If I had to pick one celebrity as my beauty muse, it would probably be Hailey Bieber. Her glowing skin and natural, dewy makeup looks (courtesy of her brand, Rhode) are big factors in this—but the star also has impeccable taste in fragrances—especially when it comes to luxury French scents. In an interview with Harper's Bazaar UK back in 2023, Bieber revealed that one of her favourite perfumes is Fleur Narcotique by Ex Nihilo.

Founded in 2013 by Sylvie Loday, Olivier Royère and Benoît Verdier, Ex Nihilo is a niche fragrance house that breaks conventions and creates head-turning, experimental scents for those of you wanting to stand out from the crowd. Sitting in the luxury market, each perfume ranges from around £180 to £365. Because of the higher price tag, I was very keen to try the fragrances out for myself. Of course, I was intrigued to know what Bieber's go-to scent smelt like, but I also wanted to see whether the other bestsellers from the brand were worth the luxury price tag.

I've been testing Ex Nihilo perfumes, from old favourites to new launches.

Alongside Fleur Narcotique, I've been testing some of the brand's newest and most popular scents, and below, I've rounded up my top Ex Nihilo picks, alongside my honest thoughts on each fragrance. If you want to smell like your most expensive self, I highly suggest you keep scrolling...

The Best Ex Nihilo Perfumes

• Best Overall: Ex Nihilo Fleur Narcotique, £180
• Best Summer Scent: Ex Nihilo Lust In Paradise Extrait, £365
• Best Sweet Scent: Ex Nihilo Honore Delights, £180
• Best Fresh Scent: Ex Nihilo Demon Dancer, £180
• Best Floral Scent: Ex Nihilo Iris Porcelana, £260

1. Ex Nihilo Fleur Narcotique

2. Ex Nihilo Lust In Paradise Extrait

3. Ex Nihilo Honore Delights

4. Ex Nihilo Demon Dancer

5. Ex Nihilo Iris Porcelana

6. Ex Nihilo Fleur Narcotique Extrait

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

I may work in beauty, but it's been evident to see the way in which brown has taken over fashion over the past year, from chocolate tailoring to suede accessories. More recently, beauty has followed suit with a renewed appetite for everything espresso, mocha and cocoa. Rhode’s recent brown-themed summer collection was a prime example of this.

I’ve noticed the shift in my own makeup bag, too. I’m reaching for brown lip liner shades far more than I used to, largely thanks to the women who have made them look impossibly chic. Namely, Hailey Bieber’s softly defined, brown-lined lips and makeup artist Nina Park's knack for making brown lipstick look cool rather than dated on her celebrity clients, from Zoë Kravitz to Mia Goth. Her looks are proof that brown doesn’t have to mean heavy or matte or ’90s-inspired; it can be sheer, glossy, softly blurred and barely there. Just how I like it.

For me, that really is the appeal. The best brown lipsticks, in my opinion, have that rare ability to make your makeup look instantly more polished without looking overly “done”. From barely-there nude browns to rich chocolate browns, these are the best brown lipstick shades I’m reaching for now.

The Best Brown Lipsticks

1. Best Overall Brown Lipstick: Rhode Peptide Lip Shape in Balance
2. Best Matte Brown Lipstick: KJHBrand Precision Sculpture Stylo in Etch
3. Best Brown Lip Gloss: Vieve Lip Dew in Socialite
4. Best Sheer Brown Lipstick: Chanel Rouge Coco Baume in Honey Bliss
5. Best Affordable Brown Lipstick: Kiko One Magic Touch Lip Stylo in 01

1. Rhode Peptide Lip Shape in Balance

2. MAC Cosmetics Velvet Teddy

3. Refy Tinted Lip Gloss in Sepia

"As someone with eczema and dry skin, I’ve always favoured dewy over matte makeup looks, and this, of course, extends to the lip products I choose," says Who What Wear UK editorial writer, Brittany Davy. "For this reason, I’ve never been a fan of traditional lipsticks, which can often settle into fine lines and make my lips look cracked. But luckily I found the perfect brown lip gloss a few years back—Refy’s tinted lip gloss. With the ability to be built up into a high-shine or sheered out into a more natural finish that resembles a lipstick, this hydrating formula comes in four different brown shades. My personal favourites are Suede (a medium-deep warm brown that acts as the perfect nude for my deeper skin tone) and Sepia (a cool-toned chestnut brown that I use for those more dramatic lip combos I love). In the picture above, I’m wearing Suede on its own, something that earns this product major points from me, as a lot of other brands I’ve tried have shied away from deeper brown hues, which often means I need a lip liner. With Refy’s gloss, I have a choice, making it perfect for both “no makeup” makeup and full glam days. The only setback for me is that you need to be super careful with putting the cap back on, as this product can easily leak if you don’t.

4. KJHBrand Precision Sculpture Stylo in Etch

5. Vieve Lip Dew in Socialite

6. Chanel Rouge Coco Baume Honey Bliss

7. Kiko One Magic Touch Lip Stylo 01

8. Kylie Cosmetics Tinted Butter Balm in She's Lovely

9. Merit Signature Lip Blush in Bespoke

10. Merit Signature Lip Blush in Vendome

11. Hourglass Phantom Volumising Glossy Balm in Rise

How to Choose a Brown Lipstick Shade

The trick to finding a brown lipstick you’ll actually want to wear is considering the undertones. If you suit warm shades, look for caramel, terracotta, or red-brown tones, while cooler complexions can often carry taupe, mauve-brown, or espresso shades more easily. Your depth of skin tone matters, too. Lighter skin tends to suit softer nude-browns, whilst medium and deep skin tones can experiment with richer chocolate and coffee shades. And don’t overlook finish—a sheer balm can make brown feel effortless, while a matte formula gives it more ’90s mood.

How to Wear Brown Lipstick

There’s no single way to wear a brown lipstick, which is why I think this trend actually has staying power. For a softer, Hailey Bieber-inspired look, try a brown-toned nude with a slightly deeper lip liner and a sheer gloss layered over the top. For something more defined, choose a richer chocolate shade and keep the rest of your makeup pared back. I also love tapping brown lipstick onto the lips with a fingertip rather than applying it directly from the bullet, as it gives a softer, lived-in finish.

How We Tested

We tested these brown lip shades with real life in mind: at our desks, on days when we were wearing little more than concealer and mascara, and with fuller makeup when we wanted a more defined lip. We paid attention to how each shade looked against our skin, whether the undertone felt flattering and how easy each was to apply. We also wore them through coffee, meals and meetings to see which formulas actually stayed put.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

We might be nearing the end of summer, but the heatwaves aren't letting up just yet. And the last thing I want to do during this sweltering hot weather is to get my hairdryer out. So, I've taken to abandoning my hair tools altogether, and instead letting my hair air-dry. I have naturally wavy hair, and I've always loved how a day at the beach or a dip in the ocean magically enhances my waves. I'm lucky enough to live by the coast; however, I long to recreate that salty, tousled texture when I'm working from home or commuting into London. And that's where salt sprays come in. They're great for enhancing your natural texture or giving a piecey texture to curls or waves created with a curling wand or hair waver.

What Are Salt Sprays?

If you too crave that beachy look, then salt sprays are the key to achieving that effortless look—no day at the beach or hair waver required. "Natural sea salt enhances and defines soft, tousled texture, " says celebrity hairstylist and founder Sam McKnight MBE. "When misted into dry or wet hair, salt sprays define existing texture and enhance and accentuate waves and curls," he says.

How to Use Salt Sprays

Salt sprays work for most hair types; however, they will only work on hair with existing texture, such as waves or curls. "They won’t create texture that isn’t there already. It enhances, accentuates and defines natural texture," says McKnight.

"If hair has a natural wave or curl, go straight in and mist into wet hair, let it dry naturally. Alternatively, you can mist onto dry hair in even sections. Just scrunch with your fingers and let it air dry or diffuse slightly for added body," he says. To keep it feeling beachy—not crunchy—McKnight advises sectioning your hair first. "[The] best way is to separate hair in sections and mist from roots to ends. Be careful not to saturate the [dry] hair; it should still feel dry," he says.

I've spent my summer testing the best salt sprays around to find the ones that deserve a spot in your hair care routine. Scroll ahead for the ones that are like a beach day in a bottle.

The Best Salt Sprays

• Best Overall: Hair by Sam Mcknight Sundaze Sea Spray
• Best for Waves: Ouai Wave Spray
• Best for Curls: Bumble and Bumble Surf Infusion Salt Spray
• Best Luxury Salt Spray: Oribe Après Beach Wave and Shine Spray
• Best Affordable Salt Spray: Schwarzkopf Got2b Hair Texture Salt Spray Beach Matt

1. Hair by Sam Mcknight Sundaze Sea Spray

Sundaze Sea Spray has been my go-to this summer for a number of reasons. Firstly, it enhances hair texture without the dreaded stickiness you can get with some salt sprays. However, it also contains UV protection to shield your hair from the sun, making it a great one to throw in your bag for beach days to prevent damage or colour fade. A couple of spritzes on wet hair go a long way to boost waves and curls whilst adding a tousled texture, so go easy. You can also use it on dry hair if you want to refresh the texture further. It also comes in a miniature size, which is perfect for holidays or to keep on the go.

2. Ouai Wave Spray

You know how wavy hair is enhanced by a dip in the sea? This is that salt-kissed effect in a bottle. A couple of spritzes through damp or dry hair before scrunching enhance waves without any crunchiness whilst boosting volume and hold. It can also be used on straight hair if you want to enhance curls created with a curling wand. This is one of my favourites I reach for when I want to air-dry my hair whilst enhancing my waves without any heat. Oh, and it smells incredible with its rosy scent.

3. Bumble and Bumble Surf Infusion Salt Spray

4. Oribe Apres Beach Wave and Shine Spray

5. Hershesons Air Dry Spray With UV Protection

6. JVN Air Dry Volumizing Wave Spray

7. Schwarzkopf Got2b Hair Texture Salt Spray Beach Matt

How We Tested

I've spent the past couple of months testing the best salt sprays around. I tested each one on my wavy hair to see how well it enhanced my natural texture, and noted how it left my hair feeling. I also tested them all on both damp and dry hair to find the best formulas for achieving that coveted beachy texture.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

It feels like sacrilege to admit that I’m not the biggest fan of summer. As a Brit, sunshine season is fleeting but intense, and I know that we should make the most of it, but I have to come clean: I cannot stand the hot weather. Regardless, I do have a soft spot for solar scents. I might have very little desire to spend my days actually reclining in the blazing sun, but give me a holiday perfume that smells like warm skin, coconuts and sun cream and I’m sold. Come summer then, my fragrance wardrobe inevitably fills up with tropical body mists and beachy scents that make even the dullest Monday morning feel slightly Mediterranean. But as much as I love them, there comes a point in late August when I start to feel ready for something else.

For me, September has always had that back-to-school feeling of wanting a fresh start—new stationery, a slightly more considered wardrobe and, naturally, a new fragrance. And as a collector of the best perfumes, I’m confident that my heart lies with autumn scents. I’m ready to break up with my summer perfumes (for now, at least) and reach for scents that feel a little more layered and intriguing.

That doesn’t, however, mean going straight from coconut and citrus perfumes to heavy oud or syrupy gourmands. There’s a whole world of transitional fragrances that sit beautifully in between. Think delicate florals and flashes of ripe fruit, perhaps with the faintest reminder of the sea, softened by creamy vanilla, toasted nuts or warm amber. They still have that lightness that I crave in late summer, but with a little more depth and cosiness—perfect for when that first chill starts creeping in.

Ahead are the summer-to-autumn perfumes I’m reaching for as the new season calls.

The Best Summer to Autumn Perfumes

• Best Overall Summer to Autumn Perfume: Byredo Future Memories, £155
• Best Transitional Vanilla Perfume: Phlur Vanilla Canyon, £99
• Best Woody Perfume: AllSaints Naked Woods Unisex Fragrance, £80
• Best Summer-to-Autumn Floral Perfume: Miutine Eau De Parfum, £105
• Best Late-Summer Scent: Ghost Lunar Goddess Eau De Parfum, £45

1. Byredo Future Memories

2. BORNTOSTANDOUT Nuts

3. Phlur Vanilla Canyon

4. AllSaints Naked Woods

5. Maison Margiela Afternoon Delight

6. Neal's Yard Rubor Rose

7. Le Monde Gourmand Chai Épicé

8. Miu Miu Miutine

9. Prada Infusion de Figue

10. Ghost Lunar Goddess

11. Gucci Flora Gorgeous Orchid Intense

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

After a long, hot summer, there's a back-to-school feeling in the air, and the fashion world is preparing for a reset. Whilst the languid days still roll on, slowly we're starting to compile our autumn wardrobes. Loafers are laid out to be polished, wool trousers ready to be pressed, and the first jacket is hanging by the door, in preparation for the looming shift in weather. Moving through the core updates that will ease us into autumn, next on my list is to brush the sand of my basket bag and nestle it into the back of my wardrobe, making space for something a little sturdier, a little fresher. And if you're currently considering which bag will take over from your raffia tote, a fresh wave of inspiration has rolled in as the first It bags of Autumn 2026 have been unveiled.

If you kept a keen eye on the autumn/winter 2026 runways, then you may already be familiar with the new season lineup. Whilst last year saw a focus on revived heritage bags, this autumn is all about subtle signatures applied to new releases, with each one feeling like an in-the-know discovery.

Bottega Veneta's Giorno reinforces the significance of an identifying weave through its clutch style and reminds us how the brand reinvented the clutch once before and is about to do it all over again. At The Row, silhouette and form still guide designs with the curved, clean lines of the Alma Baguette, whilst Miu Miu's playfulness comes through by way of the Vivant silhouette, nodding to the bowling bag with a soft trapeze shape and rich colourways.

The takeaway from the autumn It bag lineup is balance. House signatures are paired with fresh silhouettes; heritage is subtly dispersed alongside fresh colourways and new designs, working in tandem with practicality to cement the staying power of each. With autumn on the horizon, it's time to dive into the 7 designer It bags of 2026.

7 Autumn It Bags That Should Be On Your Radar This Season

1. The Row Alma

Style Notes: A new bag has joined The Row's stellar lineup, and already celebrities and fashion people are adding it to their baskets. Following the clean lines, smart proportions and understated design that have become a signature of the brand, the Alma Baguette is already a hit.

Shop The Row Alma Baguette:

2. Bottega Veneta Giorno

Style Notes: Following its name, this bag is designed to be a perfect everyday bag. The soft silhouette can be tucked neatly under the arm for a clutch, or you can secure the drawstring closures to create a strap to wear over the shoulder. Bringing together versatility, a sleek design and Bottega Veneta's signature Intrecciato weave, this feels like a 2026 update on the brand's iconic clutch bag.

Shop the Bottega Veneta Giorno:

3. Gucci Horsebit Duomo

Style Notes: If polished and sophisticated are key desires in your autumn bag, then you'll want to take a close look at the Gucci Horsebit Duomo. The structured shape makes this bag feel like a heritage style already, with Gucci's iconic Horsebit motif serving as the closure. Adding a touch of versatility, the shorter strap can be swapped out for a longer version if you prefer to wear your bag crossbody.

Shop the Gucci Horsebit Duomo:

4. Ferragamo Cara Bag

Style Notes: From Rihanna to Anne Hathaway, Karlie Kloss to Monica Barbara, the Cara bag has already had a series of celebrity outings. Whilst the understated designs exude luxury, the nod to branding comes from the subtle Gancini buckle closure, nodding to the brand's heritage, along with the wrapped leather around the sides, which echoes the design on the Hug bag. Just wait, there will be plenty more sightings of this bag to come.

Shop the Ferragamo Cara Bag

5. Prada Buckle Bag

Style Notes: Since its unveiling on the 2024 runways, the Buckle Bag has cemented its place in Prada's permanent lineup. Whilst the original took on a bucket bag form, the new style is a tote shape, with a short handle to carry in hand or over the shoulder, and a longer strap for various ways to wear. For in-the-know people, the style is recognisable from the decorative belt around the top.

Shop the Prada Buckle Bag

6. Miu Miu Vivant

Style Notes: There's a vintage charm to Miu Miu's Vivant bag. Inspired by bowling bag silhouettes, the shape is incredibly striking, and the style has already been spotted on a series of celebrities and fashion people. The supple form adds to the heritage feel of the bag, and with the new season comes a host of new colourways, each of which feels exceedingly refined.

Shop the Miu Miu Vivant

7. Loewe Amazona 180

Style Notes: The Loewe Amazona 180 has spent the past few months settling into the chicest wardrobes around. The original Amazona was released in 1975, and to celebrate Loewe's 180th anniversary, the brand brought back the iconic style with an updated silhouette but still retaining the history of the original. Designed to be worn slightly open, even the inner lining is a key feature of the design, with the Loewe anagram on the lining to nod to the bag's origin.

Shop the Loewe Amazona 180:

Recently, I found myself in a bit of a beauty dilemma. The thing is, I hate washing my hair. I have really thick, really long strands, meaning my hair takes a good few hours to wash and blow-dry. Thanks to the London heatwave, my roots have been getting greasy even quicker, so I've been reaching for my dry shampoo way more regularly to save myself some time. However, I've realised that I don't actually like using it. I've tried lots of formulas on the market, but they all leave this residue in my hair that makes me want to wash it even more. At least that was the case until I discovered a dry shampoo mist.

A lightweight take on your typical dry shampoo, these formulas feel practically undetectable in the hair, and keep my roots looking bouncy and fresh (along with a little texture spray, of course). Since trying one out, I've been completely converted. So much so, I've made it my mission to try lots of popular dry shampoo mists on the market. Keep scrolling to shop my favourites and to find out more...

What Is a Dry Shampoo Mist?

So, what is this product, and how does it differ from your regular dry shampoo? "[Dry shampoo] mists often feel weightless on the hair whilst still delivering a light cleanse," explains Hollie Rose Clarke, top hairstylist and Living Proof stylist ambassador. "If you are looking for a heavier-duty dry shampoo, you may find you enjoy an aerosol format more."

Whilst dry shampoo mists can be used on all hair types (I personally find my thick hair loves them), Clarke tells me that they can be especially good for finer hair. "Those with fine hair may enjoy a mist over aerosol, as it will feel more weightless in the hair." Plus, mists are more invisible and don't tend to leave any residue.

How to Use a Dry Shampoo Mist

Whilst each product will come with its own specific instructions, I wanted to ask Clarke for her top application tips. "Like everything with haircare, less is often more, and I always recommend starting small and building up if you feel you need more coverage," explains Clarke. "Shake the bottle well, section the hair and then spray directly into the roots, holding the bottle four to six inches away from the hair. The hair at first will appear slightly wet, but don’t be alarmed, as this dries down quickly by massaging the roots."

The Best Dry Shampoo Mists, Tried & Tested

• Best Overall: K18 Hair AirWash Dry Shampoo, £48
• Best for a Freshly Washed Feeling: Living Proof Sheer Clean Dry Shampoo Mist, £27
• Best Scented Option: L'Occitane Purifying Freshness Dry Shampoo Mist, £20
• Best Affordable Option: Got2b Get Fresh Dry Shampoo Hair Mist, £6
• Best for Curly Hair: Curlsmith CurlFit Reviving Mist, £25

1. K18 Hair AirWash Dry Shampoo

2. Living Proof Sheer Clean Dry Shampoo Mist

3. L'Occitane Purifying Freshness Dry Shampoo Mist

4. Got2b Get Fresh Dry Shampoo Hair Mist

5. Curlsmith CurlFit Reviving Mist

6. Aveda Scalp Solutions Refreshing Protective Mist

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

A lip liner has been a part of my makeup routine for as long as I can remember. I mean, I have memories of sneaking into my mum's and aunties' cosmetic bags to "borrow" MAC's iconic Chestnut pencil dating back at least 10 years.

An easy way to add dimension, definition (and in my case, volume) to your lips, a liner makes the world of difference when paired with a gloss, lipstick or lip stain. And as a beauty writer, I’ve had the privilege of testing a wide range from different brands, all claiming to offer amazing definition and longevity. However, finding a quality lip liner with an extensive shade range that won’t leave dark lips looking grey or ashy has been a challenge, to say the least.

Well, never fear, as I come bearing good news—2026’s lip liner selection has more choices than ever for those of us with dark skin. Gone are the days of us having to use an eyebrow pencil or eyeliner to get the correct shade. Now, there's a myriad of gorgeously deep lip liners suited to every budget and colour preference.

And luckily for you, I’ve rounded up the best of the best below. Keep scrolling to discover the best lip liners for dark skin to shop in 2026, all of which come tried and tested.

What Is a Lip Liner?

Lip liners work to outline and define the natural shape of the lips before you apply your lipstick or gloss. The product prevents the lips from looking too one-dimensional and also provides a barrier to stop lipstick from smudging into fine lines, helping it last longer.

Although lip liners used to all come in a standard pencil form, the market now offers a range of formulas to suit your preferences, from creamy sticks for contouring to long-lasting stain pens that will see you through from the morning and way into the night.

How to Choose a Lip Liner Shade for Dark Skin

Although some people opt for a lip liner in the exact shade as their lipstick or gloss, it’s more common practice to choose a shade that’s one or two shades darker to give your lips some dimension. As a rule of thumb, you should choose a lip liner as follows:

• For a natural look - choose a liner that's one shade darker than your natural lip colour, lipstick or gloss
• For an ombré look - choose a liner that's 2-3 shades darker than your natural lip colour, lipstick or gloss

The Best Lip Liners for Dark Skin, According to a Beauty Writer

• Best Overall Lip Liner: Rhode Peptide Lip Shape, £24
• Best Luxury Lip Liner: Victoria Beckham Beauty Lip Definer, £31
• Best Affordable Lip Liner: Morphe Signature Lip Pencil, £8
• Best Nude Lip Liner: HNB Cosmetics Soft Sculpting Lip Pencil, £12
• Best Red Lip Liner: Refy Blur Liner in Plum, £18

1. Rhode Peptide Lip Shape

2. Victoria Beckham Beauty Lip Definer

3. Morphe Signature Lip Pencil

4. HNB Cosmetics Soft Sculpting Lip Pencil

5. MAC Cosmetics Lip Pencil in Caviar

6. Refy Blur Liner in Plum

7. Nyx Professional Makeup Lip Lingerie Lip Liner Stain

8. Fenty Beauty Trace'd Out Pencil Lip Liner

9. Isamaya Lip Liner

How I Tested

I've been using most of these lip liners for years, and all of the newer formulas for months, so I've put them through their paces to test each formula. I tested each product on my lips to see how well they showed up on my dark skin tone and have noted how easily they apply, as well as how long they last throughout the day before the need for reapplication.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

It may be hard to believe right now, but autumn is on the horizon. Soon, the mood will start to shift, and we'll adapt our wardrobes to cooler weather. If you're looking for inspiration, Miu Miu's It items for autumn 2026 are a great place to start. Ready to move us from summer dresses and raffia bags to an equally stylish rotation of gathered loafers and funnel-neck jackets, Miu Miu's autumn offering is full of stylish and highly covetable pieces for the cosy season ahead.

We can't just jump in without a little background, however. Miu Miu is too iconic a fashion house, and understanding the history and unique outlook gives a better insight into the pieces you purchase and will no doubt adore wearing.

Founded by Miuccia Prada, who is also the co-creative director of Prada, along with Raf Simons, Miu Miu takes its name from Mrs. Prada's childhood nickname and is known for its more subversive and coquettish styles. Miuccia told System Magazine in 2014, "The creative process in Miu Miu is completely different from that of Prada. Miu Miu is not as complicated and thought out as Prada. Rather than being young, Miu Miu is immediate. Prada is very sophisticated and considered; Miu Miu is much more naïve."

It's an odd juxtaposition. Whilst Miu Miu may be a luxury brand, it speaks to a much wider audience, seeing past the veneers of class and status much more so than some other long-standing luxury fashion houses. Miu Miu is the loud one; the friend who isn't worried about going against the grain. She's not going to conform, and you can give her a uniform, but she'll still make it her own, maybe with knee-high socks, sporty sunglasses or by stealing her older sister's hobo bag. This is by no means a hindrance to Miu Miu's popularity. As of Q2 2026, it sits comfortably as the second-hottest fashion brand on the Lyst Index. (Just a smidge behind Matthieu Blazy's Chanel.)

Miu Miu also sees potential, so it's no wonder the brand has helped launch many famous names, from models (Kate Moss, Gisele Bündchen) to movie stars (Chloë Sevigny, Drew Barrymore) and even nascent It girls (Alexa Chung, Cortisa Star). More recently, Lupita Nyong’o, Hailey Bieber, Naomie Harris, Emma Chamberlain and Gigi Hadid are just a very small sampling of the stars fronting campaigns and ads and wearing Miu Miu on red carpets.

However, I should really caveat this by saying that "It girl" is far too gendered a term. Miu Miu appeals to many, regardless of how you identify, and it celebrates the unique little quirks we possess rather than squashing them in the name of polished luxury. The runways and campaigns often glitter with the faces of stars that not only have deep fan bases but are multi-hyphenates in their own right, which makes them all the more interesting. Emma Corin, Ethel Cain and Mia Goth all strutted down the autumn/winter 2023 runway; Troye Sivan modelled the spring/summer 2024 collection and Gillian Anderson just walked the moss-laden floor of Miu Miu's autumn/winter 2026 show.

Miu Miu is refined, yes, but there's a quirkiness to its aesthetics. The brand embraces the everyday—and sometimes the weird—giving it an aesthetic that isn't impeccably polished, but is somehow still covetable. It's a reminder of what fashion can be when we let restraint go and allow our more creative selves to show through.

Miu Miu also takes heaping servings of gender stereotypes and laughs at them. In most shows, you'll see the blurring of menswear and womenswear. Apron dresses are paired with brogues. Thick wool blazers are worn over silk slips. It's a constant bending of what's supposed to be "feminine" and much more in line with the nuanced reality of what "girlhood" looks like: both the sweet and the sour.

The brand shared that the most recent autumn/winter collection is "an ownership and agency of your own body, your own self and value." It's all about individualism, but how that relates to being in a world with others, too. Miu Miu isn't afraid to explore dichotomies either. Just look to the "messy girl" trend and its close relative, the "frazzled English woman". At first glance, it might feel critical, but in most cases it's really a celebration and a bolder depiction of how many of us dress every day.

Yes, we feel frazzled. Yes, we carry so much for those around us. And yes, perfection is low down on the list. And what? Miu Miu's shows feature models with unkempt hair and bags full of clothes, shoes and cords. It may come across as contradictory for a luxury house, but I prefer the term realistic. It's a holistic picture of who we are, especially as we get dressed.

I often find it suffocating to behold myself to one style. And many of us find the constant hamster wheel of self-betterment, whether through fashion or some other method, exhausting. Some days I prefer slouchy cargo trousers and boots, and other days I have the urge to wear a bold dress with splashes of primary colour. Miu Miu exudes the notion that you can come as you are, bringing every part of you. Wear the dress over the cargos; why not? Don't leave any of it behind.

Its ideas expand beyond the collection of clothes, handbags and accessories. Miu Miu has its own literary club to promote discourse and continue contemporary thought. It has commissioned a plethora of short films from women filmmakers, too, "to celebrate femininity in the 21st century with a critical eye." They explore themes of toxic relationships, male-female power, BIPOC lived experiences, sexuality, shame, gender roles and health crises, among other topics. Clothes feature, but they're simply a tool, not the main point.

All of this to say that when you're sifting through this autumn's most iconic Miu Miu pieces, you're considering much more than a style purchase. These items come with stories and a perspective. Not only that, but the brand wants you to take what you like and give it a history that's unique to you. So, without further ado, scroll on for Miu Miu's It pieces for autumn 2026.

28 Miu Miu It Items for Autumn 2026

1. Handbags

Style Notes: Many of the most appealing Miu Miu bags are even more relevant since this year's resurgence of '90s and Y2K summer trends, which are certainly slipping into autumn. They feature studs, slouchy and voluminous leather, flaps and bowler-bag shapes.

The new Rendez-Vous bag has a nostalgic hobo silhouette with a braided handle and vintage-inspired hardware, whilst the Arcadie has studs that transport me back to the outfits I wore shopping on the weekend in the noughties. These handbags are the kind of thing you'd expect the main character in a rom com to pull from her wardrobe and wear with a layered long-sleeved top, bootcut jeans and a skinny scarf; or a knitted hat and coat on her way to a café. In other words, Miu Miu's bags are made for autumn. They're rich and earthy with softer edges; a bold departure from the super-structured and clean designs of other brands.

Shop the Bags:

2. Shoes

Style Notes: Miu Miu's leather slingbacks with bite-sized buckles and pointe-shoe-inspired logo ballerinas are still beloved choices, but for the transitional period between summer and autumn, I think we'll see a renewed interest in satin trainers. For other options, I foresee Miu Miu's classic penny loafers and Y2K-inspired bubble-sole trainers also enjoying popularity next season.

Shop the Shoes:

3. Ready-to-Wear

Style Notes: Autumn ushers in classic staples like blazers, leather jackets and jeans. Though these are essentials for your transitional capsule wardrobe, I have my eye on some more intriguing pieces from Miu Miu's ready-to-wear collection. Consider the long-sleeved striped jersey shirts, which play perfectly into the striped-top trend in an autumnal manner. If you're not ready to say goodbye to dresses, I'd recommend the Stretch Poplin Minidress—which has sleeves—for a perfect cool-weather addition. There are windbreakers in technical fabrics as well as wool vests and V-neck cardigans to explore, all of which will make the move from summer to autumn more effortless.

Shop the Ready-to-Wear:

4. Accessories

Style Notes: If you like accessorising, you'll like the diverse range on offer from Miu Miu this season. There are the more standard (albeit pretty) headbands, bandanas and sunglasses, but if you're looking for something more interesting to wear in autumn, why not adorn yourself with a few chain belts or pin a banana brooch to your blazer? I'm a big fan of the weird little squirrel keychain for autumnal dressing, but I equally love the selection of tortoiseshell glasses and colourful silk scarves.

Shop the Accessories:

If you’re anything like me, apple probably isn’t the first fruit that comes to mind when choosing one of the best perfumes. I’m far more easily tempted by addictive citrus blends (such as my all-time favourite Diptyque Eau des Sens), or the creamy, modern interpretations of fig that have become so popular in recent years.

Yet, when done well, apple can bring something entirely different to a scent: crispness, freshness and a subtle juiciness that makes you want to keep going back for more.

Michelle Feeney, founder of Floral Street, tells me that apple fragrances are finding popularity again as they tap into the nostalgia of the late '90s and early 2000s, when crisp, fruity scents were everywhere. "As Y2K beauty continues to make a comeback, apple fragrances are enjoying a revival too," she explains. "Apple is also a familiar note in shampoos and haircare, giving it a clean, just-washed feel that many people naturally associate with freshness."

When it comes to perfume, Feeney tells me that as a note, apple is also incredibly versatile, working just as well in bright, everyday scents as it does in more floral, woody, or even gourmand creations. And if the thought of an apple fragrance conjures up images of overly sweet, synthetic body sprays, it’s worth reconsidering. After testing over twenty apple perfumes, I'm happy to announce that today’s apple scents range from crisp and green to creamy, woody and sophisticated. Here are my top picks...

What Is an Apple Fragrance?

While apple is often associated with sweetness, its versatility makes it far more interesting than you might expect. "Apple is a fruity fragrance note that can smell crisp, juicy, tart or subtly sweet, depending on the composition. It's most commonly found in the fruity fragrance family, but it also adds a fresh, playful touch to floral, woody, green and gourmand scents," reveals Feeney.

How to Choose the Right Apple Fragrance

The first thing to do is think about the vibe you're after. "If you love crisp, refreshing scents, look for apple paired with citrus or green notes," advises Feeney. Think rose, jasmine and cyclamen. "These help give the floral bouquet a bright, modern feeling while softening some of the sharper green notes," she adds.

If you're drawn to light, pretty fragrances, apple and florals are a beautiful match. "The apple adds brightness, while notes like peony, rose or jasmine keep the scent soft and airy. For something cosier, look for apple blended with woods or vanilla," explains Feeney.

The Best Apple Fragrances, Tried & Tested

• Best Apple Perfume Overall: Floral Street Almond Blossom Eau de Parfum, £78
• Best Floral Apple Perfume: Jo Malone London Peony & Blush Suede, £125
• Best Gourmand Apple Perfume: Ellis Brooklyn Apple Love Eau de Parfum, £126
• Best Affordable Apple Perfume: Phlur Mrs Smith Hair and Body Mist, £39
• Best Luxury Apple Perfume: Byredo Pulp Eau de Parfum, £225

1. Floral Street Sweet Almond Blossom

If crisp linen and freshly baked apple pie had a fragrance baby, I imagine it would smell something like Floral Street Sweet Almond Blossom. It has that irresistible contrast between clean, airy freshness and warm, comforting sweetness that makes you want to inhale it and also tell everyone "here, smell this!" Utterly addictive, I found this to be the softest and most inviting, with a polished quality that makes it incredibly easy to wear.

2. Phlur Mrs Smith

Phlur's Mrs Smith is a little more understated, but that’s exactly what I like about it. It has the freshness of a crisp, freshly cut apple, with a soft, clean quality that could never be OTT. It's light, airy and just a little bit fruity, rather than sweet or syrupy. It’s the kind of scent I’d mist through my hair before heading out, when I want to smell fresh without feeling overly perfumed. Perfect for hot days in the city or beach holidays.

3. Jo Malone London Peony & Blush Suede

This Jo Malone London perfume has been a firm favourite in my fragrance wardrobe since it launched in 2013. The red apple is crisp and juicy when it first hits the skin, but it quickly softens into a lush mix of peony, rose and jasmine. For me, the suede is what makes it really shine. It gives the florals a soft, velvety warmth, while the apple keeps everything feeling fresh and juicy. It’s less apple perfume and more like a beautiful peony bouquet with a crisp bite of red apple. It's romantic, pretty and a stellar choice for wedding season.

4. DKNY Be Delicious

5. Ellis Brooklyn Apple Love

6. Maison Noir Icarus 347

If you want a sophisticated apple fragrance, this one is definitely worth a try. It opens with a juicy mix of melon, green apple, raspberry and red apple, giving me the impression of fizzy apple sours, only much more elevated. As it settles, the sweetness gives way to a warmer, more refined base of tonka bean, ambroxan and patchouli, adding depth without losing that fresh, fruity character.

7. Byredo Pulp

8. Vyrao The Sixth

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Copenhagen Fashion Week came to a close last week, but a soft buzz of excitement still lingers in the air. Whilst most fashion weeks see us waiting months for the pieces to fall into the right season, standouts of the recent runways and presentations are already leaving their mark. In particular, two of my colleagues on the ground separately sent me pieces from the same collection, declaring both were adding them to their autumn wardrobes immediately. Naturally, I had to take a look for myself, and this morning I spent a few hours trying on Rixo’s autumn/winter collection. Better still, our readers can shop the collection before it launches. Let’s get into it.

Whilst the summer days are still going strong, in just a few weeks the seasonal switchover will arrive, and right now my autumn wardrobe is already starting to take shape. I’ve secured my favourite jeans, found the flats I’ll be wearing every other day, and now I’m searching for an infusion of joy, something that Rixo has at the core of every single design.

Whether it’s best-selling dresses, cult jackets or pretty blouses that make the simplest jeans look considered, Rixo’s new collection is full of joyful accents. For frill seekers, dainty finishing touches can be spotted on the sweetest blouses and flowing dresses, whilst those searching for bold prints will be pleased to welcome the return of some of the brand’s most iconic graphics, from eye-catching leopard print to bold florals. And trust me, you’ll want to take a peek at the cardigans.

Personally, I’d go as far as to say it’s Rixo’s strongest collection yet. The pieces are primed to make autumn dressing exceedingly chic, with signature details of silhouette, intricate motifs and textures giving each piece that Rixo flair. Now, my full calendar feels extra exciting at the thought of pulling out one of the newly released dresses, and truly the jackets deserve a moment for themselves.

Sign Up For Early Access

Whilst Rixo’s autumn/winter collection officially launches on Tuesday 1st September, you can sign up now to get early access to the collection and shop the best pieces from Wednesday the 26th of August.

Simply find your favourite piece, select your size, and you'll be emailed as soon as you can shop your favourite piece, before the collection officially launches. Now, scroll on to explore the Rixo Autumn/Winter 2026 collection.

Shop the Rixo Autumn/Winter Collection

Shop More Rixo Best-Sellers We Adore

Don't get me wrong. I love a good bronzer. And whilst there are some brilliant cream bronzers and bronzing drops out there, as an oily-skinned beauty editor, they don't always sit too well on my skin. The same goes for powder or matte bronzers, which can sometimes make my skin look too flat. The point is, it's hard to find a bronzer that can make my skin look like I've just returned from a beach holiday without resorting to self-tanning drops. Just when I thought I'd exhausted my options, I rediscovered my bottle of By Terry Tea to Tan and realised that water bronzers are the best way to achieve a believable glow.

What Are Water Bronzers?

Water bronzers are water-based and have a golden or bronze tint. Their lightweight consistency means that they apply like watercolour pigments, leaving a soft, translucent hint of colour that feels and looks weightless on the skin. You can buff them into bare skin for a sun-kissed glow, or apply over makeup as you would a bronzer for a realistic tan without the heaviness or cream or powder formulas that tend to sit on the skin. Instead, these sink in like a second skin and leave a bronzed stain that lasts all day and is usually transfer-proof too.

They've become my favourite way to fake a tan without resorting to self-tanners, and they stay put better on my skin than other bronzers do (especially during all the heatwaves we've had). Ahead, I've rounded up the best water bronzers I've tried that deserve a spot in your makeup bag too.

The Best Water Bronzers

• Best Overall: By Terry Tea to Tan Face and Body
• Best Luxury Water Bronzer: Victoria Beckham Beauty Colour Wash
• Best Compact Water Bronzer: Refy Water Bronzer
• Best Skincare/Makeup Hybrid: Whind Marrakech Sun Instant Glow Tinting Water
• Best Water Bronzer Drops: Self Glow By James Read Sunbright Tinted Tan Drops

1. By Terry Tea to Tan Face and Body

ByTerry's Tea to Tan was the original bronzing water that launched in 2014, and it remains a total beauty icon amongst beauty editors today. The water-based formula has a sheer, bronze tint that can be used in so many ways. You can apply it on bare skin for a veil of sunkissed colour, buffed over makeup with a brush as a lightweight bronzer or mixed into your moisturiser for a dewy glow. It's totally matte without any shimmer, but leaves a subtle glow to your skin and is long-wearing and transfer-proof. You can even use it on your body as an instant tan if you want a natural-looking glow elsewhere. Because it's so lightweight, it leaves you with the kind of well-rested glow that looks like you just returned from a week abroad. It also comes in a smaller travel size if you don't want to commit to a full-sized bottle—but trust me, once you've tried it, you'll never return to your powder or cream bronzer again.

2. Victoria Beckham Beauty Colour Wash

I'm willing to say it: the Victoria Beckham Beauty Colour Wash Bronze Water Tint is one of my favourite products that's launched all year. It has the rollerball pipette applicator as the Colour Wash Blush Tints (£44), and these watercolour-inspired bronzers impart a sheer wash of bronze before setting into a long-lasting stain. The formula is packed with activated sea water, antioxidant-rich fruit extracts and hydrating coconut water, leaving skin with a juicy, fresh-looking glow even after the colour has set. It comes in two shades, including Tan Line, a warm medium bronze, and Heatwave, a deeper bronze that I love to sweep on my cheeks, forehead and nose for a wash of believable bronze colour.

3. Refy Water Bronzer

4. Whind Marrakech Sun Instant Glow Tinting Water

5. Self Glow By James Read Sunbright Tinted Tan Drops

How We Tested

As a beauty editor with over a decade of experience in beauty, I've tested a lot of bronzers. I've been testing the best bronzer waters over the past few months to find the formula that work to deliver to most natural-looking glow, whether worn or bare skin or with makeup.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

If someone were to take a peek into my wardrobe, they'd find that one brand features more than most. Bringing together classic designs, trending details and quality fabrics, Reformation has long been one of my most frequented stores, whether that's in person or online. From the new in arrivals to the enduring core pieces, over the years the brand has done a lot of heavy lifting in curating my elegant capsule wardrobe. Recently, I've been counting down to the arrival of the summer sale, knowing from experience that it will be packed full of enduring pieces that I can instantly add into my summer rotations, or store away for a few weeks until autumn arrives. Finally, the Reformation sale is here, and 9 of my most relied-upon capsule wardrobe heroes are discounted right now.

As a shopping editor, I spend a lot of time trying on pieces in person. I like to get a feel for the fabrics, an idea of the fit, and over the past few years have spent a lot of my time in the Reformation changing rooms. Whilst the brand is known for the beautiful dresses consistently spotted throughout the summer months and at every wedding we attend, Reformation excels in every single category. Trust me, I've tried it all.

Heading into autumn, jeans are about to return as our most worn staple, and two of Reformation's best-selling styles are on sale right now. The Cary is a relaxed wide-leg style for those who prefer a looser fit, whilst the Cynthia is a classic straight-leg cut which returns every single season simply because they're just so good. Whilst it may not be time for our heavy knits right now, Reformation's cashmere collection is a best-selling category every single autumn and winter, with signature styles selling out every time the temperatures drop. Now, the most iconic styles, the Clara and the Jadey, are on sale. Trust me, your cold-weather wardrobe will thank you for these cosy cashmere additions.

Alongside these are sleek skirts, iconic dresses and notably the Bethany ballet flats, primed to ensure the shift out of sandals is as polished and comfortable as possible. As the best Reformation sales buys tend to move fast, scroll on to shop the 9 capsule wardrobe heroes worth shopping in the Reformation summer sale, and shop more sale buys that have caught my eye.

Shop the Best Reformation Sale Buys

1. Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan

2. Cary High Rise Slouchy Wide Leg Jeans

3. Dusk Knit Top

4. Balia Linen Dress

5. Jadey Cashmere Oversized V-Neck Sweater

6. Cynthia High Rise Straight Jeans

7. Eli Oversized Linen Shirt

8. Carolina Silk Skirt

9. Bethany Ballet Flat

Shop More Reformation Sale Buys We Adore

If the words quiet luxury, minimalism or understated pique your interest, then you're probably a fan of The Row. Since its inception, the brand has stood firm in its aesthetic—simple pieces, focused on proportion and timelessness. Immediately, the fashion world took note. Through passing trends and fleeting viral products, The Row's core designs have held their own, and whilst the designs are pared-back, void of logos or branding, in-the-know fashion people can spot them a mile off. Now, one of its signature pieces has been restocked, and already fashion people and celebrities are wearing The Row Stella Ballet Flats on repeat.

Whilst all of The Row's creations fly out of stock almost immediately, it's the accessories that intrigue me the most. I could spend hours talking through the extensive It bag collection, from the treasured Marlo to the playful Peggy clutch, any of which would be a welcome addition to my handbag collection. The designs inevitably spark a thousand copies, and the same goes for its footwear. The zipped ankle boots launched in 2019 created their own trend cycle, and the brand's elasticated ballet flats cemented the return of a style that had been overlooked for many years.

From the success of the ballet flats came another style, the Stella. Unlike the original, which followed classic features of a ballet shoe, the Stella brought a more contemporary edge, removing the elasticated strap, softening the round toe and hiking up the vamp to create a truly refined pair of shoes that instantly became a sell-out success. Fashion people and celebrities quickly added this staple style to their wardrobes and have been wearing it on repeat ever since.

With autumn on the horizon, it's almost time to store away our summer sandals and reach for something a little more perennial—the Stella ballet flats. Pairing seamlessly with jeans, tailoring, dresses and more, these investment shoes have versatility at their core, and with a refined design and understated appeal be able to hold their place in our wardrobes for years to come. As The Row's cult pieces tend to move fast, scroll on to shop the Stella ballet flats before they inevitably sell out once more.

Shop The Row Stella Ballet Flats

Shop More The Row Cult Buys