While fashion insiders are already dissecting the biggest fall trends, there's one summer staple that the most stylish dressers aren't rushing to pack away just yet: white linen. Crisp, effortless, and undeniably elevated, it continues to earn its place in warm-weather wardrobes thanks to its ability to make even the simplest outfit feel polished. Rather than chasing every new seasonal arrival, fashion people are getting the most out of this timeless fabric while sunny days are still here.

Part of white linen's enduring appeal is that it always looks expensive without trying too hard. The airy texture brings dimension, the bright hue instantly freshens an outfit, and the lightweight feel is exactly what late-summer dressing calls for. It's one of those rare wardrobe investments that works for everything from vacation mornings to city afternoons and sunset dinners, making it just as relevant now as it was at the start of the season.

Of course, fall shopping will have its moment, but there's no reason to rush past one of fashion's most reliable warm-weather essentials. In fact, this is often the best time to invest, as plenty of standout styles are still available and easy to wear. Ahead, discover the best white linen fashion finds that will carry you through the remainder of summer looking chic, cool, and effortlessly put-together.

Best White Linen Fashion Items

Get the look: Strapless top + Linen midi skirt + Flip-flops

Get the look: Oversize jacket + Tank + Linen shorts

Get the look: Sweater + Linen pants + Oversize sunglasses

Get the look: Linen top + White jeans + Sandals

Get the look: Linen top + Matching shorts + Jelly flats

Get the look: T-shirt + Linen pants + Scarf belt

Get the look: Linen top + Matching skirt + Lace-up sandals

Get the look: Linen dress + Flip-flops + Oversize bag

Get the look: Cardigan + Tank + Linen skirt + Ballet flats

Get the look: Linen top + Balloon pants + Flip-flops

Most Wanted is a weekly series in which one Who What Wear team member or friend of the brand will share the top fashion finds on their current wish list.

Don't get me wrong—I love a good basic. This month, however, my cart has been anything but. Every so often, I get the urge to shake things up, and after browsing this week's new arrivals, the items in my cart reflect that urge. My list is chock-full of bright colors, unexpected silhouettes, and pieces that are more fun than my typical rotation, and I've included affordable finds from Free People, Levi's, Coach, Adidas, and more. Ahead, find my late-summer edit for anyone else who could also use a little more color and personality in their wardrobe.

If I were to tell you I hadn't had a pedicure in almost a year, would you hold it against me? While I've kept to my mani appointments, a mixture of small-talk fatigue and my toddler breaking my big toe in several places twice in six months has rendered the hour-long pedi appointments all-too-easy to back out of.

Luckily for me, the very chicest French fashion circles look to have joined my movement. Whether they, too, have had their toes smashed to smithereens by an overzealous one-year-old or have rather just grown tired of sandals being the summer default, the It girls of Paris seem to have come to a collective decision that toes are officially out. Of style, I mean. Crucially, they're very much in when it comes to your footwear...

Looking to mix up your shoe game and opt for something slightly less obvious than a sandal this summer? Keep scrolling to check out the 7 trends we've spotted all over the streets of Paris that are dominating the very coolest French wardrobes right now.

7 French Girl-Approved Sandal Alternatives for 2026

1. Mesh Flats

Style notes: If you've been paying attention to the runways/your favourite influencers/our very own trend pages of late, you'll know that red is having a real moment. But that's not the only trend going on here, as mesh flats are in fact one of the most popular looks to come out of summer 2026. Whether it's tight sheer mesh that follows the contours of the foot or a more open fishnet-style weave, this subtly revealing aesthetic is no longer reserved solely for the high fashion followers, as it has been over recent seasons, and is now a certified staple on the Parisian pavements.

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2. Soft-Girl Sneakers

Style notes: If you're more of a sneaker girlie than a sandal one then listen up. Officially the chicer option this season, you'll be pleased to know you needn't swap your favourite kicks for a toes-out situation in 2026. You might, however, want to switch up your trainer aesthetic. A whole lot softer - both tangibly and visually - this trend is all about pastel hues, slimline silhouettes, ruching and delicate laces.

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3. Ruched Loafers

Style notes: Up until now, the fashion world has been strictly divided in two: loafer-wearers and non-loafer wearers. Now, however, the lines are a little more blurred, with many finally falling for the allure; myself included. While they once felt a little stuffy and preppy for my, and many others', aesthetic, they've softened in both fabric and reputation, and now look just as great with a wide-leg trouser as they do a sporty mini short. The key is to find the right sock, and for summer 2026 that's a red or bright blue.

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4. Pointed Slingbacks

Style notes: It's not all about comfort, right? For those who are also a bit of a glutton for punishment when it comes to sartorial choices, the hottest heel on the streets of Paris right now comes in the form of a pointed slingback. Perfect for just about any plans you have that don't involve too much walking, Parisians particularly love them paired with a super casual t-shirt look.

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5. Round-Toe Fishermans

Style notes: Fisherman sandals have been attempting to breach the mainstream over the last few summers, but it seems it took until 2026 for the French fashion set to finally agree to give it their seal of approval. Wear with sleek midis or a neutral colour palette and you avoid tipping the trend too far into childhood nostalgia, keeping it firmly in the contemporary space.

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6. Closed-Toe Wedges

Style notes: A truly nostalgic take on the wedge heel, this closed-toe iteration is the fashion girl alternative to the more widely-spotted espadrille wedge. Worn most often with super chic capris or skirts with sexy lace detailing, they work best when paired with these more fun, statement fashion pieces in order to avoid things leaning too far into corporate wear.

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7. Sporty Ballerinas

Style notes: If you're torn between the soft-girl sneakers and ballet flats, we're pleased to let you know that there's something of a hybrid making its way into many of the world's most impeccably curated wardrobes via the sporty ballerina pump. Incorporating the silhouette of a traditional trainer but with an open upper and traditionally feminine finer details (think ribbon laces, gold hardware and metallic leathers), it's a great way to add a little fashion edge to an otherwise simple look.

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If you're still looking to fill some gaps in your current-season wardrobe or perhaps pick up a new piece for the weekend or an upcoming trip, it's all going to be made easy for you today. I recently went on a deep dive through Nordstrom's summer selection just for fun, during which I noticed that the majority of what piqued my intrigue just so happened to be on the more affordable side. So I figured I'd share!

From cute pants and tops to sandals (statement and simple), bags, and more, there is just so much to love under $200 at Nordstrom right now, and saying no feels impossible. Whether you're in the market for one thing or a few, I think you'll like what you find below. Simply keep scrolling to get started.

It hasn't been very long since I returned from my holiday to the South of France, but I’m already dreaming of going back. And between sun-drenched days spent lazing around on the beach and sitting on a cobbled sidewalk with a pastis in hand, there was one thing I couldn’t stop noticing: the easy but elegant street style that chic French women were wearing. Now we all probably know that Gallic girls are pretty much the blueprint for Euro-summer dressing in general, but trust me when I say that the polished dressers I spotted around the south of France took this to a whole new level.

Note that Côte d'Azur style differs slightly from the Parisian aesthetic we all know and adore. Unlike the slightly more tailored silhouettes we spot around the city, the South takes a slightly more relaxed but no less stylish approach to dressing. Think breezy linen, flowy skirts and lightweight blouses. And although I’m now back in the UK, I’m determined to bring a touch of French Riviera dressing into my own wardrobe.

So if you're planning a trip to the South of France, or are simply in the mood for some elegant summer styling inspiration, keep scrolling to discover the five outfits that women in the South of France wear on repeat.

5 Outfits to Copy If You're Planning a Trip to the South of France

1. Tank Top + Capri Pants + Woven Flats

Style notes: Once considered rather controversial amongst the fashion set, capri pants are now officially back for 2026. To give it that French Riviera twist, add some raffia shoes and accessories, and don’t forget a lightweight knit to shield you from the ocean breeze.

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2. Top + Midi Skirt + Flip-Flops

Style notes: Lightweight, easy to throw on and extremely elegant, the French girls swear by a white midi skirt in summer. And the best part is, it doesn't need anything major to look chic. Simply add a classic tank top, flip-flops and a raffia tote.

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3. Linen Co-Ord + Strappy Sandals

Style notes: A linen co-ord is the perfect South of France beach attire. It's simple, chic and lightweight enough for long days in the sun.

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4. Midi Dress + Sandals

Style notes: Perfect for strolling around the cobbled streets and well as a fancy dinner out, a halter midi dress is an easy way to look put-together with minimal effort.

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5. Blouse + Mini Skirt + Mary-Janes

Style notes:

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I've said it before, and I’ll say it again: my mum is one of the chicest dressers I know. And with this comes her ability to find the sleekest, most expensive-looking pieces, even on the high street. So whenever I’m ok the mood for a wardrobe refresh, or simply want to bolster up my current rotation of polished staples, she’s always my first port of call.

And now that we’re over halfway through the summer season, I thought it was time to go on the hunt for some easy but elegant high street staples, all of which, of course, look way more expensive than their affordable price tags. After a quick online shop with my mum, both of our baskets were filled with a myriad of designer-looking buys. And we quickly came to a realisation: the majority of our baskets were filled with the same elegant pieces.

From elegant blouses that are sure to dress up your linen trousers to throw-on midi dresses that will make getting dressed in the morning so much easier, keep scrolling to discover the eleven pieces my mum and I currently have our eyes on.

11 High-Street Pieces My 60-Year-Old Mum and I Love

Shop More High-Street Pieces My 60-Year-Old Mum and I Love

If you live anywhere near New York City, you'll know this has been a record-breakingly hot summer. Between the temperatures that climb past 100ºF and the near-tropical humidity, the East Coast has felt like a furnace for the better part of the season—giving the term "hot girl walk" a whole new meaning when Who What Wear editors try to get their steps in.

Though I, along with my fellow editors, love working out, trying new fitness classes, and lounging outside under the beating sun (while slathered in sunscreen, of course), there's nothing I detest more than sweating. The salty excrement removes my makeup, slicks my hair, and—let's be honest—doesn't do anything beneficial in terms of body odor. While I can't promise a sweat-free summer unless you stay cooped up indoors or shrouded beneath a Victorian parasol, I can share the products insiders trust to freshen up after steamy workouts, the skincare hacks that save their skin when face wash isn't immediately available, and the shower essentials that truly strip away sweaty funk. Let's face it. Your normal products just aren't cutting it in this weather.

Keep reading for the 17 products editors keep close when musty workouts, thick air, and sweaty temps threaten to destroy our skin and hair.

17 Editor-Approved Products for Combating Sweat and Stink

During the past few summers, one material has quietly taken over the fashion scene, but this year, raffia isn't staying in its usual lane. What was once reserved for oversize beach totes and obvious vacation hats has expanded into nearly every accessories category imaginable. Suddenly, woven ballet flats, kitten heels, baseball caps, shoulder bags, and even evening clutches are anywhere and everywhere in raffia. However, the biggest change has been that this is now a texture that feels just as polished in the city as it does on the coast.

The appeal is obvious. Raffia brings an effortless texture that instantly makes even the simplest outfit feel put-together without looking overly styled. Whether you're pairing woven flats with tailored trousers for the office or throwing a raffia tote over your shoulder on the weekend, these pieces add warmth, dimension, and that coveted "just got back from Europe" energy. Below, I've rounded up the chicest raffia accessories across shoes, hats, and bags that are genuinely worth shopping this season.

Shoes

Hats

Bags

Call us biased, but if anyone knows fashion, it's Londoners. Brimming with creative individuality, it's actually less about overarching trends that everyone leans into, and more about subtle shows of personal taste through smaller, more intentional takes on finer aesthetic details that keep the scene going. It's not surprising, then, that when it comes to microtrends and style tweaks, London is always the first city we look to for our inspiration.

Sure, the seemingly never-ending heatwave over the last few weeks has made putting clothes on feel more like a test of physical endurance than anything remotely enjoyable, but with the forecast promising fewer degrees as of late, we are finally excited to get dressed again. And, after spotting these seven microtrends on repeat in the capital over recent weeks, I'm finding it hard not to find an excuse to indulge in every single one.

Wondering how to update your wardrobe with a cool spin? Keep scrolling to see the seven London-girl microtrends that get a big yes from us this season.

7 London-Girl Microtrends for 2026

1. Layering Dresses

Style Notes: One of my personal favourite looks every summer, I've been so excited to see more iterations of the once-doubted dress-over-trousers combination this year. Consisting of an easy-breezy throw-on dress and a lightweight pair of trousers, there are so many ways to hit the right note here. A set, of course, is the simplest route to go down if you're questioning your pairing. Otherwise, stick to one colour for guaranteed success, or opt for a button-down shirt dress and your favourite jeans for the perfect way to transition the trend all the way through until autumn.

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2. Cherry-Red Trousers

Style Notes: Despite swearing several years ago that red was not my colour and never would be, I've realised that I am apparently not at all a woman of my word, having decided that not only is it the industry's favourite colour of the season, but mine too. Just know that if you too want to jump on board with the trend, a pair of trousers is a whole lot easier than the bold, sometimes intimidating head-to-toe look might suggest.

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3. Lace Trims

Style Notes: Vintage-leaning trends are big news right now, but amongst them all there's a clear frontrunner in London. Lace is everywhere, but whilst many are taking the trend and running with it in the form of full-lace dresses and blouses, a smaller, subtler microtrend is becoming apparent in delicate lace trims. Focus on adding texture to your favourite dress silhouettes, at the hemline of your shorts or at the neck of your camis.

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4. Heeled Flip-Flops

Style Notes: There's no denying the long-standing popularity of the humble flip-flop over recent years, but whilst the overarching silhouette remains miles too ubiquitous to be considered remotely "micro", certain design details are more buzzy than others. Some seasons lean towards a chunkier style, sometimes leather iterations take over and now and then, one colour reigns supreme. But for 2026, the flip-flop is waving goodbye to its reputation as a thrown-on afterthought and becoming wholly more intentional by adding a heel. Stiletto, chunky, wedge, platform... as long as you've added height, you've done it right.

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5. Beaded Necklaces

Style Notes: Jewellery often takes on a more fun, playful note as soon as summer rolls around, but colourful beaded necklaces are quickly emerging as the most popular way to add a little personality to a look this season. Crucially, for 2026, London's style set are layering up, with two to three beaded necklaces of varying sizes finishing off the capital's best looks right now.

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6. Sport-Mode Sunglasses

Style Notes: Whilst skinny '90s-style frames and oversized boho sunglasses are still top of the agenda for many, fashion's more experimental insiders are reaching for a more futuristic aesthetic this summer. With wraparound silhouettes and reflective, mirrored lenses, these are sunglasses that wouldn't look out of place on the ski slopes or the back of a motorbike. And with brands such as Balenciaga, Miu Miu and Saint Laurent all on board, I'd say this is a trend that won't be going anywhere soon.

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7. Brown Denim

Style Notes: We all know blue denim; we all know black denim. We all know various shades of both. Most of us also know white denim, and a few of us have ventured into reds and pastel pinks. But do you own a brown pair of jeans? A brown denim jacket? Brown short-shorts? It's not something many of us have on the top of our wish lists, but when you see it in the flesh (as I have done on the streets of London recently), it's impossible to deny how good it can look. Less basic than blue, more seasonal than black and less fussy (and easier to style) than bold colours or pastels, it may be a microtrend for now, but I don't think it'll be long before it's a staple.

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I know, don't hate me for saying it but, we're already over halfway through the year. It feels like summer only just started before we're talking about it ending, but as someone who is known for planning well in advance, I tend to shop one season ahead.

This time though, the scorching heat and blue skies have meant that I've spent most of my summer outdoors, and keen to soak up the most of the weather, I'm stubbornly staying in summer mode. Flip flops? Everyday. Skirts and dresses? Just try and stop me. Don't mention jeans, jumpers or jackets to me for the next two months, I'm sunbathing for as long as I can.

Given then just how much time I'm dedicating to alfresco fun, my wardrobe is in need of some extra love to celebrate the most of the sunny season. I've got good basics down to a (perfectly cut) tee, and now I'm looking for exciting, new luxury buys to spice things up for work, weekends and everything in-between.

Wondering how a seasoned fashion editor shops designer pieces for summer? I've pulled together a handy edit of premium pieces that are worth the investment for this summer, and the next, and the next... Scroll to see what made the cut.

The Best Luxury Fashion Items to Shop for Summer 2026

When all else fails, there’s some solace in knowing that you can call upon a few elevated basics to make a summer ensemble that’s as chic as it is effortless. Whilst experimenting with new trends—be it red-and-black flip-flops or balloon shorts—is always a way to breathe new life into your wardrobe, relying upon a few cardinal staples can save you the hassle of staring into the abyss that is your wardrobe and struggling to piece together a look you’ll feel both confident and comfortable in. Still, there are a few rare styles that strike the perfect balance between timelessness and trendiness. Like capri pants or jelly sandals, these items are often few and far between, but still bring a contemporary edge to your outfits despite their quite classical nature.

Having begun planning my upcoming summer holidays, I’ve turned my attention to the best dressed at the destinations I’ve set my sights on visiting over the next few months. It’s here, along the balmy coastlines of the Greek Islands or in the Old Towns of the Balearic Islands, that I’ve noticed one surprising trend emerge. And yes, it certainly can be described as one of those magical items that are both familiar yet fresh.

Indeed, one thing that I’ve observed the most influential tastemakers pack with them for their travels is a bib top. Now, the name may be an instant turn off to some, but lest we forget that we’re currently in an era where wearing underwear as outerwear is a shortcut to garnering cultural cachet. Let alone mention when you wear a style that is reminiscent of something a little French dauphin would wear to bed during the 17th Century. (Read: bloomers.)

Bib tops take a more Victorian look, with antique-inspired lace trims and airy frills that tie up around the waist. The latter is the defining feature that gives the top its name, which is important to note given how visceral the criticism is against supposed infantilising summer trends, like the babydoll dress Olivia Rodrigo performed in a few weeks ago. But there’s no need to jump to moral panic here, with the bib top far more languid and ethereal than any actual child’s bib could ever be.

This trend is an evolution of the apron top trend that features quite prominently in Miu Miu’s spring/summer 2026 collection and Chloé’s fall/winter 2026 show. For her part, Mrs. Prada used the top to subvert the idea of a uniform by designing a collection inspired by late 20th-century female factory workers. However, the bib top trend is a far more delicate version of the industrial and utilitarian vision Miu Miu presented back in September. As London-based influencer Lucy Williams put it, the look is “Miss Havisham does a Shirley Valentine and lives happily ever after”.

Longline and wispy, this is a trend that pairs equally well with blissful shorts when soaking up sun in the Mediterranean or over jeans when wandering through the cosmopolitan streets of Marylebone a little closer to home. So, if you want to look like you've just gotten back from your dream vacation without leaving town, wear the pretty top trend that’s slowly tying everyone in knots.

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As soon as summer rolls around, we spend a lot of time carefully curating our wardrobes. Gone are the jeans and trainers we wore throughout the rest of the year, and now the focus is fashionable and functional pieces that will keep you cool during scorching heatwaves. Let me guess, at this stage in the season your rotation has already been updated with light linen co-ords, crisp cotton dresses and a pair (or two) of flip flops, but you haven't actually put the same amount of thought into one of the most important accessories in any wardrobe—the bag.

A good summer bag doesn't just look good, it's one of the hardest working pieces in your arsenal, and luxury and designer bags may cost a little more, but you can trust that the design, craftsmanship and quality will stand up for years to come. Once your suitcase is packed, it's time to focus on your carry on, and the right summer bag will transition effortlessly between the airport, hotel, beach, bar and dinner, as well as looking great back home too. So where might you find this elusive wonder bag I hear you ask? Don't worry, this fussy fashion editor has done the work for you.

So, if the flights are booked and your passport located, before you finalise your summer outfits, here are the very best luxury holiday bags for summer 2026. You can thank me later.

The Best Luxury Holiday Bags for Summer 2026

When putting together my summer staples, my first stop is always COS. The brand has made a name for itself as a high street hero which brings clean lines, minimalist designs and an elevated feel to affordable pieces. Each season, we're met with a series of best-selling classics along with new heroes that exude elegance and have a timeless feel to ensure that any new addition will earn its keep in our wardrobes for years to come. Now that we've settled into the summer season, I've realised that a few seasonal staples are missing from my collection and COS is ready to fill them.

Heading into the store, my first focus was linen. For years we've sung the praises of COS's breezy linen trousers, and whilst I've tried on a few, I honed in on a sweet, breathable mini dress. The draw of the mini dress is how polished it looks, with an anti-trend edge to ensure I'll get plenty of wear out of this new addition. Another linen standout came in the form of the tailored linen shorts. True to form, COS has combined the refinement of its expert tailoring with a comfortable edge, thanks to the part-elasticated waistband.

Next, I had to check out the new denim arrivals. The denim barrel-leg trousers have a carpenter feel with bold stitching and a sleek horseshoe shape, which I know will propel them into cult buy position. On great trousers, if you're looking for a pair of trousers that feel a little more contemporary than your trusted wide-leg pair, I picked up a pair of relaxed cotton trousers, and paired them with a reliable striped shirt for an effortlessly considered look. Whether you're looking for breezy linens, sophisticated dresses or updating your denim collection, these are the best summer staples at COS right now.

Shop the 9 Best COS Summer Staples

Shop More COS Summer Staples

If 'muted neutrals and soft pastels' sound like your go-to summer palette, you might want to look away now. As one of the boldest colours to inject into any outfit, the ease at which tomato red suddenly slipped its way into the wardrobes of just about every fashion person we know took us all by surprise.

Now more ubiquitous than ever—and somehow transcending the style constraints of even the most earthy-toned and monochromatic dressers—the standout shade of the season has officially earned the title of summer's most unexpected new neutral.

Of course, for those of us who like to keep an ear to the ground (and a bum on those fashion week seats), when it comes to new season trends, the return of the primary colour on the sartorial scene wasn't a total surprise.

After all, when the likes of Loewe, Celine, Proenza Schouler, Chanel, Prada, Balenciaga, and Valentino, to name but a few, all spotlight the same accent shade, it's tricky not to sit up and pay attention. In fact, after over a decade of attending fashion week runways in both London and Paris, I'm not sure I've ever seen a colour trend be so unanimously adored.

But, if you're anything like me and shudder at the thought of a head-to-toe tomato ensemble (I'm blonde and fair-skinned, with easily-flushed cheeks that are only too keen to join this trend at any given opportunity), then let me reassure you that this is by no means a monochrome moment.

In fact, so strong is this hue's impact, it's actually a far simpler and more wearable trend than you may initially have expected. With no need for an all-over colour drench, the fashion set are predominantly looking to separates and accessories to get their fix.

Whether it's a short short or a crochet headscarf, a suede sneaker or a throw-on shirt, these are the bold red pieces that somehow found their way onto this strictly minimalist fashion editor's wish list...

20 Best Red Fashion Pieces for Summer 2026:

Ah, summer. There are so many things to love about this season—the sweltering heat, though? Let's just say it's not one of the positives, especially for people who struggle to find non-denim bottoms as appealing as their signature jeans. Honestly, we get it. Jeans are the ideal staple pants to wear for everything until it's too hot outside to even think about squeezing into rigid denim. Yet finding non-denim bottoms that are as versatile as jeans can feel equally as difficult. One of the only benefits to come out of the record-breaking heat waves over the last couple of weeks has been the surplus of non-denim pant trends surfacing on social media and throughout the market.

We've been reporting on all the viral alternatives that have bubbled up this summer, from taffeta trousers to drawstring pants, but if you've somehow gone this long without securing a pair for yourself, consider this your sign. The coolest pairs are selling out as fast as the temperatures are rising. You might always have a special place in your heart for your jeans, but we have a feeling these alternative pant options just might make you like—and maybe even love—summer dressing a little more.

Style Notes: There's one emerging non-denim style that's gaining traction as a major summer trend: taffeta pants. The lighter material isn't the only reason this pant trend has become popular with fashion people, as brands like Chan Luu and Khaite have created versions in pink, pistachio, and pretty much every other trending shade. Not only can this pant trend add a dose of color to your closet, but like denim, it can also elevate a simple tank top, oversize button-down shirt, or slinky flip-flops.

Style Notes: Drawstring pants are adjustable at the waist and typically made from lightweight materials like cotton poplin and linen, so you'll be comfortable when you wear them. Styling them with everything from boxy T-shirts and thong sandals to halter tops and heels and even button-down shirts and loafers, fashion people have proven that these pants are as versatile as any pair of jeans.

Style Notes: At one point, balloon pants might have been considered divisive, but they've soared in popularity thanks to their presence in the collections of Chloé and Alaïa. But it's not just runway shows that have proven balloon pants can be a practical alternative to jeans. Fashion people have shown just how versatile this pant trend can be by styling them with silk camisoles, strappy sandals, silk tanks, sleek heels, and so much more. It's proof that you don't always need to wear denim to feel like you've reached fashion transcendence. Just try balloon pants instead.

Style Notes: It might be a controversial take, but there's no better way to wear a tailored pant silhouette in the summertime than by opting for capri pants. Simply put, skinny jeans can't check all the boxes that capri pants can. Short hemline? Lightweight material? Styling versatility? Check, check, check. For all these reasons, we've seen this pant trend emerge on the runway and in real life.

Style Notes: We've slowly seen the style set gravitate toward a more elevated take on board shorts by opting for surfer-inspired shorts and pants. Fashion people are leaning into their sporty feel by styling them with bright sneakers, team jerseys, and even swimwear. It's only a matter of time before this bottom trend becomes as pervasive as taffeta pants, if you ask us.

I never thought I’d be able to say this, but this never-ending UK heatwave has made it officially too hot for my jeans. Usually, you’d find me in denim trousers well into the high summer season, but with temperatures surpassing 30 °C on some days, I’ve been on the hunt for lightweight alternatives that are better suited to the warm weather but also feel just as versatile as my trusty jeans.

My biggest dilemma? Finding chic ways to style these hot-weather alternatives. Jeans often do the styling for themselves, pairing well with even the most basic of staples. However, when it comes to trousers, skirts, shorts and dresses, I find it much more difficult. And, if you’ve found yourself in a similar predicament, never fear, as I’ve been on the hunt for some easy but elegant non-denim outfits to copy from now and well into the early autumn season. And luckily for you, I’ve rounded up the best of the best below.

From classic linen trousers that can be taken from day to night with ease to trending capris that are sure to earn you style points, keep scrolling to discover the 5 outfits I’ll be copying when it's too hot for my jeans.

5 Breezy Alternatives to Wear When It's Too Hot for Your Jeans

1. Linen Shirt + Linen Trousers + Suede Flip-Flops

Style notes: Linen season is here! But it won’t be around for much longer, so I’m determined to get the very most out of it by swapping my jeans out for this breezy fabric. A pair of these pull-on trousers will not only keep you cool but can also be styled in myriad ways, like with a relaxed shirt and suede flip flops for a day around town.

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2. Satin Blouse + Midi Skirt + Ballet Flats

Style notes: A white midi skirt is synonymous with the summer season, and I’m determined to get the most out of mine before temperate drop again. The easiest way to style it? With a satin blouse and leather ballet flats, of course!

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3. Waistcoat + Capri Pants + Heeled Sandals

Style notes: Once considered rather controversial amongst the fashion set, Capri pants are now officially back as the cool alternative to leggings in the summer. And don’t be intimidated by these cropped pants; they can actually be styled in the exact ways your jeans can. Just take a look at this chic waistcoat and heeled sandals ensemble above.

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4. Embroidered Top + Bermuda Shorts + Sandals

Style notes: A much more polished alternative to jeans or jorts, I’ve practically lived in my Bermuda shorts this season. They make for easy styling for the office, but can just as easily be dressed up for more formal occasions as well, as shown above.

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5. Mini Dress + Trending Accessories + Flip-Flops

Style notes: With the ability to be taken from day to night with just a few simple wardrobe swaps, a throw-on dress will be the most hard-working piece in your summer capsule wardrobe by far. Me personally? I’d style mine with leather flip flops and trending accessories, as Ingrid has above.

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For me, a summer wardrobe is where I become more experimental with my style. As a minimalist at heart, I always lean towards neutral tones and simpler styles, but when it comes to summer, I inject a little extra colour and print into my wardrobe. I’ve still got a bright yellow tile printed dress from Palm Noosa that I’ve had for four years and bring it out each year, and while I'd usually describe such a statement piece as "out of my comfort zone", it’s ended up being a core piece in my summer wardrobe.

Each summer there’s a wardrobe hero that quietly rises through the ranks and we begin seeing it everywhere, and this summer it’s printed trousers. Statement-making yet effortless, they are a brighter alternative to the much-loved linen trouser or classic jeans. Rather than loud motifs, the styles we’re seeing have a more sophisticated and wearable feel to them, and adding them to your look makes your outfit feel more intentional and refined.

While prints have long been synonymous with summer, this year we’re seeing printed trousers everywhere at the moment. With designer brands and the high-street alike adopting their own iterations, it’s becoming an established trend we can't help but take notice of.

From classic stripes to romantic floral prints, I’ve rounded up five trouser print trends for summer 2026 to give you all the inspiration you need.

1. Classic Stripes

Style Notes: At this point, striped trousers are almost a must-have in any wardrobe. They’re such a well-loved option that can be thrown on with a basic tank or tee and you’re ready to walk out the door looking put-together. Take tips from Lucy's choice of stripes [pictured above], and avoid chunky stripes in favour of a more grown-up, subtle fine stripe.

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2. Polka Dots

Style Notes: Polka dots are really having their moment this year, so it comes as no surprise that we’re seeing the, all over trouser trends too. Take inspiration from Jessica Skye [pictured above] and opt for a matching set, or instead pair it with a shirred or broderie anglaise blouse to bring texture to your look.

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3. Classic Checks

Style Notes: While gingham is usually a go-to for summer, this year we’re seeing more of the checked print variety, which feels like a welcome change. They're a timeless trend that doesn't ever seem to date, and honestly? They feel more sleek than your average pyjama bottom.

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4. Bold Florals

Style Notes: While florals are neither new nor groundbreaking, they’re still a classic for a reason. From delicate botanicals to oversized blooms, these bold bouquets are an easy way to bring extra colour and a point of interest to an otherwise pared-back outfit.

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5. Nod to Nautical

Style Notes: Nods to nautical elements have been subtly on the rise this year. From sardine necklaces to fisherman sandals, all things seaside are cooler than ever, and now the aesthetic has expanded to include trousers. The prints, colours and motifs associated with the coast bring such a fun, playful element while still feeling elevated.

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There's always a point in the season when fashion people stop shopping for what's trending right now and start investing in what they'll actually want to wear a month from now. That's exactly where the latest wave of new arrivals comes in. While the weather still calls for lightweight layers and easy summer staples, the freshest drops are already hinting at the polished, richer wardrobe we'll all be leaning into as late summer transitions into early fall. They're pieces that feel current today but will still earn a prime spot in your closet well into next season.

Fashion editors have a habit of spotting these buys before everyone else does. Instead of waiting for a new season to officially arrive, they're quietly filling their carts with versatile finds that bridge the gap between warm afternoons and crisp mornings. Think elevated essentials, timeless silhouettes, and luxe-looking updates that make getting dressed feel effortless, no matter what the forecast looks like. It's less about chasing fleeting trends and more about securing the pieces that always seem to disappear first.

If your wardrobe is ready for a subtle refresh, now is the moment to pay attention to the new arrivals. The best styles rarely stay in stock for long, especially when they strike the perfect balance between summer ease and fall polish. Ahead, I'm highlighting the new pieces that feel especially right for this in-between season—enough versatility to wear now and plenty of staying power for the months ahead.

The summer season has settled into a comfortable rhythm of warm days and bright skies, and our wardrobes are working hard to keep up. Loafers have been replaced with open-toe sandals, thick layers set aside in favour of light linens, and on the days when we want instant polish, dresses are leading the charge. At this point in the season, most of us have had the chance to assess our summer capsules, and personally I've found a few gaps where expensive-looking affordable buys should be. Luckily, a fresh wave of new-in styles have arrived on the high street, and I've scrolled through all of them to handpick the very best. Right now, the standouts all come from Zara, COS and Mango.

Already this season, we've watched Zara offer up a series of instant best-sellers. From the viral frog-fastening shirt to the sell-out polka dot dress, Zara's summer collection is the strongest it's been in years. Even if you missed out on the It buys, there are a series of fresh pieces vying for a chance at cult status right now.

As ever, COS is bringing its innate elegance to summer staples, from expertly cut tailoring to easy cotton shirts. Soft silhouettes and intricate details of pleats and pin-tucking show the brand's attention to detail, and ability to make even affordable styles look like investment purchases. Mango rounds off the trio with attention to cut and form, from sleek balloon trousers to halter-neck dresses with delicate embroidery and crochet work, making its pieces look triple their actual price. As the best high street pieces tend to move fast, I'd recommend scrolling on.

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Aside from sun protection, the main objective when choosing summer accessories is to enhance your outfit. The warm weather and lack of layers that come along with it allow for more fun and freedom when choosing your accessories. There may not be many parameters when shopping for summer accessories, but something I always avoid is ones that lean tacky. Good news: The five summer accessory trends I'm highlighting below are anything but. In fact, they do the opposite of cheapening your outfits—they elevate them in one fell swoop.

Why just five accessories, you ask? Well, these are big ones, and among them all, they cover pretty much every category: a bag, a sandal, a piece of jewellery, a sunglasses style, and headgear. Something else to note about these accessories is that I have a strong feeling that they'll be sticking around for future summers, so they'll be smart, worthy wardrobe investments if you choose to make them. Scroll on to find out why they're so very useful and to shop my favourite options from each category.

1. Logo-Less Raffia Tote

Style Notes: Raffia totes are nothing new, and that's part of the reason they're such a smart purchase. This summer, in particular, the fashion crowd is gravitating toward classic logo-less totes.

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2. Wraparound Sunglasses

Style Notes: You probably know by now that the coolest sunglasses to wear right now have a futuristic wraparound shape. They're so chic that they elevate literally any outfit they're paired with, so they're basically magic.

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3. Leather Flip-Flops

Style Notes: All flip-flops are trending right now, but this most elegant, outfit-upgrading pair you can wear are leather ones—hands down.

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4. Pendant Necklaces

Style Notes: Pendant necklaces are back, and it's bold, summary shapes on a long cord that the chicest dressers are embracing. They look especially chic paired with simple summer clothing.

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Silk Head Scarves

StyleNotes: Baseball caps and raffia bucket hats are lovely headwear options, but the most 2026 accessory to wear on your head is a silky scarf. It pairs perfectly with a bikini, among other things.

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Whilst the heatwave will have you clambering for a pair of delicate broderie anglaise shorts or a lace-trimmed dress, the most stylish dressers around are ditching these quintessential summer motifs for something a little more autumnal. Indeed, checked prints are on the rise, be it the flannel shirts tied around the waists of sensual slip dresses or gingham blouses that cascade over a pair of denim shorts. Plaid fabrics might be synonymous with falling brown leaves, piping hot lattes and rewatches of Gilmore Girls, but when rendered into a thigh-grazing babydoll dress or peasant top, any inclination for pumpkin spice season goes at the window.

Indeed, adopters of the check fashion trend aren’t wearing it in a way that’s pining for the blistering chill, cosy scarves and hot water bottles. Instead, they’re wearing it in a way that feels subversive and vibrant, especially during a time of year defined by picnic blankets strewn over verdant parkland and the checkerboard tablecloths of alfresco lunches.

There’s something quite ‘90s about the trend, courtesy of the fact that checked shirts were a staple in the wardrobes of fashion icons from the decade like Kurt Cobain, Claire Danes and Winona Ryder. However, rather than the more grunge inclinations of these members of the celebrity style set, wearing checks this summer feels far more minimal. This is down to the fact that the check print trend has become such a ubiquitous motif, cropping up in the collections of romantic and understated designers like The Row, Faithful and Posse.

You could even argue that the Olsen Twins are at the helm of this revival, with the duo opening its Spring 2025 collection with Italian supermodel, Mariacarla Boscono, wearing a checked button-down with tailored black trousers and chunky toe-ring sandals. Elsewhere, Dôen, the California-based brand beloved for its use of nostalgic prints and ethereal silhouettes, have helped push the checked summer agenda with its Faye dress, a ‘60s-inspired throw-on mini adored by fashion editors and trend setters.

Still, there are countless check print styles that are currently trending, offering fresh and contemporary takes on the perennial trend. From the saccharine bubble shorts to the transeasonal funnel-neck jacket, scroll on for the chicest ways to wear check prints this summer.

The 5 Key Checked Fashion Trends for Summer 2026

1. Babydoll Dresses

Style Notes: Drop-waist dresses have officially dropped out of the conversation, with the most prevailing dress shape this season arguably the babydoll variety. From Olivia Rodrigo’s floral-adorned Generation78 style to Elsa Hosk’s Sandy Liang version, this silhouette is easy to style and breezy to wear. However, this season, the most covetable option does have to go to the Faithfull Costa dress, which is a style with puffed sleeves and a blue shade that’s inspired by Cadaqués in Spain, as seen here in Cincinnati-cum-Nashville based influencer Hannah Allen.

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2. Balloon Shorts

Style Notes: Another check trend that’s bubbling up is balloon shorts. With inflated proportions and a slight bloomer shape, this cropped style is the latest iteration of the underwear-as-outerwear trend, with the hemline equivalent to the length of knickers. Still, when designed with a dreamy check print, they feel like the perfect thing to throw on and go, be it in city settings or coastal alcoves.

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