I'm Refreshing My Capsule Wardrobe Ahead of Spring—7 Elegant Staples That Made the Cut
If you, too, are planning a new-season refresh, keep scrolling to discover the seven elegant items forming the foundation of my spring capsule wardrobe in 2026.
I started 2026 with one very clear resolution: to create a hard-working, anti-trend capsule wardrobe. This was simple in winter, but I think we can all agree that mastering the art of elegant dressing in warmer weather can be much more challenging. The days when I can use a long wool coat as the focal point in my outfit are soon to be gone, so it's time to start thinking about the sophisticated staples that are going to form the basis of my spring capsule.
Now, when it comes to my new season capsule, it’s not at all about following every fleeting trend or overhauling my wardrobe entirely. Rather, I’ve decided that I'm all about easy but elevated elegance—focusing on timeless and versatile basics that can be dressed down for the office, and then taken seamlessly into spring evenings with just a few simple wardrobe swaps. And after months of taking note of what’s been standing out on the runways, Instagram, and of course, the London street style I’ve spotted on my commute to and from work, I’ve managed to narrow it down to seven key staples that will define my spring wardrobe this year. So if you, too, are planning to refresh your new-season capsule, embracing the power of intentional dressing that feels as trendy as it does timeless, then you’re in the right place.
Keep scrolling to discover the seven elegant items forming the foundation of my spring capsule wardrobe in 2026.
7 Elegant Basics That Are Forming My Spring 2026 Capsule Wardrobe
1. Trench Coat
Style Notes: Whether I’m throwing it over a tank top and tailored trousers for the office or layering it over a midi dress for a dinner, a trench coat is a must-have in my capsule wardrobe. I already own a classic-cut beige iteration, so for spring 2026, I’m on the hunt for a trench with a slightly elevated twist. Think poplin silhouettes, bolder prints or even a new colourway.
Shop the Staple:
Such an elegant silhouette.
I'd style mine exactly like this.
This black hue makes a nice point of difference from beige.
2. Lightweight Knit
Style Notes: Spring is not synonymous with hot weather, especially here in the UK, so a lightweight knit will serve your wardrobe well. To make it suited for the season, opt for lighter hues that can slot easily into your spring colour palette.
Shop the Staple:
I'd pair this with Bermuda shorts and loafers, like Marilyn has above.
This comes in 16 other shades and colourways.
This lightweight cashmere knit will serve you well no matter the time of year.
3. Ecru Jeans
Style Notes: I live in my jeans year-round, but whilst darker denim washes remain my go-to throughout autumn and winter, I’ll soon be swapping these out for lighter ecru and white hues. Not only do they pair well with the neutrals I tend to opt for in spring, but the lighter wash helps to brighten up my outfits.
Shop the Staple:
These editor-approved Agolde jeans also come in white.
Just the right amount of slouch.
H&M's Wide High jeans are a bestseller for very good reason.
4. Penny Loafers
Style Notes: Trainers will never go out of style, but for spring 2026, I’m on the hunt for a flat shoe that's just a little bit sleeker. Enter the penny loafer. Whether you opt for black or brown, leather or suede, or a high-street or luxury buy, a pair of loafers will add an instant polish to all of your spring outfits.
Shop the Staple:
A designer loafer that's well worth the investment.
No one will believe these are from the high street.
Espresso suede will always get a yes from me.
5. Knee-Length Skirt
Style Notes: I’m usually a midi skirt truther, but recently, I’ve been spotting knee-length iterations on all of the elegant dressers I follow on Instagram. A throwback to the office-siren aesthetic that dominated the ‘90s, it’s no surprise that this sophisticated skirt style has found its way back into the wardrobe of sleek dressers for spring 2026.
Shop the Staple:
Simple, chic and easy to style.
Lace-trim detailing is very in right now.
This polka-dot iteration is calling my name.
6. Linen Shirt
Style Notes: A button-down shirt remains in my capsule regardless of the season, but as the temperature starts to rise, I’ll be swapping out my cotton iterations for linen. Of course, I’ll be investing in a classic white for the spring and summer ahead, but I’m also on the hunt for some mood-boosting hues to pair with my white jeans and linen trousers.
Shop the Staple:
Probably the most versatile spring layer you'll own.
How pretty is this light teal shade?
This pale yellow is as good as any neutral.
7. Woven Leather Tote
Style Notes: Basket bag season is almost upon us! But before I bring out my beach-ready raffia styles, woven leather will act as a happy medium for the sunny but slightly cooler spring weather. It’s a bag style that remains timeless and versatile, but comes with just the right amount of elevation to add interest to your spring outfits.
Shop the Staple:
You'll get so much in this roomy tote.
Dragon Diffusion bags come Who What Wear editor-approved.
Proof that faux-leather can look just as chic as the real thing.
