As a fashion editor, there’s a level of expectation that you’re the default stylist, sartorial advisor and general sounding board for your nearest and dearest. My mum, whom I obviously adore to bits, is someone who takes full advantage of my insights and expertise. Much like how I pick her brain on more serious questions or menial life advice, she is always seeking my opinion on the things that matter most to me: what to buy and what to wear. So, when she tasked me with the challenge of curating a summer capsule wardrobe for her on a strict budget, I knew I had to deliver.

You see, I had my reputation for providing comprehensive recommendations for chic essentials to live up to. As someone who has made a career out of perusing the market and piecing together a tight edit of the best bits to shop, I had to ensure that whatever I had selected for my mum was indeed the crème de la crème of what’s available.

So, armed with this immense pressure to ensure my mum’s summer wardrobe was the best it could be—and perhaps earn the validation of one of the harshest critics I know—I turned to the one place that I knew wouldn’t let me down. I’m, of course, talking about M&S.

A staple on the high street for over a century, the store is a true stalwart for providing well-crafted and well-priced fundamentals that feel as trend-forward as they are timeless. A fashion faithful in every sense of the word, M&S will outfit you with crisp white T-shirts, sturdy denim jeans, polished sandals and flats and even a pretty dress or two.

But like their famed selection of picky bits, I think M&S really shines in the summertime. It’s during this season when their organic linen trousers, dreamy blouses and elegant swimwear come to the fore, ensuring there’s not an occasion or setting that you’re not well-dressed for. Suffice to say, really the only place you need to turn to for providing you with elevated fundamentals that can see you through the season.

Given the fact that I’m sharing this list with you here, you can rest assured that not only did my mum love every single item that I put on it, but she even slightly exceeded her budget to stock up on a few surprise styles that I snuck in here. Not one to gatekeep, keep scrolling through for the over-50s M&S summer capsule wardrobe that you’re guaranteed to love.

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The summer trips I booked earlier in the year are fast approaching, which means my hunt for the chicest holiday wardrobe staples has officially begun.

I have to admit, I’ve always found holiday dressing quite difficult. It can be very tempting to buy into the latest fad or trend for my travels abroad, but in my opinion, looking put-together will always be difficult if you don't have the core basics in place. Therefore, my goal this summer holiday season is to stick to the polished staples I usually find myself in at home.

With this in mind, I decided to go on the hunt for seven easy-to-wear yet chic pieces that will see me through my upcoming holidays as well as many years to come. And after hours of searching online, scrolling through my Instagram feed, and chatting to my fellow editors, I’ve managed to narrow my search down to seven holiday wardrobe staples that I’ll be taking with me this season.

From stylish swimwear to breezy linen, keep scrolling to discover the seven effortless but elegant staples that are making the foundations of my summer 2026 holiday capsule wardrobe.

1. Throw-On Dress

Style notes: With the ability to be taken from day to night with just a few simple wardrobe swaps, a throw-on dress will be the most hard-working piece in your holiday capsule wardrobe by far. Me personally? I’d style mine with flip flops and a basket bag for perusing around the city, and then kitten heels and a statement clutch for an evening out.

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2. Linen Trousers

Style notes: Linen season is here! And a pair of pull-on trousers will not only keep you cool, but can be styled in a myriad of different ways, from being pulled over your swimsuit at the beach to being styled with a pretty blouse for evenings.

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3. Tank Top

Style notes: Tank tops are a year-round basic, but they really come into their own when on holiday. Acting as the base layer for so many of my vacation outfits, I’m planning to invest in this trusty wardrobe staple in at least 3 colours.

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4. Sunglasses

Style notes: No summer capsule roundup is complete without a pair of sunnies. Although I currently have my eyes on Celine’s iconic pair, there are a myriad of high street options that look just as expensive as their luxury counterparts.

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5. Flip-Flops

Style notes: Whether you opt for a rubbery poolside appropriate sole or a sleeker leather iteration, you reach for your flip flops for almost every occasion on your holiday.

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6. Swimsuit

Style notes: I’m very much a pared-back dresser for most of the year, so when I’m on holidays, I use my swimsuits to inject some playfulness into my wardrobe. Think interesting textures, bold colours and pretty details.

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7. Raffia Bag

Style notes: When travelling around a new city, I always like to stay prepared. And there’s no chicer way to carry around all of my belongings than with a raffia tote. My personal favourites are Miu Miu's and Loewe's cult styles, but there are plenty of other options on the market right now as well.

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When Grace Gummer stepped onto The Devil Wears Prada 2 red carpet last month, she did so in an outfit that would have elicited approval (possibly in the form of a frosty once-over) from her mother’s on-screen alter ego, Miranda Priestly. The ensemble in question was a three-piece by Bottega Veneta: a woven leather shirt, trousers and square-toe pumps. And despite the shrugged-off left shoulder that revealed a triangle of skin, it was a look that could have easily translated to a 9-5 setting.

Hers isn’t the only celebrity wardrobe that’s less "promo" and more CEO. Meryl herself has been bossing the "pap walk" from car to studio—namely, a button-down shirt, high-waisted trousers and not one, not two, but three belts, all black and all by Celine. The result was simple yet effective; her triple-cinched waist adding a note of personality but not making too much of a statement (this is work, after all). Michaela Coel has similarly blazed a trail of executive (but make it edgy) looks as she promotes her various projects. As well as new-gen tweed jackets from Chanel paired with turn-up jeans for business-casual savvy, Michaela is backing the skirt suit, a workwear staple from way back when that deserves a second bite of the cherry, especially if it's Ferragamo.

Think of this as reworked workwear; office-coded looks that have nothing to do with polyester trousers, power dresses or sad beige pumps. Instead, they balance polish with personality, side-stepping the boxy or boring for the kind of looks that might almost make you glad your company’s policy has changed to four days in the office.

At fashion month, street-stylers adopted a very convincing "business casual" dress code, which today is a kind of hodgepodge at best and utterly confusing at worst after years of hybrid working. In Paris, fashion influencer Pernille Teisbaek based her look around a leather pencil skirt, tucking in a blue shirt layered under a zippered jumper, with a chunky belt and square-toe mules. With elongated cuffs that trumpeted over her wrists—not to mention her tattooed anklet that snaked down her left foot—it was something of a lightbulb moment if you’ve ever wondered how to do "you" but with slightly more smarts.

Caroline Issa, meanwhile, subverted the idea of tailoring in the same city, pairing a matching wool shirt and barrel-leg trousers with a jacket that was half navy blazer, half shell jacket (courtesy of Sacai).

Both would suit the office and freelance life, whether you’re zipping between coffees or setting up for the day in a co-working space. Rosie Lai, a fashion editor and contributor to Tatler Asia, has demanded a lot from her workwear since becoming self-employed. "My wardrobe has to work harder than before to take me seamlessly from one aspect of my life to another. This means clothes that would look appropriate enough for meetings but casual enough for dinner with friends afterwards, all without trying too hard."

Lai’s MO is simple. "A mix of clean tailoring with an element of ease, and bold gold jewellery to finish it all off. I love an oversized jacket, especially anything with an '80s shoulder." It’s often the finishing touches—a silhouette, a colour or a type of metal—that will become a kind of calling card."When I worked backstage producing fashion shows (a lifetime ago) and had to wear all-black, I'd still have giant gold earrings on. It’s what makes me feel like myself," she says.

Instead of dedicated workwear brands that cater to one area of a person’s wardrobe (like a lineup of trouser suits and silk shirts), we now have labels providing more versatile foundations. Dilly Groes, founder of contemporary womenswear label Groes, describes them as, "The pieces you reach for instinctively, week after week." Her own workwear has become increasingly streamlined over time. "I’ve moved towards more of a uniform, something consistent and easy that removes decision-making on busy mornings. It’s less about variety and more about refinement," she says.

She knows that her customer, far from giving up on the category, is seeking workwear from Groes. "It’s always a huge thing we consider in the design process, creating pieces that slot seamlessly into a woman’s existing wardrobe and work across different parts of her day," she says, name-checking The Margot Trousers (a mid to high-waisted trouser that’s pleasingly classic), The Florence Shirt (a relaxed button-down shirt), The Kate Blazer (the brand’s best-selling blazer) and The London Coat (an oversized, double-breasted coat). "They’re all designed to be worn on repeat, styled multiple ways and to elevate the simplest outfit."

This is what’s different about today’s workwear. It might be smart, but it’s still wearable, not the visual equivalent of bland corporate jargon, but something hard-working which telegraphs your personality. Lai’s go-tos are The Frankie Shop (for jackets), Citizens of Humanity (for barrel-leg jeans) and Aeyde, Dear Frances and Khaite (for kitten-heel booties), but, with patience, you’ll put together your own directory of what works for work.

I’ll leave you with a visual of Greta Gerwig striding down the street wearing the perfect example of reworked workwear: a white shirt, a woven leather skirt and patent burgundy pumps. It was the details that gave the look gravitas (a fastened top button and a refreshing lack of jewellery). And if there’s any word your workwear should aim for, it’s that.

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The high summer temperatures are putting our summer wardrobes to the test right now, and if you're wondering how to stay chic in the heat, I'm here to help. For some, the prospect of a new season means a complete overhaul of their wardrobes, and whilst I agree that there is a shift between the seasons, this doesn't need to be an annual reset. Instead, a well-edited summer wardrobe that can outlast the trends and bring a polished feel to summer dressing every single year is the smarter option. And if you're wondering where to start, I've curated a refined edit of anti-trend summer staples from H&M that will ensure you look exceedingly chic on the hottest days on a budget.

The secret to looking put together throughout the summer months is to rely on great staples. Whilst they might not be the most invigorating buys, they are the most worthwhile. Sleek linen trousers can be mixed and matched with pretty blouses, elegant dresses thrown on with sandals and a basket bag, and if you're looking to take your outfits up a notch, you can play around with accessories. But having solid foundations will ensure you never wonder what to wear in the heat.

Over my many years working in fashion, I've found that 7 summer basics come back every single year, and are able to hold their elegant credentials regardless of the moving trends. And if you want to create a chic summer wardrobe on a budget, H&M's expensive-looking styles always come through. With the help of considered silhouettes, linen blends and intricate detailing, the brand's pieces can often be mistaken for expensive buys, and all come with a dose of timelessness to ensure that your 2026 purchases hold their place in your wardrobe for many years to come. With the mercury high, it's time to add a touch of polish to our outfits. Now, scroll on to shop the 7 anti-trend summer staples H&M has perfected this year.

Shop the Best Anti-Trend Summer Buys from H&M

1. Light Trousers

2. Elegant Dresses

3. Chic Shorts

4. Pretty Tops

5. Oversized Shirts

6. Loose Skirts

7. Summery Accessories

The warm days have returned, signalling the arrival of the summer season. Already, our wardrobes have been keeping up with higher temperatures and cooler evenings, and for me, I've already found a few gaps in my summer capsule wardrobe. Lucky for us, the Amazon Prime Day sale has arrived with a series of discounts on expensive-looking buys at a fraction of the price, and I've spent hours searching through all the deals to bring you the very best Amazon Prime Day deals.

It might surprise you to know that our editors frequently rely on Amazon to update their wardrobes, homes and beauty cabinets. With thousands of pieces available, the thought of scrolling through all of them to uncover the worthwhile gems can feel like a big task, but that's where we come in. This Amazon Prime Day, our expert team are making it easier for you to make the most of the savings, with dedicated edits on the best beauty deals to snap up, the expensive-looking fashion buys that shouldn't be overlooked, and sharing our editors' wish lists, which span from the coffee machines we're eyeing up to the new jeans we're about to wear all year round.

Uncovering the best Amazon Prime Day deals takes time and practice, but that's exactly what I have. Below, you'll find a ready-made summer capsule wardrobe filled with breezy dresses to throw on with sandals, light trousers for the warmest days and a series of sleek accessories that will pull your looks together. Amongst them, you'll notice a series of recognisable names, from iconic Levi's jeans to chic JW Pei bags, plus plenty more. Whilst some get swept up in the excitement of a discount, these are all worthwhile capsule buys that will earn their keep in your wardrobe over the years, with a timeless edge that outlasts shifting trends. Plus, there are a few full-price pieces that are so chic I simply had to share them. Now, let's get straight into it.

Shop My Amazon Prime Day Summer Capsule Wardrobe

As a fashion editor, I'm constantly asked for fashion advice, and one of the most common questions is always about workwear. It makes sense really, given work is where we spend most of our time, yet it’s also where getting dressed can feel the most repetitive and, in summer especially, unexpectedly tricky.

When temperatures rise, even the most reliable office wardrobe can start to feel slightly off. Tailoring feels too heavy, layering becomes impractical and the effortless pieces we rely on outside of work don’t always translate into something that still feels polished enough for the office. It’s a balancing act between comfort and looking put-together that can be surprisingly hard to get right five days a week.

Over time, I’ve realised that the answer isn’t having more clothes, it's knowing exactly what fabrics and cuts will work hardest. That’s where a more considered summer work wardrobe comes in. Not a strict capsule in the traditional sense, but a focused edit of staples that take the guesswork out of getting dressed.

Below I've compiled an edit of the pieces that will do just that. From new and trending styles to classic staples, read on to discover everything you need for a summer workwear wardrobe you can rely on.

1. Tailored Linen Trousers

Style Notes: A swap to linen ensures tailoring can remain a part of your workwear wardrobe, while keeping you cool and comfortable. Look for dart and turn-up details for linen trousers that feel smart and polished.

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2. Silk Shirt

Style Notes: A move to fabrics that add movement such as silk or satin not only adds comfort but brings a softness that's soft and feminine. Mix with linen and denim for a textural contrast.

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3. Tailored Bermuda Shorts

Style Notes: Bermuda shorts are everywhere right now, and given their versatility it's easy to see why. Their modest length makes them work appropriate while their tailored finish elevates everything from shirts and blouses to vest-tops and t-shirts.

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4. Tunics

Style Notes: This emerging trend is perfect for your workwear collection. Tunics are modest, streamlined, effortless and easily styled with pieces you already have in your wardrobe. In top form they are an elevated alternative to vest tops, and in dress form they can be worn over trousers and jeans for breezy layered look.

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5. Capri Pants

Style Notes: Capri pants are firmly back on the fashion agenda for 2026. Opt for tailored styles in black, navy or chocolate brown, and pair them with a crisp shirt, lightweight blazer or elegant kitten heels to keep the look feeling office-appropriate.

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6. Pastel Suit

Style Notes: Pastel suits are an easy way to inject colour into your work wardrobe without compromising on polish. In shades like soft butter yellow, powder blue or lavender, they bring a lighter, more seasonal feel to tailoring.

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7. Knee-Length Skirts

Style Notes: An easy choice for the office that pairs effortlessly with everything, including flats! From pencil to slip, there's a style for everyone.

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8. Straw Tote Bags

Style Notes: Work bags don't have to be boring, and you can certainly work the season's obsession with straw bags into your office wardrobe. The straw tote still maintains the structure, sharpness and practicality of a standard tote bag, but the natural texture adds a bohemian touch.

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9. White Dresses

Style Notes: A white dress might not be the first piece that comes to mind for the office, but in a structured silhouette, it can feel every bit as polished as tailoring. This season, styles with lace, broderie anglaise and delicate embroidery add a chic, elevated touch while remaining office-appropriate.

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If Londoners have got anything right, it's knowing how to dress for fluctuating British weather. In the capital you're just as likely to encounter drastic downpours as you are a baking heatwave, so it can be difficult knowing what to wear on a daily basis. Given then how much juggling is required to get it right, I've noticed that the city's best dressed all rely on a tight edit of the hardest working pieces to nail every dress code.

Inspired by their impeccable restraint, I decided to go on a shopping hiatus and to lean into an easy capsule rotation for the next six months. Gone are the 'lovely-to-look-at-but-hard-to-walk-in' shoes, and no more 'buy-it-now-and-wear-it-later' dresses, instead my new city wardrobe is all about classic pieces, wearability, and lots of the cool-girl edge that makes London unlike anywhere else in the world.

Wondering exactly which pieces are making up the London summer capsule in 2026? Well, there's something for everyone in the mix. Minimalists will love the simple staples, maximilists will be drawn to the prints and colours and everyone (I mean everyone) will appreciate the comfy shoe trend that is everywhere this season. In short, I've just made it even easier for you to get ready in the morning with just the simple addition of one or two of the 7 items on this list.

So, if you've been caught out by the weather this year, keep scrolling to the see the everyday pieces that you'll want to wear on repeat this summer.

1. Long-Sleeved Tees

Style Notes: We know that the great British weather is interchangeable, and rather than subjecting themselves to shivering in chillier spells, London's chicest dressers are swapping fitted tees for sized-up long sleeves. If it looks like you borrowed it from your partner's wardrobe, it fits the brief—and there's something undeniably chic about casual cotton in looser silhouettes, smartened up with tailoring, black denim or polished accessories.

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2. Pyjama Pants

Style Notes: This summer is the opportunity to roll out of bed and into a pair of loose, soft trousers that look just at home under the duvet as they do heading out for brunch. White is an eternal classic, but colours like blue, red and yellow are currently trending, and are just as versatile as your everyday black and grey. Wear with your long-sleeve tees or a pretty blouse to keep things light (but pretty) this summer.

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3. Minimalist Flip Flops

Style Notes: If there's anything we can get behind, its a functional trend that is as wearable as it is chic—enter the minimalist flip flop. With no need for fussy heels in the city, Londoners are pairing back their shoe style in favour of versatile sandals that go with everything. Flip flops are the easiest choice for a day spent on the go, especially when the heatwave does eventually hit.

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4. Printed Midi Skirt

Style Notes: The perfect day-to-night summer piece? 2026's answer to the LBD is undoubtedly the printed midi skirt. Equal parts Prada runway and Carrie Bradshaw's '90s wardrobe, these statement pieces are packed with personality and are an easy to inject a little lift into your summer look. Pair with kitten heels for date night drinks, or add a minimalist flip flop for the days running errands.

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5. Statement Shopper

Style Notes: We all have a favourite basket bag that gets heavy usage as soon as summer rolls back around, but Londoners are looking for equally spacious bags that you can use all year round too. Big, roomy shoppers are the answer to any bag query; not only do they work for the beach, brunch, and the office too, but they aren't confined to the sunnier seasons.

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6. Oversized Shirts

Style Notes: If it ain't broke, why fix it? Sizing up an Oxford shirt (or seeking out purposefully oversized options) is one of the most versatile pieces in your roster. Throw it on over tees, tanks, tie it around your waist, tuck it into high waisted shorts and skirts, you can even use it as a cover up over swimwear. There's nothing a big shirt can't do, and the capital's favourite colour is always a crisp blue.

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7. Babydoll Dresses

Style Notes: Sweeping maxis will always be elegant, but babydoll minis are the dresses on everyones lips right now. Just like blouses, there's something about these cute, pull-on styles that makes them low effort with high pay-off. The trims! The embroidery! The The A-line silhouette! A little bit vintage nightgown (in the best possible way), Londoners are wearing theirs now with barely-there sandals, big sunnies and bandanas.

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The grey skies and influx of rain weren't exactly what we imagined when the high summer temperatures arrived, but if you need a silver lining, I've found it. The launch into summer dressing was swift and sticky, with a ten-degree jump that forced our wardrobes to shift seasons in an instant, even if they weren't quite ready. Whilst the British weather takes this time to show its full range, I'm using this respite from the heat to take a step back and assess my summer wardrobe.

The first glimpse of high summer temperatures put our wardrobes to the test. And now, we've got a chance to take note of how our outfits fared on the scorching hot days. Already, I've found I'm missing a staple summer shoe that works with every outfit, a reliable pair of linen shorts for the hottest days, and a few more throw-on dresses that can move between the office and off-duty plans with ease.

In my search to fill these summer wardrobe gaps, I found that three high street brands in particular are excelling in expensive-looking summer staples. Zara, COS and Abercrombie have ticked off a series of chic summer staples. Think the kinds of pieces that can be mixed and matched throughout the season to create endless chic looks, and still feel fresh next summer when you pull them out of your wardrobe once more. As the best high street pieces tend to move fast, let's get straight into the sleek summer buys that have just arrived at Zara, COS and Abercrombie.

Shop the Best New-In Buys From Zara, COS and Abercrombie

Between the heavy thunder, spurts of showers and sudden drop in temperature here in the UK, it might seem a little out of place to be talking about summer. But the good news is that it’s soon set to heat up again here in the UK. With this in mind, there’s nothing more important to me right now than sorting out the summer capsule wardrobe that I’ll be relying on until early autumn. My top priority? Curating a seasonal capsule that’s versatile, easy to style, and that can be mixed and matched for a range of different occasions. And with this criterion, there’s no other place to look for inspiration than with the French fashion set, of course.

The Gallic girls just have a way of making everything look effortlessly chic, and as a born and raised Londoner, I’m not all ashamed to say that I look to them for inspiration more often than not. And for summer 2026, they’re relying on elevated takes on classic summer basics that feel equally as fresh as they do timeless. And luckily for you, I’ve rounded them up below so that you, too, can channel your inner Parisienne this summer.

From elegant midaxi dresses to sleek minimal flip-flops, here are the seven French-girl-approved staples I’m adding to my capsule wardrobe in summer 2026.

1. Scoop-Neck Blouse

Style notes: If you’re a regular reader of Who What Wear, then it will come as no surprise that a blouse is one of our most-relied-upon warm-weather staples, and the Gallic girls adore them just as much as we do! For summer 2026, it’s all about pretty scoop-neck silhouettes that elongate the neck and accentuate the collarbones. Très élégant!

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2. Tailored Linen Trousers

Style notes: I love my classic drawstring linen trousers come summertime; however, they can often feel a bit too relaxed for more formal occasions such as the office. So, for summer 2026, I’ll be taking cues from polished Parisiennes who are turning to tailored linen silhouettes that look and feel slightly more put together.

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3. Minimal Flip-Flops

Style notes: It’s hard to believe that flip-flops were considered dated and tacky just a mere few years ago. But if you talk to any French it girl, they’ll tell you that this pared-back sandal style is here to stay. However, instead of being relied upon solely as rubbery “beach shoes” like before, there now lies a myriad of sleeker, minimal leather and suede options that chic Gallic dressers rely on every summer.

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4. Midaxi Dress

Style notes: Sitting halfway between a classic midi and more formal maxi silhouette, midaxi dresses will perfectly balance ease and elegance this summer. They remain long enough to look slightly more polished than your average short dress, but still allow enough space to show off your statement sandals.

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5. Oval Sunglasses

Style notes: It wouldn’t be a summer round-up without a sunglass style of some sort, and for 2026, stylish French people are turning to flattering oval shapes championed by the likes of French fashion house, Celine. However, never fear if you don’t fancy breaking the bank this summer, because this chic silhouette looks expensive at any and every price point.

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6. Asymmetric Midi Skirt

Style notes: Midi skirts are a warm-weather wardrobe staple. But when classic a-line silhouettes start to feel too samey, why not take a cue from cool French dressers who are turning to elevated asymmetrical iterations? This flowy skirt style helps to elongate the legs and can also be taken from day to night with ease.

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7. Woven Tote

Style notes: Whether it’s raffia, leather or suede, the French girls just adore their woven tote bags throughout the warmer months. An easy way to add texture to an outfit, this expensive-looking bag style can be styled in a myriad of ways.

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For most of us, the goal on the hottest days is to look chic, feel good and get into the sunshine as soon as we can. For me, that doesn't mean standing in front of my wardrobe trying to figure out what to wear. Instead, I call upon my summer capsule wardrobe to do the heavy lifting for me. This edit of great basics ensures that every time I open my wardrobe, easy outfit combinations are ready to go, be it a pair of linen trousers and a pretty blouse, or a floaty dress that requires sandals to complete the look. For some, building a capsule wardrobe means investing in high-end pieces, but if you're working with a budget, H&M's new collection reads like an expensive-looking summer capsule wardrobe.

Over the years, I've decided that some summer basics are more essential than others. Yes, a great pair of denim shorts will come in handy, but a pair of tailored linen shorts has much more versatility. The same goes for a simple tank top. I find myself wearing them often for off-duty looks, but my pretty blouses are able to move seamlessly between workwear, coffee dates and al fresco dinners with ease. Having tried and tested so many great summer basics over the years, I know which ones are the most versatile. So, I've put together a reliable summer capsule wardrobe below, and every single piece is an affordable buy from H&M, whether you'd know it or not.

First on my list is always linen. The fabric is innately breezy, whether you prefer a linen pair of trousers or a throw-on dress. Next, reliable separates of shorts and skirts can be restyled with bolder blouses or simple T-shirts as you need. Finally, a selection of summer accessories ties it all together, and I've hand-selected the pieces that have timelessness at their core, so you know you can depend on them every single year. The best part is that all of these pieces are ready to be mixed and matched with each other and more. So if you find yourself seeking something a little more fashion-forward, you can restyle your shirts and blouses with capri pants, or wear your timeless dresses with trending beaded sandals. As the sun is already shining, let's get straight into it. Scroll on to shop the most refined summer capsule wardrobe, courtesy of H&M.

1. The Pretty Blouse

Style Notes: Romantic, intricate and always sweet, a great blouse will work hard in your summer wardrobe. From classic linen trousers to trending silk shorts, we've already spotted a plethora of stylish people reaching for their blouses to bring a pretty edge to summer dressing.

2. The Linen Trousers

Style Notes: My favourite denim is taking a break for the moment as airy linen trousers step into their place. From more tailored styles to relaxed drawstring designs, these light trousers are as hard-working as they come through the warmer days. And so many of H&M's best-selling styles have returned for summer 2026.

3. The Chic Dress

Style Notes: If your summer wardrobe is all about ease, then look to a one-and-done dress to do the heavy lifting. The best pieces look refined even when slipped on in a moment, simply requiring summer footwear and a great bag to look instantly polished. Save these for the days when you have 5 minutes to get ready.

4. The Floaty Skirt

Style Notes: For most of the year you can find me in trousers, but when I find myself wanting an instant switch up, skirts are always my first port of call. Breezy, comfortable and elegant, this selection of H&M skirts is one of the best we've seen in years.

5. The Relaxed Shirt

Style Notes: If there's one capsule buy that I rely on most, it's the relaxed shirt. Throughout the year I call upon classic button downs when getting dressed, but even more so when the sun finally arrives. Whether paired with loose trousers, thrown over swimwear at the beach, or simply tied around your waist for an extra layer on cool evenings, a relaxed shirt is sure to work hard in any wardrobe, and H&M has plenty of shades and fabrics to choose from.

6. The Linen Shorts

Style Notes: Whilst I won't be abandoning my denim cut-offs any time soon, a pair of polished shorts is undeniably versatile. Worn simple with tank tops, elevated with shirts or accompanying dainty blouses, these shorts bring a touch of refinement to all occasions.

7. The Summer Accessories

Style Notes: To really mark the arrival of summer, call upon trusted accessories. From great sandals to timeless basket bags, these accessories will instantly shift your wardrobe into the summer mood, whether the weather is on board or not. Look out for timeless, pared-back designs to ensure that these pieces feel current in your wardrobe year after year.

June has finally arrived, and already the bright summer mood is upon us. If you're anything like me, your calendar has slowly filled up with BBQ's, coffee dates and a few trips abroad over the coming months. Before I launch into the busy days, the heatwave has offered a glimpse at the incoming warm weather, and now I've noticed a few gaps in my summer capsule wardrobe that are ready to be filled. To prepare my wardrobe for all that summer has to offer, I'm looking for pieces that are easy to style, instantly polished, and look much more expensive than they actually are. Just in time, H&M has launched its new collection, and my wish list is officially full.

On the warmest days, I like to waste no time. A few minutes can be spared consulting the summer outfits I've saved for this very season, but aside from that, I don't want to spend a lot of time or energy thinking about what to wear. The ease of the season is replicated in what I wear, from simple throw-on dresses to put-together linen sets. My goal is to get dressed quickly, allowing for more time in the sunshine, and the curated H&M edit I've made below will make that a breeze.

Creating a uniform is something I do at the start of every season. Throughout the summer months, my outfits can be refreshed by swapping certain accessories, but the foundations remain the same. Breezy dresses are thrown on for weekends and work, loose linen trousers rise to the challenge no matter the temperatures, and pretty blouses feel put-together whether you're strolling through the city or at the seaside. Now, H&M is leaning into classic palettes with refined details, ensuring that this capsule can be mixed and matched throughout the warmer months for instantly elegant looks that can be relied upon over and over again. As the best H&M pieces tend to move fast, let's get straight into it.

Shop the Chic New-In H&M Buys for June 2026

Shop More H&M Summer Buys

If there’s one thing I’ve truly mastered in my time as a shopping editor, it’s making high-street pieces look far more expensive than they actually are. “Where is that from?” is a question I hear often, and more often than not, my answer (slightly sheepishly) is Zara. Over time, I’ve learned exactly what to look for: the right cuts, elevated fabrications and timeless silhouettes that outlast both fleeting trends and the ever-accelerating fashion cycle. And when it comes to summer dressing, there are five key pieces I always come back to.

As soon as the first hint of warm weather arrives, or the moment a holiday is booked, easy, throw-on dresses become non-negotiable. Zara, unsurprisingly, excels here, offering everything from slinky satin styles to airy, polka-dot maxis that make getting dressed feel effortless. Linen, too, becomes the backbone of my wardrobe during the warmer months, with trousers, skirts, dresses and even lightweight jackets all reimagined in breathable, polished fabrics.

From there, it’s about the finishing touches. Romantic blouses that instantly elevate denim or tailoring, woven bags that lend a relaxed, summer-ready feel, and, of course, sandals, minimal, refined and often finished with subtle metal details or clean two-tone designs that make every outfit feel just a little more expensive.

Keep scrolling to shop the five Zara summer capsule staples I rely on year after year.

Shop The Best Zara Summer Capsule Wardrobe Staples

1. Pretty Dresses

2. Linen Separates

3. Romantic Blouses

4. Woven Bags

5. Expensive-Looking Sandals

Anyone who knows me will tell you that I’ve never been one to follow trends. I think it's all well and good to have the latest craze, but to me, looking expensive and polished will always be difficult without having those key capsule wardrobe staples in place. And I find that mastering the art of elegant dressing during the warmer months is even more challenging.

So, with the upcoming summer season approaching, I've already started to think about which trusty staples will form the foundation of my everyday wardrobe. And after months of observing what’s trending on the 2026 runways, scrolling on TikTok and Instagram, and spotting street style on my commute to and from the Who What Wear office, I’ve managed to narrow it down to seven versatile staples that I'll be wearing on repeat this season. And it should come as no surprise that I immediately turned to my favourite high street stores, Zara, COS and H&M, to shop them.

Perfectly balancing on-trend appeal with an equally timeless aesthetic, I consistently turn to these three high-street heroes for designer-passing pieces that will stand the test of time. And very quickly, my basket was filled with a myriad of summer staples that are chic, easy to style and, most importantly, look way pricier than they are. And luckily for you, I’ve rounded up items that perfectly fit this description below.

Keep scrolling to shop the seven designer-looking Zara, COS, and H&M staples that I’m adding to my summer 2026 capsule wardrobe.

7 Zara, H&M and COS Buys I'm Adding to My Summer Wardrobe

1. Midi Dress

Style Notes: Dress season is finally here, and a midi iteration acts as a throw-on style that you can take from day to night with ease. Simply swap out your flat sandals and raffia bag for a pair of kitten heels and a statement clutch.

Shop the Staple:

2. Minimal Sandals

Style Notes: With sandal season in full swing, fashion people turn to pared-back iterations that look chic and put together but also come with a sense of ease that makes them perfect for everyday styling. No matter the colour or fabric, a pair of minimal sandals will add instant polish to all of your summer outfits.

Shop the Staple:

3. Blouse

Style Notes: If you’re a regular reader of Who What Wear, you’ll know how much we love a blouse in the spring and summer. Dressier than your average tank or tee, but still feeling wearable enough for casual occasions as well, this pretty top style will add a touch of elegance to jeans, linen trousers or even capri pants this season.

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4. Linen Trousers

Style Notes: When it gets too hot for my wool trousers, I always turn to breezy linen to see me through from now until early autumn. I’m well aware that classic drawstring styles might feel a little too casual, so I tend to opt for more tailored linen trouser styles that can work just as well for the office as they can for a day out with friends.

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5. Woven Tote

Style Notes: I cannot wait to get my woven bags out this season. Whether I opt for a beach-ready raffia style or a sleek woven leather iteration, it's a structure thats timeless and versatile, but also comes with just the right amount of edge to add interest to my otherwise very simple look.

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6. Linen Shirt

Style Notes: A button-down shirt will serve you well regardless of the season, but as the temperature starts to rise, I’ll be swapping out my classic cotton iterations for breezy linen that can be worn with matching line trousers, jeans and midi skirts alike.

Shop the Staple:

7. Straight Jeans

Style Notes: With slim-fit denim replacing the baggy and barrel silhouettes that dominated last year, straight-leg jeans are back at the forefront for polished dressers. They lend themselves very well to a smarter style of warm-weather dressing, but they’re also incredibly adaptable, pairing just as well with a simple tank top as they do an elegant blouse.

Shop the Staple:

Anyone else enjoying a more curated wardrobe these days, or is it just me? The older (and wiser) I get, the more I realise I'm not interested in having lots of pieces in my collection, just the right ones. I want to spend less time rifling through drawers and piles of unmatched shoes in the morning and more time enjoying my coffee in peace.

This is why, as a stylist and fashion editor, I'm such an advocate of a capsule wardrobe. Give me a small edit of versatile and easy-to-style pieces any day over complicated trends and uncomfortable designs I know I'll hardly wear. And it's not just clothes I apply these principles to—it's footwear as well. At the beginning of each season I try to pinpoint just a few shoe styles that feel chic and relevant, that I know will cover me for all occasions. And since summer is just around the corner, I thought I'd share with you the six styles making up my summer shoe capsule for 2026.

Don't worry, just because it's a shoe "capsule" doesn't mean it has to be boring. It's important that a capsule works for you and your own personal style, so this is more about curating a selection of hardworking shoes to complement (and elevate) your existing summer wardrobe than just covering off the basics. The following six styles, in my expert opinion, are at once practical, versatile and incredibly stylish. I've been keeping tabs on all the new spring/summer collections, and a close eye on the feet of the coolest influencers and industry insiders (not in a weird way, I promise)—and it's these six styles that I can guarantee you'll see on rotation this summer.

The best bit? You probably own some of them already. Minimalist leather sandals are eternally chic, so it's unsurprising that these feature again for 2026. Keep your low-profile trainers and slip-on flats from spring within reach—these lightweight styles become the perfect partners for summer's dresses, denim shorts and linen or poplin trousers when you need a more comfortable, closed-toe option. Comfort reigns in the heels category as well, and I'm convinced just one simple '90s wedge is all you need to go from weddings to work and weekend dinners in style. While classics are essential in a capsule collection, summer is a great time to have some fun with your accessory choices—so I'm backing colour block flip-flops and jelly sandals as your personality pieces for summer 2026. They'll breathe life into last year's warm-weather basics, that's for sure.

Keep scrolling to see and shop my six-piece summer shoe capsule wardrobe for 2026...

The Minimalist Sandal

The Wedge Heel

The Lightweight Trainer

The Colour Block Flip-Flop

The Soft Slip-On

The Jelly Shoe

Summer is just around the corner, and with it (in my case, at least) brings an urge to shop. I love all the seasons, but summer is by far the most fun. The colours, the skimpy cuts, the festival-ready outfits and the pool party ensembles—even for those who are minimalists, it's a ripe and rare opportunity for those more gregarious pieces to make their annual outing. I even get excited about my airport looks. Whilst there are some obvious brands that many of rely on for wardrobe updates: H&M, Zara and COS, to name a few, it's the lesser-known contemporary brands that appeal to me most.

Whilst not everyone can afford luxury, there are a cohort of brands in that mid-range point, often seen as mid-tier or 'affordable luxury' that are a go-to for fashion people. Whilst certain brands are already well known—Reformation, for example, which many of us shop for elevated basics and wedding guest dresses, Paloma Wool is the cool-girl staple and Dôen is the one for pretty dresses and silk-satin separates with a slight bohemian edge—there are still thousands out there which, in my opinion, aren't as well known as they should be.

So, whether you're after vibrant resortwear for a weekend in Ibiza or Marseille, you're searching for never-boring basics fit for a long haul flight to Seoul or just some really good garments with their own unique sense of style, I've tapped my most fashionable friends and colleagues for their favourite contemporary brands, and these are the 8 that came up most.

8 Fashion Girl Summer Brands For 2026

1. Alix of Bohemia

Style Notes: If you're a huge fan of bohemian-favourite Bode, but are looking for something slightly less casual, then look to Alix of Bohemia. Think lace trim silk tops, bloomer trousers, fringe jackets and cutesy scenic cardigans in muted and pastel colour palettes.

The Vibe In Three Words: Folky, free-spirited, gypsy-chic (okay, so this is technically five words...)
Similar, But Different, To: Sea NY, Dôen, Bode.
Holiday Destination: Essaouira, Morocco.

2. Posse

Style Notes: If Reformation's pretty one pieces are your remit, but you're sometimes left worried about turning up to the function in the same outfit as someone else, then Posse is the brand for you. Clean yet elegant, with charming little details—be it embroidered lace, fringed edging or a soft pastel hue—Posse's pieces ever disappoint.

The Vibe In Three Words: Feminine, elevated, trend-led.
Similar, But Different, To: Reformation, Faithfull, DISSH, Rejina Pyo.
Holiday Destination: Puglia, Italy.

3. Chan Luu

Style Notes: When it comes to ready-to-wear, LA-based designer Chan Luu offers contemporary, elevated basics with unexpected details. Mother of pearl buttons, mirror disc embellishments and a mix of sheer and silk fabrics. She also offers sculptural, statement jewellery that is truly covetable. Think shell and fish motifs, colourful beads and natural stones.

The Vibe In Three Words: Conceptual, bohemian, artisan.
Similar, But Different, To: Tory Burch, Rixo and Anni Lu.
Holiday Destination: Indonesia.

4. Leset

Style Notes: When it comes to airport style, nothing is cooler and more comfortable than Leset's Kyoto cotton trouser and Margo tee. Coming in an array of pleasing colours; cobalt blue, Kelly green and coral red, this is where the chicest dressers are getting their basics.

The Vibe In Three Words: Basics, but better.
Similar, But Different, To: Deji Studio, Kotn, Baserange, Other Normal, DONNI.
Holiday Destination: Soeul, South Korea

5. My Mum Made It

Style Notes: Those that pride themselves on their collection of vintage, will love Australian independent label, My Mum Made It. Despite some pieces feeling a little like it was borrowed from your grandmother's wardrobe (in the best way), think knitted polo shirts, frilled blouses and floral prints that feel akin to 1980s Laura Ashley curtains, there are still short-short mini skirts and bloomers that make this brand feel fresher than most of the others you might be following on Instagram.

The Vibe In Three Words: Vintage, kitsch, cute.
Similar, But Different, To: Damson Madder, Minka Dink London, K&R London.
Holiday Destination: Copenhagen, Denmark.

6. Siedres

Style Notes: With its crochet floral numbers, beaded sheer skirts, ruffled blouses and commitment to print, Siedres is a maximalist's dream. You might be thinking this sounds all little '70s bohemia, but actually Siedres' silhouettes feel more Y2K than boho chic.

The Vibe In Three Words: Colourful, unexpected, joyous.
Similar, But Different, To: Gimaguas, Bimba y Lola, Simonmiller.
Holiday destination: Ibiza, Spain.

7. Kallmeyer

Style Notes: Kallmeyer offers simple yet sophisticated basics, that still feel trend-led. Expect contemporary cuts, an eclectic use of colour and very good denim from this South-African by-way-of New York brand.

The Vibe In Three Words: Minimalist but not-boring.
Similar, But Different, To: Paloma Wool, St Agni, Stylein.
Holiday Destination: Sao Paolo, Brazil.

8. Frankie's Bikinis

Style Notes: With its gingham two-piece sets, baby tees and 'girl next door' style mini dresses and its collaboration last year with Bella Hadid, Frankie's Bikinis feels like the wardrobe of the All-American Gen Z cool girl. As the name suggests its known for its swimwear, but its clothing is just as good.

The Vibe In Three Words: Sexy, sweet, Gen-Z.
Similar, But Different, To: Realisation Par, Peachy Den, Fruity Booty, Tyler Mcgillivary.
Holiday Destination: L.A., U.S.A

As a fashion editor, I'm often asked for exciting, new shopping recommendations. And, while I'm so well versed in the latest pieces that finding hidden gems could be considered one of my love languages, I'm also an advocate for making the pieces you already own work harder.

Building a balanced capsule wardrobe is not just frugal; it also helps to take the stress out of getting ready in the morning. Having an easy roster of pieces that you can mix and match at a moment's notice is the secret to the most effortless ensembles, and summer is the perfect time to apply this approach.

Whether you're looking for practicality to face a sticky summer in the city, or packing light for a trip abroad, warm-weather dressing is all about ease. The less layers and fuss, the better, and after years of experience in dressing myself (and styling others), I always come back to the same pieces that champion comfort but without compromising on style.

This summer, like every other, I'm still investing in fresh basics, light linen and a couple of accessories that transition effortlessly between boardroom and beach, and I'm confident that you can condense everything you need to wear for the next few months into 8 simple categories. Intrigued as to how I do it? Keep scrolling to see the only items you need to build your summer capsule wardrobe in 2026.

How to Build a Summer Capsule Wardrobe in 2026:

1. Simple Midi Dresses

Style Notes: Puff sleeves and full skirts are beautiful, and I've never seen a sweeping maxi I didn't like, but the best summer dresses are the ones that you can simply slip on and step out. Leave all of the bells and whistles to your choice of jewellery and accessories, and opt for dresses that are light, don't cling (and require minimal ironing). These are by far the easiest styles to wear with flat sandals and a basket bag by day, and a strappy heel and a mini bag by night, making them one of the most versatile pieces in your capsule wardrobe.

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2. Flat Leather Sandals

Style Notes: Sandals aren't just the reserve of the beach, and on the days when the summer sun is making it's presence felt, a polished leather sandal is perfect for wearing around the city. Whether you're wearing loose-legged trousers, airy skirts, pretty dresses or heatwave-proof shorts, there's nothing a pared-back sandal won't work with, and while rubber flip flops will always have a spot in my suitcase for poolside, investing in good quality leather and suede sandals ensure you'll have a pair you can rely on for years to come.

Shop Leather Sandals:

3. Cotton Basics

Style Notes: Simple, but effective—the thought of stocking up on cotton basics might not set your world alight, but they are the foundation of so many great outfits. Perfect for balancing prints, colour-blocking, or even layering up on their own, breathable tank tops and tees are one of only a couple options you need up top to pair with just about every skirt, trouser and short you can think of. You may buy and wear them most during summer, but this year round heroes are also going to get a lot of play underneath your knitwear during autumn and winter too.

Shop Basics:

4. Basket Bags

Style Notes: I love a roomy suede tote for everyday wear, but in summer basket bags feel like a natural evolution from winter's cosier fabrics. Just as spacious but with a little more artisanal energy, a quality basket bag is still trust worthy enough to carry all of your essentials (read, laptop, phone and keys), but equally works to hold your towels, books and SPF poolside too, how is that for duality? The enduring appeal of styles like Dragon Diffusion's triple jump and Loewe's classic basket go to show how our appetite for woven bags hasn't waned over the years, so any bag you invest in now will be one tbat you pull out next year, and the next, and the next...

Shop Basket Bags:

5. Linen Separates

Style Notes: There's no better feeling than rolling out of bed, stepping out of the shower and straight into a pair of light linen trousers, and often, a co-ordinated shirt. We might all have the same pair of blue jeans that are our fallback failsafe, but in hot weather linen comes into it's own with a high comfort rating that can't be beaten. This summer you won't find me sweating in skinnies or peeling off leggings, linen always manages to have a breezy confidence that can be dressed up with a crisp shirt for work, or kept casual as a co-ord for your weekend errands. and, if a tailored wide-leg already has prime position in your wardrobe, a pair of baggy linen trousers will be an easy transition.

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6. Oversized Shirting

Style Notes: If I had to guess at just one piece that I know every fashion editor, influencer and industry insider has in their summer rotation, I'd confidently say an oversized shirt. Big shirts with rolled up sleeves and slouchy fits are all about the "borrowed from the boys" energy that implies that the wearer hasn't thought too much about their outfit, but still manages to look polished at a moment's notice. Toughened up with leather in autumn, worn under blazers and jumpers in winter, tucked into jeans in spring, and worn open over swimwear or dresses in summer, just like cotton basics these are clever investment (if not just for cost per wear alone), and their timelessness means they will never go out of style, but will only appreciate in sartorial value.

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7. Classic Sunglasses

Style Notes: The easiest way of pulling together your look? Don't agonise over belts and jewellery, throwing on a pair of classic, black or tortoiseshell sunglasses will never steer you wrong. 2026 has thrown out a lot of sunglasses trends thus far, but the strongest are the ones that are all about simplicity. Oval, cat-eye and rectangular shades manage to add character to your outfit without taking away from the rest of the look, and after scaling down to my collection to just two pairs: one brown, and one black, I can confirm; the right pair really do go with everything.

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8. Long Skirts

Style Notes: Maybe it's their proximity to linen trousers, but there's something about a billowing maxi skirt that always looks elegant in summer. Enough shade to keep cool while you rotate top options (starting with a basic tank or Oxford shirt, or even one layered over the other), all you need to complete the look are the aforementioned leather sandals and a basket bag for an easy summer outfit that looks as cool as it feels.

Shop Maxi Skirts:

Anyone who knows me will tell you that I’ve never been one to follow trends. To me, it's all well and good to have the latest fad, but in my opinion, looking expensive and put together will always be difficult if you don't have those key capsule wardrobe staples in place. And as a born and raised London girl, I’m not ashamed to admit that I look to the French fashion set for elegant-dressing inspiration more often than not. They just have a way of making even the most basic of staples look chic, and so, of course, when I decided to refresh my spring 2026 capsule wardrobe, they were my first port of call.

And after hours of scrolling on the Instagram pages of my favourite French fashion influencers, I’ve managed to narrow my attention down to eight key staples that every chic Gallic dresser has in their spring capsule this year. And in true French-girl fashion, each staple remains classic, endlessly versatile, and expensive-looking. The kind of basics that never feel tired or overdone, no matter how many times you reach for them, and are also so timeless that they’re guaranteed to last in your wardrobe for many years to come.

From a classic trench coat for those chillier spring days to the linen shirts we’re probably all desperate to pull out for the warmer weather to come, keep scrolling to discover the eight spring capsule wardrobe basics every stylish French girl owns and will be wearing on repeat until summer.

8 Staples You'll Find In Every French It Girl's Spring 2026 Capsule

1. Trench Coat

Style Notes: Just as loved by French girls across the pond as it is here in the UK, a classic trench coat is a forever spring capsule staple. It’s elegant, guaranteed to make any outfit look polished, and most importantly, will keep you warm on those chillier spring days we know all too well.

Shop the Staple:

2. Embroidered Blouse

Style Notes: When they want a top that’s slightly dressier than a button-down shirt, the French girls turn to embroidered blouses as an elegant alternative. This pretty top style is a fail-proof way to dress up jeans, Bermuda shorts or linen trousers throughout the warmer months, not to mention it looks expensive at any price point.

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3. Stovepipe Jeans

Style Notes: The French girls love themselves a ‘90s trend, and with slimmer, straight-cut jeans replacing the baggy styles that dominated last year, the stovepipe denim that was popular 3 decades ago is back at the forefront for stylish dressers. They lend themselves very well to a smarter style of dressing, but they’re also incredibly versatile, pairing just as well with a simple tank as they do a pretty blouse.

Shop the Staple:

4. Gathered Loafers

Style Notes: Before sandal season is in full swing, the Gallic girls turn to gathered loafers that look chic and put together but also come with a sense of ease that makes them perfect for everyday wear. No matter the colour, fabric or price point you decided to invest in, a pair of gathered loafers will add an instant polish to all of your spring outfits.

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5. Linen Shirt

Style Notes: A button-down shirt remains in my capsule regardless of the season, but as the temperature starts to rise, I’ll be taking a cue from the French fashion set and swapping out my cotton iterations for linen. For spring 2026 specifically, chic Parisians are taking a pause on fitted styles, and instead are turning to more relaxed iterations that give their outfits a cool, off-duty look.

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6. Capri Pants

Style Notes: What did I say about French girls loving ‘90s trends? Well, their affinity for capri pants has long been documented. It’s a controversial trouser style for sure, but in true Gallic it-girl fashion, they manage to make it look chic, polished and wearable. Dress them up with kitten heels and a waisted blazer for an evening out, or down for casual days with a linen shirt and mesh flats as shown above.

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7. Woven Tote

Style Notes: The French girls adore their raffia totes in the spring and summer months. Whether they opt for beach-ready raffia or sleek woven leather, its structure thats timeless and versatile, but also comes with just the right amount of edge to add interest to a spring outfit.

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8. Midi Dress

Style Notes: Dress season is finally upon us, and a midi iteration acts as a throw-on style that you can take from day to night with ease. Simply swap out your ballet flats and raffia tote for a pair of low-heeled mules and a statement clutch.

Shop the Staple:

It's official—2026 has been declared the year of the "messy girl" who lives in a "messy home", but where is the room for those of us who like to organise and arrange with precision? Granted, my fridge isnt always stocked, and my time keeping needs improvement, but my wardrobe? My wardrobe is always run to Marie Kondo levels of regimented expertise.

Take a look inside my wardrobe on any given day and you'll see colour co-ordinating, category-blocking and even a regular seasonal switch out. Yes, that is exactly what it sounds like, and every few months my wardrobe undergoes a refresh in which weather appropriate clothes come out of storage and the old ones are packed away. One of the many benefits of this is saving time rooting through things in the morning, but it also encourages an active capsule wardrobe that will work harder for you in the long run.

Now that we're a few months into 2026, it might not be a new year exactly, but it's still as good a time as ever to get ahead with organisation (as far as your closet goes). Moving the the items that no longer serve you will lighten the load and, dare I say, open up enough space for you to actually see all the clothes and accessories that you need kept in regular rotation (and to make room for some more).

We've already done the work to help you clean out your wardrobe (and that includes everything from finding the right hangers to fabric care), so once you've taken care of your space, now is time to fill it. Spring is underway with summer just on the horizon, so I've put together a handy guide on what this fussy fashion editor is shelving and saving this season in order to help you streamline your own spring wardrobe too. Ready for a revamp?

What to Shelve and What to Save for a Spring Wardrobe Cleanout in 2026

1. Shelve: Cable Knits

Save: Fine Knits

Style Notes: I've had enough of sweating on the tube—my chunky cable knits are officially retired until the end of the year. God speed thick wool jumpers, you've served me well, but the weather right now is far too mild to warrant a jumper that comes with its own tog rating. Right now fine knits are perfect for layering up and peeling off, and if I'm not wearing one over a t-shirt, you'll see it tied around my waist or shoulders for easy access.

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