's take on the "Frazzled English Woman" aesthetic, Chanel's zip-up jackets and knee-length skirts, Stella McCartney's teddy coats and matching stoles—this autumn is all about wearable pieces styled up to full effect. So, if you were wondering what to expect from designers this autumn, keep scrolling to see the six best luxury fashion trends for the season ahead. They're so good, you'll be happy to trade what's left of summer.

1. The Elevated Biker Jacket

Style Notes: Yes, for autumn/winter 2026, the perennial wardrobe staple is back (albeit with a glossier, more directional feel), as designers move beyond the classic bells-and-whistles biker in favour of sleeker, minimalist finishes and exaggerated proportions. Funnel-necks, belted waists, cropped cuts and oversized bombers all make a strong case for autumn, especially paired with tailored trousers and pencil skirts. With this season's jacket less about rebellious edge and more about luxurious leather, if you're going to invest in one autumn jacket this year, make it a pared-back leather piece.

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2. Spicy Red

Style Notes: It might not be entirely new, and in fact, bold red spiked in popularity in 2024 too, but this year chilli red is shaping up to be one of 2026's breakout trends. From vivid scarlets to fiery vermillion, punchy pops of red are spicing up an otherwise wintery palette with a much-needed dose of energy. At Loewe, red was styled with sunny yellows for spring/summer and reappeared on the A/W 26 runway, grounded in black. Similarly, at Gucci, in a sea of black-and-white looks, a bold red top and leggings stood out for all the right reasons. The key to wearing red this season? The brighter, the better. Whether that's a head-to-toe look or simply one standout piece, this isn't a trend for subtle wallflowers.

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3. The Reworked Trench

Style Notes: The classic trench coat was due a little makeover, and now the wardrobe classic is anything but predictable. Rather than sticking to the familiar double-breasted silhouette and waist belt, this season's trenches are being reworked in glossy leather, cape cuts, contrast collars, cropped hems and, of course, unexpected proportions. Burberry naturally led the charge, opening the A/W 26 show with a ruffled trench and closing with embossed vinyl, whilst Bottega's oversized coat sported a collar and epaulettes in the unmistakable intrecciato leather.

When it comes to coats, it's easy to settle for the same old wool coat, but this autumn's outerwear has all the versatility of the classic trench with considerably more fashion appeal. For A/W 26, consider this your cue to retire the sensible mac in favour of something with a little more personality.

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4. Heritage Checks

Style Notes: Sorry, polka dots; if there’s one print set to take over our wardrobes for the remainder of the year, it’s checks. The classic motif feels fresher, bolder and more in your face than previous years, with oversized gingham, clashing tartans and a rich autumnal palette getting the designer seal of approval. The beauty of the trend is its versatility and wearability; try a checked coat or blazer with pared-back basics for an effortless take, or embrace the print head-to-toe à la Dries Van Noten and Dior for maximum impact. Even better, the trend has already started filtering into stores, with checked shirts, dresses and jackets proving to be some of the easiest ways to give your transitional wardrobe an instant autumn update.

Shop Checks:

5. Psychedelic Bohemia

Style Notes: What do you get when you mix last year's Pucci spring/summer with Chloé autumn/winter 2025? "Psychedelic bohemia", of course. Watercolours and muted tones are about to give way to a vibrant kaleidoscope of colours, punchy rainbow stripes and rich, folkloric florals, all clashing in a heady mix that feels like an evolution of last autumn/winter. This time around, rather than focusing on floaty layers and fringing, try grounding colourful prints with fluffy faux-fur coats and sharp knee-high boots. Think earthy browns, deep reds and jewel tones brought to life with zingy oranges and fresh pastels that will give your autumn wardrobe a new lease of life.

There are certain weeks on the fashion calendar that you look forward to, and then there's Copenhagen Fashion Week. This August, I found myself back in the Danish capital for the spring/summer 2027 shows, and the timing couldn't have been more fitting: CPHFW was celebrating its 20th anniversary, and the entire city seemed to be celebrating along with it. Copenhagen has spent the past two decades quietly—and then not so quietly—cementing itself as one of fashion's most exciting cities, and this season, you could feel just how much the event has grown. The shows were packed, the streets were buzzing, and everywhere you looked, there seemed to be an editor, buyer, designer, or exceptionally well-dressed Dane biking past you.

Of course, Copenhagen is also Copenhagen, which means the week extends well beyond the clothes. There were cardamom buns eaten between appointments, dinners that ran later than planned, more outfit photos than I care to admit, and plenty of time spent studying the street style while pretending I wasn't. Even after several seasons, I always leave with a slightly different idea of how I want to dress and an even longer list of Scandinavian brands I want in my closet.

Consider this my Copenhagen Fashion Week and CIFF diary for spring/summer 2027: the shows I loved, the things I wore, the places I ate, the designers I discovered, and all the little moments in between that made this season feel particularly exciting.

8 a.m.: I woke up early with severe jet lag to work ahead of New York hours. I stayed at the CitizenM Copenhagen Radhuspladsen in the heart of the city center, where stylish Scandinavian design meets a tech-forward room (everything was controlled with my iPad!) and a social-first design that encouraged conversation and connection. It was almost like a hostel. I went upstairs to get a coffee before quickly changing into my trend-forward outfit and heading out to CIFF, the Copenhagen International Fashion Fair.

9:45 a.m.: The annual buyer's breakfast for CIFF is here. The trade show is one of Europe's most influential events and brings together hundreds of established and emerging brands and the buyers, editors, and industry insiders who decide what you'll actually see in stores next season. I've attended CIFF for several seasons now, and spending a few hours walking the floor has become one of my favorite ways to start the week. This morning was mostly about catching up with familiar faces and hearing from CIFF CEO Sofie Dolva about what's next, including the organization's growing international presence and collaborations in Paris, Milan, and Miami. Copenhagen may be home base, but CIFF's world is getting considerably bigger.

11 a.m.: Conveniently, I didn't have to go far for my next appointment. I stopped by the Paraiso Miami Swim Week x CIFF kickoff event cohosted with Elle Denmark to learn more about the new partnership bringing Miami's swimwear world to Scandinavia. Paraiso has become a major platform for swim and resort designers during Miami Swim Week, and seeing that perspective brought into CIFF felt like an interesting meeting of two very different fashion cities. The best part of any trade show, though, is stumbling across a brand you weren't looking for at all. This time, that discovery came courtesy of Sigal, a Miami-based brand helmed by a Venezuelan designer whose pieces immediately caught my eye and, as tends to happen at CIFF, gave me another name to add to my ever-growing list of brands to watch.

What I Wore

12 p.m.: From CIFF, I rushed back into the city to make the OpéraSport show with zero time to spare. The collection was quintessentially Danish cool girl, with lots of clever unlayering, pieces worn half-buttoned or slightly undone, and that perfectly imperfect summer styling Copenhagen does so well. It felt less like getting dressed according to a formula and more like throwing on your favorite pieces and somehow looking infinitely cooler because of it. Naturally, I took notes and countless pictures for my Instagram story.

3 p.m.: With a few hours left before dinner, I headed back to my hotel, CitizenM, for the rarest fashion week activity of all: sitting down. I posted up at the hotel's rooftop lounge with my laptop and a cocktail, caught up on some work, and took in the view before heading back out for the evening.

6 p.m.: In perhaps my most controversial Copenhagen Fashion Week decision, I had an extremely early dinner at Olise and ordered a salad. If you've been following the ongoing lettuce-related virus situation in the U.S., you'll understand why eating a giant plate of raw vegetables abroad felt like a luxury. Afterward, I did something even more shocking during fashion week. I went straight to bed. With an early morning ahead, day one was officially over.

9:30 a.m.: Day two was, without question, my busiest day of the week. My calendar was essentially one very long game of Tetris, with appointments, shows, and dinners stacked on top of one another. There was very little room for Copenhagen traffic, sudden downpours, or my tendency to lose track of time when there's jewelry involved. Naturally, the day started at Lié Studio, one of my favorite Danish jewelry brands, founded by twin sisters and former models Amalie and Cecilie Moosgaard. The jewelry is minimalist without ever feeling boring, which is a balance the Danes seem particularly good at striking. I've been a fan for years and stopped by to see what the sisters have coming for spring. There was plenty to add to my mental wish list, including a new handbag that I haven't stopped thinking about since.

10 a.m.: Conveniently, my next appointment was right next door at Tekla, where it was Christmas in August. I got an early look at the Copenhagen-based brand's holiday collection and spent a not-insignificant amount of time convincing myself that I did not need a dozen new towels for my apartment. If you've ever stepped inside a Tekla store, you'll understand the temptation. The brand has a way of making something as mundane as bath linens feel like a very necessary design purchase.

10:30 a.m.: Then it was on to Ragbag for my second jewelry appointment of the morning. The Copenhagen-based studio takes inspiration from art, architecture, and nature, working with everything from freshwater pearls to natural stones, and every piece I own from the brand feels like a tiny work of art. I left with a few new additions—including a very fun toe ring—that immediately became part of my fashion week wardrobe. By the end of the trip, I had worn them with practically everything.

1 p.m.: Somewhere between attending jewelry appointments and answering emails, I completely lost track of time and realized I was going to be very late to the Skall Studio show. Cue me frantically calling an Uber in the middle of a Copenhagen downpour and pulling up just as the show was starting. Founded by sisters Julie and Marie Skall, the brand always occupies this dreamy little corner of Scandinavian fashion that's romantic, whimsical, and slightly transported from another era. If a character from Pride and Prejudice suddenly developed impeccable Danish taste, I imagine she'd wear Skall Studio. I arrived damp and mildly frazzled; the clothes were considerably more composed.

2 p.m.: After the show, I stopped at 7-Eleven for snacks and squeezed in some much-needed laptop time. (A word of advice: If you're ever in Denmark, get a træstamme. Just trust me.) I'm working on a few big, top-secret projects at the moment, so any open hour on my fashion week schedule quickly became an opportunity to open my laptop, answer approximately 400 emails, and attempt to make a dent in my actual work.

What I Wore

5 p.m.: Next up was Gestuz, my first truly massive show of the week and always one of my favorites for trendspotting and people-watching. The crowd alone is worth studying—editors, buyers, influencers, and seemingly every exceptionally well-dressed person in Copenhagen packed into one space. Then the lights went down, the phones came out, and it was time to see what we'd all be talking about next season.

7 p.m.: After Gestuz, I hopped onto a shuttle headed roughly 40 minutes outside the city for By Malene Birger's return to the Copenhagen Fashion Week schedule. The brand was one of several major names returning for CPHFW's 20th-anniversary season, so this one felt particularly special. Normally, being trapped on a bus during fashion week would send me into a mild panic about everything I should be doing. This time, I welcomed it. Forty uninterrupted minutes meant catching up on work, charging my phone, and yapping with friends without feeling remotely guilty about any of the above.

8 p.m.: Showtime! The collection was everything I want from By Malene Birger: polished, sophisticated, and distinctly Scandinavian. The pieces will make you want to immediately reconsider your entire wardrobe. There were also some very familiar faces making their way down the runway (hi, Mona Tougaard!), which only added to the feeling that this was one of those capital-F fashion moments of the week.

10 p.m.: Back in Copenhagen, I headed straight to the Royal Danish Playhouse for dinner with CIFF. After spending so much of the week looking at clothes, one of my favorite things about these dinners is getting to sit next to the people who are actually deciding what ends up in stores. I was surrounded by some incredible buyers from Turkey, comparing notes on the collections we'd seen and, more importantly, hearing about the trends they're already placing orders on ahead of next season. It's essentially fashion week market research, just with better food and wine.

11:30 p.m.: Against all odds—and my rapidly declining energy levels—I made it to a Havaianas party, where the brand was celebrating its new kitten-heel flip-flops. Yes, Havaianas made kitten heels, and yes, they were one of the buzziest styles of Copenhagen Fashion Week! By this point, however, my primary thought was sleep. Momma needed to go to bed. I grabbed a Diet Coke, took in the scene, promptly called my Uber, and crashed into my big, fluffy hotel bed. Fashion week would resume in approximately eight hours.

9 a.m.: I kicked off day three at the Sophie Bille Brahe showroom, which is basically my version of a candy store. As Who What Wear's resident jewelry snob—I say that with love and a frightening amount of conviction—I'm a huge fan of Bille Brahe's work, particularly her slightly unexpected takes on pearls and diamonds. Getting to see the new collection up close only confirmed that obsession. There are several pieces I haven't stopped thinking about since, which is becoming a dangerous theme of this trip.

11 a.m.: From there, I booked it to Stine Goya, which made its very welcome return to the Copenhagen Fashion Week schedule this season after three seasons away. I've always loved the brand and have a few pieces in my own closet, so seeing it back on the runway felt particularly exciting. The label has never been afraid of color or a great print, and in a city known for a minimalist approach to getting dressed, that unabashed sense of fun feels like a breath of fresh air.

12 p.m.: Next up was Herskind, another CIFF brand and a particularly special one for me. The label is a true family affair, led by founder and designer Birgitte Herskind alongside her daughter, Brand Director Andrea Hess. I've been lucky enough to know the two for a while now, and their designs are genuinely some of my favorites to wear. This season delivered plenty of what Herskind does best: sharp, modern tailoring softened by sheer, fluid fabrics and unexpected styling. I currently have my eye on one particularly gauzy skirt, so please don't be surprised if it makes an appearance in my closet next spring!

What I Wore

2 p.m.: After the shows, I headed to Hotel Bella Grande to meet with the London-based Rixo team, who had taken over a beautiful showroom for the week to preview its new fall collection. As expected, there were plenty of vintage-inspired prints and dresses, but it was the coats that really got me. I've already made mental notes of the ones I'll be buying once September and October roll around. Even better, the showroom was within walking distance of my home-base hotel (the CitizenM Copenhagen), so I managed to sneak back to my room before heading out again. I've stayed 20-plus minutes outside the center during fashion week before, and when you're changing outfits, dropping off bags, and running between appointments all day, location is everything. Trust me.

7 p.m.: After a few much-needed hours off my feet, I headed to King's Garden for Baum und Pferdgarten, where the runway was tucked between the trees in the park. The collection, titled After the Rehearsal, imagined ballerinas after leaving dance practice, which translated into the delightfully undone styling I love seeing in Copenhagen: layers upon layers, leg warmers, headbands, and plenty of ballet references without feeling overly precious. I had gotten a sneak peek at the brand's new ballet shoes a few days earlier, but seeing them styled in the full collection made me want them even more. J'adore!

10 p.m.: My final stop of the night was Rotate's fashion week after-party, which, rather conveniently for someone getting married next month, transformed the venue into a very fabulous wedding chapel. I happily soaked up all the cool-girl bridal inspiration I could before admitting defeat and heading back to my hotel. The best party favor of the entire week also came courtesy of Rotate: custom wedding-themed lighters. Could I pack them in my carry-on to take back home? Probably not. Extremely chic nonetheless? Absolutely.

8 a.m.: There are few things that will convince me to wake up early during fashion week, but apparently, half-marathon training is one of them. I'm currently training with Nike for a half-marathon after my wedding, which meant my final fashion week morning began with a five-mile run through the city. I strategically mapped my route to end at Juno, one of Copenhagen's most beloved bakeries, because if I'm going to run five miles before a full day of shows and appointments, there should at least be a cardamom bun waiting for me at the finish line.

10 a.m.: One run later, I headed to the Rhode pop-up, one of the last stops on the brand's summer tour. Naturally, I used the opportunity to restock my lip treatments—fashion week is basically an endurance sport for both me and my lip products—and tried Rhode's cardamom latte while I was there. It was very Copenhagen, very on-brand, and exactly the caffeine-and-sugar situation I needed to fuel my final day.

12 p.m.: After seeing Herskind on the runway the day before, I went back for a resee of the collection. As much as I love the spectacle of a show, there's something particularly useful about getting to see the clothes again up close. You notice the construction, fabrics, and tiny details that can disappear when a look is walking past you in a matter of seconds. I caught up with the Herskind team about the inspiration behind the season and all the playful details Birgitte has been working into the collections lately. Case in point: an incredible feather skirt that was a showpiece on the runway and, more than two weeks later, is still living rent-free in my head.

What I Wore

7 p.m.: I headed to Collina Strada. The New York–based label was Copenhagen Fashion Week's guest designer for the spring/summer 2027 season, bringing a little NYC chaos to the Scandi fashion scene. I've been lucky enough to see Collina Strada at New York Fashion Week before, so watching Hillary Taymour's wonderfully weird world land in Copenhagen offered an entirely new perspective on a brand I thought I knew. There was plenty of the whimsy you'd expect, from playful accessories to offbeat styling and unexpected details, but against a Copenhagen backdrop, it all felt surprisingly at home.

8 p.m.: From Collina Strada, I headed straight to Caro Editions, which delivered exactly the kind of energy you want from your final show during fashion week. The models walked with attitude, the soundtrack was incredible, and the entire runway felt electric—as Caro Editions shows usually do. I also loved seeing the brand continue to work with deadstock fabric, turning existing materials into pieces that feel entirely fresh and distinctly its own. Between the clothes, the casting, and the music, it was less of a polite sit-and-watch runway and more of a full-on mood. It was the jolt of excitement I needed before dinner.

8:30 p.m.: There was really only one place I wanted to end my week: Esmée. It's my favorite restaurant in Copenhagen and a fashion-crowd favorite for good reason. Everywhere you turn, there's something (or someone!) to look at. After four days of running between shows, showrooms, appointments, and CIFF, sitting down for a long dinner felt like the perfect way to close out the week—one last great meal, one last round of people-watching, and approximately 400 new things saved to my spring wish list. Until next season, Copenhagen!

Fashion month might technically begin in New York, but for the last few years, I've found myself getting my first real read on the season several weeks earlier—and several thousand miles away. Every August, Copenhagen International Fashion Fair, better known as CIFF, takes over Copenhagen's sprawling Bella Center, bringing buyers, designers, editors, and industry insiders together to see what's coming next. While the term "trade show" might conjure images of fluorescent lighting and endless rows of booths, CIFF is anything but. It's cool, sexy, and increasingly one of the most important stops on the global fashion calendar.

In recent years, CIFF's influence has stretched well beyond Copenhagen. The organization has staged showrooms in Paris and Milan and partnered with international fashion organizations and events, including the Council of Fashion Designers of America and Paraiso Miami Swim Week, as part of a larger push to bring global brands into the Scandinavian market while giving Danish and Nordic designers a bigger platform abroad. The result feels less like a traditional trade fair and more like a meeting point for the people deciding what fashion will actually look like six months from now.

That's precisely why I keep coming back. CIFF has drawn me to Copenhagen for the past few years, and I've come to think of it as the first stop on my womenswear calendar—a preview of the ideas, silhouettes, colors, and products that will inevitably resurface once the New York, London, Milan, and Paris shows roll around. In Copenhagen, however, there's another layer to the trend forecasting: money. Buyers are placing their first major orders of the season at CIFF, meaning you're not just seeing what has runway or social media appeal. You're seeing what stores are actually betting people will want to buy.

That space between creativity and commerce is particularly visible among Copenhagen Fashion Week names like Gestuz, Herskind, and OpéraSport, whose runway ideas can be traced back to the racks at the Bella Center through a much more commercial lens. Between those shows and the 1000+ brands gathered at CIFF this season, I spent the week comparing notes with buyers, tastemakers, and fellow editors about what they were seeing and, crucially, what they were buying. Consider this your first look at the trends poised to define spring 2027.

Shop the CIFF Spring/Summer 2027 Trends

Headscarves and Bandanas

If there was one styling trick I saw almost everywhere in Copenhagen, it was a scarf tied around the head. Bandanas and headscarves appeared on the OpéraSport runway and throughout Copenhagen Fashion Week, but what made the trend feel particularly convincing was how many buyers and editors had already adopted it themselves. Consider it the latest extension of that distinctly Scandinavian approach to getting dressed: Start with relatively simple pieces, then add one slightly unexpected element—preferably in a great color or print—to make the entire thing feel more interesting. At CIFF, scarves offered an easy injection of color against otherwise neutral outfits, whether tied under the chin, wrapped closely around the hair, or worn casually as a bandana.

Frog-Closure Details

Frog closures aren't exactly new to the fashion conversation, but Copenhagen made it clear that the detail isn't disappearing anytime soon. If anything, it's becoming more deeply embedded in the way designers are approaching everyday clothes. The decorative knotted fastening has been steadily gaining ground over the past few seasons, appearing on everything from jackets and cardigans to blouses and dresses, and at CIFF, the detail felt less like a novelty and more like a fully established style code. It's a lesson in thoughtfully designed minimalist dressing!

Heeled Thong Sandals

Humble flip-flops have been inching their way into high-fashion territory for seasons now, but Copenhagen might have finally completed the transformation. Havaianas was practically unavoidable during fashion week—most notably thanks to its ultra-viral kitten-heel flip-flops—and that influence spilled directly into CIFF. The Brazilian brand has become an unlikely fixture of Scandinavian style, where its ultra-casual sandals are routinely paired with the polished, minimalist clothing Copenhagen does best. For spring 2027, however, buyers seem ready to take the idea one step further. Across the fair, thong sandals were getting an upgrade: slightly higher heels, sleeker shapes, and more refined finishes that make them feel less beach-bound and more appropriate with trousers, skirts, and dresses.

Moss Green

Copenhagen has a way of making you reconsider colors you hadn't previously thought much about, and for spring 2027, that color is moss green. At Gestuz, the earthy shade appeared with the brand's signature cool, slightly undone sensibility, making a hue that could easily skew outdoorsy feel unexpectedly sleek. Elsewhere throughout the week and inside CIFF, similarly murky greens offered a compelling alternative to the burgundy, brown, and khaki palettes that have defined fashion's recent infatuation with sophisticated neutrals.

Exaggerated Brooches

The easiest way to make a very Scandinavian outfit feel considerably less basic next spring? Pin something enormous to it. At Herskind, exaggerated brooches punctuated the brand's otherwise streamlined looks, adding a decorative, eccentric element to clean tailoring and layered separates. It's a small styling move with an outsized effect that feels particularly relevant after seasons of fashion becoming increasingly interested in personalization.

Is there anything better than handbag shopping? There's no queuing for changing rooms, no wondering if it'll fit, no praying that your size is still in stock, or going back and forth on whether to size up for a more relaxed fit. Handbags always get it right, but shopping for "the one" does have one major drawback.

Unlike the sequin skirt you bought for that New Year's Eve party, or the feathered shoe you wore to your friend's wedding, there's something about bags that can encourage us play it a little too safe. We put so much onus on them being "timeless!", "so versatile!" and "something I'll use every day!" that we all too often skip the punchier, more fun aesthetic in favour of a plain old classic.

For those of us who are just a little tired of the same-old, however, autumn's runways brought good news. If you thought summer was the season for fun, frivolous fashion, A/W'26 is here to prove that theory very wrong.

We've done the legwork and sifted through the endless classic black totes (no shade, we love them too) and found some of the most fun handbag trends for autumn 2026. Here are the ones that made it onto our wish list...

5 Runway-Approved Fun Handbag Trends for Autumn

1. Pendant Purses

Style notes: Jewellery aficionados, assemble. This season's handbag game is venturing very much into your arena. Just as pendant necklaces have begun taking over from simpler chains in recent months, pendulum-like vessels swung from the hands of several models during the autumn/winter 2026 shows. With everyone from Chanel to Chloé, Gucci and Christian Dior tapping into the trend, there was no denying that style was very much in favour over substance when it came to these party bags. Intricate design, beautiful detailing and light-hearted, tongue-in-cheek concepts? Absolutely. Space to fit your phone? Who needs one of those?

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2. Carpet Florals

Style notes: Have you ever looked at your Grandma's intricately floral, woven carpet and thought 'if only I could have a handbag made in that exact fabric'? It seems A/W '26 heard your call, and has served up these nostalgic florals in abundance when it comes to the season's top bag offerings. The perfect antidote to the neutral tones and fuss-free simplicity of recent must-have bags, these are statement accessories that pack enough of a punch to carry even the most basic jeans-and-a-tee outfit.

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3. The Great Unzipped

Style notes: If you've ever caught a glimpse of yourself on the Ring Doorbell looking frustrated and a little flustered after rummaging in your bag looking for your house keys, then screenshot it. Study it. Because that's the look. Bag hanging open, buckles unclasped, zips unzipped, contents threatening to make their escape. And if you think I'm joking you only need to look to the likes of Altuzarra, Balenciaga, Loewe, Chanel and Fendi for corroboration. With enough internal hardware and subtle fixtures to ensure that these intentionally relaxed silhouettes are in fact structurally sound, it seems that the more lived-in look loved by Jane Birkin (who famously carried her namesake Hermès bag with similar abandon) is going nowhere.

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4. Heavy Metal

Style notes: While we may not have made it to party season just yet, December's favourite arm candy is making an early entrance into the handbag rotation come autumn. Whether you're a millennial who can't let go of that yellow gold yearning or a Gen Z who's backing the resurgence of silver, as long as your bag game has a touch of metallic about it you're hitting the right notes. From Dior's crinkled, foil-like totes to Rabanne and Stella McCartney's more chainmail takes, heavy metal hit the season's top runways with unanimous enthusiasm, meaning that the high street's iterations won't be too far behind.

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5. Make a Fuzz

Style notes: For those whose love language is physical touch, we present to you the season's fluffiest offering. With faux fur and super soft shearling proving some of the more popular fabrics for your next handbag, the rest of it is very much up for discussion. Whether you're looking for something small and perfect for eveningwear à la Simone Rocha, something immediately attention-grabbing like Chanel's oversized flap bag, something fun and colourful via Fendi or something a little more fuss-free and monochrome like Bottega, the autumn runways' only stipulation is that there must be no scrimping on the fluff.

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Jennifer Atilémile is the definition of a woman who does it all. A true multi-hyphenate, she is a model, writer, creative, activist, and intellectual. As an editor in residence, she gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the fashion industry.

Jennifer Atilémile is the definition of a woman who does it all. A true multi-hyphenate, she is a model, writer, creative, activist, and intellectual. As an editor in residence, she gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the fashion industry.

I love Denmark. Every time I go, I come home with a renewed appreciation for my own life and for the Danes themselves. There's a reason Copenhagen was just named the world's happiest city, topping the 2026 Happy City Index. This was my first time experiencing it in summer—10/10, would recommend.

Naturally, I did what any curious person does and typed "Why are people in Copenhagen so happy?" into Google. What I found kept coming back to one idea: empowerment. The city consistently gets credit for how much it lets people design their own lives, and there's a lovely line in an article about the topic from the Danish professor Christian Bjørnskov that says, "What is special about Danish society is that it allows people to choose the kind of life they want to live."

That's why so many people look to Copenhagen for its street style and why I feel so drawn to it. It's a reflection of how people actually want to dress rather than how an algorithm told them to be cool or chic. They are the embodiment of taking up space.

Their concept of hygge is one I relate to. I have a Substack blog called To Life, With Love, after all. Hygge is about enjoying the simple, good parts of life together with people you care about, and that's something I try to practise every day. It's no wonder the fashion reflects the way people live here. Every day, people get dressed with intention, with joy, and with love, and it shows in the street style.

I stayed at Hotel Ottilia in the old Carlsberg brewery. Other than the fact that it didn't have air conditioning (a privilege I've come to learn is a luxury now that I live in the U.S.), it was a perfect base. It was a little far from the centre of town for an event like fashion week, but it was a 15-minute cycle, something I ended up doing almost every day. By the end, I think I was biking for several hours a day. The hotel bikes had only three gears, and after arriving to one too many things sweaty, I switched to a LimeBike. Here's everything I wore in Copenhagen.

Day 1

Morning: OpéraSport sheer dress, Good American jeans

I went to the OpéraSport show and was given this look to wear. I loved wearing the sheer top over a pair of baggy jeans. (These are Good American.) My first instinct was to wear the dress on its own with a contrasting set underneath, but I opted for the jeans instead. It was my first day, and I wanted to suss out how dressed up everyone else was going before I committed. That's the thing about a piece like this, though: Knowing I can style it at least two ways is a reason I'll buy something, and bonus if you're trying to pack light. It's another outfit for your trip.

Evening: Stella Nova dress, Nike Moon Shoes

This dress was lovely. I rode my bike to the presentation and opted for Nike Moon Shoes instead of kitten heels. For evening, I think I'd have preferred the kitten heels, but the dress's open back won me over.

Later: Dissh matching set

This was one of my favourite outfits of the trip. It's a dress and a pair of pants, and in true Scandi style, I wore them together. The beauty of it is I could wear each separately for the rest of the trip too. That first day was very, very hot, and since I'd committed to biking everywhere, the loose fabrics went down a treat. It's much easier to cycle in pants than a dress, although I'll maintain that riding a bike in a dress is very chic.

Day 2

To the show: Saint Art pants, The Frankie Shop shirt, basic tank

I knew I'd be getting out of this almost the second I arrived, so I wanted something comfortable I could sit around in and get my makeup done in while still looking effortlessly cool. I didn't realise how valuable my flip-flops would be here or how much everyone in Copenhagen wears them. It made my shoe packing very easy, and honestly, it'd make a great carry-on-only hack.

On the Gestuz runway

I wore a boss '80s-inspired suit down the runway for Gestuz. I love a blue-collared shirt with work-style pants, and the khaki-and-blue combination was really striking.

To watch: By Malene Birger dress, The Frankie Shop shirt, AWD sunglasses, Polène bag

I loved the colour of this dress; it really popped in golden hour, which is exactly when the show was. I added the Frankie Shop shirt as a layering piece, and the pop of blue from the sunglasses tied back to my shoes. But the bag was the star: a special-edition Polène Béri Lif. It's out of stock now, and I feel very lucky to own what I can only describe as a piece of art.

Day 3

Showroom appointments: Oasis tee, Shona Joy pants

On my final day, I attended a couple of showroom appointments before my last show. I wore my fiancé's old Oasis tee over these Shona Joy pants, and it was a genuinely cool look—right up until I put a massive tear in them adjusting the seat of my LimeBike. I look defeated here. It was hot, my pants were ripped, and I was running late. Classic fashion story.

On the Almada runway

For Almada, I walked in a black dress and a silk cape that billowed behind me as I moved. I felt beautiful. The brand actually operated a see-now, buy-now model for its debut runway, so you can actually shop this look right now!

The Copenhagen Trends I'm Bringing Home

From what I saw on the runways and, honestly, even more on the streets, here's what's worth stealing.

Flip-Flops

Everyone wears flip-flops in Copenhagen—to shows, to dinner, on a bike. It made my packing easy (although you know I brought more shoes than days), and it's the ultimate carry-on-only hack, which I did not do this trip. To alternate between styles, opt for leather, maybe kitten heels, and then the classic Havaianas. Maybe even throw in a jelly pair.

Balloon Pants

I love balloon pants. They're so comfortable, and I think they look good on everyone. They're bike-friendly, too, which goes far in Copenhagen.

Draped Silk and Chiffon

Bias-cut silk and layers of chiffon are fabrics that catch the light and the wind. I even wore the trend on the runway for Almada.

Just look at this detail from By Malene Birger.

A Pop of Blue

Blue was my little obsession this trip. Move over, red! A single hit of blue—on sunglasses, a bag, or shoes—running through an otherwise neutral or tonal outfit is the easiest way to incorporate it. Blue was everywhere, and it's so easy to make it yours rather than copy the algorithm.

Taking Up Space

No matter where you live, this one's the most important to remember. In Copenhagen, the fashion people were not afraid to wear silhouettes that didn't make them look smaller. They wanted to take up space, and they wanted to do it loudly. They were confidently themselves. It's not just a trend. It's an actual way to live, and we should all want to steal it!

Final Thoughts

Copenhagen reminded me that getting dressed is supposed to be fun. Sure, Scandi minimalism was still alive and well, but getting dressed here felt intentional. It's a moment at the beginning of your day where you decide who you are and show it to the world. I think that's why the happiest city in the world also happens to have the best street style. When people are free to choose the life they want, they know who they are, and they dress like it.

Once again, I'm bringing a little bit of Copenhagen home with me: the permission to take up space loudly, to wear the things that make me feel like me. You don't need to be in Copenhagen to do it; you just have to let yourself be free.

If Copenhagen showed me one thing, it's that curves aren't going anywhere. Take up all the space you want!

Striding into the new season after months of constantly rotating through the same transitional basics can always feel like a daunting task, let alone if you’re not well-versed in the autumn 2026 shoe trends that are set to dominate the months ahead. Compared to any other category, especially bags, footwear has become one of the most hotly contested topics in fashion conversations. Be it unpacking the rise of “freaky shoes”, a term for unorthodox styles coined by fashion commentator and trend forecaster Mandy Lee, breaking down the influx of phalange-forward shapes like heeled flip-flops or simply arguing whether it’s socially acceptable for men to bare so much of their foot, like the plastic dress shoes put out by Saint Laurent are encouraging them to do, shoes are all anyone with excellent taste wants to discuss.

This wasn’t always the case, though. Once upon a time, unpacking the latest autumn shoe trends was a simple pursuit, so examining the leading styles could be a futile endeavour. If conversations were held, they would go a little something like this. The weather would cool, so you’d naturally park your balmy sandals for something sturdier; a simple loafer with gathered stitching or a heeled boot that grazed just above the ankle. Then, hybrid shapes became commonplace, with conventional shapes going the way of Mary Shelley’s famous monster and getting fused with unexpected elements. Now, post-sneakerina mania, designers are having to be more agile to satiate our appetites for new and novel shoe styles.

So, what does the season ahead have in store for us? If the collections presented back in February are any indication, it’s that autumn will certainly feel like a levelled playing field. After a period of slip-on loafers, jelly clogs, lace-up flats and any amusing concoction you can think of, the leading autumn shoe trends will return to a sense of normalcy. Though there are still elements of note and intrigue, they’re rooted more in sophistication rather than gimmick, meaning their interest derives from a genuine place of desirability as opposed to eye-catching novelty.

Still, don’t assume that the cold weather is automatically equated with boring footwear options. On the contrary, the key autumn shoe trends are subversive, cerebral and sophisticated. Even slightly daring, just without the stunts to prop them up. Without further ado, continue scrolling through to see the key autumn shoe trends that will define the season.

The 6 Key Autumn 2026 Shoe Trends

1. Knot Quite

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Style Notes: Lace-up heels are one of the rare examples of a hybrid shoe trend that feels genuinely dictated by the cultural zeitgeist. Equal parts Miss Havisham and Jackie Kennedy, the style bridges a sophisticated court shoe with antique elements derived from the Victorian era, like silver hardware and tie-up knotting. The result is something both witchy and polished, which feels completely apt given how prominent the posh gothic aesthetic was earlier in the year with the release of Emerald Fennell’s Wuthering Heights. Prada’s intentionally distressed version, which featured a dirt-stained effect along the edges, was the most noteworthy example of this trend, though it was also spotted elsewhere at Marni, Alexander McQueen and Khaite.

2. Sole Authority

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Style Notes: Autumn’s arrival is always somewhat of a reset. September’s chill encourages us to turn away from frivolities like beaded sandals and multi-colour flip-flops and focus on more practical matters, including shoes that can see us through more brisker elements. So, it should come as no surprise to see countless black oxfords on the runway. At Jil Sander, they were styled with black tights and slinky evening dresses. At Bottega Veneta, with knitted skull caps and sumptuous coats. At Celine, a more urban preppy mood was evoked when paired with pleated trousers, oversized jackets and multi-layered necklaces. Still, rather than feel super collegiate and The Secret History-esque, black oxfords were served up as the antithesis of bourgeois loafers. Less Patrick Bateman on Wall Street and more Fred Astaire in Funny Face.

3. Split Decision

Style Notes: Would a shoe by any other colour look as chic? Shakespeare didn’t pen this, but if we were writing about the two-toned shoe trend that prevailed this season, one might imagine he would write something similar. Though Chanel is synonymous with the style, courtesy of the fact that contrasting cap-toes have been a signature for the French maison since Gabrielle Chanel debuted her slingbacks in 1957, incumbent creative director Mattieu Blazy expanded the colour palette more broadly this season. Indeed, for his sophomore ready-to-wear presentation, he not only toyed with turquoise blues and deep merlots, but offered up new ways to style them, including with square-toe shapes and high vamp silhouettes. Naturally, this opened the floodgates for other designers to follow suit, including Valentino and Ferragamo. The ultimate way to wear this trend? Invest in two pairs of two-toned shoes and wear one of each à la Carrie Bradshaw when she went to Los Angeles.

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4. Deco Straps

Style Notes: Ever since the dawn of the roaring 2020s was eclipsed by a global pandemic, it’s taken several years for fashion to look to the past and revisit silhouettes and shapes that were popular over a century ago. As the autumn shoe trends indicate, a new Jazz Age is firmly upon us, especially in the footwear department. The biggest measure of this art deco redux is the rise of T-bar shoes, which is a style that featured prominently during the decade, from Josephine Baker to Clara Bow. At Dior, Jonathan Anderson took cues from Monsieur Dior’s adoration for the natural world by finishing his designs with saccharine rosettes. At Schiaparelli, Daniel Roseberry continued to hone Elsa Schiaparelli’s surrealist spirit with slingback-like styles with curved heels and mirror leather soles. As Jay Gatsby said, of course you can repeat the past…

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5. High Stakes

Style Notes: We’ve had tights as pants, socks as trousers and now, thigh-high boots as your entire ensemble. Crawling up the leg and over the knee, this shape adds a vampy element to an otherwise functional part of your look. Though most designers styled their versions underneath an opera jacket or tuxedo coat, Chemena Kamali took a more daring approach at Chloé. For a collection that derived inspiration from the harsh landscapes, folkloric prints and Scottish tweed and tartan, she designed a suite of thigh-high boots to sit over leather trousers alongside bobble cable knit sweaters or under checked blouses.

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6. Fowl Play

Style Notes: Since spring was a season of everyday excess, autumn was predictably going to see this sort of opulence trickle throughout the season. (Ok, I know I said we were done with more playful pieces, but this truly is the rare exception.) Texture emerged as one of the dominant themes of the season, with feathered shoes a key part of this trend. The only caveat I need to make is to warn you that these shoes are not safe for rain. So, it's best to wear them during autumn’s driest days, especially if you want to spice up a tried-and-tested rotation of blue jeans and V-neck jumpers.

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Twice a year, the fashion set descends upon Denmark to celebrate all things Scandi style. As someone who's attended Copenhagen Fashion Week several times over the years, I can attest that it's one of the most fun events on the entire fashion calendar. The positive vibes, young talent, spirited street style, and scenic show venues make Copenhagen the envy of New York, London, Milan, and, yes, even Paris.

Held in early August 2026, the spring/summer 2027 season was one for the books. Stine Goya and By Malene Birger made highly anticipated returns to the official schedule, and Collina Strada, a cult-favorite American brand, made the journey from NYC to CPH for a special runway show. Gestuz, MKDT Studio, The Garment, and Baum und Pferdgarten were also on hand to unveil their visions for spring 2027 style. Below, I've listed my top five favorite themes after I scrolled through every single look from CPHFW.

Cool Whip

Visiting brand Collina Strada, pictured above, showed wispy, cloudlike dresses for spring/summer 2027.

This Stine Goya dress looks as delicious as soft-serve ice cream.

Designed by Galib Gassanoff, Institution made a huge splash in its debut runway show at Copenhagen Fashion Week, thanks in part to cumulus confections like this dress.

Lawless Layers

On the topic of layering, the message from Copenhagen Fashion Week brands this season was clear: Anything goes. Nicklas Skovgaard, for instance, boldly layered a leather top and skirt over prim pastel gingham separates.

The Baum und Pferdgarten show was rife with chaotic-yet-cool layering moments, including this spotted dress worn over white leggings and paired with gray leg warmers.

At Skall Studio, artfully placed layers elevated a minimalist maxi dress.

Working Girl

At Gestuz, this plaid blazer with '80s-worthy shoulder pads looked like it came right out of a scene from Working Girl.

Shoulder pads were also spotted at Caro Editions. It's giving Fran Fine or perhaps even Grandma Yetta.

Nicklas Skovgaard gave its sweaters a touch of '80s chic in the form of shoulder pads.

Sail Away

Hoist up the sail! The Garment's billowy white blouse could catch a serious breeze.

When a basic white top won't cut it, consider Almada Label's cascading blouse.

Skall Studio knows exactly how to design good sleeves.

Limoncello

Lemon sorbet was a recurring theme in Paolina Russo's S/S 27 show.

At OpéraSport, pictured above, a light-yellow skirt and a steel-gray jacket made for an interesting color combo.

Herskind draped a beautiful pale-yellow shawl over a simple white T-shirt.

Copenhagen Fashion Week spring/summer 2027 has just wrapped, and there's one dress trend I haven't been able to stop thinking about since leaving the Danish capital: sheer, slinky, barely-there dresses. Across the runways, designers sent out body-skimming silhouettes and whisper-thin fabrics in shades of ivory, blush, and nude that felt romantic, a little undone, and undeniably sexy. Perhaps I have weddings on the brain given my own upcoming nuptials, but almost immediately, I started thinking about brides.

Wedding dressing has loosened up considerably over the past few years, especially once the ceremony is over. If the main gown is the moment for drama—corsetry, structure, trains, yards and yards of fabric—the second look has become its fun, slightly mischievous younger sister. It's shorter. It's slinkier. It's easier to dance in and, increasingly, a lot sexier.

At By Malene Birger, which returned to the Copenhagen Fashion Week schedule this season, that sensuality came with the kind of understated sophistication the label does so well. Think fluid fabrics, elongated silhouettes, and dresses that skim the body rather than sculpt it. One standout was a blush-toned metallic slip dress, a knowing homage to the famously sheer slip Kate Moss wore to a 1993 party in London.

Slinky Second Dresses on the Runway

Of course, sheer dressing isn't exactly breaking news. For the past several seasons, designers have experimented with transparency in practically every form imaginable, from gauzy skirts worn over briefs to lace dresses and the now-ubiquitous naked dress. But Copenhagen offered something a little different. There was less shock value, less "look at me" nakedness. Pale blush, creamy white, and skin-adjacent nudes made even the most revealing looks feel delicate rather than overt, more romantic than red carpet.

The idea took on different forms elsewhere. Baum und Pferdgarten paired transparency with floral embellishments for a coquettish take, and Freya Dalsjø went more directional, sending a model down the runway in a deep-U-neck satin gown. OpéraSport played with flowing lace-trimmed dresses, and The Garment approached the idea through two-piece silhouettes. Collina Strada, a New York–based label that showed at Copenhagen Fashion Week as an international guest, sent sequined bias-cut gowns down the runway, complete with detailed diamond accessories and floral accents. None of these looks were necessarily intended for a wedding, but that's sort of the point. Sometimes, the sexiest dress at the wedding isn't a wedding dress at all.

It's something style insiders have known for years: The best wedding dresses don't necessarily come from a bridal salon. The most interesting looks I've seen lately have come from ready-to-wear collections as brides look beyond traditional labels for rehearsal dinners, welcome parties, receptions, and everything in between. In that sense, Copenhagen's spring/summer 2027 runways feel particularly well-timed. A sheer ivory column dress or barely-there slip might not have been designed with a bride in mind, but with satin heels, a veil, and perhaps a martini after midnight, the proposition becomes pretty convincing.

Slinky Second Dresses on the Style Set

Traditional ball gowns and mantilla veils aren't disappearing anytime soon, nor should they. But once the reception ends and the after-party begins, brides will be ready to shed a few layers. Copenhagen's sheer dresses may not have been intended for the aisle, but come 2027, don't be surprised if you see them all over the dance floor.

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Many months ago, we made our predictions on the fall 2026 shoe trends that will become the most noteworthy. While our runway predictions are never far off, the first glimpses of fall fashion are beginning to take shape, which means it's time to revisit the footwear silhouettes to know. It may not technically be fall yet, but there's already one specific shoe trend that's resonating both in the designer collections and IRL, and it's set to be one of the major styles of the season: satin finishes

On the runways, that looked like a pair of '90s-inspired square-toe pumps in sumptuous black and red satin at Michael Kors, heeled mules with a loafer-like shape at Carven, and buckle-adorned kitten heels at Conner Ives. The trend has taken a much more casual, everyday appeal on the street, however, with the rise of satin ballet flats and satin sneakers that fashion people have been incorporating into their warm-weather outfits. The specific styles that are in the lead include Miu Miu's pretty Plume Sneakers and Reformation's royal purple ballerinas.

Here, discover the satin-shoe trend on the fall/winter 2026 runways and on fashion people, and then shop our favorite pairs.

On the F/W 26 Runways

Shop the Satin-Shoe Trend

Satin Flats

Calling all ballet-flat lovers. This is the next micro-trend you need to know. As ballerinas become less of a trend and more of a staple, we've seen them evolve season over season, and for fall '26, I'm calling it now: Satin styles are set to be the It flats of the moment.

Satin Heels

The fall/winter 2026 runways were replete with satin pumps, and they gave an elegant finish to the season's best skirt and dress ensembles. Some of the prettiest pairs on the market come in dazzling colors like ruby red, deep teal, and royal purple and offer a vivid pop of color against an otherwise neutral outfit.

Satin Sneakers

I'm not saying we told you so, but we did call out satin sneakers as a key style to know this spring. Since then, the momentum behind the trend has only snowballed. Designer pairs from Miu Miu and Dries Van Noten are easily the most in-demand, but as more retailers get on board, I'm starting to see pretty satin styles all over, from COS to Adidas.