As a true lover of summer, there are lots of things I love about this time of year. The longer days, the sandy toes and smell of sunscreen. Two (or three) Campari spritz on a Saturday afternoon whilst listening to the new Olivia Rodrigo album. Priority boarding and the thrill of trying to get a 14.5kg bag onto a flight with 10kg allowance. What a joy!

Naturally as a fashion person, the seasonal clothing helps make me love it so much, too. For spring/summer 2026, summer trends have felt fresher and more vibrant than we’ve seen for years. Dopamine colour palettes, nature-inspired motifs and nostalgia-inducing silhouettes means we’re in a new summer era. But-bye, Brat summer; farewell quiet luxury, we're looking to new textures, bolder jewellery styles and more dramatic sunglasses.

If you're a minimalist concerned about all the talk over it being a maximalist summer, fear not! You needn't hang up your pared-back hat just yet. From the oversized black shades from the early 2000s to very elegant raffia bags, there are several trends here that don't require maximum colour. Instead, see these smaller finer details be the key to elevating those timeless summer styles like a linen dress, your capri leggings or a boho blouse into a look that feels very 'now'.

5 Summer Accessories Trends Every Fashion Person Is Wearing Right Now

1. Woven Raffia Bags

Style Notes: There’s no question of the enduring power of the raffia bag. It’s a timeless staple in the summer capsule wardrobe and one that has everlasting appeal. The larger ones are a great beach bag, sure, but also as an everyday office bag when back working in the city. When a little smaller, they’re perfect for al fresco dinners or browsing around the old town or port on holiday. Whilst certain styles have dominated the raffia bag trend for years—the Loewe Basket Tote, for example—this year I’ve noticed more woven iterations. Designed with a stiffer exterior, this is a new look for the timeless, humble raffia handbag.

2. Beaded Everything

Style Notes: So long, simple silver and gold pedants—when it comes to jewellery in summer 2026 is bolder, brighter and more adventurous than ever. Fish necklaces, shell earrings, spiral cuffs—the mood is simple: more is more. But the biggest maximalist jewellery detail is the presence of beads. Be it chokers in deep burgundy tones or longer sculptural pendants in jade and turquoise tones, beads have taken over our jewellery. They've also had their way with handbags, sandals and ready-to-wear, too, from embellished fringe trim skirts to crochet tops with string beads, it's here, there and everywhere.

3. Crochet Skull Cap

Style Notes: Influences from the 1920s have been bubbling up for a while, with Prada’s pouch bags, Matthieu Blazy’s T-bar court shoes at Chanel, as well as his drop waists (which were also seen at Rabanne) are an immediate nod to the flapper girl era. But nothing says ‘20s like the crochet netted skull cap. I’ve seen a chainmail versions (again, shout out to Rabanne), beaded styles as well as an array of different colours. Every summer has an hair or headwear accessory, be it scrunchies, tropical flower claw clips, bandanas or bucket hats, this year it’s all about channeling Daisy Buchanan.

4. "Bling Ring" Shades

Style Notes: Of all the accessory categories, I find sunglasses have the quickest trend cycle. Sure, many styles are timeless, but they always dip in and out of popularity (did you hear the Rayban Wayfarer is making a comeback?). We've noticed a flurry of New Yorkers wearing the XXL round Celine sunglasses which, with their clear Twiggy-like ‘60s round silhouette, feel aligned to the boho comeback. But another supersize style from the past I’m noticing is the ‘00s big black shades. Be it wrap around visor styles (often with logos on either side) or the rounded square shapes from Khaite, there’s something very ‘00s ‘paparazzi’ about this trend. Think Paris Hilton coming out the club with Nicole Richie and Lindsay Lohan, think Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen on a cigarette break, we’re bringing back the Bling Ring era and steal-worthy accessories of this era!

5. Maximalist Earrings

Style Notes: Statement earrings are having a major moment (hello, statement jewellery is in general!). From maritime motifs—from starfish to shells, there’s no stopping the mermaid theme—to colourful resin sculptural styles, the bigger the earring, the better. But the maximalist microtrend drawing me in most is tropical flowers. We saw the tropical flower claw clip trend a couple of summers ago, and whilst fun, it was quite Gen Z and casual. This feels more elevated despite being bold, and is perfect for minimalists looking to dip their toe into colour for a wedding, Wimbledon or another dressy occasion.

Whilst there are plenty of top-level trends to get excited about from the autumn/winter 2026 runways, you may have glossed over the subtle style shift that's happening with handbags this season, one that designers across all four fashion capitals agree on. Clutches—once a narrow handbag category designed exclusively for weddings, red carpets, and black-tie galas—have been slowly evolving into silhouettes and sizes that go far beyond eveningwear. In fact, the chicest clutches of the moment are intended to look just as good with a gown and heels as they do with jeans and flats.

In the collections, that looked like an elongated eel-print clutch that Proenza Schouler styled with a polished skirt suit, a series of east-west frame clutches that Coach immediately sold out in its post-show "see now, buy now" release, and upsized silhouettes that Celine models carried in the crook of their arms. All in all, clutches are becoming the new handbag style of choice to signal elegant style both day and night, and several It styles are already earning buzz this year, including The Row's Peggy Clutch and the Bottega Veneta Lauren 1979.

Bottega, Celine, Khaite—according to the autumn/winter 2026 collections, we're entering the era of the everyday clutch bag. Keep scrolling to shop the best designer clutch bags for summer 2026, and beyond.

Everyday Clutches: The Elegant Handbag Trend to Know for 2026

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Runway Styling Inspiration

At Who What Wear UK, you can always trust our thorough and precise reporting on the next major runway trends. We were one of the first to declare florals for spring as genuinely groundbreaking, and if you started wearing a funnel neck jacket this season, you may well have seen it here first. But now we've checked off every print, colour, shoe and bag set to dominate this season, it's time to get more granular. With warmer days ever closer, there is no better time to take a look at one of the most underrated but hardest working accessories in our arsenal. The sunglasses trends you need to know about for 2026.

Just like ready-to-wear, designers offered up a range of styles, shapes and colours for spring/summer 2026. Some charmingly nostalgic, others a glimpse into what could be the next big thing, but it's fair to say that in all of the cat-eye, rectangular, circle and oversized pairs, there is something to suit every personality.

As it turns out, 2026's most important sunglasses trends can be categorised not just by shape, but also by the wearer. If you have a penchant for the pared-back, ultra-clean, Jil Sander-esque brand of minimalism that gained traction in the '90s, I might steer you towards a classic or oval pair of sunglasses. If however you prefer print-clashing, haphazard layering and have ever been described as "loud", I would draw your attention to Loewe's aviator 2.0.

Curious to find out the sunglasses trend that works for your style tribe? Keep scrolling to see and shop the styles we're confident you're going to see everywhere this year. Your outfit won't feel complete without them.

The Biggest Sunglasses Trends of 2026

1. The Classicist

Style Notes: Eternally chic, classicists are not one for flash-in-the-pan trends, they are looking for the pair of sunglasses that will go with everything they own. Ready to invest in styles that will last a lifetime, you won't find classists in anything "buzzy", instead they prefer to focus on sleek styles in their favourite colour (read: black), and if anything can make them stray away from Ray Ban Wayfarers and Celine Triomphes, it's going to be this season's soft cat-eye and "squoval" as seen on the runways of Coperni, Magda Butrym, Courrèges and Givenchy.

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2. The Alt Insider

Style Notes: The future is bright, like, really bright according to the alt insider. Never one to blend in with the crowd, this experimental dresser is most likely to be sporting 2026's most divisive sunglasses trend: supersized, colour-pop aviators that wrap around the face. Always the person with multiple pairs of sunglasses in their rotation for different looks and moods, insiders will appreciate the rich colour palette and sculptural shapes sported at Loewe, Miu Miu and Pierre Cardin as the fun way to introduce a little (extra) drama to their look.

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3. The Boho Spirit

Style Notes: With the return of boho chic in the wake of Chemena Kamali's viral debut at Chloé, it was only a matter of time until one of the trend's key accessories made a comeback too. Not not disc belts, but large, seventies-inspired bug eye sunnies. Free sprits and romanticists will love the ethereal, rose-tinted lenses (as seen quite literally at Zimmermann and Chloé), and vintage fans will be happy to see larger than life square and circle frames back on the agenda for this year too. Now all you need to complete the look is a billowing blouse, flared jeans and a great pair of platforms.

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4. The 90's Minimalist

Style Notes: The nineties called, and oval sunglasses are back, but any self-confessed minimalist will already know that. If you've got plenty of slip dresses, white tank tops, knee length skirts and court shoes in your wardrobe, oval sunnies will slip (pun intended) into your roster along with all of your Ralph Lauren separates. After the last few months have given us a new found obsession for ladylike dressing, kitten heels and all things CBK, the forecast for the rest of the year is "polished to perfection", and whether wire rimmed or acetate, oval sunglasses are the perfect finishing touch.

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5. The Y2K Devotee

Style Notes: The tech boom of the early noughties was directly responsible for the ultra-slick, high-shine glamour of the 2000s. Gadgets, metallics, sparkle and gloss, the new age of excess was all about logomania and dare I say, "bling", and those who have caught the millennium bug all over again are leaning into the "more is more" approach to fashion with aplomb. Expect Y2K devotees to be first one on and last one off the dancefloor (and they wear the 24/7 Party Girl title like a badge of honour). They might not have much else in their tiny handbags, but there will be a pair of statement sunglasses in there, and in all likelihood it will be a cyber-inspired metallic or a decadent designer pair perfect for a bleary eyed morning after. Take tips from Casablanca, Valentino and Jean Paul Gaultier and look for silver frames, eccentric shapes or heavy branding to get the look.

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If there’s one thing French women are known for, it’s their timeless, elegant style, and their approach to dressing is always considered and intentional. When it comes to spring and the shift in season though, it enables an entirely new calibre of styling to commence with a fresh, elevated approach to their wardrobes.

One key element of styling that is often overlooked is accessories. Rather than overhauling your entire wardrobe, all it takes is adding that finishing touch to make a real difference to your look. French women manage to get it right every time, and nail the accompanying elements that instantly elevate a look without too much having to go into it, giving that effortless, pulled together finish.

The emphasis lies on those smaller, more considered and thoughtful touches that bring an outfit together. When Julie Sergent Ferreri showcases how to wear a silk scarf tied around her waist, don’t underestimate it’s versatility. To make it work with other outfits, you can tie it in your hair or even around the handle of your handbag to bring texture and colour to a look. Or, where Emmanuelle Koffi opts for a classic ballet flat to finish off her look as the weather warms, you could try suede, leather or printed depending on your desired finish.

Curious to know how you too can update your look in an instant? Scroll on to discover five French women accessories that are a must-have for spring 2026.

1. Round Sunglasses

Style Notes: Sunglasses are an absolute essential as the weather brightens up, and this season French women are opting for the rounded shape made popular in the '90s. Whether it’s a tortoiseshell or wire frame, it’s a classic shape that suits an array of face shapes and will add polish to any outfit.

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2. Woven Handbag

Style Notes: Leather, raffia or suede, this season is all about the woven bag. No longer reserved for the beach, it’s a style that has transitioned and adapted to be more wearable and sturdy for every day wear. Take tips from Aida Badji and wear yours with an oversized blue shirt and mini skirt come summer.

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3. Classic Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Now an essential part of any wardrobe, nothing beats the classic ballet flat, and the French have made it one of the foundations of their everyday uniform. Take inspiration from Emmanuelle and opt for suede, or go all out and inject some fun and texture into your look with an animal print iteration.

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4. Statement Gold Earrings

Style Notes: A statement earring can make such a difference to a look and gold is a stylish option that’s guaranteed to go with any colour combo. Whether you choose to wear it for a night out or use it to enhance your every day outfit, it’s a failsafe classic that instantly elevates a look.

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5. Satin Scarf

Style Notes: The one thing I love about a silk scarf is its versatility. Weather you replicate Julie’s look and tie it around your waist, or tie a smaller scarf in your hair in a bow or to cover your head, it’s a quick and easy way to bring a focal point to your look with a little boho energy.

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New seasons bring new trends, and spring/summer 2026 has given already a plethora of emerging aesthetics, viral TikTok movements and one or two unlikely, even divisive, trending colours. But for the minimalists out there, S/S26 has so far been more about textures and luxe details. Fringe and tassel scarves, pillbox hats, brooches and funnel neck jackets, to name a few.

Whilst we may be bidding adieu to quiet luxury as a movement, a lot of the core principles of it still remain. Timeless, expensive-looking staples are the key to an elevated capsule wardrobe, and certain celebrities and influencers—Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Jennifer Lawrence and Elsa Hosk—continue to be the arbiters of taste when it comes to this style of pared-back dressing.

But what about our accessories, and more specifically, handbags? Whilst handbag trends may move a little slower, even if you are one for clean, classic and simple design codes, there are a few silhouettes, details and colours that I've noticed gaining momentum lately.

I can't discuss spring/summer 2026 handbag trends without making mention to Chanel. Creative director Matthieu Blazy's first (sell-out) collection for the house has caused nothing short of shopping hysteria, with fashion editors, stylists, buyers, influencers and VIC (Very Important Clients) trying to get their hands on the collection's handbags and shoes. Amongst the new styles is the 26S Croc Illusion tote bag, which is adorned with an embossed mock-croc print. A minimalists dream, with its clean rectangular silhouette, long shoulder straps and black leather exterior, I think the virality of this bag this will spur a surge in popularity for crocodile skin-style leather, especially on larger styles.

Adding to this, since Prada showcased pouch bags in its spring/summer 2026 show, I've noticed many fashion people styling silky drawstring sacs casually hanging from their wrists. Whilst Prada's versions featured quite bold, saturated hues (think golden mustard and pink), I know minimalists amongst us will prefer more neutral tones of cream, brown or black.

5 Minimalist Bag Trends

1. Pouch Bags

Style Notes: With their longer straps, pouch bags are actually much more practical and easier to carry than an envelope clutch or minaudière. Whilst I've noticed a few beaded, sequinned and even floral styles, minimalists should look to more subtle details like a singular bottom tassel or fringed edging. Mark my words, if you attend a wedding or special occasion this summer, the best dressed guests will be carrying a pouch bag. The question is, will that best dressed guest be you?

2. Croc Leather

Styles Notes: Mock-croc leather is such a simple way to add a different texture when you wear a lot of the same shades. You may be thinking that black or deep brown aren't very summer-friendly, but as someone who wears these hues all year round, I beg to differ! There's something very Carolyn Bessette Kennedy-coded about a black summer bag, especially one that's oversized and has long shoulder straps (a detail that feels fundamentally quite '90s). Naturally, these bags are incredibly practical—able to fit a laptop inside for work, or all the necessities ahead of a flight, thus making them a smart investment that will be used much further into the future than this season.

3. Bowling Bags

Style Notes: It's no secret that fashion is obsessed with the past, current trends are often inspired by by-gone eras and decades. This latest handbag trend hails from the early 2000s, but isn't as garish or embellished as other relics from Y2K. It's the bowling bag, a classic style with a larger rectangular shape and a curved top. And whilst the original versions in the noughties like the Chanel Cambon might have had sizeable logos or quilting, today they tend to be a little more sleek, clean and contemporary, thus appealing to many minimalists. I've noticed a few styles in either a rich suede or with a mock croc exterior from Demellier, Massimo Dutti and Toteme, if your budget allows. If you like a logo however, I recommend Miu Miu's Beau tote—a beautifully square style with rounded edges that has become an It item for Gen Z and beyond.

4. Bucket Bags

Styles Notes: Bucket bags might not be new, but boy are they big for spring 2026. A minimalist staple, designer versions from Khaite, Toteme have been trending for some time, but new styles from Versace, Mulberry and Prada have made them bigger than ever. Whilst leather and canvas offer something chic and polished, perhaps good for office work days, raffia is great as a vacation-ready option.

5. Cylinder Shape

Style Notes: It might not necessarily be the easiest to carry, but wow is a cylinder shape bag chic. I think a cooler alternative to the classic east to west silhouette, a style that's been trending the last few years, I've seen leather, shearling and even mesh iterations of this spherical style.

As we enter spring/summer 2026, getting dressed is starting to feel less about practicality and more about personality. We've shed the heavy layers and head-to-toe weatherproofing has become less of a concern, which means there's more room to be playful with what we're wearing day to day.

A new season doesn't have to mean a wardrobe overhaul, however. Sometimes the smallest details can make the biggest difference, which is why I believe accessories are an essential part of any styling toolkit. Not only are they one of the easiest ways to refresh what you already own, but they also can shift the tone of an outfit entirely.

On the spring/summer runways, accessories were no afterthought. At Ferragamo, and Hèrmes, scarves were styled in unexpected ways. They were wrapped, draped and layered rather than simply added on, making them a more integral part of the look.

At Prada, Valentino and Loewe, bags shifted towards softer, more relaxed shapes with the birth of the 'pouch' bag and jewellery embraced a more maximalist mood with beads and the return of the brooch, marking a shift away from gold and silver minimalism. Eyewear also made a statement, with oversized frames at Victoria Beckham and Balenciaga.

So if you're looking to update your wardrobe for spring, accessories are the easiest place to start. This season's more maximalist approach to accessories means you can make an impact with minimal effort; it's just a case of adding one key piece. To make it even easier, I've done the groundwork for you by pulling the standout trends from the runways and compiling an edit of the pieces worth investing in now. Read on to shop.

5 DESIGNER ACCESSORY TRENDS FOR SPRING 2026:

1. OVERSIZED SUNGLASSES

Style Notes: A continuation of the shield sunglasses trend that's dominated over the past year, the spring/summer 2026 runways saw oversized eyewear expand into a wider range of styles. At Victoria Beckham they were large and angular, while at Saint Laurent, they came wide and tinted. Balenciaga, meanwhile, leaned into visor silhouettes, adding another statement shape to the mix. With this trend, keep the rest of the outfit paired back, like a simple jeans and t-shirt look. The sunglasses will do all the heavy lifting.

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2. SCARVES

Style Notes: First there were knitted, triangle scarves layered over blazers and fashioned into hoods, then there were lace scarves tied around waists. This season, the scarf trend has been taken one step further, with brands such as Hèrmes, Ferragamo and Calvin Klein encouraging us to get creative with our silk scarves. Make sure to go for larger sizes, as these are the most versatile. Match to satin shirts or trousers and allow to drape around your waist, or choose a vibrant print to lift neutrals and wrap around everything from jewellery to bags or even add into a hairstyle.

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3. BROOCHES

Style Notes: The brooch revival has been simmering for a while, but this season it has emerged as an established comeback, with several designers including them in their collections. Wales Bonner used regal, vintage-style brooches to adorn tailoring, Chanel went oversized whereas Tory Burch adopted a more minimal and delicate take. Whatever your style, there's a brooch for everybody. Start small with a dainty brooch attached to a tie or lapel, or go big with a statement piece attached to an evening dress. The possibilities are endless.

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4. POUCHES

Style Notes: The SLP (Silly Little Pouch) may not be the most practical of bag trends for this season, but it's definitely one of the chicest, and perfect for occasionwear dressing. Satin and nylon drawstring styles were spotted at Prada in vibrant pinks and greens, while at Valentino they were black and detailed with embroidery and fringing, whereas Loewe showcased a sculptural leather style that was oh so tactile. I see them as a great alternative to the clutch: they carry the essentials and accessorise elegant dresses and suits perfectly.

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5. BEADED JEWELLERY

Style Notes: Is the era of simple gold hoops and a chain over? It just may be, as designers opted for beads instead. Chunky beaded necklaces at Chanel, Tory Burch and Celine mark a shift away from minimalism, instead prioritising a tactile and colourful playfulness. If you are a die-hard minimalist, do not fret, as natural tones and textures, or even clear beads and pearls, will work well alongside your neutral colour palettes and fabrics such as linen and cotton. If you're a maximalist, experiment with the variety of colour and shapes on offer, but do remember less is more and ensure no more than three colours in your entire ensemble.

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Sometimes a runway show unfolds like a friend telling you a story: layers of juice building to a climax with a piece of gossip so titillating, so deeply satisfying, that you feel gleeful for days. Celine’s spring/summer 2026 collection made me feel similarly, except instead of informational nuggets, it expounded on a delightful something else: the neck.

First, a string of beads that dipped in and out of a sky-blue collar. Then, another necklace, this time composed of so many loops, graduating in size, that it almost resembled a foulard. Finally, a pussy-bow shirt with the gravitas of a cravat; a creamy swoosh framed by a leather bomber jacket.

By the final look—a shirt with a heightened collar and lapels the size of tortilla chips—it was official: the "nécolletage" is the area. This was echoed outside the shows, where street-stylers embraced a more-is-more approach to nécolletage dressing, from brooches arranged in a constellation to embellished collars that were necklace-like but required zero effort. Forget weighing down your ear lobes and give your wrists a break from bangles—for S/S 26, you only need to consider your neck.

1. Statement Necklaces

Style Notes: Lemaire’s Castanet necklace (a compact mirror shaped like the percussion instrument), leather tags attached to lengths of cord, pendants ranging from pouches to perfume bottles; necklaces have become something bigger than adornment. Tory Burch’s autumn/winter 2026 show featured armoured fish necklaces, each pendant the size of a sardine, whilst for S/S 26, Chanel moved on from pearls, teaming its tweed with ropes of tubular beads. It’s less about a necklace for the sake of a necklace. Instead, it’s storytelling through your neckwear; curated strands that look as though they could have been lifted from a museum’s cabinet of curiosities. The goal is a family of unusual pendants—Alighieri’s wax-cast example conceals a secret looking glass—to add layers of interest to any outfit.

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2. The Silk Scarf

Style Notes: A silk scarf, looped then knotted around the neck, might initially feel like a stuffy old-world accessory, but, according to the runways of Acne Studios, Bottega Veneta and Celine, there’s nothing fuddy-duddy about it. Richard E. Grant even wore one to walk for Miu Miu, a geometric square of silk tucked into a half-zip knit with the collar popped. This is the gentleman’s (or woman’s) take on nécolletage dressing, and any charity shop or vintage emporium will have oodles of silk scarves to choose from. In fact, something slightly crushed or weathered by age will look right at home next to similarly lived-in leather or suede.

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3. Brooches

Style Notes: A cluster of brooches on a lapel, or even one statement pin threaded onto a cape or fastened around a sleeve, has become another way to personalise your, well, person. Safety pins that dangled with beads and crystallised hunks were spotted at London Fashion Week, whilst oversized initials appeared in Milan—a fun way to ensure everyone remembers your name. Modern jewellers are filling out their collections with brooches, including Georg Jensen, CompletedWorks and Lié Studio, whose spiralised pin, sized to sit diagonally on a blazer’s lapel, is perfect if you don’t want to dress your ears, but your clothes.

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4. Embellished Collars

Style Notes: An encrusted collar does all the work for you, giving your nécolletage some frost without having to lift a finger. Outside Prada, Elva Ni wore the brand’s satin minidress sporting its own beaded choker, both in sugary macaron shades, but a more everyday route might be a knit. Tory Burch’s short-sleeved grey sweater has been threaded with silver—everything from triangular paillettes to faceted beads and dinky hoops—elevating an otherwise humble jumper with embellishment worthy of a magpie's nest.

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5. Neck Ties

Style Notes: Ties are not a new entry into the world of accessories, but instead of a corporate-adjacent style (worn almost ironically with something like a patent wiggle skirt), they’ve embraced a different aesthetic for spring 2026. Brash retro prints—the kind you might find in a grandparent’s attic or lining a boot-sale table —are back on the streets, whether polka-dotted (and paired with faux fur) or exhibiting sofa-cushion florals. Paul Smith’s uprooted bulb is suitably whimsical, as is the leopard-spotted leather iteration by Bottega Veneta. Once you’ve found your plus one, experiment with shirts. Elongated lapels could be fun, or an undone first button like you’ve just clocked off.

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In October 2024, I started supporting Tottenham Hotspur Football Club. There was one problem with my newfound allegiance: I love wearing red, which, in football terms, means Arsenal—not just a rival club, but the anti-Christ. As well as avoiding it on match days (after wearing burgundy silk ballet flats to my first match at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium—the shame!), I realised all my recent acquisitions have been navy. An Issey Miyake Pleats Please blouse. A crossover puffer from Studio Nicholson. A cropped wool cardigan from Navygrey. All Tottenham Hotspur-blue. As well as taking over my podcast library with whimsically named shows such as The Fighting Cock, Spurs has also infiltrated my wardrobe.

Although accidental, this happily aligns with a movement that centres one’s extra-curricular activities, with subscribers quite literally wearing their hobbies on their sleeves. At Celine’s spring/summer 2026 show, several models were styled with a logoed bike helmet, replacing where a handbag would usually sit on their arms and giving the impression they’d only just parked their ride. Chicer than wearing padded cycling shorts—these outfits comprised knitted cardigans, knee-length skirts and mid-calf socks as opposed to hi-vis Lycra—they were nevertheless revealing; a hint of one’s inner world being telegraphed to passersby. Could hobbies be the new accessory, not just small-talk fodder that proves you do more than watch TV, but a route to achieving cultural kudos?

Pinterest says yes, with bookworms just one category of hobbyists who are feeling seen. "Poetcore" is part of Pinterest Predicts 2026, the platform’s report on the about-to-explode aesthetics, with literary flourishes inflecting the outfits of followers, whether or not they’re published. Searches have increased for terms such as "tie accessories" (+85%) and "satchel bags aesthetic" (also +85%), whilst pressed, turn-up jeans à la Fran Leibowitz, turtlenecks and vintage tweed blazers offer a blueprint for the look.

Louise Carmen’s leather-bound journals, which you can personalise (from cover to paper type to cord), have also become fashion statements, and videos of consultations with customers receive comments such as, "So unbelievably chic" and "Sublime omg [sic]" on Instagram. It’s once you’ve found your interest—whether slam poetry, ceramics or cold-water swimming—that you might then realise it’s got its hooks into your style, changing the way you dress to reflect its presence on your list of priorities.

When Grace Cook, writer and author of Salty, a newsletter focused on sport, culture and style, first started running, she simply wore old gym clothes. It was only when she joined a running club, with a 10k becoming a social fixture of her Saturdays, that she started investing in clothes to aid her performance. "It was a slow shift that has evolved into a full-blown wardrobe and style overhaul," she tells me. "Running has changed what shapes and fabrics I like to have on my body. It’s also made me a better shopper; I find it hard to justify spending money on fashion items that lack pockets or are not comfortable."

You’ll now find her in gear that’s fit-for-purpose as she cycles between working, running, the gym and Pilates, mostly from brands off the beaten track. Sweaty Betty Power shorts get layered under tailored tracksuit pants from Literary Sport. "It makes it easy to get changed at class," says Cook. "My Pruzan cropped, long-sleeve top is a go-to." She owns two and finds they work for day, night and sport. Her District Vision windbreaker, meanwhile, is an "every single day" item. "It’s cropped, oversized and a bomber silhouette, but it’s made from a windproof, water-resistant, Italian fabric. So many 'fashion' windbreakers have zero performance qualities. It’s not good enough!"

In today’s world, a truly unique sense of style is hard to come by. Instagram’s outfit saturation means that every style flex has been done (and documented), whilst the ease of online shopping, not to mention next-day delivery, means you can change your look overnight. A hobby, however, gives your wardrobe a new dimension, and not just out of necessity.

New York-based creative Michelle Li, who writes the newsletter Good Fantasy, spends every birthday hiking with her parents either in Sequoia, California, or Sierra Nevada, Spain, a hobby that shows up in her day-to-day wardrobe via brands such as Salomon, ACG, Merrell, Arc’teryx and Mountain Hardwear. "I like finding multiple uses for my closet," says Li, adding, "I'm a really functional dresser. I walk and bike everywhere and need clothing that supports that." Her Instagram followers will be familiar with her multi-hyphenate outfits, where she might blend an orchid-pink windbreaker with khaki crossover shorts, Prada’s slingback kitten heels being the final touch. "I like using hiking clothing to add a different texture and toughness to my more 'feminine' looks," explains Li.

The starting point is finding a hobby that’s not a phase, but something that brings you joy. Supporting Tottenham Hotspur sometimes feels like the opposite. A Swedish politician, Mikael Damberg, recently went viral for using Spurs, currently battling relegation, another injury crisis and a mutinous fan base, as a case study for how not to run an organisation, be it a football club or a country. We might be a laughing stock, at home and, apparently, in Sweden. But I’ll still continue to build my wardrobe of blue in solidarity. Maybe Spurs are Spursy, but it's too late, it’s now one of my favourite colours to wear.

We've discussed the top 2026 hair trends and hair colours to know before anyone else. Now? It's time to talk about the It accessories adorning each 'do. You might not think twice about the claw clip you use to haphazardly toss up your lengths or the headband that keeps your bangs away from your eyelashes, but make no mistake: A chic hair accessory is the key to elevating any outfit—it's similar to jewellery in that way. And this year, fashion-forward beauty fans are having a lot more fun with the ornaments, including tasselled details, heirloom-like brooches, and "wonky" clips that make a surrealist statement. Discover them all below, along with the best products to master each trend.

Oversize Barrettes

When it comes to jumbo accessories, swap the oversized scrunchies for ginormous barrettes, which you can use to pull back front pieces, add a touch of glamour to half-up styles, or even secure a ponytail. "Hair accessories are blending seamlessly with jewellery-inspired trends," notes L.A.-based hairstylist Hayley Heckmann, and just like in the jewellery space, sculptural and art deco–inspired pieces are starting to reign supreme. That said, you'll be seeing barrettes with sharp geometric shapes over dainty, crystal-adorned clips in the months ahead.

Decorative Hairpins

Pinterest predicted people would enhance their outfits with vintage pins, crystal clip-ons, and heirloom brooches in its 2026 trend report, and we can expect similar heirloom-like touches in the hairstyling space. Just take it from Zoë Kravitz, who topped her braided updo with a delicate silver brooch at the 2026 Golden Globes. Pins come in all shapes and sizes, but Stephanie Angelone predicts an uptick in ones particularly bedecked with gemstones, offering a precious, got-it-from-Grandma element that adds instant elegance. "Everything will be embellished, giving vintage, feminine vibes," she notes.

French Combs

French combs also feel like little heirlooms, especially the ones tucked into models' sculptural chignons at The Row's S/S 26 show during Paris Fashion Week. These chic accessories have seen quite the resurgence since then, with tutorials popping up all over TikTok, and despite looking rather intricate, fastened to an elegant French twist, all it requires is a little scoop-and-slide manoeuvring to look sophisticated. (I'm speaking from experience!) Grab one with gemstones for more of a vintage feel, or you can find simple tortoiseshell combs. Rest assured, both routes appear equally elevated.

Tassels

"Tassels will be a big hair accessory trend too, and I can’t wait to see all the ways they can be incorporated into looks," Angelone shares. It's no secret that fashion insiders fawned over tassels in 2025, and this year, we'll see those details incorporated into plenty of jewellery and hair moments. Instantly adding texture and movement to any outfit, tassels are a wonderful option for those hoping to dress up minimalist basics. If you're reluctant to commit to a bold pair of earrings, however, a tasselled barrette or pin offers the same eye-catching effect.

Statement Clips

Allow Angelone to declare: "The classic claw clip is levelling off." You heard it here first! Now, that doesn't mean we won't see these accessories crop up at all—they're classics, of course. Claw clips are just becoming more, well, compelling. Think truly unique shapes with "out-there" concepts, such as a tin of sardines or a mini model of an iconic designer bag. "Hair accessories have shifted from being purely functional to being a way to express individuality and personality," confirms Heckmann. A campy claw clip certainly allows you to express your playful, wonky side, wouldn't you say?

Crochet Pieces

Crochet dominated spring/summer 2025 fashion, but insiders expect this texture to stick around, especially in the form of versatile, intricate hair pieces. "Crochet meshed hats that are fitted (not slouchy) will stay relevant and more refined this year," Angelone shares, noting that they'll transcend the summer season. If you're looking for a subtler way to wear crochet, bun covers are a gorgeous route to take; it's giving vintage balletcore, be it a cream, black, or beaded item.

The New Coquette

"The coquette trend isn’t disappearing. It’s just shifting," notes Heckmann. While bows and ribbons remain en vogue (the 2026 Golden Globes red carpet is proof of that), "pretty" versions of balaclavas, triangle scarves and preppy headbands feel slightly more of the moment, especially during winter. "[They] keep the same coquette vibe while updating it for a more 2026 look," Heckmann adds.

Anything Tortoiseshell

Consider it the CBK effect. "Carolyn Bessette Kennedy has always been a style icon, and with American Love Story about to be released, we’re already thinking of more ways to channel her classic, chic style," Angelone explains. In addition to her minimalist-chic fashion moments (plus that bold tomato-red coat, of course), beauty fans are itching to re-create her signature hair looks—many of which were adorned with a sleek, tortoiseshell headband. As a result, Angelone predicts "anything tortoise" to have major staying power, from headbands to barrettes to French pins. "Tortoise is truly timeless, and the classic tortoise or blonde tortoise can complement your hair colour," she adds.

The countdown to spring is officially on, and I’m planning ahead by looking at the accessory trends that are set to dominate next season. I’m very much a minimalist when it comes to my clothing, and although this arguably makes everyday dressing much easier, it can often feel too boring and “samey”. And this rings particularly true when the weather is warmer, and I don't have my statement outerwear to act as the focal point of interest in my outfits.

I’m therefore on the hunt for more elevated and trendier accessories that will make my pared-back outfits look more interesting this spring, and for 2026 specifically, it’s all about embracing statement pieces. Think bold brooches that will elevate a white button-down shirt and jeans outfit to pretty lace-trimmed scarves that will take your tank top and linen trousers from basic to cool in an instant. I'm a firm believer that even the smallest of items can take your look from simple to elevated, and the new season has provided me with a number of trendy but equally timeless accessories to freshen up my outfits. And the best part? They all feel wearable for both maximalists and minimalists alike.

Below, I’ve rounded up the seven elegant but elevated accessory trends that I’ll personally be investing in for spring 2026. Keep scrolling to see and shop the trends.

7 Elegant But Elevated Accessory Trends to Copy in Spring 2026

1. Statement Brooch

Style Notes: Once solely regarded as evening attire, brooches have reemerged as the hardest-working year-round accessory in the wardrobes of elegant dressers. Adding instant polish to a lightweight cardigan, classic shirt or tank top, they’re the easiest way to make your outfits look put together this spring.

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2. Jelly Sandals

Style Notes: After their resurgence last year, jelly flip-flops are back for another year. Reminiscent of our school days, this nostalgic shoe style will not only add a touch of plaufulness to your outfits but also remain versatile and pared-back enough to style with everything in your wardrobe.

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3. Y2K sunglasses

Style Notes: Y2K-inspired accessories will always get a yes from me, and for spring 2026, it’s all about the sunglasses styles that remind us of the early 2000s. From metal-framed aviators to bold logos, the luxury market is filled with nostalgic sunnies to choose from.

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4. Woven-Leather Tote

Style Notes: I absolutely adore my basket bag in the summer. But before I start to bring out my beach-ready raffia styles, I’ll be taking a cue from elegant dressers and relying on my woven leather iterations on the cooler spring days. It’s timeless and versatile, but comes with just the right amount of edge to add interest to an outfit.

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5. Lace-Trim Scarf

Style Notes: Lace-trim detailing is everywhere at the moment, from slinky slip dresses to sophisticated knee-length skirts. However, you don’t have to invest in a new piece of clothing to hop on the trend. A satin scarf with this pretty detail is not only a much more affordable way to incorporate the trend into my wardrobe, but it will also add a polished edge to my crinkly linen separates.

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6. Resin Jewellery

Style Notes: Resin jewellery has been in the wardrobes of cool dressers since the sixties and seventies, but this bold accessory is no longer just associated with the boho aesthetic like it once was. For spring 2026, I’ll be stacking these chunky pieces to add interest to even the most basic of outfits.

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7. Crochet Cap

Style Notes: I’ve never really considered myself a “hat” girl, often finding them too out there. However, I’ve recently spotted a particular hat style on elegant dressers that I cannot wait to try out when the weather warms up. Crochet skull caps perfectly toe the line between looking chic and feeling minimal enough to remain within my comfort zone.

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Since returning from the whirlwind that was Copenhagen Fashion Week, I've been ruminating on all the wonderful things I saw, not only on the runways, but on the streets, too. The city has become a real hotbed for emerging trends and cutting-edge designers (hello, Anne Sofie Madsen, Nicklas Skovgaard and OpéraSport!), and being in the thick of it all was not only exciting but exceedingly eye-opening.

Sitting in the front row at the shows gives me unrivalled access to the runway trends in real time, but stepping outside and racing to the next event is also a real visual treat. Copenhagen is full of style mavericks, people pushing fashion boundaries and many an early adopter. And with those same people attending the shows, it's like art imitating life.

As an eagle-eyed stylist and savvy shopper, I've come away with a real hit list of hacks, styling ideas and clever ways to wear clothes and accessories now, which I'm banking on using for my own looks. And because I don't gatekeep, I thought it best to share them with you, too, dear reader. From doubling down on simple accessories to combining delicate and tough fabrics, monochromatic dressing and playing up pop colours, I've gathered seven genius styling hacks I spotted on both the runways and streets of Copenhagen.

Scroll on to share in the styling inspo, and shop out the looks below.

The 7 Styling Hacks To Know From Copenhagen Fashion Week

1. Combine Leather and Lace

Style Notes: This pretty trend is set to dominate this spring, and the chicest dressers in Copenhagen have already caught on. Lace is the fabric and finish in question, but more interestingly, I saw it combined with glossy leather for a look equal parts soft and tough. Models walking for The Garment show wore classic tailored trousers, leather bomber jackets and sweet lace foulards tied around their shoulders, whilst at OpéraSport, I spotted a look consisting of a chocolate leather blazer, a white, lace-trimmed dress and bow-embellished pumps—just the kind of look I want to emulate this spring.

On the chilly streets, the best dressers mixed classic black leather outerwear, such as funnel-neck jackets and nipped-in blazers, with hints of bright white lace peeking out from underneath, or delicate stoles wrapped around their shoulders. This charming trend is easy to master: a trusty leather jacket combined with a delicately trimmed skirt, dress or scolloped scarf is the way to do it for spring.

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2. Double Your Belts

Style Notes: I thought I was seeing double, and, as it turns out, I was. I couldn't help noticing this styling hack on both the runways and the bitter streets of the city, and not only is it elegant, but it's pretty practical too. Belts worn in pairs cinch knitwear, trousers, miniskirts and flowing gowns, giving a waisted fit and feel.

At Anne Sofie Madsen, two chunky brown leather belts nipped in a black, flowing, sleeveless gown, finished with a cosy fringe scarf and shearling Ugg boots. Over at Paolina Russo, school-uniform-like attire was subverted with low-slung waist belts in contrasting fabrics and colours, for a pop-punk look once pioneered by Avril Lavigne. Street-style stars took things up a notch, threading their double belts through winter-white denim and over the top of colour-pop cardis. Opt for belts in similar hues and cross them over or even double-tuck the ends, or, if you're feeling spicy, choose contrasting colours or textures.

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3. Wear All Your White at Once

Style Notes: If you're a coffee drinker, scroll on now, as this vibe won't bode well for you. Copenhagen was giving serious blizzard at the start of the fashion week proceedings, and designers and street-style stars alike took note of the snowy hue that cascaded over the city. I spotted head-to-toe white looks outside every show, with fashion people matching their pillbox hats, capes, fur coats, trousers, skirts, tights, handbags and shoes in the tone Pantone is calling Cloud Dancer for 2026.

On the runways, Holzweiler and The Garment also provided palette cleansers, with frothy and ethereal layered looks all in similarly fresh and chalky hues. This styling technique is simple to imitate: pick all your items in the same colourless hue. Not only does it look extremely opulent, but it takes the mental gymnastics out of getting dressed in the morning.

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4. Top It Off With a Chic Hat

Style Notes: I, for one, am already head over heels for this fashion hack, as it just adds a knowingly stylish finish to any look, and my love affair with a certain leopard-print number is already well documented. Trust me: topping your look with a chic hat, may that be a pillbox style, a shearling fisherman shape or a beret, will take your ensemble from zero to 100 in a heartbeat.

The streets of CPH were inundated with both minimalist and maximalist dressers alike, donning weird and wonderful headwear, significantly influenced by the sub-zero temperatures and the bitter winds that take over the Danish capital this time of year. Inside, away from the treacherous weather, designers such as OpéraSport, Rave Review, The Garment and Henrik Vibskov topped runway looks with artful felted hats, shearling designs, nylon beanies, aviator hats and fuzzy trappers, suitably equipped for the autumn/winter 2026 season. However, you can pinch this look now for the very present cold snap.

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5. Clash Your Gloves

Style Notes: We've seen an uptick in all things hats, scarves and hosiery for several months, and so the next It item to undergo a style revival is the humble glove. The spring/summer 2026 shows were awash with them in bright colours, satin styles and elongated shapes, and this trend continues to ring true for autumn/winter on the streets and in the designer collections of Copenhagen. To level things up, however, the showgoers in CPH weren't going about their gauntlets gracefully. Instead, they opted for eye-popping colours and clashed them with other accessories to stunning effect.

Nicklas Skovgaard's paper-doll-like models wore pairs in kalidoscopic hues, with each model donning pop-colour, ruched leather gloves that were purposefully at odds with the pastel-toned, satin Hoff trainers. The Garment used cobalt-toned, long leather gloves in an ensemble which also featured zebra-print heeled pumps, for a striking evening look. On the cobbled streets, the sharpest of dressers picked opposing tones on the colour wheel for their gloves and corresponding accessories, favouring cool blues, teals, vibrant violets and royal purples to mix and match their accoutrements. The more clashing, the better!

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6. Finish It All With a Statement Earring

Style Notes: Jewellery is always a fabulous finishing touch to a look, and can add a decadent shine to even the simplest of outfits. Good job, then, that I spotted an assortment of great earrings in Copenhagen, a city full of fine jewellery connoisseurs. Predominantly, I noticed silver as the hardware of choice, which gave an elegant, grown-up finish to both runway and street-style looks, possessing a minimalist mood. I spotted attendees adorned in tassel-drop earrings, as well as vintage-feeling square shapes, pairing exquisitely with pillbox hats and statement outerwear.

The designer collections also delivered the goods, tapping jewellery specialists to collaborate on adorning the models for their runways. Most notably, MKDT Studio worked with local jewellers Kinraden to create wearable works of art, such as molten drop earrings, single hoops and dome-like pendants, which swung singularly on the ear.

Herskind collaborated with New York-based jewellery brand Agmes on organic-shaped earrings, mariner link pieces, oversized singular hoop structures and petal-like forms, worn with silver cuffs and pendant necklaces. Take note: silver is the precious metal du jour, but keep it pared-back, simple and chic so as to not overpower it.

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7. Toss Your Scarf Backwards

Style Notes: Sometimes, the most effortless of styling hacks is using something totally innocuous and wearing it in an entirely fresh way. Take the scarf. I have seen a steep rise in oversized styles, which are being thrown over shoulders backwards to resemble capes, adding serious drama points to a look.

Both on the icy streets and in the hallowed halls of showspaces, models and influencers alike wore XXL scarves over floor-skimming outerwear and jackets, not only protecting them from the elements, but adding serious swish factor. Plaid checks, fringed football scarves, shearling stoles and even sultry lengths of glossy leather were the fabrics of choice for the autumn/winter 2026 season, and what’s more, the styling options are limitless. Take any scarf, old or new, and have fun with it. Over the shoulder smoulder, optional.

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Whenever I leave the house these days, I find myself tallying up each time I spot this trend in the wild. It's a print that the elite dressers of today are reaching for to add a little bit of vibrancy, and I dare I say it, old-school energy to their look. I've already seen it on a plethora of coats and jackets this season (and may have been influenced to shop one for myself), but, aside from outerwear, this texture is now stealthily making its way onto bags, shoes, belts and other finishing touches this spring. The motif in question is, of course, leopard-print, and I predict this year it will be bigger than ever.

Leopard-print is noticeable for its dark golden caramel hue, which is then decorated with an all-over black rosette pattern. I've been tracking its movements on the streets of London, within Instagram's innermost fashion circles in other stylish capitals, as well as on the spring/summer 2026 runways, where it featured at Khaite, Ferragamo, Gucci, Chanel and Celine. They say that a leopard never changes its spots, but it has certainly found a new pack of fans who are bringing it into 2026 in style, be that on pony-hair leather, satin, silk or faux-fur fabrics. And what's more, fashion experts call it a neutral, meaning minimalists and maximalists alike can find common ground with this big cat pattern. On top of that, it can be worn all week long, as it can decorate both workday ensembles and off-duty looks beautifully, due to its timeless and elegant appeal.

Earn your stripes (and spots!) by scrolling here to see how I will be wearing leopard print on my accessories for 2026, plus, how to shop the trend yourself. Welcome to the jungle!

1. Shoulder Bags

Style Notes: Leopard print bags have become a mainstay item in the wardrobes of some of Who What Wear's most favourite style setters, and it's easy to see why. Slouchy, shoulder and tote bag styles in leather and tactile pony hair are all getting the exotic print finish, and it adds such a wealth-whispering energy to a look. I love how Jeanette Madsen teams her bag with a bitter chocolate brown leather jacket and indigo jeans—my colour palette of dreams.

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2. Scarves

Style Notes: Skinny scarves are making a marked comeback for 2026, due in part to the Y2K trend resurgence and all things indie sleaze. They are, however, getting an elegant makeover this season, with leopard and animal print variations bringing the sophistication, less so the grunge. Satin, silk and crepe fabrics are the way to go here, as they will trail behind you in the wind as you walk. Chic!

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3. Hats

Style Notes: I am obsessed with the pillbox hat trend and have been sporting a leopard print one myself. If this shape is a little on the niche side for you, try a fuzzy fisherman-style hat, a beanie, or a bucket. I love the way April Lockhart tops her minidress, blouse and knee-high boots combo with a spotted hat, giving it a 1930s mood.

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4. Pointed Heels

Style Notes: If you want to up the anti on your evening-wear game, a leopard-print shoe will surely do it. Even an all-black, tailored look can benefit, as the shoes give an artful, eye-catching detail to the outfit. Opt for a kitten heel with a sling back and pointed to for extra elegance points.

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5. Clutch Bags

Style Notes: A sleek and chic way to spice up your day-to-night ensemble is a clutch bag, or, better still, a cylindrical, very 90s-looking handbag. Great for those with a minimal daily haul (I'm talking house keys, phone, and a few multi-use beauty items), as it can really punctuate your outfit. Low lift, but maximum results.

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5. Boots

Style Notes: Feeling feline? Then step right up. Leopard-print boots, especially those that are knee high, heeled and slim-fit to the leg are on the rise, and fashion-forward influencers are pairing theirs with mini skirts, tucked in jeans and leather pencil skirts to really show them off. Ankle boots are also a tasteful way to dip your toe into the trend, too.

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7. Belts

Style Notes: A genius hack to spice up your trusty jeans is adding a leopard-print belt. Skinny belts, with a fluffy-haired texture and gold hardware is the way street style stars are donning the look now. Leopard-print belts pair with blue, blue and white denim expertly, giving them a tasteful update for 2026.

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They’re the kind of thing you’d typically see swinging from the end of an ornate curtain tieback in an 18th Century French chateau, not hanging from the waist of a Parisienne tastemaker as they wind their way from vintage shopping in Le Marais to drinks at Hotel Costes. But thanks to the tassel fashion trend, these opulent charms needn’t stay hidden inside palatial interiors.

Indeed, 2026 has begun ushering in a new ethos when it comes to dressing. After a period of demure and reserved silhouettes, this year has proverbially sprung open the shutters, let the light in and circulated fresh air through wardrobes that lay dormant. Long gone are the days of hiding away like a wallflower and waiting to be invited somewhere to show off, with the general mood being one committed to excess.

Now, simple and mundane acts are an excuse to adorn yourself in extravagance. A trip to the grocery store calls for a Tiffany & Co. Bone Cuff to fix to your wrist, because what else makes filling up your basket through the produce aisle more enticing? A quick trip to the pub demands decadent coats, like the ivory-trimmed and leopard-printed Queens of Archive style both Alexa Chung and Emma Roberts have been spotted in recently, as why would you sip pints wearing something so plain? Still, how did a motif you’d really only see swaying from furniture become one of the most beguiling trends of the year?

What is the Tassel Fashion Trend?

For the uninitiated, the tassel trend refers to this collective adoption of tassels, which are tufts of loosely hanging threads or cords knotted at one end and attached for decoration, as an accessory. Poised on the end of a pearl clutch bag, accenting the base of a pendant necklace or lining the hem of a satin scarf, the tassel trend adds a touch of elegance and graceful movement to any ensemble it’s paired with, resulting in an eye-catching and refined outfit that can’t help but turn heads.

This is something I can attest to on a personal level. I first came across the tassel trend after researching a feature I wrote last year for Who What Wear UK’s winter issue on The Art of Dressing Up. Exploring this sudden surge of elaborate and striking outfits, I stumbled across a black corded tassel belt from the effortless romantic label Posse. With hand-knotted detail, the slender strap casually slung across the model’s waist as she posed in a seafoam blue sheer blouse and pin-straight trousers. I was instantly enamoured by the look, with the piece lingering in my mind long after I closed the tab that held it.

That, in part, is the beauty of the tassel trend. It’s intriguing and subdued at the same time; something that doesn’t shout for your attention, but softly earns it anyway because of how unexpectedly chic it is.

Then, I began seeing it everywhere. It accented combs that held together chignons, dangled from key rings and served as bag charms. Speaking to New York-based jewellery designer Jennifer Behr, she explains that the tassel trend “adds movement and drama to any look”.

These fanciful fringes appeared heavily in her most recent collection, which drew inspiration from the celestial glamour and the bold elegance of the 1920s. “You can easily dress them up or down—perfect for a statement moment or even just day-to-day wear.” Elsewhere across the island, Emily Adams Bode Aujla crafted a series of pieces made from vintage silk-satin and boasted hand-crocheted tassels that were inspired by antique piano shawls for her eponymously-titled fashion brand.

Bridal designer Danielle Frankel, whose atelier is also located in Manhattan, drew inspiration from a similar place for her latest collection. Looking at famous Art Deco illustrations by the renowned French-Russian artist Erté, Frankel designed gowns that featured tassels suspended from bonded corsets that “gave these pieces a layered, organic texture that is mesmerising”, as the brand wrote in a press release.

Ultimately, the tassel trend is one that injects a sense of mystique and lavishness in everyday life. It’s true now as it was a century ago when they first were added to ready-to-wear pieces, with Behr adding, “it was a period when women were stepping into a new sense of freedom, and their accessories really reflected that.”

Carefree and glamorous, allow the tassel trend to be the full stop that punctuates a pair of metallic satin trousers or dials up a little black dress and shop my edit of the best tassel pieces, below.

Shop the Tassel Fashion Trend

How to Style the Tassel Fashion Trend?

Style Notes: Pendant necklaces will still continue to dominate in 2026, so enhance any minimalistic outfit by layering a tassel iteration on top of it, as NYC-based stylist, Coco Schiffer, has done here.

Style Notes: Proof that Parisians adore the tassel fashion trend is content creator Sylvie Mus. With inhabitants of the City of Lights known for their effortless elegance, the combination of the pointed-toe sling backs, knitted dress and tassel belt feels entirely achievable to replicate.

Style Notes: For those wanting something a little more sleazy, take notes from Stephanie Broek, especially as she teams a pair of cigarette trousers with black patent leather boots, an elegantly creased skirt and whimsical velvet bag from Etro.

Style Notes: The tassel trend has longevity, and you'll soon spot the motif adorned on summer pieces like the ones you'd bring back as a souvenir from the Greek Islands in the early 2010s.

You can always count on French women for accessory inspiration. For decades, they've employed accessories to enhance the pared-back outfits they rely on, especially during the winter when their wardrobes consist of simple knitwear and enveloping outerwear. For 2026, the French-girl accessory trends are particularly worth noting, as they mix classic silhouettes with contemporary elements, keeping outfits fresh and feeling new, without any major wardrobe overhauls.

As I write, the temperature in Paris is plummeting, and we've just experienced a downpour akin to a Canadian-like snowfall, which, as romantic as it sounds, proves challenging when deciding what to wear. This is when the style philosophy of French women comes into full force; it's simple and enduring, with minimal effort and maximum impact.

This year, French women are stepping into 2026 with even more polished and directional accessories than usual, think pill box hats and elbow-length leather gloves, as well as fur scarves and once 'dated' jewellery pieces. If you're hankering for new ways to refresh your winter wardrobe, you aren't alone. Continue reading for inspiration on how to elevate your winter outfits à la Française.

5 French-Girl Accessory Trends to Note for 2026:

1. Classic Fur Scarf

Style Notes: 2026's reintroduction of fur adornments is well timed for a Parisian style winter and French women have long favoured the extravagance of fur trims and shearling in their wardrobes. This winter, the prevalence of faux fur scarves allows dressers to introduce convertible accessories into their outfits—whether worn on coat collars or thrown atop knitwear. This texture trend has proven mighty popular in France. You'll spot faux fur collars sold everywhere from French supermarket, Monoprix, to the pieces of yesteryear decorating thrift shops.

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2. Refined Leather Gloves

Style Notes: Practicality and style go hand in hand with leather gloves, which prove an increasingly popular style choice for French women (perhaps due to their vintage lilt). There are many benefits to investing in leather gloves; they're timeless, grow supple with wear, are insulating and will no doubt have you feeling like a Hollywood starlet from the simple act of sliding them on and off your fingertips. My leather gloves come courtesy of Strathberry and feature a T-bar metal detail.

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3. Statement Brooches

Style Notes: French women will always take the opportunity to accessorise and jewelled accessories are a way to transform outfits simply. 2025's brooch offerings are becoming increasingly directional. I've spotted them first-hand on the coats and jumpers of Parisian women, turning otherwise casual outfits into something with playful intrigue—be it with elephant or bird brooches.

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4. Statement Drop Earrings

Style Notes: Nothing will offset your outfit quite like overstated jewellery. Whilst you mightn't attribute bold earrings to French women, I can guarantee that they lean into the dramatic effect of cascading earrings during the winter, especially when paired with turtle or crew neck knitwear. It's a genius and low-effort styling method. Pick between pearl, gold or even gunmetal grey.

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5. Pillbox Hat

Style Notes: This winter, I've witnessed many Parisian women wear iterations of the coveted pillbox hat. Known for its angular shaping and bearing a regal essence, it adds a finishing touch that is undeniably statement. This season, you'll spot many statement hats on the market. Some are coined sculptural berets, which is rather apt. It's a fashion-forward and sensible accessory when confronted with the harsh forecasts we're currently experiencing. High-quality wool will ensure warmth, whilst preserving your tresses from weather extremes.

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As someone who possesses an eagle eye for emerging trends and likes to think of herself as an early adopter, when I started seeing fashion's most elite dressers wearing this accessory, I knew I needed in. From Scandi girls in Oslo and Copenhagen to the streets of the Upper East Side in New York and now East London, too, the pillbox hat is fast-becoming the item du jour. You'd be forgiven for thinking this style is quite old-fashioned, but having recently bought into the trend myself, I can attest to how wearable and easy to style it actually is.

Pillbox hats became popular during the 1930s, thanks in part to American First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, who is considered a fashion icon and the epitome of elegance and good taste. Now, people with a discerning eye are looking back and taking note, and with a renewed penchant for dressing up, vintage-leaning style and all things eye-catching, the pillbox hat is finding a fresh value in 2026.

Now, admittedly, this isn't the type of accessory you can throw onto a sweats, leggings or athleisure look. Women today are pairing their pillbox hats with outfits that possess a wealth-whispering, grown-up and elevated appeal, and it's a look that is surprisingly easy to master. Wool coats, shearling and faux-fur jackets and suede trenches are the outerwear options that team well here, plus pencil skirts, tailored trousers, high-denier tights, court shoes, loafers or even heeled leather boots. In short, items that feel pulled-together, polished and graceful—worthy of the wardrobe of a First Lady.

Having come into possession of a leopard-print pillbox hat recently, which I found in my local charity shop, I've found myself reaching for it a lot more than expected, as it finishes my everyday looks with a considered and chic punctuation mark. It has turned heads on the Tube, but I don't mind the attention it garners; I've been leaning into the Mrs Robinson energy it brings! As such, I'm keen to find a few more pillbox styles to add to my Monday-to-Sunday repertoire.

If you, too, are eager to step back in time and get the look for yourself, I've sourced some of the best pillbox hats available to shop now, in a chic array of colours, shapes and styles. Scroll on for my edit.

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If you’ve spent any time online this past week, you’ve likely come across Pinterest’s trend predictions for 2026. The platform lays out, in detail, exactly what users have been searching for—from fashion to food to interiors. It’s what the social media site does best, after all. When it comes to accessoriesspecifically, there’s inspiration aplenty, and most of the pieces Pinterest predicts will take off have already been spotted on the Spring/Summer 26 runways. Oh how I love it when everything seems to point in the same direction!

Take Glamoratti as a core example: “the decade of decadence is back in style,” according to Pinterest. That means brooches, gold cuffs, and chunky belts are all very much on the agenda. Or, for something slightly softer, look to Laced Up—a new iteration of the beloved boho aesthetic, where lace bonnets, socks and gloves replace the currently trending chiffon and clogs.

With 21 trends in total, there’s something to suit every style—though one thing is clear: they’re all made for maximalists. Just scroll below to see the ones worth bookmarking.

5 Maximalist Accessories Trends to Bookmark for 2026:

1. Blinged-Up Brooches

Style Notes: “Bring on the brooches” was the clear message on the Spring/Summer 26 runways, as Miu Miu, Tory Burch, Chanel and Mugler—among many others—sent eye-catching pins down the catwalk. The result? A renewed fascination with the once-forgotten accessory. In fact, searches for ‘brooch aesthetic’ are up 110% on Pinterest, signalling that this vintage-inspired look is set to take off in 2026.

Whether you choose a single statement brooch pinned neatly to a lapel or prefer to lean fully into the look with multiple styles layered together, rest assured: you’ll be in very good company.

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2. Lace Loving

Style Notes: Proving the boho trend is far from fading, 2026 ushers in a softer, more romantic iteration, complete with lashings of lace. Think bonnets, gloves, tights and socks—delicate details that instantly add interest to any look. Or, if Pinterest searches are anything to go by, lace belts, lace bandanas and even lace nails are firmly on the agenda. For inspiration, look to the runways of Valentino, Bora Aksu and Yuhan Wang.

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3. Wild Side Accessories

Style Notes: Animal print has been in the spotlight for a number of seasons now, remember the love for leopard print jeans? Well, it's showing no sign of slowing down for 2026. Not only has Pinterest dubbed both 'wilderkind' and 'khaki coded' as two key trends, but zebra, cow, snake, and leopard print accessories were spied on the Spring/Summer 26 runways at Balmain, Zimmermann, and Gabriela Hearst.

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4. Cuffed Up

Style Notes: If you needed any further evidence that 2026 is officially cuffing season—aside from the exaggerated bracelets spotted on the runways at Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Chloé and Alaïa—consider this your final sign: searches for 'gold cuffs' are up 50% on Pinterest. As far as maximalist trends go, this is one of the easiest to adopt.

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5. Go Big on Belts

Style Notes: You may have spied a number of chic street-style looks featuring layered belts throughout the last fashion week season—and the same accessory trick is set to carry through into next year, too. Think extra-wide styles, animal-print moments or even designs with oversized buckles, as seen on the runways at Michael Kors, Isabel Marant, Chanel and more.

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If you’ve taken a peek at the luxury scene in recent seasons, you may have noticed that one microtrend in particular has been on the rise. Slowly but surely, the designer logo belt has made its way back into the zeitgeist. After years of rising and falling in popularity, we’ve finally hit a sweet spot that perfectly balances the playful wink to luxury without being ostentatious. And one logo in particular is accenting stylish outfits across the globe. Now, the Saint Laurent Cassandre belt is one of the most coveted entry-level luxury buys.

When it comes to the biggest design houses around, all the key players have a signifying icon that informs us of a piece’s origin. Chanel’s double C has become almost as iconic as the flap bag, whilst Prada’s triangle makes a noticeable luxury link even without the brand’s name. For Saint Laurent, it’s the Cassandre. The layered initials of YSL remain a key reference in denoting the luxurious provenance of the brand's pieces, accenting all styles from the beloved Le Loafers to acting as a closure on some of Saint Laurent’s best bags.

The return of the logo belt has been a subtle one. For me, the size of the iconography is what keeps it from looking overt; instead, the small stature is perfectly formed to nod to a luxurious accent, even when paired with more affordable outfits. The Cassandre belt does this seamlessly, taking all the classic features of a timeless belt and adding a touch of luxury that is whispered rather than shouted through the subtle YSL motif. Alongside, there’s a bold buckle style that incorporates Cassandre within the hardware, another style we’re consistently seeing on stylish people everywhere.

So, if you’re looking for an entry-level designer piece that will add a touch of luxury but doesn’t come in at four figures, you may want to scroll on to explore the Saint Laurent Cassandre belt.

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Are you excited for the new season? Because I certainly am! Taking a look at the spring/summer 2026 shows, and the array of handbags, shoes and accessories on offer really gets me chomping at the bit for the new year ahead, and all of the styling opportunity that comes with it.

Not only do I like to write about the trends each season, but, luckily, I get to work with them in the flesh, too—styling celebs, models, and even my fellow editors for photoshoots, try-ons and cover stories. In the run-up to these styling projects, I find myself frantically pinning, saving down and screenshotting all of the trends I see. Right now, I am focusing my efforts on accessories, as these are the finishing touches I know that can make or break a look.

I'm seeing emerging trends across Paris, London, Milan and New York that I know will go mainstream in 2026. From belts, jewellery, sunglasses and gloves, these finer details give real character, direction, and punctuation to an outfit, taking it from boring to a masterpiece.

I'm sharing my findings with you below, as I don't like to gatekeep. Scroll on to see my biggest accessories trends for 2026, and how to shop the styles now.

The Biggest Accessories Trends for 2026:

1. Shield Sunglasses

Style Notes: Tiny, rounded, bookish sunglasses and spectacles are out. Big, bug-like, and sporty eyewear is in. I spotted this trend take shape at some of the top labels showing in Paris and New York, such as Coach, Saint Laurent, Victoria Beckham and Loewe, indicating that the demand for oversized eye protection has gone global. I think this trend works best with tortoiseshell frames to keep things a little bit classic, and smoked-out, tinted lenses to give that paparazzi-fleeing factor.

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2. Celestial Crystals

Style Notes: Celestial fashion has gone viral, and I am taking note of this trend waving its sparkling hand over earrings, necklaces and hair accessories, too. XXL crystals, bursts of silver, tangles of fine chains and asymmetrical gems resemble galaxies and nebulae far, far away—and I'm all for it. Simona Rocha, Chanel, Givenchy and Dries Van Noten handled this trend best, adding eye-catching jewellery to otherwise simple looks and garments, such as trench coats, tuxedo shirting and t-shirts, for a final, twinkling flourish.

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3. Utility Belts

Style Notes: Historically, I don't think belts get enough airtime. That is all to change in 2026, as designers look to give this accessory a serious rebrand. I've noted some of fashion's biggest players adding utility features, such as clips, key chains, phone holders, and even AirPod cases to belts, making them more useful and more stylish than ever. And hold the boring black belts. Runway brands such as Toga, Miu Miu, Meryll Rogge and Coperni are bringing us pop-colour tones, braided fabrications, and chunky buckles, as well as even doubling up on belts, further cementing this accessory as something which can be fun, playful and all the while, functional.

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4. Princess Gloves

Style Notes: Princess treatment, or bare minimum? I know which one I prefer! This humble accessory is going full girlie for 2026, with lace, sequins, satin and pastel tones coming to the fore, giving a pretty, lady-like touch to dresses and skirt outfits. Yes, gloves were the item du jour on the runways for spring/summer 2026, with Valentino, Simone Rocha, Yuhan Wang and Prada showing us how it's done. I believe this trend taps into the desire to dress up, get glam and put on your most decadent togs, so add this mood to your 2026 vision board if you're ready to take up the gauntlet. Pun intended!

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5. Chunky Chains

Style Notes: Another jewellery trend, if you will. I took note of extra-large, chunky chain motifs taking over at Bottega Veneta, Balenciaga, Celine and Chanel (four of fashion's most in-demand brands), across necklaces and statement earrings. One part surrealist, two parts maximalist, but 100% glamorous. Add an unexpected twist to your daytime looks by mixing gold and silver, twisted knots, oval links and industrial feel chains into your jewellery rotation. Into heavy metal? This one's for you.

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The chicest way to elevate your outfits this winter doesn’t come down to the perfect shoe pairing, nor is it about buying a buzzy new season dress. Instead, the most impactful styling move is far more understated—a low-key accessory trend the most discerning dressers are pinning to everything right now.

Sidestepping predictable drop earrings and everyday pendant necklaces, brooches have suddenly emerged as the hardest-working accessory in the fashion person’s arsenal.

Suddenly indispensable, they’re completing some of the most elegant looks I’ve spotted this season—adding polish and intrigue to chunky knits, giving tailored coats a sleek focal point, even cinching scarves with sophistication.

And while a dip into your mother’s (or grandmother’s) jewellery box might uncover a forgotten gem or two, there’s also a trove of beautifully designed new-in options landing right now.

With Pinterest predicting brooches as one of 2026’s most impactful trends, and noting that search interest in the accessory was up by +100 in 2025, it's clear that this trend still has plenty of mileage left.

From contemporary pieces to elegant vintage finds, read on to discover the best brooches to shop now.

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All of a sudden, everyone is searching for patterned tights—Google Trends has seen an increase in search interest of 4500 per cent over the past week—while this is exciting news for anyone looking for an easy way to elevate their winter outfits, if there’s one thing I’ve learned in my years working in fashion, it’s that not all tights trends are created equal. Some prints feel fresh, elevated and genuinely wearable… and others, well, might be best left in the archives.

So which styles are worth slipping into for winter 25/26? There are a few styles worthy of your winter rotation.

First up: argyle tights, which have made a chic comeback this season. Fashion people are leaning all the way into the wintry look, pairing them with wool skirts, cosy knits and boxy outerwear for a look that will keep you comfortable during winter's coldest days. I also find them to be one of the easiest ways to add interest to an all-black outfit—especially when dressing up an LBD without overthinking it. This is one trend I fully expect to grow legs as temperatures continue to drop.

Animal motifs are also prowling back onto the scene. While leopard-print tights remain a perennial favourite, cheetah and zebra versions have been cropping up across the high street and on social feeds, offering a bolder way to tap into the look.

If your style skews classic, however, you can’t go wrong with polka-dot tights. Timeless, glamorous and romantic, they’re one of the most called-upon patterns of the season.

Much like the colourful tights trending right now, patterned pairs are set to become just as influential this season. If you’re as intrigued as I am, read on to discover the chicest patterned tights to shop now—from delicate lace styles to full-throttle animal prints.

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I’ve never been a hat person—especially not a beanie person. Believe me, I’ve tried. But every time I attempt to style that slouchy silhouette, it feels like the rest of my outfit gets dampened. They’re just not for me.

This season, however, a new winter hat trend has caught my eye. After seeing a steady stream of chic knitted bucket hats on my Instagram feed over the past few weeks, there’s no accessory I’m more excited to experiment with.

A refreshing alternative to the standard beanie we’ve all come to associate with cold-weather dressing, knitted bucket hats offer a sleeker, more sculpted shape that feels intentionally stylish rather than purely practical. While classic cotton bucket hats are synonymous with summer, these richer wool and knit versions introduce structure and sophistication—styling easily into winter’s more elevated wardrobe.

Although it’s only just hitting the street style scene this season, brands have already taken note. From COS’s soft cream fluffy design to Celine’s elegant slate-grey version, the options are growing quickly.

Read on to shop the chicest knitted bucket hats worth adding to your wardrobe right now.

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Welcome to the Who What Wear UK Gift Guide! With the festive season fast approaching, we wanted to curate the ultimate gift guide of the pieces we truly think are worth it, so you’ll know your chosen item will be treasured for years to come. Featuring everything from luxury homeware and editor-adored beauty products to show-stopping handbags and forever accessories, whether you’re shopping for a loved one or for yourself, consider this the perfect destination for all your gifting needs. Happy shopping!

It’s that time of year again. The festive season is looming, and with it comes our annual gift guides. Christmas shopping may spark panic for many, but we preach a no-stress, no fear policy, because we’re experts in product and curation, and we’re here to help! Whether you’re after skincare stocking fillers courtesy of our beauty team, partywear for New Year’s Eve or the most expensive-looking but actually very affordable items for yourself or others, we spend a lot of time sourcing the very best pieces available, so you’ll be giving (and receiving) things that will be cherished forever.

Like many of you, we love pretty things, and Christmas provides the ultimate excuse for indulgence—for those around you and yourself. When writing your list, you might be considering a timeless watch, an It bag or even a beauty tool that will level up your regime. Or, like me, you may be hoping a certain someone will take a hint when you casually drop The Row into every other conversation. Regardless, as well as being thankful for the things money can't buy in life, the festive period is also a great time to invest in the luxury pieces you plan to use for the year ahead, and beyond. Whilst luxury pieces are more expensive just by nature, I’ve curated a list that includes small luxuries as well as big ones. Think bag charms (sorry, no Labubus in this edit), elevated interior essentials and bigger splurges that are heirloom-worthy.

Discover the Chicest Luxury Gifts for Her:

While the crook of the elbow has always played host to a designer bag and our décolletages are home to a piece of jaw-dropping jewellery, it’s the wrist that has emerged as the stage to show off the latest opulent accessory coveted by the chicest dressers around—luxury watches. From Zoë Kravitz to Zendaya, this unsung joint has been reclaimed by style savants as prime real estate for showing off this hallmark of savoir faire and refined taste.

“There's just something about watches that feel elevated in a way that other fashion items don't,” says Brynn Wallner, a watch expert, writer and founder of femme-forward resource Dime Piece.

Wallner is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to horology, providing everything from exclusive insights to leading industry events to dropping the names of the latest trending style to grace a celebrity’s wrist and translating the craftsmanship of these heritage pieces into a digestible, quippy and accessible language. Most of all, Wallner has the inside scoop on the luxury watches that are rising in popularity, selling the most and soon to be the item du jour, which means that you can count on her advice to steer you in the right direction when purchasing your first investment or simply adding to your collection.

And as a fashion writer at Who What Wear UK, this is something that especially resonates with me. Watches are set apart in the way that they are incredibly symbolic. Sure, they will keep you on track and mark the passage of time, but they’ll also serve as a permanent reminder to stay present and that true elegance is eternal. A luxury watch is something that, when chosen well, will serve you through all seasons of life, and there is truly no time like the present to start building an arsenal of your own.

As Waller so aptly puts it, “there's a lot of pressure on that one item to go with a lot of different outfits”. She continues: “Your watch needs to look just as cool when you’re going to the grocery store as it would be to a work cocktail event.” With so many watch brands on the market, from heavy hitters like Cartier to more contemporary and design-led fashion maisons like Chanel, it’s also hard to know where to begin. Allow this, then, to be your comprehensive guide to the best luxury watches for women. From the styles of note to professional advice and the factors to keep in mind when shopping, uncover everything you need to know about the best luxury watches for women, ahead.

The 11 Best Luxury Watches for Women:

1. Cartier de Panthère

Style Notes: Sleek, feline and sinuous in shape, the Cartier de Panthère watch is one of the French house’s most iconic silhouettes. Created in 1983 by Michèle Kanoui, the design boasts a fluid bracelet that curves around the wearer’s wrist—much like the eponymous jungle cat the creation derives its name from—and a demure, mini square face. While its devotees include Princess Diana and Gwyneth Paltrow, the appetite for the piece has intensified in recent years, with the watch spotted everywhere from Kylie Jenner in Venice to Timothée Chalamet courtside at an NBA game. (Couples who share dress watches, stay together, right?). There's a reason why Cartier is so prevalent,” Wallner says, and that’s built on literal centuries of work, their famous clientele, their imagination, the way they position themselves and their prowess as both watchmaker and jewellery maker”. “They just know what they're doing,” she adds.

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2. Chanel Première

Style Notes: To know Chanel is to know their hallmarks—soft ribbons of leather that weave through a chain strap, candy-coloured woven tweed, a slingback that curves at the front and features a contrasting front cap. Of all the luxuriate’s signatures, however, it’s their watches that remain the most underrated. In 2022, Chanel proved just why their timepieces were amongst the most desirable with the release of the Première Édition. The watch was inspired by an original design from 1987 and paid homage to the brand’s most iconic motifs, with the octagon face calling back to the stopper perched on a bottle of No.5 perfume and straps evoking the braiding of the Flap bag. Now, Chanel is expanding their haute horlogerie category with a jewellery-forward iteration dubbed the Première Galon. A true cocktail watch, the style is accented by a gilded, twisted bangle that fuses sophistication with functionality. It’s already earning the endorsement of It girls, too, with Gracie Abrams, Devon Lee Carlson and Blackpink’s Jennie already wearing this style on repeat.

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3. Longines Mini DolceVita

Style Notes: Living life “la dolce vita” might be a calling card for those looking to emulate the serenity and sweetness of the azure Mediterranean, but for luxury Swiss watchmaker Longines, the phrase takes on a different meaning. The brand’s Mini DolceVita watch is a rectangular shape marked with a silver "flinqué" and blue steel hands. An extension of the original style which was first released in the 1920s, hence its similarity to the Cartier Tank, the piece is considerably more elegant than the average everyday watch, yet is still perfect for quotidian affairs. Of course, if you take cues from the watch’s starry wearers like Audrey Hepburn, Kate Winslet and Jennifer Lawrence, these everyday activities include galavanting down the Boulevard de la Croisette for the annual Cannes Film Festival. A life well lived, indeed.

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4. Bulgari Serpenti

Style Notes: Historically, snakes have always served as an object of temptation. Fitting then, that Bulgari’s iconic Serpenti watch is such a coveted fixture within luxury spheres. The piece first rose to prominence in 1962 when the original showgirl, Elizabeth Taylor, wore it while filming Cleopatra in the Italian capital. (An incredibly apt appearance given Bulgari’s Roman roots.) Watches truly don’t get more decadent than this, especially when you consider the Tubogas—the most recognisable style in the Serpenti family—and its spiral band that winds up the forearm or cabochon cut pink rubellite crown. More discrete dressers can also enjoy this iconic motif with the Seduttori, a timepiece that incorporates a python print through the form of tessellating stainless steel, rose gold or yellow gold scales.

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5. Rolex Lady Datejust

Style Notes: When you think of luxury watches, Rolex is likely the first name that springs to mind. That was the case for Wallner, too. “Watch brands kind of missed me in their marketing, and when I say me, I mean someone who is representative of a millennial woman with a good job and disposable income,” she said. “I didn't have any context or know about watches at all, and the only watch brand I knew was Rolex.” Now, as a certified expert on the topic, Wallner still cites Rolex as one of the most prolific luxury watch brands in the world. However, of all the watch styles Rolex has forged over its century in operation, it’s the Datejust that Wallner recommends the most. Not only is it the Geneva-based watch brand’s highest-selling model, as Wallner tells me, but the one she personally sees the most of chic dressers. (Which is saying a lot, considering how many watch aficionados and professionals she interacts with on a daily basis!) Oh, and did I mention that Victoria Beckham, Jennifer Aniston, Rihanna and Carmela Soprano? Talk about a powerhouse line-up.

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6. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak

Style Notes: There are certain luxury brands that aren’t typified by an ostentatious logo, but rather recognised through a specific stitch, diminutive thread or strategic fabric choice. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is one such example of this in the watch world, with a captivating octagonal case, grid-esque grande tapisserie dial and a folding bracelet subtle indicators that identify the piece to eagle-eye enthusiasts. On the contrary, AP is also a house that doesn’t hesitate to flex its horological finesse, either. “Iced out”, as Wallner describes it, versions of the Royal Oak are becoming increasingly popular, with some styles dripping in brilliant-cut diamonds and set in an 18-carat white gold case. "There is the quiet luxury element, but there also is like the flashy element, too," Wallner says. "We saw Aryna Sabalenka, who is an AP brand ambassador, wearing her big rose gold Royal Oak with the diamonds on it after she won the US Open. That is not a subtle watch, it's flashy and has ‘wow’ factor." Perennial tastemaker, Hailey Bieber, also has both iterations and wears them regularly, proving how a watch really does help set the mood. "I feel like there is the more subtle way of wearing a watch, but there's also the flex way and we're seeing both," Wallner adds. "We're seeing women flex in the way that men have historically, especially when they're like on their like next level of collecting."

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7. Patek Philippe Nautilus

Style Notes: A watch that has Beyoncé waxing lyrical about it on a song is enough to have us sit straight up and pay attention. But it’s safe to say that the Patek Philippe Nautilus doesn’t require much to pique our interest. Just look at it! Launched in 1976 as an elegant sports watch for maritime pursuits, the porthole shape has served as the ideal canvas to showcase the bounds of high-end Swiss watchmaking. A bezel encrusted with spessartite baguettes that create a halo of gemstones ranging from deep cognac to light champagne? Of course, that’s possible! How about a full gem-set finish with 2,364 brilliant-cut internally flawless diamonds placed in a wave pattern across the dial? Consider it done. These pieces are so coveted that there’s even a waitlist that spans half a decade at minimum in order to purchase one. Funny how time flies…

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8. Omega Constellation

Style Notes: If timepieces were measured on the chicness of their ambassadors alone, Omega would certainly be leading the charge. With endorsements from every corner of the entertainment world, Omega’s lineup includes Hollywood dynasties like supermodel mother-daughter duo Cindy Crawford and Kaia Gerber, Australian actress Nicole Kidman and her nascent model scion Sunday Rose and the formidable former James Bond, Daniel Craig. This starry group is becoming for the brand that brought us the Constellation, a watch that features slender curves, graceful claws and a dial that’s marked by a mother-of-pearl face and diamonds that delineate the hour.

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9. Tissot SRV

Style Notes: Tissot was born in the heart of Swiss horology—a region regarded and renowned as the best in the business. With an origin story like that, it’s truly destiny that they should be revered for creating one of the best luxury watches for women. Of all the designs to choose from and covet, it’s the SRV. Inspired by Art Deco design, the face subverts the classic eight-sided convention by elongating the structure with a sleek and geometric lens.

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10. IWC Schaffhausen Portofino

Style Notes: The turquoise harbour, pastel houses and sprawling hillside of Portofino, a quieter coastal enclave tucked in along the Italian Riviera, is a place that’s ripe to be mined for inspiration. IWC Schaffhausen did exactly that, choosing the jet-set destination as the name for one of their most recognisable shapes. Inspired by a pocket watch, this design features a larger watch face for a more imposing and dominant design that evokes the essence of styles popular in the late 20th Century. “These larger styles trickled down from ‘90s supermodels wearing these big Rolex Daytonas and inverting the gender norms and labels associated with watches,” explains Wallner. “It's cool for a woman to wear a big man's watch, like a sports watch, a chronograph or a diver watch, and challenge what's being sold to them.”

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11. Hermès Cut

Style Notes: Hermès can be viewed as a barometer of what’s in taste. Poetic and refined, but never sombre or austere, the brand is the pinnacle of what it means to be a modern, luxury fashion house. And while the leather goods like the Hermès Birkin or Kelly often steal the spotlight, Wallner has put me onto their watches. “I love what Hermès is doing, I think their watch programme is amazing,” she says. They released the Cut watch two years ago, which was a sports watch designed for women with an automatic movement, which is just like androgynous and cool,” she adds.

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What Luxury Watches are Trending for Women?

Now that you’re familiar with the precise best luxury watches for women, it’s high time we discuss the specific trends that are currently dominating. The most apparent is the rise in the cocktail watch. These styles are more minute and double as a piece of bijoux. (Think: Cartier Baignoire and Tiffany HardWear.)

As the name suggests, these designs are more suited towards early evening soirées and pair perfectly with a chilled dirty martini or opera glove. Delicate in nature and evoking the essence of high jewellery, these are styles that are considerably more dramatic when compared to slightly larger and softer shapes. Yet at a time where purveyors of the arts and trips to cultural institutions like ballets, galleries, galas and theatres are dwindling, these delicate pieces are actually resonating outside of these arenas.

In fact, smaller watches, like the Cartier Santos Dumont, which Taylor Swift wore during her engagement to Travis Kelce, are on the rise and speak to a trend of practicality over pompousness. Speaking to me about her first investment watch, the Cartier Tank Francaise, Wallner tells me that she gravitated towards this style because of its ease of wear and versatility. “I wanted something daintier that I could stack and would go with every outfit without being such a statement, especially for my first watch,” she says. “I think that this new wave of female enthusiasts are oftentimes looking for their first watch, and I think it's just a safer bet not to buy a huge one.”

“We are seeing a rise in more jewellery-forward pieces; gem sets, cocktail watches, for instance,” she continues. “If you can't afford the high jewellery or the iced-out watch, it is an exciting category to look at on the secondary market because, for a long time, those watches have been really undervalued.

“Part of the reason why we've been seeing a rise in small watches for men and women is because they're kind of different from what's on the primary market, so you see people going to thrift stores and scouring The Real Real to find these really edgy and individualistic pieces.

"If you open your mind and your heart to more creative, design-forward pieces, and if you have the patience to really look online, there are deals to be had."

What to Consider When Buying a Luxury Watch?

When it comes to actually making your first luxury watch purchase, it can often feel like you’re weighed down by decision fatigue, which isn’t the most ideal mindset to be in when making a decision that will set you back hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. Therefore, it’s imperative that you factor every element in—metal, size, weight, quality, heritage, everything!

“You should also think about what metal you wear. If you’re more of a white metal person, you would go with steel or yellow gold,” Wallner says. “Size does factor in, too,” she continues. “It might be nice to buy a really, really huge watch, but practically, you should consider how it sits on your wrist. You want to buy something that feels comfortable, so you need to strike the right balance. I always tell people to just stay within their means and not like go crazy."

What are the Best Brands for Luxury Women's Watches?

When it comes to luxury watches, it’s really important to note that the best brands are the best simply because of the history and legacy that supports their creations. The crux of the industry are the Swiss majors, including Rolex, Omega, Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe.

Cartier and Bulgari are also incredible names, but they have made a name for themselves for the way they combine their jewellery knowledge with innovative horological practices. To me, however, the most exciting brands are the disruptive fashion maisons that are emerging as worthy contenders. Applying the craftsmanship of their ateliers to this category, these are brands who are shaking things up and ensuring the more established labels stay nimble and competitive, which in turn delivers the most impactful and original devices. Wallner agrees with me, citing Louis Vuitton as an example of a maison that is doing this well. “It’s really exciting because it's introducing new players as more creative and design-minded fashion houses start taking their watch programmes seriously”

“I think it's opening the eyes of more standard and heritage watch brands,” she adds. “It's just kind of like a cradle of innovation going on, and it's not just innovation focused on the movement and what's inside, but also design coming from the expertise of the fashion houses. I think it's bringing more women, too, because fashion brands get women. The customer base is already there, they're already switched on and engaged.”

Winter in France is an exercise in balance. Dressing for chilly mornings, mild afternoons, and spontaneous apéros requires a certain instinct, one that French women seem to have perfected. Their secret weapon? Accessories that act as quiet statements, transforming an outfit without screaming for attention.

Forget over-styling or performative minimalism. The French approach thrives in that subtle space in between. It’s about the details that whisper rather than shout: the perfectly structured leather bag, the vintage sunglasses, the barn jacket borrowed from the countryside and reimagined for the city. This is how they create allure: through refinement, not excess.

On Parisian streets, these pieces aren’t trends so much as habits. A belt cinched just right, gold earrings glinting under low light, socks peeking out of loafers, everything looks effortless, but nothing is accidental. It’s that delicate tension between polish and nonchalance that defines French elegance season after season.

Here are the six accessories that French women are already wearing to make their cold-weather outfits quietly.

6 Accessories French Women Swear By to Elevate Their Winter Style

1. The Oversized Leather Tote

Style Notes: Every French woman needs a bag that carries her life - a laptop, a novel, and a baguette - and still looks impossibly chic. This structured leather tote in warm camel tones embodies that union of practicality and desirability. Paired with cropped black trousers, low heels, and an oversized jacket, it transforms even the most rushed commute into a moment of quiet confidence. The texture, the weight, the precision of the handles : this is understated luxury, the kind that never looks like it’s trying.

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2. The Vintage Sunglasses

Style Notes: Even on cloudy days, vintage shades stay on. Oversized, oval, or sharply angular, they bring a touch of cinematic mystery to everyday outfits. Think Catherine Deneuve meets modern-day Paris. A beige trench, polished loafers, and black lenses that say “don’t disturb, I’m not in the mood.” They’re not just sun protection; they’re an attitude. French women wear them the way others wear perfume - as part of their identity.

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3. The Barn Jacket

Style Notes: Once a countryside staple, the barn jacket has become the cool-girl outerwear of the season. Its structured silhouette, durable fabric, and utilitarian vibe strike that perfect balance between effort and ease. Styled with denim Bermuda shorts and sturdy boots, it’s a nod to workwear reinterpreted through a city lens. The French love it precisely because it feels authentic, unfussy, functional, and quietly confident.

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4. The Bourgeoise Earrings

Style Notes: They’re back and no longer ironic. Chunky gold hoops, sculptural pearls, and architectural shapes are redefining what “bourgeois chic” means today. Worn with a black turtleneck and dark denim, they catch the light in just the right way, adding a refined, feminine touch without overdoing it. This is what French women do best: elevate simplicity through one bold, well-chosen detail

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5. Socks with Loafers

Style Notes: What used to be a fashion faux pas is now a stylistic signature. Wool or ribbed socks peeking out from classic loafers evoke a sense of nostalgia while also feeling contemporary. It’s that British-preppy energy, softened by Parisian insouciance. The combination instantly grounds a look, making it more graphic and intentional. The rule here is simple: play with contrast, but always keep it controlled.

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6. The Belt (Over a Pencil Skirt)

Style Notes: A polished, powerful touch. Cinching a belt over a pencil skirt transforms the silhouette. Suddenly, the proportions make sense, and the confidence radiates. Paired with an oversized blazer and a neutral tee, the belt bridges masculine tailoring and feminine form. It’s a small gesture that changes everything. French women know instinctively how to use structure to express subtle sensuality—never loud, always poised

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The art of accessorising is a fine balance to strike. Too much, and the outfit can become overpowered. Too little, and your ensemble may fall flat. Carefully editing your finishing touches, be that jewellery, hats, scarves, belts and other accoutrements, can help refine your look, aiding in creating a chicer and thoughtful appearance.

Here at Who What Wear UK, our modus operandi is helping you create a curated, hard-working and timeless wardrobe, one which can bend to the seasons and accommodate the odd trend, if you so wish to dip into the cycle. With the onset of winter, you'll probably want to start bundling up by adding soft, luxurious textures to your look and generally cushioning yourself against the rain, chill and shorter daylight hours, and this is where accessories can come in clutch.

I tapped a few of our editors to model some of the very best accessory trends I've seen taking off this month, and, in line with our debut High Street Issue, I sourced pieces that are affordable, stylish and readily available to shop online now. From eye-catching jewellery to triangle scarves and chic waist belts to cosy gloves, our editors gave a whole host of high-street hero pieces a spin, each tapping into their unique personal styles and tastes. I tasked them with wearing a simple outfit for the shoot—a white tee or plain crewneck knitwear, and black trousers, jeans or a skirt—to allow the accessories to take centre stage, doubling down on the micro-moods that autumn/winter 2025 has presented us.

There's pared-back and classic, modern heritage vibes, pops of unexpected red, tonal textures and preppy polish, so scroll on to see and shop our favourite accessories trends of the season and discover how to style them for yourself.

1. Unexpected Red

Style Notes: Burgundy, cherry or maroon—whichever way you spin it, the "unexpected red theory" is undeniable. Accessories in any shade of red give a playful pop of brightness to an otherwise simple and pared-back look, and dare I say it, a nod to the festive season ahead. Pairing well with chocolate brown, grey melange and classic black, introduce red through leather cowboy boots, a knitted triangle scarf and perhaps a pair of sunglasses for added statement touches.

You can go the whole hog, much like acting fashion editor Sophie Robyn Watson, and add several splashes of red across your look for cohesion, or choose just one key piece to dip your toe into the trend. This technique can be employed from Monday to Friday and for off-duty weekend looks, too. We're seeing red, but in the best way possible.

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2. Tonal Textures

Style Notes: One way to make your look feel ultra-expensive in a heartbeat is to match all of your items (clothes, shoes and accessories, too) in the same tonal colour palette. Double down on this trend for A/W 25 in all shades of brown, like our editorial assistant, Brittany Davy. We’re talking chocolate, mocha mousse, burnt sienna and nougat to focus in on that wealth-whispering feel.

To add shine, silver-toned accessories are the way to go, adding a subtle mirror-like sparkle to your fingers, ears and wrists. Faux-fur pieces, such as mittens, bags and scarves, will add an opulent texture to a simple outfit, adding a tactile twist to jeans-and-wool-jacket 'fits. Lastly, no wardrobe is complete without a pair of ballet flats. This shoe trend has fully hit the mainstream, but that doesn't mean to say you have to pick a boring pair. Contemporary styles offer distressed textures, pretty buckles, practical rubber soles and unconventional square-toe shapes to bring a fresh edge to your step.

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