When it comes to shopping for winter staples on the high street, we've all probably felt the frustration of trying to hunt down elegant, expensive-looking items that don't break the bank. With temperatures dropping, there's a lot to contend with as we put together our winter outfits, but there's one particular high-street hero that does premium-looking winter basics that exude all the elegance of designer buys. Enter Zara’s winter basics collection.

You see, as someone with luxury taste on a very modest budget, I’m extremely particular about investing in my cold-weather staples, but time and time again Zara focuses on creating refined-looking items at accessible price points that also manage to stand the test of time in your wardrobe. From timeless designs that will never go out of style to those slightly trendier silhouettes and colours that feel fresh for 2026, Zara’s current winter basics selection is filled with new-in buys that could easily pass as triple their price tag. But the best part? Each and every piece sits well below the £150 mark that you’d usually find yourself paying for high-end staples.

Now, I'll be honest: the sheer number of items on the website can feel extremely overwhelming, so I decided to narrow my search down to nine stand-out pieces from the brand that will bolster my winter capsule wardrobe. So if you too are looking to add to your elegant but elevated basics collection ahead of winter 2026, keep scrolling to discover the nine designer-passing Zara buys that I’m considering investing in.

9 Zara Winter Basics That Will Be Gone Before November

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If you’re reading this, I feel like I’m safe in hazarding a guess that you know your argyle from your tartan. In fact, I’d even bet that a loafer has a place in your carefully curated wardrobe, alongside comfortable tailoring, neat hemlines and athletic-adjacent classics.. And (I'm confident about this one), I’d wager you felt at home in either Rugby stripes, plaid shirts or V-neck knits long before they officially started trending again in 2026. That's right, the varsity-coded, preppy fashion trend is back—but this year, it's so much more subtle than you remember.

The love affair between preparatory school history and high fashion runs deep, but it's more than just a bit of plaid. Fashion writer Ava Gilchrist, who recently penned ode to the aesthetic, explains "preppy fashion has always been historically tied to the upper-crust collegiates, particularly through exclusive Ivy League schools, which tend to borrow a sartorial language from the posh, Sloane Ranger set that dominated the ‘80s. Manifested through sumptuous sportswear and elegant knitwear, the preppy archetypes often convey an air of uniformity and ease, despite seeming incredibly fussy and manicured.”

Given it's "stuffy" heritage, the trend took on a whole new form in the ‘90s and ‘2000s when it meshed with pop culture. Think Alicia Silverstone and Stacey Dash's iconic characters Cher and Dionne, who still make a case for the Clueless two-piece. Or Reese Weatherspoon’s Elle Woods, who breezed through Harvard's hallowed halls in hot pink ensembles and secretary glasses in Legally Blonde. And, let us not forget Leighton Meester's Blair Waldorf wardrobe, which ruled over the Upper East Side in Gossip Girl. But, for those who don't want to wear piped blazers and plaid skirts in 2026, what are the new rules of prep?

This year the latest iteration of the look comes with a sleeker and more polished take on Americana. Whilst the foundational silhouettes still suggest that the wearer spent the weekend at a Nantucket country-club, they're also personalising their 'fit with maximalist elements like playful pops of colour and cheeky clashing prints.

As with so many of the year's biggest trends, it was Matthieu Blazy's Chanel Métiers d'art show that laid the foundations for this new type of prep, but Ralph Lauren’s spring/summer 2027 collection that really solidified the shift. Dubbed by the designer as an “irreverent take on romance”, the collection fused romantic ruffles, corsages, lace and feathers with its signature preppy tailoring to create a show which was nothing short of a modern masterpiece. Or, as Gilchrist so brilliantly sums it up, “it embraces the manufactured facade of a Jay Gatsby-type with a sordid, Saltburn naughtiness; the result of which is a fresh iteration of preppy fashion that feels to both embrace these origins, yet wink at them at the same time.”

So now we know the mood we’re channelling, knowing how to style it is the next big question. Thankfully, Burberry’s resident fashion styling editor Hetty Appleton-Miles suggests that styling tweaks like clever layering are the key to mastering the look. “More and more fashion brands are taking inspiration from the sporting world and the "preppy" trend is a prime example," notes Appleton-Miles. "[This season] try layering polos or shirts for a fashion-forward look."

So, if you've mentally taken stock and noticed your wardrobe is missing a pleated mini skirt or a J.Crew zip-up jumper, I've rounded up the seven biggest preppy fashion trends of 2026. Scroll down to see and shop them below.

The New Preppy Fashion Pieces You Need to See in 2026:

1. The Plaid Button-Down:

Style Notes: In case you missed it, plaid shirts are back and in my humble opinion, the style has never felt more fashionable. The rugged, eye-catching print has quickly become a favourite of the industry's best dressed, and while you can wear it with just about anything, I'll be taking cues from Ruby Lyn's look [pictured above]. After spinning it and wearing it backwards, the sculptural neck and bold colour instantly grab your attention. Pairing it with pinstripe trousers and contrast pointed-toe shoes are just the cherry on top of a well-styled cake, and like the age-old saying goes, if it's good enough for Jacob Elordi...

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2. The Zip-Up, High Neck Jumper

Style Notes: 2026 has brought back many a preppy piece, but the zip-up roll-neck jumper has to be my favourite. Shrunken, fitted, and slightly cropped, the silhouette brings a more youthful, more playful energy and with brands like J.Crew backing it (and an Emma Chamberlain endorsement), the once "tomboy" style has become a hit with the It girls.

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3. The Ruched Front Loafer

Style Notes: Loafers and preppy fashion go together like florals in spring, you can rarely have one without the other. For a cooler 2026 update, park The Row-coded, slimline, minimalist styles for a chunkier, ruched-front pair. The decorative finish still feels polished without feeling too contrived, but if you needed further proof of the loafer's supremacy, just see Marianne Smyth'ssharp 'fit [pictured above].

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4. The Trench Coat

Style Notes: Whilst coat trends come and go, the trench is the preppy staple that stubbornly refuses to date. Unmatched in versatility, this transitional weather hero is a focal point in all the chicest capsule wardrobes. Case in point, Marilyn NL's pared-back, off duty outfit [pictured above]. Finished with functional lapels and buttons, and a glossy handbag, the coat alone casts a powerful enough statement to make it the focal point of the ensemble.

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5. The Mock-Neck Top

Style Notes: A cleaner, less bulky alternative to a full turtleneck, mock-neck tops will be the gift that keeps on giving for the minimalists amongst us. Whether paired with jeans and loafers or a mini skirt and heels, à la Savannah Elizalde [pictured above], for a more collegiate look, lean into muted colours and layer in print afterward.

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6. The Mini Skirt

Style Notes: Whether you subscribe to the idea that shorter hemlines mean financial prosperity or are just a sucker for a mini skirt (like me), in 2026 it's clear that micro minis are on the way back. Leaning into prep's sporty roots, Aisha Farida [pictured above] creates a cool look, styling her plaid skirt with a technical jacket and a sheer top to boot. I love how she finished with a black, silver-buckle belt for a little bit of unexpected edge.

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7. The Cropped Cigarette Trouser

Style Notes: From Hailey Bieber to Anne Laure-Mais [pictured above], fashion's best dressers can't get enough of cropped, slim-legged trousers, perfect for wearing with oversized cable knits and undone shirts. The minimalist silhouette looks good with just about anything, but the preppier, the better, so this season the easiest way to style them (in my humble opinion) is an especially sharp, loose white shirt and a 90's-inspired black pointed-toe court. Bonus points if you finish with a pair of black shield sunnies to bring the look up to date.

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Every year, right around late October, I hit the same wall. The weather in New York is finally perfect, I’ve been able to wear my favorite boots more than once, yet I can feel winter coming for the dream closet I've created. Fall is the best season for getting dressed, and it always feels like the shortest. The clock is seriously ticking right now!

So rather than mourn it, I’m making the most of the weeks I have left. Any time I want to fill up my cart fast, Shopbop makes it easy. I thought I would just go with my 30 favorite pieces for this story but ended up with a cart of 50+ items that I think make for a great fall wardrobe. These are the pieces I actually wear right now: a cropped trench, a few great knits, suede and corduroy pants, and more boots than I probably need. Also, if you know me, you know I'm going to find a way to wear these things long after fall is over. Winter and spring will be seeing these pieces too.

Some are splurges, some are easy wins, and all are worth wearing before the coats come out.

I'm not trying to brag, but I get a lot of compliments on my winter outfits. To me, there's an easy elegance to cold-weather styling, and as someone who works in fashion, I'm often asked for advice on building the perfect capsule for polished winter dressing that feels effortless. Of course, every wardrobe edit needs its slightly “trendier” pieces, and even as a minimalist, I like to dip my toes into trends now and then to add interest to my looks. However, I’ll forever be a classic dresser to my core, and whilst it's all well and good to hop on the latest fad, the most put-together collections are built on those ageless staples that can be relied upon time after time.

Most recently, the women in my life wanted me to help curate a winter capsule wardrobe for them that’s versatile, easy to throw on and timeless enough to stand the test of time. And after a quick browse of my saved folder on Instagram, I was able to create an easy but chic winter wardrobe that feels fresh for 2026 but remains classic enough to wear on repeat for years to come. Think of elevated basics that can be dressed up and down with ease, mixed and matched to create a wide range of looks, and, most importantly, will never become "dated".

And the best part? I've compiled the exact list I created for them below—shopping links and all! So if you, too, are in the mood for an elegant wardrobe refresh ahead of the new season, keep scrolling to discover my seven-piece winter capsule wardrobe. From designer outerwear investments that you’ll reach for year after year to affordable accessories that look way more expensive than their high-street price tag, below you’ll find the staples that will see you through the rest of 2026 (and way beyond).

I Just Built a Polished Winter Capsule Wardrobe With These 7 Staples

1. Boxy Wool Coat

Style Notes: I’ve spent this unusually long autumn longing for the days when my heavier outerwear styles can act as the focal points of my outfits, and for winter 2026, there’s nothing that will bring instant polish like a boxy wool coat. Not only is this more tailored silhouette a proportional dream, bringing definition to an outfit, but the sharp shoulders will look considered and intentional, even when paired with the most casual of staples. Me personally? I’ll be using this flattering outerwear style to dress up my jeans and relaxed jumpers for the office.

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2. Crew-Neck Jumper

Style Notes: No knit feels quite as versatile as a crew-neck jumper. The rounded silhouette helps to balance out shoulder width without making them look overly prominent, plus this smooth neckline fits seamlessly under coats, jackets, and blazers. Not to mention, they can be dressed up and down for any occasion with ease, from pairing well with a pair of jeans and ballet pumps in the day to a slip skirt and knee-high boots for an evening out with friends. Of course, you can find expensive-looking iterations at every price point; however, to keep your outfits looking polished, prioritise natural fibres and muted hues,

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3. Straight Jeans

Style Notes: I was very grateful for my linen and cotton trousers earlier on in the year, but as soon as temperatures started to drop, I packed them away to make room for my trusty denim. Comfortable, easy to style and timeless, a pair of jeans has a place in my capsule wardrobe no matter the time of year. My silhouette of choice for winter 2026? Elegant straight and stovepipe cuts that feel smart enough for the office and also bring that ‘90s edge to an outfit that I love. And the best part is that this staple looks expensive at any price point, from budget-friendly H&M buys that can easily pass as designer to investments from Khaite and YSL that you’ll keep forever.

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4. Knee-High Boots

Style Notes: Boot season is finally here! And the first pair I'll be reaching for is sleek knee-highs that practically create my outfit for me. Heels or flats, leather or suede or croc, I know I'm going to live in this footwear staple from now until next spring. Not only will they look extremely chic with a pair of leggings or straight-leg jeans tucked into them, but they’ll also bring a sense of comfort when I’m wearing a mini skirt and want slightly more coverage. The gorgeous burgundy Jimmy Choo pair below has been on my wish list for years now, but there are also plenty of more affordable options that I currently have my eye on

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5. Bowling Bag

Style Notes: If you appreciate a good handbag as much as I do, you probably agree that the right bag has the power to completely change your outfit. And after hours of browsing the feeds of my favourite fashion influencers, it turns out that the trending silhouette for winter 2026 is not actually new by any means, but rather the classic bowling bags that have dominated the wardrobes of chic dressers for years now. It’s timeless, elegant, and roomy enough to fit all of my essentials. To keep your outfit looking expensive, stick to natural materials such as leather and suede, as well as neutral hues that won’t date.

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6. Pleated Skirt

Style Notes: When jeans feel a little too casual, I always reach for a midi skirt. And pleated iterations have found their way back into the wardrobes of elegant dressers for winter 2026. Gone are the days when this preppy style was considered “dated”, and now pleated skirts are very much being appreciated for their ability to bring an instant sense of polish to an outfit, pairing well with boots, heels and loafers alike. They’re flattering and polished, and the length sits well within my comfort zone as someone who tends to stick to the more modest side of dressing.

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7. Fringe Scarf

Style Notes: Every capsule wardrobe needs at least one “trendier” item that will keep things feeling fresh and elevated, and for winter 2026, I’m all about the fringe scarf. A statement accessory that somehow also manages to feel inherently sophisticated, a fringe scarf will look good draped around the neck or waist this season. It’s the perfect staple for minimalists, bringing texture and movement to an otherwise pared-back outfit without the need for the bold colours or busy patterns that feel a little too out there for pared-back dressers like myself. Not to mention that it gives a subtle nod to the Opera dressing aesthetic that’s set to dominate this season.

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In 2027, designers are reimagining the dress through a lens of glamour, unexpected proportions, and romance. At one end of the spectrum, intricate embellishments, bold prints, and gilded finishes make a compelling case for dressing up. At the other, billowing silhouettes and delicate flourishes offer a softer, more whimsical approach to getting dressed. The spring/summer 2027 collections celebrate many iterations of the dress, from the polished sophistication of an evening-ready gown to the high-impact allure of a floaty, voluminous frock.

The dominant dress trends speak to a larger shift in what we want to wear: more personality, more intention, and more theatricality. After seasons of pared-back essentials and quiet luxury, fashion is making room for spectacle and joy again. Whether you gravitate toward ornate detailing, sculptural volume, decadent metallics, or prints that refuse to blend into the background, the season's dress trends offer something for every sensibility. Ahead, see the five spring/summer 2027 dress trends worth knowing now and the key pieces to shop.

Minimalism will take a back seat for spring and summer. Embellishment is having its moment with intricate detailing and decorative finishes. At Loewe, Tory Burch, and Burberry, heavy ornamentation adds a sense of playfulness and personality.

At Chanel, Dior, and Chloé, volume takes center stage, bringing an ethereal quality to dresses. Generous proportions and movement-led designs are executed through cloudlike skirts and exaggerated, floating silhouettes.

A little opulence goes a long way, but for spring/summer 2027, designers are making a persuasive case for metallic gold. At Anthony Vaccarello's final show for Saint Laurent, the entire collection was comprised of golden looks—an impactful finale for a prolific designer. The gilded theme was also apparent at shows throughout fashion month, including Ralph Lauren and Giorgio Armani.

Designers are continuing to infuse romance into their collections. At Khaite, Altuzarra, and Ralph Lauren, the designers tap into looks that feel poetic without veering into the overly precious. Elements of softness and fluidity suggest a certain ease.

At Miu Miu, Celine, and Dries Van Noten, vibrant prints bring color, character, and a welcome sense of spontaneity to the season's dress repertoire. Whether bold, graphic, or artfully eclectic, pattern becomes the focal point, transforming familiar silhouettes into something altogether more expressive. The styling rule is refreshingly simple: Let the print lead, and allow the rest of the look to follow.

My friends have joked that I'm a "fake Gen Zer" despite being born in 1995. Admittedly, they're not wrong. I'm always in tune with what's happening among 20-somethings, watching the same shows and listening to the same music. Yes, I'm obsessed with Sterling Point and Olivia Rodrigo. I'm equally fascinated by Gen Z fashion, specifically the trends they're adopting. Most recently on my radar? Winter's buzziest silhouettes. Sure, I may be a millennial, but that's not stopping me from trying a few of these looks on for size.

Honestly, many influencers I follow for fashion inspiration fall into the Gen Z camp. Think Ruby Lyn, Hadley Greene, and Lucy McFadin. After taking a quick scroll through their profiles and others, I have a pretty good idea of which cold-weather trends will be a hit among this age group. But I have a feeling they'll resonate with other generations too, or at least, that's what I'm telling myself.

Without further ado, check out six winter trends endorsed by Gen Z fashion people.

Military Jackets

For millennials, military jackets are by no means new, having been a sought-after staple in the early aughts. (Even Beyoncé was a fan.) Gen Z, though, is likely trying the trend for the first time. Rather than pairing the outerwear with 2000s-inspired skinny jeans, the Gen Z style set is opting for baggy denim. I'm so on board.

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Leather Pants

Most of us own a leather jacket, but how about leather pants? Sure, the bottoms may have a rock 'n' roll reputation, but Gen Z fashion people are taking them in a more polished direction this winter. Up top, a silk cami or crisp white button-down softens the edgy silhouette.

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Faux-Fur Scarves

From what I've observed, Gen Zers tend to be practical dressers, often prioritizing comfort. As such, it's no surprise 20-somethings are keeping warm in style this winter. Enter faux-fur scarves. Whether in classic black or rich brown, the accent strikes the perfect balance between functional and fashion-forward.

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Flannel Tops

In high school, I had quite the collection of flannels from Hollister and Abercrombie & Fitch. Though I don't think I've owned one since, I'm now tempted to welcome the cozy shirt back into my wardrobe thanks to Gen Z's newfound affinity for the checkered shirt.

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Camo Print

Suddenly, I'm spotting camo print everywhere, including on the feeds of my favorite Gen Z influencers. A jacket in the utilitarian pattern makes perfect sense for chilly weather, but don't sleep on camo pants, either. They're sure to get just as much wear.

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Slouchy Boots

The slouchier, the better seems to be the motto among Gen Zers. Many are gravitating toward suede designs, though leather slouchy boots are equally chic. When the weather is unbearably cold, tuck your pants into the roomy shoes for a cozy, effortlessly cool look.

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It felt like skirts were on the back burner for a minute there, but if you love them as much as I do, then I come bearing good news: spring/summer 2027 runways have spoken, and skirts are officially back in the fashion zeitgeist! The likes of Prada, Chanel, Miu Miu and Tommy Hilfiger all showcased several skirt trends set to dominate next season, and trust me when I say they’ll all make you want to pack away your jeans, shorts and tailored trousers to make room for these pretty styles.

As someone who works in fashion (and takes their work seriously), I’ve made it my goal to get ahead of the pack and incorporate these chic skirt trends into my winter 2026 outfits. Of course, it’s too chilly to pair them with the open-toe heels and sandals spotted on the runway, so I decided to hunt for cool boot styles that pair well with them until the temperatures rise. And after hours of scrolling Instagram, Pinterest and TikTok, I managed to narrow it down to six ultra-sleek skirt-and-boot combinations to wear now and well into next season.

And the best part? I’ve rounded them up for you below. From classic black skirts worn with cool biker boots to give them some edge to preppy pleated midi skirts refined by minimalist sock boots, keep scrolling to discover the six skirt-and-boot outfit ideas to copy this winter. And rest assured: these pairings will put you firmly ahead of the pack, well before the skirt trends become big fashion players next spring/summer.

1. Pleated Skirt + Sock Boots

Style Notes: If you were savvy enough to hang onto your pleated midi skirts, even through the many years they were considered "dated", congratulations! This preppy trend is officially back for spring/summer 2027. Now, we all probably know that this elegant skirt style pairs well with pared-back shoes such as ballet flats and loafers, but if you really want to make yours look sleek this winter, look no further than the minimal leather sock boots. Not only are they a proportional dream when contrasted against the A-line silhouette of the pleated midi, but their refined nature will keep your outfits looking neat and polished no matter the price point you invest in.

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2. White Skirt + Black Boots

Style Notes: Contrary to popular belief, white skirts are not just for spring and summer. It’s true; they do come into their own throughout the warmer months; however, there’s something that feels particularly fresh when worn with the darker palette we really lean on throughout autumn and winter. And the best boot style to pair them with? Classic black iterations, of course! This contrasting pairing comes with the unexpected appeal associated with an elevated outfit, but the two neutral hues remain wearable and well within the comfort zone of a minimalist like me.

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3. Miniskirt + Riding Boots

Style Notes: I have to admit: miniskirts have always felt very hit or miss to me, someone who tends to stick to the more modest side of dressing. However, for winter 2026, I’ll be wearing the trusty shoe style that chic dressers have been relying on for years: riding boots. Of course, this pairing is not technically new, but it’s a foolproof combination that works every time, not only providing me with the coverage I prefer but also tapping into the "equestrian-chic" aesthetics that keep my winter outfits looking elegant and expensive.

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4. Wrap Skirt + Chunky Boots

Style Notes: With the ability to be dressed up or down with ease, if you don’t already own a wrap skirt, I’d highly recommend investing in one. Whilst linen and cotton fabrics come into their own when it's warm, until then you cannot go wrong with a thicker wool or jersey iteration that will keep you cosy from now until next spring. And the ideal boot to pair them with? A chunky style that will give this more refined silhouette an elevated touch. They’ll not only look incredibly considered when worn together, but the chunkier sole is a stylish way to ensure your feet are comfortable all day long.

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5. Check Skirt + Brown Boots

Style Notes: Typically a print we see throughout autumn/winter, I was shocked by the sheer amount of check and plaid skirts I spotted on the S/S 27 runways. Of course, as someone who very much leans into the dark academia aesthetic throughout the chiller months, I’m not in any way complaining, and I’ll be taking a cue from chic dressers and styling them with warm espresso-brown hues as a less harsh but no less versatile alternative to the black shoes I typically reach for around this time of year.

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6. Black Skirt + Biker Boots

Style Notes: Timeless, versatile and so easy to style, black skirts aren't really a trend, but they are a staple that you’ll find on the runway year-round. And when the fashion girls want to give them some edge, they use cool biker boots to make their winter outfits look slightly more elevated. The perfect balance between a little edgy and extremely wearable, biker boots bring just the right amount of attitude to a classic black skirt.

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Few things in a capsule wardrobe work quite as hard as denim. It's the fabric we reach for when we don't know what to wear, the dependable foundation of just so many outfits and, depending on the cut, wash and styling, something that can feel entirely different from one day to the next. It's also one of fashion's great levellers: jeans are democratic by nature, but that hasn't stopped designers from returning to them season after season, never seeming to run out of new ways to make an everyday staple feel worthy of the runway. So what better time to take a look at what the spring/summer 2027 collections have in store for us in terms of denim trends?

After all, spring/summer is often where denim gets to have a little more fun. Whilst autumn/winter tends to bring us back to familiar cuts, traditional washes and the sort of jeans that make sense with a good coat, the warmer months give designers room to experiment. And S/S 27 has been particularly interesting in this respect. Looking through the collections, I was struck by just how many different directions denim was taking. There were the expected classics, of course, but also jeans that appeared to have been sliced apart and sewn back together, coated in high-shine finishes, covered in flowers or distressed to within an inch of their lives.

Some of the results were decidedly full throttle. Micro shorts barely passed as shorts at all, embellishments were applied with admirable abandon and even the most familiar denim jacket was given a reason to feel exciting again. Elsewhere, designers found ways to make jeans feel new without radically changing them: a deeper indigo wash—rather unexpected for spring—an interesting proportion or a simple combination of denim and a perfectly quaffed striped shirt was sometimes all it took.

That, in my opinion, is what makes this season feel so refreshing. Denim isn't being pushed in one definitive direction, and there's no suggestion that you need to jilt a pared-back wardrobe in favour of something more extravagant; the collections made room for both. You could embrace a little more personality through a floral print or an unusual fastening, or stick to the jeans you know you love and give them a slightly different context. See what I mean about democratic?

There's also something reassuring about seeing designers continue to find new ideas in a fabric we all know so well. At times, fashion can feel as though it's revisiting the same silhouettes and styling tricks on a loop, but these collections offered plenty of evidence that denim still has room to surprise, inspire and even shock us. Granted, some ideas will be easier to take into your own wardrobe than others, but that's part of the fun. From subtle updates to looks that demand a little more commitment, these are the denim trends that stood out to me (or screamed for my attention) for S/S 27.

12 Denim Trends to Know, Wear and Name-drop in 2027

1. Reworked Construction

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A seam is usually one of the least interesting things about a pair of jeans. It's there because it needs to be, running neatly down the leg without asking for much attention. For S/S 27, however, designers are making a feature of the construction itself, twisting seams, extending fastenings and rethinking the placement of details we've become accustomed to seeing in the same place. At Balenciaga, chunky seams travel around the leg rather than following the usual straight line, giving slouchy, vintage-wash jeans a slightly wonky, grungy feel. Eckhaus Latta used a similar approach to exaggerate the leg shape, whilst Ottolinger experimented with a sliced-up waistband and asymmetric zip fastening.

It's not just the seams that are being reconsidered, either. Take Stella McCartney’s illusion of two pairs of jeans layered over one another, with a lighter wash appearing to sit unbuttoned over a darker base. Elsewhere, designers played with contrasting denim around the waistband and fly, or moved pockets to unexpected places. It's a surprisingly broad trend, but the common thread is a desire to make the construction itself the focal point. Some interpretations are decidedly out there, but an asymmetric fastening or an unusual seam placement can be a subtler way to embrace the idea. Either way, it makes you look at the humble pair of jeans a little differently.

2. The Capri Comeback

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Capri trousers have been working their way back into the conversation for a few seasons now, but denim might be the version that finally makes them feel less intimidating. After so much focus on wide, baggy and barrel-shaped jeans, a close-cropped style is a fairly bold change of direction; make no mistake, there's nowhere for the silhouette to hide, but the familiarity of denim makes it easier to get your head around than a more overtly tailored or technical version.

The runways offered plenty of interpretations, from the ruched, relaxed proportions at MM6 to hedonistic embellishment at Roberto Cavalli, where feathers, beads and diamantes made the capri feel distinctly un-shy. Ganni added a sweeter note with ruffles at the knee, whilst Ottolinger played with curved seams and an asymmetric fastening. In terms of styling, I'd be inclined to keep things easy: a roomy shirt, an undone collar, a silk scarf or a simple V-neck will stop the silhouette feeling too studied. Add a heel and a blazer, and there's also a case for taking denim capris into the evening.

3. Skirting the Issue

Skirts were one of the bigger trend stories across the S/S 27 collections, with knee-length and pencil silhouettes particularly prominent (see Prada, where denim was very much part of that conversation). The difference from the denim skirts many of us remember is the range of shapes and finishes on offer. Rather than relying on the familiar straight cut, designers played with volume, asymmetry, layering and length, giving the piece a lot more personality.

Carven made a convincing case for a dark-blue maxi skirt worn with a matching jacket, a white shirt and simple sandals: an outfit that feels considered without being the least bit complicated. At the other end of the spectrum, Diesel experimented with a draped, asymmetric shape, whilst H&M's button-front skirt, worn open at the thigh and accessorised with belts and knee-high boots, had a more maximalist, '80s-inflected feel. Put simply, the appeal is in the versatility. A denim skirt can feel pared-back, on-trend or pretty, depending on what you wear it with.

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4. Full Bloom

The S/S 27 collections have a notably romantic streak, with floaty fabrics, draping, pleats and sheer layers appearing across the runways. Denim might not be the first fabric you associate with that mood, but designers found plenty of ways to bring the two together. At Acne Studios, painterly roses ran down blue jeans, their almost cracked, old-master quality giving the floral motif a sense of age and texture. Toga went in a more baroque direction with wide-leg denim covered in tapestry-like blooms, whilst other collections favoured embroidered, beaded or hand-drawn botanical designs.

What makes this feel more interesting than a straightforward floral print is the contrast. Denim has an inherent toughness, one that has direct connotations with hard labour, and as such, the prettiness of the decoration often feels all the more striking against it. Lovebirds, for example, paired black-and-white jeans with a fluid, floor-scraping caped top. Elsewhere, florals appeared on skirts, shorts, jackets and coat-like denim pieces, so the idea extends well beyond a statement pair of jeans.

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5. Piece By Piece

As someone who's worked in fashion for almost 16 years, you'd be surprised by just how many times I've seen patchwork denim crop up. So much so that I wondered if it added anything new to the conversation in 2027, regardless of its obvious presence on the runways. Yet somehow the S/S 27 collections managed to offer some interesting takes on the idea.

Rather than simply piecing together scraps of fabric for a deliberately haphazard effect, designers played with larger panels, contrasting washes and carefully considered placements. Gabriela Hearst used stark differences between light and dark denim to make the joins more pronounced, whilst Balenciaga favoured a more tonal approach, with panels that had been cut apart and sewn back together to create a subtler effect.

Placement also made a difference to the silhouette; panels were deliberately positioned at different points down the leg, drawing the eye vertically and exaggerating the length of the jeans, which would frequently pool over shoes. Asymmetric construction added another layer of interest. Either way, the result is a trend that can be as bold or as understated as you want.

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6. The Jacket Reboot

I was recently asked whether denim jackets were “dated”, which is perhaps a sign of how dependable they've become. It’s one of those wardrobe staples that is difficult to imagine ever truly disappearing, but I'll admit that before looking through the S/S 27 collections, I wasn't necessarily excited by the prospect of them, nor have I felt compelled to buy one. That changed fairly quickly. Designers have given the denim jacket enough personality to make it feel like a genuine fashion item for 2027, rather than simply something to throw on when you're still holding out hope you won't have to.

Again, the interpretation was broad. Diesel played with contrasting knitted collars whilst Cecilie Bahnsen added shimmering floral beadwork against a backdrop of faded black. At Aje, unusual, oversized stud buttons down the placket and sleeves gave a sandy-coloured jacket a more sculptural feel, and perhaps more styling bang for your buck if said sleeves are indeed detachable.

These aren't necessarily pieces that demand an entirely new way of dressing; rather, they give a reliable layer a little more character. A denim jacket might never be the most surprising thing in your wardrobe, but this season's versions make a convincing case for giving it a second look.

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7. Denim in Distress

Distressed denim is one of those trends that tends to come back around just when you think you've seen every possible variation of a ripped knee. And yet, for S/S 27, designers found plenty of ways to make jeans look as though they'd lived several lives. At Balenciaga, rips ran from the waistband down towards the thigh and knee, giving the denim the impression of having been caught up in a rather unfortunate encounter with a paper shredder. Dior went for heavily grazed knees and fringed tears, whilst Ralph Lauren paired distressed, yellowed denim with gold heels and a brocade jacket trimmed with faux fur.

The interesting thing is how the distressing has been executed. In some cases, the raw patches and fraying almost become a pattern in their own right, as at Aje, where broad areas of pale, frayed denim created a graphic effect against blue. In others, the contrast comes from styling; a pair of heavily ripped jeans looks all the more striking when worn with something polished, whether that's a tailored blazer or a pretty evening shoe. It's less about recreating head-to-toe '90s grunge and more about giving denim a lived-in quality, even when the rest of the outfit feels considered.

The takeaway: If your jeans look as though they've survived several cage fights—and lost every single one—you're probably on the right track.

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8. The Dark Side

Whilst looking through the collections, I repeatedly had to remind myself which season I was researching. Alongside the leather and darker colour palettes, there was a striking amount of deep indigo and almost-black denim—shades that might traditionally feel more at home in autumn than spring. Area, Carven and Tibi were amongst the designers leaning into darker washes, giving denim a depth that felt noticeably different from the pale blues and sun-faded finishes often associated with the season.

It's a useful reminder that the way we dress no longer has to be dictated by such rigid seasonal rules. Dark denim can work just as well with a white tank and sandals as it can with a chunky knit, and it brings a slightly sharper edge to spring's softer colours. Think butter yellow, cream, beige and pastel shades, all of which look particularly good set against a deeper indigo.

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9. Short Story

If the past few seasons have been all about giving ourselves more room in our jeans, S/S 27 has a rather different proposition. Micro denim shorts were everywhere, with hemlines falling into the hot-pant category, and some pairs looking more like underwear than something you'd traditionally wear out of the house. Diesel took the distressed treatment to extremes, with denim so shredded it looked as though a rottweiler had been using it as a chew toy. Exposed pocket linings, frayed edges and torn hems made even the smallest shorts feel deliberately undone.

The styling helped give the look some after-dark edge. Seven For All Mankind paired tiny shorts with tailored layers and a glimpse of black lace, whilst other designers leaned into lingerie-inspired tops and cinched belts. Indeed, this isn’t necessarily the most straightforward trend to translate into everyday life, and that's rather the point. After seasons of very generous denim, the return of the leg feels like a proper change of pace. You don't have to go quite as far as the runway to get the idea, either: a shorter hemline and a more considered, dressed-up top can bring a little of that energy into your 2027 wardrobe.

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10. Extra Something

There were very little designers who weren't willing to add to a pair of jeans this season. Beads, studs, brooches, lace, feathers and rhinestone-like details all made an appearance, ranging from elaborate, almost costume-like decoration to smaller touches that felt surprisingly easy to take into a real capsule wardrobe. At Dolce & Gabbana, brooches brought an ornate, almost heirloom quality to classic blue denim, whilst other looks leaned into studded, Western-adjacent detailing.

One of the most interesting ideas was the placement of the embellishment. Rather than covering the entire jeans, designers used pocket edges and seams as points of focus. At Stella McCartney, decorative details clustered around the pocket opening, giving a simple pair of vintage-wash jeans a lift without overwhelming them. It's a useful reminder that embellished denim doesn't have to mean going all in; a small detail can be enough to change the feel of a familiar pair. If you're in the mood for something more expressive, however, the runways have given you plenty of permission to go further. The question is really how much decoration you want to live with.

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11. Glossed Over

Turns out, denim doesn't always have to look like denim. For S/S 27, designers played with coated finishes that gave the fabric a high-shine, almost liquid appearance, taking it somewhere far removed from the faded blue jeans we might usually associate with the warmer months. Acne Studios experimented with an acid-like green-brown coating and lace-up sides, whilst Diesel's yellowish finish appeared cracked in places, revealing the blue denim beneath. The effect was almost as though the fabric had been dunked into a coating before forcibly shaped into a pair of jeans. How this will translate to the market, I'm not sure, but I can't wait to find out.

Not every interpretation was quite so dramatic. Gucci's near-black denim had a more restrained sheen, whilst Jonathan Simkhai showed how a glossy finish could feel surprisingly simple when paired with a plain white tank. At Matières Fécales, a mock-croc texture and extra-long, flared legs gave the trend a rebellious feel. It's this range that makes coated denim particularly interesting: it can be high-impact and slightly outlandish, or simply offer a different finish to a familiar silhouette.

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12. Less Is More

After years of quiet luxury dictating the trends, the fashion industry has spent the past couple of years making more room for personality. As a minimalist myself, you might be surprised to hear I'm all for this, as there's only so much one editor can write about suede bags and trench coats!

Since the collections shown in 2025, there's been a much-needed shift towards expressive dressing. And whilst maximalism will certainly have its moment in S/S 27 (case in point: the trends above), designers also took a diplomatic approach by incorporating some clean lines into the equation. This was particularly evident where denim is concerned, because sometimes, the best thing you can do with a good pair of jeans is not much at all.

Calvin Klein's collection leaned into a distinctly '90s sensibility, with straight-leg denim, white blazers, nude tanks and oversized bags that felt effortlessly polished. Gabriela Hearst took a similarly restrained approach, pairing wide-leg jeans with a sharp camel blazer and suede clutch (see what I mean about suede bags?). Elsewhere, striped shirts, denim button-ups and boxy jackets made for the kind of combinations that are easy to imagine wearing on repeat.

What makes these outfits work is the attention to proportion and the pieces around the jeans, rather than statement pieces fighting against each other. A relaxed pair of classic blue jeans with a striped shirt is hardly a radical proposition, but it feels fresh nonetheless.

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Now that another fashion month has come to a close and I've had the chance to do a full survey of the spring/summer 2027 shows, it's time to report on my findings. When it comes to the handbags that will shape next-season style, I've already pinpointed the future It bags to know and the trends and themes that are shaping what will be deemed cool and buzzy in six months' time. I've zoomed in on hundreds of runway images and had countless conversations with my fashion-industry friends, so I can say with certainty that the spring bags below are decidedly it.

Designers were aligned on several fronts, primarily that our bags are about to get more opulent, maximalist, and, well, fun. Bags arrived with beading, embellishments, and fringe finishings. Luxury labels took the opportunity to revisit their greatest hits, and we saw the return of beloved and nostalgic faves like the Proenza Schouler PS1, Gucci GG Marmont, and Fendi Baguette. Here, discover these themes and every major handbag trend to know from the spring/summer 2027 runways.

The Major Spring/Summer 2027 Bag Trends

The Eras Tour

Designers reached into their archives this season and brought some of their most iconic silhouettes. Whether it was the return of the Proenza Schouler PS1 Bag, Gucci revisiting its unrelentingly popular GG Marmont, or Hermès bringing back the polished Bolide Bag first designed in 1923, it was a season of in-house comebacks of designers' greatest hits.

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