This summer, I want to redefine the notion of a summer basic, because basics do not have to be boring. Taking a look at what stylists and trendy tastemakers are wearing, I curated a list of pieces that are simple yet striking, ensuring that you’ll never reach for a simple white t-shirt or settle for an average pair of jeans again.

My findings? A simple browse through Zara, M&S and H&M will arm you with the best summer basics, without having to spend a fortune on elevated staples whilst still ensuring you look and feel incredibly stylish.

You see, when I'm in a rush, I’ll always reach for summer basics, making me somewhat of an expert in shopping this category. My formula is quick and simple: flip-flop kitten heels (or ballet flats), baggy pants and a tank top or button-down. Easy and effortless, especially when paired with sunglasses. You'll definitely look like you took longer than ten minutes to get ready for the day. So, when it came to updating these trusted favourites, these were the exact pieces I looked to refresh first.

Flip-flops are everywhere and in all shapes and sizes. I am personally ecstatic about this because they are low effort and a great way to show off a fresh pedicure. Go bold next time you're at the nail salon and slip on some fun flip-flops, whether they are platform, kitten-heeled, or flat; the possibilities are endless.

Barrel-leg jeans are another favourite of mine. They give that expensive, designer-looking structure without the crazy price point. I was suspicious when this trend first emerged a few years ago, but I have become quite smitten with them.

The best part about these pieces is their versatility. They can be mixed, matched, dressed up, or dressed down, depending on your plans. I want to feel excited to get dressed this summer, and I think this list will allow for that.

So, whether you’re ready to update your own wardrobe or are just curious about the high-street staples I stocked up on this season, scroll through for the best summer basics from Zara, H&M and M&S.

The Best High-Street Summer Basics from Zara, M&S and H&M

The Best High-Street Summer Basics from Zara

The Best High-Street Summer Basics H&M

The Best High-Street Summer Basics M&S

Timeless, polished, and expensive-looking—there are so many things I love about French style. And whilst the Gallic girls’ polished approach to cold-weather dressing will never go unappreciated by me, it's spring and summer where they really stand out. So, with a new season fast approaching, my top priority is curating a summer capsule that’s versatile, easy to style, and can be mixed and matched for a range of occasions. With that in mind, I decided to take inspiration from the elegant Parisiennes I follow on Instagram.

Now, if you’re more of a pared-back dresser like me, never fear. Whilst there are a number of niche microtrends popping off for summer 2026, in true French-girl fashion, the summer staples I’ve spotted remain just as anti-trend as they do elevated. I mean, it’s all well and good to follow the latest fad, but the truth is that looking put-together will always be difficult if you don't have the key basics in place. I’m talking the type of staples that solve my daily "what do I wear?" panic sessions, as well as look expensive regardless of price point.

And luckily for you, I’ve rounded them up below so that you, too, can channel your inner elegant Parisienne this summer. From timeless tank tops to elegant black dresses, here are the seven anti-trend basics you'll find in every French it girl's summer wardrobe.

7 Basics You'll Find In Every Elegant French Women's Summer Wardrobe

1. Scoop-Neck Tank Top

Style notes: It doesn't get more classic than a tank top in summer. But instead of the high-neck racer silhouettes I usually reach for, I’ll be taking a cue from elegant French girls and opting for scoop-neck iterations that feel relaxed and effortless. It’s the perfect warm-weather staple to throw on with linen trousers, midi skirts and denim shorts alike.

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2. Cotton Skirt

Style notes: Anti-trend, elegant and extremely versatile, a white cotton skirt is one of the hardest-working basics in a French woman’s summer capsule. Whether you prefer mini, knee-length, midi or maxi, you’ll reach for this breezy style for any and every occasion.

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3. Minimal Flip-Flops

Style notes: It’s rather hard to believe that flip-flops were considered tacky just a few years ago. However, if you talk to any elegant French women in 2026, they’ll tell you that this minimal sandal style is here to stay.

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4. Black Dress

Style notes: Nothing makes summer dressing easier than a throw-on dress, and the simplest way to ensure you look put-together is by opting for a neutral hue such as black. It’s a versatile shade that looks expensive no matter the price point you decide to invest in.

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5. Cord Necklace

Style notes: It’s official: cord necklaces are back in 2026. But gone are the days when they were considered “gaudy, and instead, lie a myriad of sleeker, minimal options that chic Gallic dressers rely on every summer.

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6. White Linen

Style notes: Linen season is here! And despite the fear of spillages on my commute to and from the office, I can't help but be inspired by the amount of chic white linen separates I’ve been spotting on French it girls lately.

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7. Raffia Tote

Style notes: I didn’t think that anyone could love their raffia totes more than us London girls, but the Parisian fashion set might just have us beat. Whether it be for a sun-soaked getaway or the office, polished French women will be relying on this roomy bag style from now until early autumn.

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As a fashion editor, I'm constantly researching the new-season pieces worth investing in—from luxury handbags to key on-trend buys. But if there's one thing I refuse to overlook when building my own day to day wardrobe, it's great basics. In fact, I'd argue that the most expensive-looking outfits aren't built on statement designer pieces at all—they're built on good quality, hardworking foundations. And when it comes to those foundations, there's one high-street retailer I return to year after year: M&S.

My wardrobe is living proof. Every summer, I stock up on Marks & Spencer's brilliantly cut vest tops, easy linen separates, throw-on dresses and comfortable-but-chic sandals before building the rest of my outfits around them. The reason is simple: M&S basics consistently deliver where it matters most. The fabrics look and feel premium (there's loads of 100% cotton and 100% linen pieces), the fits are flattering and the designs are timeless enough to get years of wear out of them. Better still, the prices remain refreshingly affordable.

Style Notes: I just bought this perfect vest top, these super-comfortable jelly flip-flops and the linen trousers fashion people can't stop raving about—which fit like a glove, by the way. I'm wearing a size 10 short here.

There's no doubt these pieces make it infinitely easier to put together an expensive-looking outfit in the heat. So, after thoroughly browsing the latest collection, I've rounded up the very best M&S summer basics that deserve a place in your polished warm-weather wardrobe. You can thank me later.

Shop the Best M&S Basic Tops for Summer

Shop the Best M&S Basic Trousers For Summer

Shop the Best M&S Basic Dresses For Summer

Shop the Best Basic M&S Shoes For Summer

Shop the Best Basic M&S Accessories For Summer

If you were to have asked me a few years ago about whether I would be lusting over a striped top this summer, I would’ve told you that the trend had been retired long ago, alongside the pleather leggings, wedge trainers and faux-fur gilets that millennials religiously paired with them. Now, if you were to pose the same question, you’d get an entirely different response.

It’s bizarre to think what a few years out of fashion’s favour can do to a silhouette, as this summer is seeing a resurgence of simple striped tops once only sported by adherents of the French aesthetic. As formally beloved Breton stripes were—especially throughout the 2010s, by twee enthusiasts Alexa Chung and the matriarch of artistic minimalism, Phoebe Philo, during her tenure for Céline—the striped top redux is ushering in a new era of bold hues and candy-colour combinations splashed across in saturated horizontal lines.

The rise in this motif, as much of many of fashion’s most memorable trends, can be traced back to Mrs. Prada, specifically her designs for Miu Miu’s spring/summer 2024 collection. Continuing to mine preppy subcultures, she recontextualised the collegiate styles of indie sleaze Ivy League types from the late 2000s—think: the frat bros and tech guys from The Social Network—by presenting a range of oversized blazers, slinky bubble skirts and, of course, striped tops.

Now, after a slow burn, the striped top is here to claim its spot as the most revered summer basic. And after a reign of quiet luxury and muted minimalism, I can’t think of a better antidote than these saccharine tops. Whilst there will always be a place for those crisp white t-shirts and clean cut ribbed tank tops, I’m following suit with the style set and pairing these newfound wardrobe essentials with other balmy fundamentals like cobalt trousers and red-and-black flip-flops. High-octane and effortlessly elevated, shop the trend ahead.

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Fashion people view basics as the unsung heroes of the closet. Even the most directional looks depend on these foundational essentials. While fashionable It girls certainly have an assortment of no-fail basics in their capsule wardrobes (e.g., white t-shirts and blue jeans), there are specific trendy basics and elevated styles with a forward twist that they're also incorporating into their modern ensembles.

Below are five of the trend-forward spring and summer basics the fashion crowd is wearing. You'll notice everything from a retro-style t-shirt that is back and cooler than ever to the elegant trousers that almost every polished dresser I know owns.

Keep scrolling to discover the five fashionable basics every It girls will be wearing in summer 2026.

The Trendy Basics It Girls Wear

1. Satin Trousers

Style notes: Satin or silk trousers are a wardrobe staple among the well-dressed crowd. You can dress them up, as shown here, or down with a white tee.

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2. Raglan T-Shirt

Style notes: Raglan tees will continue to rise in popularly as an easy choice to bring a cool and relevant spin to a casual look.

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3. Lace-Trim Shorts

Style notes: Similarly to satin pants, lace-trim shorts are a pretty basic that instantly elevates any look.

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4. Open-Knit

Style notes: A relaxed open-knit is a chic layering piece that can be worn as is or over the shoulders.

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5. Sleeveless Turtleneck

Style notes: Don't underestimate the power of a sleeveless turtleneck styled with jeans or a skirt for a sleek look.

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Summer is almost here, which means wardrobes are naturally starting to strip back to the essentials. And when it comes to building a strong summer capsule, less really is more. The best warm-weather wardrobes are built on easy, breathable pieces you can throw on without a second thought—simple, polished staples that do the hard work for you. For summer 2026, I’ve narrowed it down to the key basics worth building around.

At the foundation? The perfect white T-shirt, clean, simple and endlessly versatile, with styles like COS’s cult Clean Cut Tee leading the way. Then come the throw-on cotton dresses: easy, lightweight styles that work just as well in the city as they do on holiday, whether you prefer simple T-shirt silhouettes or softly cinched waists. Linen, of course, remains non-negotiable, with relaxed trousers and oversized shirts making up the backbone of any chic summer wardrobe.

As for accessories, woven bags continue to dominate, from easy raffia carry-alls to polished leather-trimmed styles like the Demellier Florence. And when it comes to footwear, simple leather flip-flops are proving to be the quiet hero of the season, especially minimal, square-toe pairs that make everything else feel more elevated.

Keep scrolling to shop the summer basics I’m backing for 2026.

Shop The Best Summer Basics 2026

1. White Tee

2. Cotton Dresses

3. Leather Flip-Flops

4. Linen Trousers

5. Woven Bags

6. Linen Shirt

If you live in London, you’ll know that “getting dressed for the season” is rarely straightforward. More often than not, you’re dressing for three seasons in one day, which means spring wardrobes aren’t built on trends alone, but on really good pieces that can handle a bit of unpredictability.

While there are plenty of items you don’t need to spend much on (tank tops, T-shirts, linen trousers) there are certain pieces where the quality, fabric and fit really do matter. The items that form the backbone of your spring wardrobe and that you’ll bring out year after year. I’ve narrowed it down to seven luxury spring basics that are genuinely worth investing in.

First, the trench coat. Possibly the most reliable item you can own in London. It’s one of those rare pieces that never really dates, but designers still manage to reinvent it each season. Brands like Róhe and Toteme do this particularly well, updating classic silhouettes with subtle details—a cinched waist, a slightly exaggerated sleeve, an unexpected cape back—small changes that make a timeless piece feel modern again.

Jeans are another item that are actually worth spending more on. For years I was very loyal to high street denim, but investing in Agolde’s 90s Pinch Waist jeans completely changed my perspective. The fit, the weight of the denim, the way they hold their shape, it’s one of the few items where the price difference really does show. Then there’s the cardigan, which quietly becomes one of the hardest-working items in your spring wardrobe. Finding one that doesn’t pill, stretch or lose its shape can be surprisingly difficult, which is why brands like Khaite and The Row are often worth the investment for knitwear that lasts for years rather than just one season.

Spring also calls for a few easy dresses in really good fabrics like linen or cotton, the kind you can wear now with a jacket and later with sandals, and then the accessories that pull everything together: a great everyday bag and a pair of ballet flats. The finishing pieces that make even the simplest outfit feel intentional.

A good spring wardrobe isn’t about having more, it’s about having better—fewer pieces, but the right ones. Keep scrolling to shop the best luxury spring basics.

Shop The Best Luxury Spring Basics

1. Trench Coats

Style Notes: Few pieces in fashion have the longevity of the trench coat. Season after season, decade after decade, it continues to reappear, not unchanged, but subtly reimagined. Designers play with proportions, introduce cape and scarf details, experiment with cropped lengths and new fabrics, yet the essence of the trench remains the same. It’s one of those rare wardrobe staples that works year-round: lighter fabrics and softer shades for spring, then darker colours and heavier materials as the weather turns. Few items are as reliable, or as timeless.

2. Straight-Leg Jeans

Style Notes: While barrel-leg and baggy jeans will always have their place in our wardrobes, straight-leg jeans are the style that truly transcends trends. With their vintage feel and effortless, slightly tailored silhouette, they have a natural elegance that works with almost everything. Whether styled with a white shirt, trench coat and ballet flats, or a leather bomber jacket, T-shirt and loafers, a great pair of straight-leg jeans quickly becomes one of the hardest-working and most reliable pieces in your wardrobe.

3. Cardigan

Style Notes: Having lived through enough London springs, I’ve learned that light layers are non-negotiable when it comes to transitioning your wardrobe, and this is where the cardigan quietly becomes essential. Once considered slightly frumpy, the cardigan has firmly redeemed itself as one of the most useful pieces you can own. Lightweight enough to layer over a tank top on those in-between, not-quite-spring days, but easy to take off and tuck into your bag the moment the sun appears and the Central line starts to feel like a sauna. It’s practical, versatile and surprisingly chic when styled well, which is exactly what a good spring staple should be.

4. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: If you’re not quite ready to get your toes out, ballet flats are the perfect in-between shoe, sitting somewhere between a trainer and a sandal, but feeling far more polished than either. They’re one of those shoes that instantly make an outfit feel more spring-like, adding a lightness and freshness to everything from denim to tailoring. Whether you opt for the trending glove-style ballet flats, square-toe or pointed designs, they have a way of making even very simple outfits look considered.

5. Linen Dress

Style Notes: A linen dress is one of those pieces that becomes invaluable as soon as spring arrives. Easy, breathable and effortlessly put-together, it’s the kind of item you can wear now with a cardigan or light jacket and later with sandals in summer. The beauty of a really good linen dress is that it does most of the work for you. Just add simple accessories and you have an outfit that feels relaxed but still polished.

6. Woven Bag

Style Notes: Nothing signals the start of spring quite like switching to a woven bag. Whether it’s raffia, straw or soft woven leather, it instantly lightens an outfit and makes everything feel more seasonal. Even if you’re still wearing jeans, knitwear or a trench coat, adding a woven bag makes the whole outfit feel intentional and spring-ready.

7. Tailored Trousers

Style Notes: Tailored trousers are one of the most useful foundations of a spring wardrobe, especially when jeans start to feel a little too heavy but it’s not quite warm enough for dresses every day. A great pair of tailored trousers works with everything from knitwear, shirts, tank tops, blazers and light jackets, and instantly makes an outfit look more polished with very little effort.

Don't get me wrong, I love a simple white t-shirt. Clean, fresh, crisp: there are few things more satisfying than putting on a well-fitted new white tee. Even on Tom Ford's famous list of essentials that every man should have, right at number 10, somewhere between a good sense of humour, a classic tuxedo and perfect teeth, Is "lots of crisp white cotton t-shirts." This being said, I've noticed a new basic item making the rounds recently. And whilst it's similar to the humble white t-shirt, it is not the same.

Almost like the white tee's cooler younger sibling, I'm of course talking about the raglan shirt. Usually designed with a crew neckline and three-quarter length sleeves that come in a contrasting colour to the white chest, it alludes to a classic baseball top style. Recently, I've seen multiple influencers adopting the trend, from Monikh to Marilyn, likely all wearing the COS version I've seen doing the rounds. But the hype all began last year when actress and ultimate cool-girl Zoe Kravitz was seen wearing it with a sheer checked midi skirt and ballet flats in autumn last year, which was not one of her most exciting outfits of all time, but one I've seen referenced and copied time and time again since.

And I'm not exactly surprised, she is the pinnacle of all that's effortless cool. The best part about this staple is that it's as easy to wear as the white t-shirt, but feels a little more '90s, with connotations to Kurt Cobain and California skater boys. What's more, is that it's so affordable, with options from COS and ASOS all under £50. If you're wanting a slightly more luxe piece, I've also found some options for you. Lucky you!

Shop Raglan Baseball Tops

My Instagram Saved folder is basically just one big mood board for European style. Many of my favourite fashion follows reside in Paris, Copenhagen, and Stockholm with aesthetics that read clean, effortless, cool, and modern. On that note, there are three items I've been seeing many of the said influencers wear to create their chic outfits. And yes, these are all items I, too, have been or am keen to test out this season to create better and more forward ensembles.

Below, you'll find a list of the three spring 2026 staples chic Europeans are wearing. Alternatively, you'll also uncover the items I'm not seeing as much that may feel a bit more outdated. Of course, at the end of the day, you should always wear whatever you love, period. This list is simply to serve as spring shopping and outfit inspiration.

Keep scrolling for more.

3 Spring Staples Chic Europeans Wear, and 3 They Don't

1. Wearing: Low-Profile Trainers

Not Wearing: Super-Chunky Trainers

Style Notes: If a well-dressed person is wearing trainers in 2026, it's a slim, low-profile style rather than a big chunky pair. This specific Chanel pair above is an absolute dream, FYI, but there are plenty of other options of the market to choose from.

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2. Wearing: Half-Zip Knits

Not Wearing: Thin Tunic Sweaters

Style Notes: I feel like every fashion person I know (including the chicest Europeans I follow) is opting for quarter-zip sweaters and sweatshirts. I'm not seeing as many lightweight tunic-type sweaters that don't have shape.

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3. Wearing: Stovepipe Jeans

Not Wearing: Distressed Skinny Jeans

Style Notes: If a fashion person is wearing skinny jeans, it's typically not an overly distressed style. That said, stovepipe jeans with true straight legs are more key for 2026 in the denim realm.

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Anyone who knows me will tell you that I’ve never been one to follow trends. It's all well and good to have the latest piece, but in my opinion, looking expensive and intentional will always be difficult if you don't have the basics in place. Therefore, for 2026, I’m committed to putting in the time to find the best capsule wardrobe staples. I’m talking about the type of basics that solve my daily "what do I wear?" panic sessions, always look elegant, and most importantly, can be styled with virtually anything for every occasion.

Now, you might initially think that you need to invest solely in luxury pieces for an expensive-looking wardrobe. However, the truth is that even the most affordable basics can look premium if you invest in the right ones. And luckily, I’ve done the hard work for you. Below, I’ve rounded up the best wardrobe basics to add to your wardrobe in 2026.

From classic staples that will never go out of style, to those slightly more elevated pieces that will add interest to an outfit but remain no less versatile, keep scrolling to discover the best wardrobe basics to invest in for 2026 and beyond.

9 Elegant Wardrobe Basics to Invest In for 2026 (and Beyond)

1. Lightweight Jacket

Style Notes: Whether I’m throwing it over a tank top and tailored trousers for the office or layering it over a midi dress for a dinner, a lightweight jacket is a must-have in my year-round capsule wardrobe. I already own a classic long trench, so for spring 2026, I’m primarily on the hunt for an on-trend funnel-neck jacket that looks elegant and refined. However, there are plenty of other chic jacket styles that I also have my eye on (see below).

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2. Relaxed Shirt

Style Notes: A button-down shirt will serve you well regardless of the season. However, for 2026, fashion people are taking a pause on more fitted styles and instead are turning to relaxed iterations that give their jeans, midi skirt or Bermuda shorts outfits an effortlessly cool vibe.

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3. Stovepipe Jeans

Style Notes: With slimmer, straight-cut jeans replacing the baggy, loose styles that dominated last year, I have my mind firmly set on investing in a pair of stovepipe jeans in 2026. Not only do these '90s-inspired silhouettes lend themselves to a smarter style of dressing, but they’re also incredibly versatile, pairing just as well with a simple vest top as they do a statement blouse.

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4. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: I can’t be the only one whose desperate to shed their boots for lighter alternatives? And more often than not, I reach for my trusty ballet flats. They’re sophisticated, easy to style, not to mention they come French girl-approved, which is always a plus in my mind.

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5. Leather Bag

Style Notes: The right handbag has the power to completely change your outfit, and investing in natural fabrications is the easiest way to ensure that it looks expensive. And in my opinion, you just can't beat leather. Whether you opt for a smaller silhouette or an ultra-roomy tote style, bags in this buttery soft material will keep your outfits looking put together.

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6. Neutral Cardigan

Style Notes: Spring is just around the corner, but the warmer months are in no way synonymous with hot weather, especially here in the UK. I’ll therefore be investing in a lightweight cardigan that I can wear both on its own as a top or layered over a fitted tee. To increase its versatility, I’d recommend opting for a neutral hue that will pair well with both minimal and bold colours alike.

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7. Versatile Belt

Style Notes: It took me a long time to realise this, but a versatile, goes-with-everything belt is a non-negotiable in the wardrobes of stylish dressers. Not only does it help to tailor your jeans, trousers or shorts into the perfect fit, but it’s also an easy accessory that you can use to elevate your look without feeling too out there.

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8. Tailored Trousers

Style Notes: When I want something slightly dressier than my jeans, I can always rely on my tailored trousers to polish up a look. I currently own what feels like a thousand black pairs, so for 2026, I’m on the market for some slightly more elevated, but no less versatile hues such as navy, camel or grey.

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9. Penny Loafers

Style Notes: I’ll never, ever get rid of my trainers, however, for spring 2026, I’m on the hunt for a flat shoe that's just a little bit sleeker. Enter the gathered loafer. Whether you opt for black or brown, leather or suede, or an affordable or designer buy, a pair of loafers will add an instant polish to all of your outfits. My favourite way to style them? With a pair of straight-leg jeans and a white button-down shirt to get the cool, off-duty look.

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Spring weather can be all over the place—hot, cold, or anywhere in between. As exciting as it is to think about the blooming flowers and new beginnings, there are also those miserable days when you've piled on layers to leave the house, only to be dripping in sweat by 2 p.m. With the transitional temps, the one item of clothing you can truly rely on is a trusty pair of jeans. No matter the weather, they'll never fail you, so they're a great place to start when you're putting together an outfit this season. Wear them with a tank top and sandals or a trench coat and boots depending on the day and your mood.

Here, I've compiled six easy spring outfits with jeans. These are simple formulas you can follow that'll give you some fashion inspiration for the new season, straight from the best street style stars and influencers. Hopefully, they'll make getting dressed in the morning a *little* less stressful, even when the weather outside is unpredictable. Keep scrolling to see how you can style spring looks with a good ol' pair of denim, and shop them below!

Shop 4 Spring Jean Outfits:

1. Rugby Shirt + White Jeans + Flats

Style Notes: Sporty meets casual spring chic. A rugby shirt adds preppy energy to crisp white denim—perfect for weekend walks or brunch. Keep things relaxed by tucking in the front of your top and balancing the look with simple, versatile flats.

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2. White Shirt + Cigarette Jeans + Slingbacks

Style Notes: Clean, tailored and endlessly wearable. A crisp white shirt and cigarette-cut jeans create a streamlined silhouette that works from meetings to evening drinks. Slingbacks add an elegant touch without being overly formal.

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3. Trench Coat + Black T-Shirt + Straight Jeans + Heeled boots

Style Notes: A trench coat instantly adds sophistication to classic staples. Pair with a simple black tee and straight-leg denim for effortless layering. Heeled boots elevate the outfit and are ideal for the unpredictable UK spring weather.

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4. Canadian Tuxedo + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Denim-on-denim gets an upgrade when styled with clean lines and chic accessories. Choose a soft denim shirt or jacket with matching jeans. Ballet flats keep this look light and spring-ready—a timeless French-girl feel.

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As we finally approach the end of winter, my attention is now firmly fixed on spring. More specifically, on the hard-working basics, I’ll be adding to my spring capsule wardrobe to make everyday dressing that little bit easier. And what better place to look for inspiration than my favourite French fashion influencers?

Whether they’re strolling around Parisian streets and finding a chic cafe for a long lunch, or heading out for a late dinner in southern France with a pastis in hand, the Gallic girls manage to make even the most basic of staples look effortlessly chic for every occasion. And whilst their elegant approach to cold-weather dressing will never go unappreciated by me, I personally think that it's spring and summer where they really shine.

After hours of scrolling on Instagram, I narrowed it down to six key basics that the French fashion set will rely on this spring. And if you, too, are looking for versatile staples to add to your spring capsule, then you’re in the right place, as I’ve rounded them up for you below.

Keep scrolling to discover the six chic basics forming the foundation of my spring 2026 capsule wardrobe, all of which, of course, come French-girl approved.

6 Elegant Basics French Women Rely On in Spring

1. Trench Coat

Style Notes: If there’s one thing fashion people in the UK and in France can agree on, it’s the importance of owning a good trench coat. Easy to style, versatile and, most importantly, warm enough on those chillier spring days, a sleek trench is an easy throw-on staple that will see you through the upcoming season.

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2. Relaxed Shirt

Style Notes: A button-down shirt will serve you well no matter the season. However for spring 2026, French fashion people are taking a pause on more fitted styles, and instead are turning to more relaxed iterations that give their outfits a cool, off-duty vibe.

Shop the Staple:

3. Stovepipe Jeans

Style Notes: The French girls love themselves a ‘90s trend, and with slimmer, straight-cut jeans replacing the baggy, loose styles that dominated last year, they have their eyes firmly set on stovepipe jeans for spring 2026. Not only do these slightly more tailored silhouettes lend themselves to a smarter style of spring dressing, but they’re also incredibly versatile.

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4. Mary-Jane Ballet Flats

Style Notes: French girls and ballet flats are inseparable, but when they want a flat-shoe style that has a slightly preppier edge, they turn to Mary-Jane iterations. Despite feeling like quite an elegant spring shoe, it lends itself as much to casual daily wear as it does to more formal evenings out.

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5. Knee-Length Skirt

Style Notes: I’m usually all about my midi skirts, but recently, I’ve been spotting knee-length iterations on all of the elegant French dressers I follow. A throwback to the sexy “office-siren” aesthetic that dominated the ‘90s, it should come as no surprise that it’s French dressers who are leading the charge in bringing this skirt style back into the mainstream.

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6. Woven Leather Tote

Style Notes: The French girls adore their basket bags in summer. But before they start to bring out their beach-ready raffia styles, they rely on woven leather iterations for the slightly cooler spring days. It’s timeless and versatile, but comes with just the right amount of edge to add interest to their outfits, especially when opting for darker hues like black, brown or burgundy.

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It feels like winter has been going on forever, but the good news is that we’re only about a month away from spring. And this, of course, means that I’m planning ahead and looking to the ways in which I’ll be styling my jeans for the new season.

And when it comes to elegant denim dressing, the French fashion girls will forever be my first port of call for inspiration. They manage to make even the most basic of clothing look chic, and for spring 2026 specifically, I’m on the hunt for the stylish staples that they’re wearing with their jeans. Naturally, I turned to the most elegant French fashion influencers I follow on Instagram for a fresh set of styling tips. And it should come as no surprise that they did not disappoint me. My main takeaway? Less is definitely more when it comes to styling jeans in 2026.

So, from classic ballet flats to elegant striped cardigans, keep scrolling to discover the six simple yet elevated basics French girls are pairing with their jeans in 2026.

6 French-Girl Basics to Wear With Jeans in 2026

1. Trench Coat

Style Notes: Outerwear doesn’t get more classic than a trench coat. A trusty capsule wardrobe staple that you know will make any outfit look elegant, trench coats are just as loved by French girls across the pond as they are here in the UK. Whether you opt for a classic long silhouette or prefer a shorter iteration, it’s sure to make your jeans outfit look put together.

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2. Breton Cardigan

Style Notes: French girls and Breton stripes are inseparable, so these nautical-inspired patterns had to be in this edit. The key piece for spring? Lightweight cardigans that work well with jeans on their own as tops or layered over a tee when the weather cools.

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3. Ballet Pumps

Style Notes: I, for one, cannot wait to get back into my ballet pumps when the temeprature rises, but I don’t think anyone loves these elegant flat-shoe style as the French fashion girls do. The best way to wear them? Pair them with ankle jeans to keep hemlines from grazing the floor.

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4. Blazer

Style Notes: When they want to dress their jeans up, the Gallic girls turn to boxy blazers that look a bit more formal than your average jacket. Perfect for making your denim office or evening-appropriate, a smart blazer is never a bad investment.

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5. Tank Top

Style Notes: Tank tops are a year-round staple, but they really come into their own in spring when you can wear them without a chunky knit layered on top. They’re simple, yes, but they look undeniably elegant when worn with classic blue jeans and kitten heels, as shown by Sylvie Mus above.

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6. Ankle Boots

Style Notes: Knee-high boots will serve you well, but when you want to show off more of your jeans, ankle silhouettes should be your first port of call. Versatile, comfortable, and stylish, ankle boots can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Not to mention, they look particularly good with any style of jeans.

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Like the fashion equivalent of bread and butter, some staple pieces simply work better together than they do on their own. The best long-sleeved tops for women are one ingredient, to extend the metaphor further, that often gets undervalued when it comes to these essential style pairings.

Where romantic blouses and sculptural shirts can overshadow this more pragmatic basic, it’s not a fair assessment to call it a boring investment. In a way, the best long-sleeved tops serve as the backbone to any great ensemble, especially when the temperature begins to dip and cold fronts start to set in. But it’s this mundanity that has resulted in it being ignored for far too long.

In actuality, an arsenal of long-sleeved tops is what separates a well-edited wardrobe from one that’s perhaps more hodgepodge. You might think I’m being hyperbolic here, but it’s something that’s worth considering, because what is the point of owning your architecturally tailored trousers or polished jeans if you have nothing to wear them with?

It’s understandable that the best long-sleeved tops are by no means an exciting purchase to make when compared to glitzy ballet flats, decadent floral dresses or even that saccharine winter knitted hat that’s serving as your sartorial sweet treat, though that shouldn’t mean that you disregard them altogether. In fact, if you were to look at the most prolific tastemakers in the industry, you’ll realise that they’ve been subtly campaigning for the best long-sleeved tops to become a centrepiece.

Take Miuccia Prada, for instance. At the spring/summer 2023 runway show in Paris, the Milanese designer not only stripped back the notion of simplicity but also proved that nuance and subversiveness can be found when things are presented in rudimentary form. On a literal level, this thesis statement translated into a series of wafer-thin long-sleeves in muted primary tones, particularly heather grey, white and butter yellow, being layered up until they took the form of a mini.

Elsewhere, creator of the Neverworns newsletter and video series, Liana Satenstein, proved the power of the humble three-quarter-length in her collaboration with Los Angeles-based brand Cleo Camp. Rendered in a “perpetual vacation blue”, the splashy long-sleeve has quickly become a cult piece for IYKYK It girls like Imani Randolph and Audrey Hobert.

Of course, the most mainstream endorsement came from none other than Hailey Bieber, with the Rhode Beauty founder wearing a bracelet-sleeve-length shirt from London-based underwear brand Cou Cou Intimates. With delicate curving through the hemline, a boat neckline and soft scallop edges, the look proved that when intentional with designs, these rudimentary pieces can be the most impactful.

And if you haven’t guessed by now, not all long-sleeved tops are made the same, which is thankfully why I, a fashion writer who has worked in the industry for close to a decade, is here to definitively tell you which styles are actually the best. Some, like a simple crew-neck, are perfect for a casual outing, whilst others, including button-up styles, lean certainly dressier. But irrespective of your needs, there’s no wardrobe that’s made better without including one.

The 9 Best Long-Sleeved Tops for Women

Best Crew Neck Long-Sleeved Top

Style Notes: If you could only invest in one long-sleeve top, then consider the humble crew-neck as the supreme choice. For the uninitiated, the crew neck is regarded as the traditional silhouette for t-shirts and tops, with a stock-standard shape that features a classic round and collarless neckline.

Originating over a century ago as an undergarment and inspired by rowing jumpers, this style is the most non-descript of the bunch, which is a quality that, perhaps ironically, makes it the most versatile. Inoffensive and durable, this cut acts as a blank canvas which you can build an outfit upon, whether you keep to its preppy roots and pair it with a floor-grazing skirt or eschew the collegiate origins altogether and opt for more on-trend trousers.

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Best Boat-Neck Long-Sleeved Top

Style Notes: If the name of this top conjures up images of walnut-stained sailing yachts whisking through the Italian Peninsula or the turquoise stripes of beach parasols lining the Côte d'Azur, you’ll be in luck.

Like the crew-neck, the boat-neck long-sleeved top also has aquatic lineage, deriving its name from the blouses of French sailors. It’s marked by a slit that runs horizontally across your frame from collarbone to collarbone, with this hint of skin affecting a more sophisticated look as a result.

For those seeking something more Parisienne-adjacent in their long-sleeves, let it be known that this neckline is a staple of the City of Lights after being popularised by Coco Chanel in the ‘30s and enshrined by a Givenchy design worn by Audrey Hepburn in the ‘60s. So, if it’s the essence of European summer and Old Hollywood glamour that you’re after, the boat-neck long-sleeve should be the only style you seek out.

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Best Ribbed Long-Sleeved Top

Style Notes: If you adore the effect of Issey Miyake’s signature Pleats Please line but are after something slightly less overt, a ribbed long-sleeve top is for you. Texture, in many ways, can be the defining quality of a garment. Features like suede accents, shearling trims or faux-fur collars and cuffs can certainly elevate a piece, so think of the ribbing along a straightforward long-sleeved top in the same vein.

Ribbed fabrics also boast signature vertical lines, which make anything it’s fashioned into more visually appealing. Minimalist but modern, snug but polished, it’s the sort of thing you’ll want to throw on for errand runs and early morning farmers' markets. (Think: Times when you want to look put together but don’t want to exert any energy.)

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Best V-Neck Long-Sleeved Top

Style Notes: The most risqué of all long-sleeved tops, the V-neck is the sexy older sister of the crew-neck, making it a considerable contender for both sultry nights out and evenings in.

With its titular tapered point, the V-neck offers considerable real estate across the décolletage for you to capitalise. (Prada even recently issued styles that plunge down to your naval in its spring/summer 2026 collection, should that pique your interest.) Throw on a pendant necklace, tassel scarf or even a wash of shimmering body oil, and you’ll have a look that’s far more thoughtful than any other long-sleeve would allow.

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Best Turtleneck Long-Sleeved Top

Style Notes: Cemented by Cameron Diaz in Nancy Meyers’ seminal Christmas classic, The Holiday, as the most sophisticated cold-weather look, a turtleneck long-sleeved top has certainly transcended its former status as a humdrum thermal layer.

Now, rather than being hidden away under t-shirts, jumpers and even dungarees (as Alexa Chung has demonstrated), turtlenecks are being worn solo. Don’t fret about looking like a late-00s Steve Jobs or early-90s The Rock, however, as the long-sleeved turtleneck top will always read more beatnik than costume, especially if worn with supple ballet flats and soft ruched loafers.

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Best Button-Up Long-Sleeved Top

Style Notes: Be it the reign of brooches or the dominance of studs saturating everything from Khaite’s signature Benny Belt or Valentino’s new Nellcôte bag, fashion is fixated on pinnings. It makes sense, then, for button-up long-sleeved tops to join one of the best silhouettes in the category.

Sewing these spherical discs onto garments to make them more intriguing is not new by any means. However, with renewed interest in Alexander McQueen’s mother-of-pearl buttoned pieces from his spring/summer 2003 collection, both Dua Lipa and Kylie Jenner recently wore the jacket version from the show, it’s no surprise to see this simple embroidered design element come back to the forefront.

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Best Three-Quarter Length Long-Sleeved Top

Style Notes: What do independent labels like Mode Mischief, Cou Cou Intimates and Flore Flore have in common? They’re all proponents of the three-quarter-length long-sleeved top. Skimming just below the elbow, this style of shirt evokes the halcyon days of the Y2K era without all the pompous chintz or lurid palette. Whether fitted or flared, this sleeve length is the perfect hybrid for those seeking both functionality and flair given the way it so gracefully shows off the forearm. No rolling, pulling up or folding here!

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Best Going-Out Long-Sleeved Top

Style Notes: The ‘going out’ top has long been heralded as the perfect complement to any pair of bottoms. Be it denim, wool, corduroy or silk, there isn’t a pair of trousers made more refined than when paired with an item of this variety. This is something that many internationally lauded contemporary labels know all too well. From Khaite’s Maddy corset top to Paris Georgia’s merino wool Heart bodysuit, a going-out top takes the guesswork out of piecing together an outfit by pulling together a look in very few steps.

Crucially, you must invest in a top that’s glamorous enough to suit cocktail bars and small-plate restaurants, whilst still performing every task expected from a long-sleeved top. There’s no point sacrificing thermal regulation for style, so opt for something with enough coverage whilst also possessing more intricate qualities like ruching, gathering, embroidery or trimmed accents.

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Best Sheer Long-Sleeved Top

Style Notes: Though this might sound contradictory to the above, I truly consider a sheer long-sleeved top as one of the best purchases someone could make. Of course, if the naked dressing trend hasn’t proven how multifaceted a piece of nearly-tranparent fabric can be, then allow me to do the honours.

Whether worn on its own or layered over something else, the material brings a soft edge that conveys opulence. It’s both sensual and sculptural, making it a true wardrobe enigma, and therefore, staple, in my opinion.

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Granted, wardrobe basics aren’t the most thrilling pieces to invest in, but they’re essential to building everyday outfits. Unless, of course, you plan on wearing your eveningwear to the office, the supermarket and on weekend walks? I thought not. Yet, as with almost every fashion find, not all basics deliver the same results.

While grey sweatshirts, trainers and cosy jogging bottoms all fall under the basics umbrella, it’s elevated basics I'm really after right now—the kind of pieces that work just as well at the office as they do at brunch, leaving you feeling effortlessly put-together rather than lazy.

Think crisp white T-shirts—always ironed, of course—navy tailored trousers, cosy brown wool coats and even red cardigans: proof that basics needn’t be boring. And who does elevated basics best? Well, Londoners, of course. Want to know more? Scroll on to see the elevated basics stylish Londoners have already added to their 2026 rotations.

London Girl Elevated Basics 2026:

1. Navy Tailored Trousers

Style Notes: If you've already got a pair (or three) of black trousers in your wardrobe, think of navy as a slightly softer alternative. Opt for a shape that best suits your style—whether it's a wide-leg, cropped, or even a culotte—and pair with soft greys, creams and browns for an effortlessly elevated look.

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2. Crisp White T-shirt

Style Notes: There are very few fashion items I'd class as an actual need, but a white T-shirt is one of them. While Monikh makes a case for layering them over a longer top, I'd also recommend styling alone, under a V-neck jumper, or even a turtleneck on particularly chilly days.

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3. Black Turtleneck

Style Notes: Swapping a classic crewneck for a turtleneck is one easy way to elevate any outfit. While red, grey, and cream shades are all popular, black is a universal failsafe for every occasion—the office, included.

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4. Brown Wool Coat

Style Notes: Bundling up to battle the cold weather can often leave our outfits looking a little, well, scruffy. And while I'm a big fan of a puffer coat and oversized scarf, they don't quite work for more formal-feeling occasions. Instead, turn to a structured wool coat in a brown shade that pairs effortlessly with almost every other colour.

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5. Red Cardigan

Style Notes: Basics needn't be solely refined to neutral shades, and Karina makes a compelling case for a cosy red cardigan. Whether worn with jeans, black trousers, or even a leather skirt, it's one easy way to brighten up any look.

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6. Straight-Leg Jeans

Style Notes: Jeans trends are often hard to keep up with, but if elevated basics is the key focus then few cuts can rival a classic straight-leg. Fuss-free, easy to style and formal enough to work in a number of office environments, this is the denim trend that's essentially timeless.

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We really did it—we made it to 2026. And while there are plenty of things we collectively left behind in 2025 (overly trend-led micro moments, the pressure to constantly "reinvent" our wardrobes, the idea that chic has to mean expensive), one thing we absolutely did not abandon is the art of building a great wardrobe on a realistic budget. If anything, this year feels like a return to being more intentional: buying fewer things, wearing them more often and expecting them to work harder across different parts of our lives.

That shift is exactly why I'm on the hunt for chic basics from three of my go-to high-street brands: Zara, COS and Mango. These are the brands that understand the rhythm of everyday dressing—they are masters at delivering pieces you actually reach for on a random Tuesday morning, that still look good six months down the line and that feel like true investments in your wardrobe without breaking the bank. Trend awareness is there, of course, but it's filtered through wearability, fabric choice and proportion rather than novelty for novelty's sake.

Zara is where we look for sharp tailoring and directional silhouettes that nod to the runways without feeling costume-y. COS remains our go-to for elevated essentials with interesting cuts and materials that feel considered. And Mango? It's quietly become one of the strongest destinations for modern staples that we reach for time and time again. Need proof? Just wait until you see the denim...

This week, I did a proper scroll through the big three to see what's actually worth adding to your (and my!) wardrobe right now. Not everything new-in makes the cut, but there are clear patterns emerging: relaxed trousers that sit just right on the waist, knitwear that doesn't lose its shape by lunchtime, outerwear with subtle details that make an outfit feel intentional rather than thrown together. But don't just take my word for it, have a look yourself.

Shop the Chicest 2026 Basics From Zara, Mango and COS:

1. Zara

Zara has always been the brand we turn to when we want something that feels plugged into what's happening right now—but in 2026, it's the restraint that stands out most. The silhouettes are calmer, the colour palette more deliberate, and the focus is firmly on shape. There's a clear influence from recent runway seasons where designers leaned into elongated lines, softened tailoring and fabrics that move rather than cling. Zara's strength lies in translating those ideas quickly, but this year the execution feels more refined. For anyone building out chic basics for 2026, Zara is where you'll find the pieces that make your everyday outfits feel current without screaming "new".

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2. COS

COS remains unmatched when it comes to elevated essentials that don't feel trend-dependent. The brand's design language is rooted in proportion, fabrication and subtle detailing—and that's exactly why it plays such an important role in chic basics for 2026. There's a confidence in COS pieces; they're not trying to do too much, but they're never boring. This season, I'm particularly drawn to the way COS is handling layering—lightweight knits, sculptural outerwear and pieces that feel modular rather than prescriptive.

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3. Mango

Mango has quietly become one of the most reliable places for modern wardrobe staples that still feel fashion-led. The brand has leaned into better fabrics, stronger tailoring and silhouettes that feel relevant without chasing every micro-trend. For anyone exploring chic basics for 2026, Mango is particularly good for pieces that bridge the gap between casual and more put-together dressing—items you can wear often without them feeling repetitive.

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Have you ever stood in front of your wardrobe in the morning and failed to find a single thing you want to wear? As a mum of two little ones, I find this happens to me often, and it's usually when I have to get out the door in less than 10 minutes. For moments like this, I keep an array of easy outfit formulas in my back pocket—no-brainer ensembles that are easy to pull off and don't sacrifice style.

When collecting these outfit ideas, I look for ensembles that have a no-fuss wearability factor and feel classic while still being current. This usually means focusing on simple yet elevated basics like tees, jeans, button-ups, and blazers along with trendy shoe styles and accessories that have a refined vibe. Keep scrolling to check out five outfit formulas I swear by for when I am in a major style rut. One note: Swap out the shoes as needed depending on the season.

5 Effortless Outfit Formulas That Are Easy to Pull Off

1. White Tee + Statement Belt + Jeans

Style Notes: When in doubt, a white tee and indigo jeans combo will never fail you. To add some interest, opt for a statement belt, and don't forget to throw a cardigan over your shoulders in case it gets chilly.

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1. Black Mini Dress + Knee-High Boots

Style Notes: An LBD works just as well for casual days out as it does for more formal events. Layer it over a contrasting white roll-neck for extra warmth and style it with knee-high boots to finish the look.

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3. Blazer + Jeans + Sleek Shoes

Style Notes: A blazer will dress up every outfit but opting for a cinched waist will take things to the next level. Add a classic pair of jeans and slingback kitten heels to let the blazer do the talking.

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4. Sweatshirt + Slip Skirt + Ballet Pumps

Style Notes: Blend the comfort of. a sweatshirt and elegance of a slip skirt with the outfit above. Pair this combo with a suede shoulder bag and mesh ballet flats to add some interest.

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5. Trench Coat + Sweater + Tailored Trousers

Style Notes: I'll be wearing my trench from now until spring, and this classic outfit combo is a fail proof way to look put together.

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I only had one resolution for 2026: to create a hard-working, anti-trend capsule wardrobe that will see me through the year. I want to be intentional with my purchases, only investing in items that I’ll truly love and wear, even in years to come. But as someone with a luxury taste on a very high-street budget, I’m aware that this is going to take slightly more effort than I initially thought. I want items that look elegant, feel wearable, and, most importantly, can be mixed and matched to create a wide range of outfit combinations for the majority of occasions.

I therefore decided to spend the first two weeks of the year collating my favourite outfits from fashion influencers, before I make any rash decisions about what to buy. For 2026, I’ve decided that I’m all about elevated elegance—the kind of staples that can be dressed down for the office, and then taken seamlessly into the evening with a few simple wardrobe swaps. And after what feels like hundreds of hours spent scrolling on Instagram, I narrowed my attention down to seven key items that will look expensive at any price point.

But the best part? I’ve rounded them up below, so that you, too, can achieve a designer-looking wardrobe on an affordable budget. Keep scrolling to see and shop the seven pieces that are making the foundations of my 2026 capsule wardrobe.

7 High-Street Staples You'll Find in My 2026 Capsule Wardrobe

1. Relaxed Blazer

Style Notes: Whether I’m dressing up a pair of jeans for the office or throwing it over a mini dress for a dinner, a relaxed blazer is a must-have in my capsule wardrobe. I already own a black, so for 2026, I’m looking to invest in tonal grey and brown hues that are just as versatile but will make. a nice point of difference in my outfits.

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2. Tapered Jeans

Style Notes: I practically live in my jeans year-round, but when I want to make my outfits look intentional, I opt for tapered, barrel-leg styles. Not only does this flattering silhouette make my legs look ultra-long, but this denim style is one that looks expensive at literally any price point.

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3. Suede Footwear

Style Notes: When it comes to buying shoes on the high street, opting for natural materials is the key to making them look expensive. Suede often comes at a higher price point, even on affordable websites, but trust me when I say that they’re well worth the extra splurge.

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4. Relaxed Button-Up Shirts

Style Notes: A button-up shirt will serve you well no matter the season, whether worn on its own with a pair of jeans or layered under a chunky knit for extra warmth. Instead of more fitted silhouettes, I’m turning to more relaxed and oversized iterations that give my outfits that effortlessly chic, off-duty vibe.

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5. Long Skirts

Style Notes: Classy and versatile, a longline skirt is an elegant alternative to jeans and tailored trousers. Not to mention that the styling possibilities are endless, whether dressed down with a tee and trainers or up with a satin blouse and kitten heels.

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6. Top-Handle Totes

Style Notes: The right handbag has the power to completely change your outfit. For 2026, top-handle styles are dominating the market with luxury brands like Jil Sander, Khaite, and Alaïa showcasing their own takes on the trend. Luckily for me, the high street is filled with top-handle totes that will allow my outfits to look way more expensive than they are.

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7. Satin Trousers

Style Notes: When I want a pair of trousers that's slightly more polished than jeans, a pair of silk or satin trousers will do the trick. Me personally? I’ll be investing in neutral hues like cream, black, or brown to keep my outfits looking minimal and refined.

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The Parisian aesthetic—elevated silhouettes made up of effortless pieces—is as covetable as it gets. Yes, basics are typical front-runners in the wardrobes of fashion people in Paris because they lean into that easy, no-fuss vibe. I recently took a scroll through my Saved folder on Instagram and noticed that people living in Paris have been wearing four specific elegant basics to create their chic outfits.

Keep scrolling to check out the basics in question that fashion people in Paris are wearing. Adding one of the items to your wardrobe will give it a very 2026 feel because of their forward and relevant nature. I'm definitely going to be recommending these items even more as we head into the new year as easy yet chic outfit makers.

Boatneck Top

Style Notes: A simple top with a boatneck is inherently elegant feeling and is classic yet modern for the season.

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Collarless Jacket

Style Notes: We've seen the rise of collarless jackets over the last few seasons, and the polished piece isn't going anywhere. It's certainly sophisticated but is easy at the same time. You could toss it on over basically any ensemble for a sleek look.

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Relaxed Turtleneck Sweater

Style Notes: I've been living in an oversized turtleneck recently (similar to the style above), and I'll be investing in another one to wear throughout 2026.

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Ecru Jeans

Style Notes: Khaki jeans are having a moment, and I'm also into the ecru washes I've been seeing. I'm particularly into wearing them in the colder months for something a bit more unexpected with beautiful chocolate-brown pieces.

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Winter is in full swing; there's no denying it now. We have a few more chilly months ahead of us, and so in the spirit of staying warm, chic and protected from the elements, I'm looking to Zara to kit me out. My capsule wardrobe game plan for winter is all about making smart decisions and only investing in pieces which will get ample wear and do the hard work for me. I'm talking practical puffers, wool knitwear, luxe leggings, sturdy boots, chic sweats, classic denim and sophisticated scarves —all items which, when worn in rotation, can be the building blocks of elevated, timeless but cosy looks to see me through the frosty weather.

Zara Cashmere and mohair-blend cardigan, £79.99

And Zara always delivers. Treading the fine line between trend-forward and effortlessly classic, this high street hero is always bang on the money, meaning many shoppers with various budgets can supplement their wardrobes with ease. This season, they are also tapping into the colour trends I have been pre-emptively pinning on Pinterest. Think slate greys, khaki, deep chocolate tones, muted beige, soft taupe and classic black—a staple colour palette which makes mixing and matching of a morning that much easier.

I've done the hard graft for you, compiling a list of the 21 best winter basics from Zara that I know will put in the milage. Scroll on for my picks, which will keep the chill at bay but give you serious style points all season long.

Shop the Best Zara Basics for Winter 2025