Of all the microtrends to resurface from the Y2K era, capri pants have to be one of my favourite. Unlike many who were unsure at first, I hopped on that train immediately. I'm someone who likes a legging anyway (I wear flared ones even to the office on occasion), but there is something about a simple black capri that keeps me coming back to them. I think it's that I find them as easy to style as jeans, but just a little bit more of a statement.

Whilst some find it tricky to know what shoes to wear with them (we get asked this all the time at Who What Wear), I personally find anything but boots or sneakers look great. Thong sandals, chunky wedges or a simple ballet flat, it goes with any and all summer shoes.

But as much as I love the simple sleekness of the black capri, there are so many new styles and sub-trends emerging for summer 2026. Backed strongly by Iris Law—we've spotted her in all kinds of takes on the 3/4 trouser, from harem-style loose-fit leggings, to the Zara yellow pair she wore in the brand's campaign. So, if you too love the capri as much as me, then look to these 7 trending styles for this summer.

7 Capri Trouser Trends For Summer 2026

1. Polka Dot Pedal Pushers

Style Notes: Polka dots were everywhere last summer, and this year people have found new ways to wear it. Capri pants is one of them. I've noticed mainly slim-fit silhouettes, often reaching just a little lower on the leg towards the ankle, in a more pedal-pusher style. A polka dot capri actually looks quite '50s at first glance, but styled with a top that's reminiscent of the early 2000s era, be it a halterneck, an asymmetric long sleeve or a layered T-shirt and tank top, it feels fresher than any other trouser trend this summer.

2. Camouflage Capris

Style Notes: Camouflage has been a trending print for a little while, but usually on baggy cargo pants. Now we're in the summer months however, I've seen a few capri cargo camo pants (get your mouth around that!) and camo jorts and culottes. They're giving TLC, Destiny's Child and Avril Lavigne—into it!

3. Lace Capri Tights

Style Notes: Okay, so this one might not be for everyone, but mark my words, you're about to see capri tights everywhere in the next year. Especially lace or printed versions. Great when you want to wear a short skirt but the weather isn't quite warm enough, the lace capri is pretty and fun.

4. Technical 3/4 Lengths

Style Notes: I've been practically living in my technical capri pants I bought from Bershka last month, whenever I wear them I feel like Sport Spice. So comfortable and easy to style, they look best with a casual top like a plain white tee, then a fun heel like a thong wedge sandal or mule.

5. Cargo Capris

Style Notes: The next capri trend on my shopping list is the cargo capri. I've seen lots in Urban Outfitters, Pull & Bear and ASOS, and have already noticed a few Gen-Z editors in the office wearing a pair. Although there are lots of options out there, I particularly love the stark crisp white ones, or khaki green—these feel the most nostalgic for 2005.

6. Harem Pants

Style Notes: I really didn't see the return of the harem pant coming, but when Iris Law wore a pair last month, people went crazy for them! The best thing about them is their loose-fit silhouette, offering a more slouchy and comfortable style to the usual capri pant, making them perfect for summer airport travel. Bon voyage!

7. Gingham Prints

Style Notes: A much more classic summer print, the gingham check capri is not a trend that will pass any time soon. Dress down with a pretty boho white blouse, or dress up with a matching top and heel—too cute!

For the longest time, I assumed footless tights were reserved for the most experimental of Gen Z's style set. But Jennifer Lopez has just made a case for the emerging trend to find a place in an entirely new styling demographic.

Stepping out in New York, Lopez wore a pair of black lace footless tights that cropped just above the ball of the foot. Worn with pointed-toe heels and a thigh-grazing tuxedo dress layered over a dramatic bow-adorned blouse, JLo crafted a glamorous daytime look to see her through a brimming day of engagements.

While the arrival of summer usually means your tights drawer gets a well-earned break, footless styles offer a lighter alternative to traditional full-coverage pairs. Their open-foot design feels fresher for warmer weather, while still bringing the texture and dimension that tights can add to an outfit. Styled with a mini dress, they offer extra coverage without feeling overly heavy on milder days.

I can't necessarily see this trend hitting the mainstream anytime soon, but a growing number of stylish dressers across generations are giving it a try. If you're tempted to join this stylish set, keep scrolling to shop my edit of the best footless tights available now.

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My mum is the person in my life that I turn to for almost anything—advice on the big-picture parts of my life, insights into how to navigate a sticky situation, or even just mundane matters like recommendations on what to cook for dinner.

We’re incredibly close, courtesy of there being only 17 years between us, but where I don’t seek her insights is when it comes to suggestions on style. Don’t get me wrong, she’s always incredibly complimentary on whatever I wear and loves getting dressed up as much as I do, but given I’ve been a fashion writer for close to a decade, she really leans on my expertise when it comes to building her wardrobe and honing her taste.

Where we diverge, however, is in the specific styles of clothes we gravitate towards. Though there’s a very small age gap, those years seem to be magnified whenever we hit the high street, with her drawn towards more classic silhouettes appropriate for a 44-year-old, whilst I run straight towards contemporary shapes suitable for a 26-year-old.

“I like to wear clothes that look and feel luxurious, without necessarily the expensive price tag to match, and make me feel confident and empowered when I walk out the door,” she tells me. “I don’t really follow trends, but now as I get older, I’m trying to build my wardrobe with specific items tailored to each season, as well as timeless pieces I can wear all year round.”

On the contrary, I’m someone who isn’t afraid of subverting sartorial archetypes and often am pulled towards pieces that are eclectic, romantic and a little vintage-inspired. (If she had kept any of her clothes from the ‘90s, you can rest assured that I’d be wearing them today.)

In saying this, there are some things that we agree on, despite her attitudes towards fashion being extremely Millennial and mine Gen Z. Most days you’ll find us sending links to one another of treasures we’ve uncovered whilst online shopping, and it was during one of these exchanges that I realised we were regularly sending each other the same exact pieces, even if we would wear them totally different.

Whether you’d like to call this mother-daughter bonding or not, we decided to set ourselves the challenge to pursue our favourite stores and pick out the styles we both approve of. Some of them sat in our wish list, whilst others we purchased on the spot, with the plans to share them. (Unfortunately, she’s two sizes bigger than me in shoes, otherwise we certainly would’ve picked up some dreamy flats and sandals, too.)

Ahead, you’ll find a new-in shopping edit across Zara, Mango and COS that both over-40s and over-20s agree on. Regardless if you buy these or not, I implore you to send this list to the maternal figure in your life and take on this test for yourself. Trust me, you’ll find you have far more in common, at least when it comes to clothes, than you first realised.

Shop New-In Pieces From Zara

Shop New-In Pieces From Mango

Shop New-In Pieces From COS

A few years ago, even the slightest whisper of the word “peplum” would’ve sparked such ire and condemnation that you would’ve believed the polarising hemline was the most maligned fashion trend to exist. Fast forward a bit, and peplum tops are jackets are being peppered back into the wardrobes of the most tasteful, courtesy of intriguing denim options from Agolde, sculptural styles from Alaia and dreamy iterations from Dior.

Though the trend will always have connotations with the everyday business casual aesthetic that reigned in 2010—especially given the fact they’ve been enshrined in history through pop culture monoliths from the decade like Lena Dunham’s Girls—the protruding shape has appeared to shed its harshest critics and naysayers. Now, peplum tops seem to have done the unthinkable and united both Gen Z and Millennial tastemakers in their unified appreciation for the silhouette.

Or, at least that was the case overnight in New York when both Taylor Swift and Millie Bobby Brown stepped out in the city, albeit for separate occasions, wearing the style. Though falling on either side of the sartorial spectrum—Swift is far more classic and preppy compared to the Stranger Things star’s penchant for ‘90s references and casual loungewear—who would’ve thought it would take something so controversial and dated to bring together two vastly different approaches to dressing?

For her part, the Life of a Showgirl singer remained true to her roster of favourites. The specific peplum top she wore came courtesy of Stella McCartney’s spring/summer 2026 collection and is made of a wafty cotton-poplin fabric. She styled it with a Fendi Peekaboo ISeeU Petite, straight-leg trousers from The Row and her signature Cartier Santos watch.

Cerebral, classic and certainly more fitting for her The Tortured Poets Department era, the look was the latest in a slew of public outings she’s been making recently as she soft-launches her bridal wardrobe.

Elsewhere, across town, the Enola Holmes actress cut an equally architectural figure in a peplum-cropped trench coat from Stockholm-based brand Arakii. She paired her look with white lace-up pumps from Jimmy Choo and stovepipe jeans.

Interestingly, the 22-year-old also spent the previous evening reviving the ultra-cropped bolero jacket, pairing it with a corset top and peep-toe heels like it was 2002 again for an event with Netflix.

These sightings are proof that Millennials and Gen Z need not let the discourse divide them. Because if they can both agree that peplum tops are a winning fashion trend and find common ground in comfort shows like The Hills and The O.C., why let disagreement on punctuation use and correct sock length get between?

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You're reading Worn Weird, Who What Wear UK’s latest monthly column, where I, acting deputy editor Rebecca Rhys-Evans, will spotlight the fantastical world of shoes. From split toes to soleless styles (yes, really), I'm covering the most "cult" and controversial pairs money can buy. Think PVC, furry exteriors, thick wooden clogs and anything else weird and wonderful sparking hot debate online. They might be a little silly, they may repel men (if not, what’s the point?), but that’s fashion, darling!

First up, I’m debating "princess" shoes; essentially, footwear you’d expect to be worn by Princess Diana and Disney’s Cinderella alike. From Chloé's jelly shoes to buckled and bow-adorned almond-toe pumps that Marie Antoinette herself would have drooled over, follow me…

Though I consider myself a woman of the world, there are times I like to think of myself as a bit of a princess. But nowadays, being a princess is so much more than a state of mind; it’s a style of dressing. Fashion people have long had an obsession with black, and in recent years, what has been deemed stylish within the zeitgeist has been led by the likes of Charli XCX and (model and musician) Gabbriette. To be "cool" has meant wearing dark, moody shades, having an irreverent attitude and carrying an almost grunge aesthetic.

Conversely, Taylor Swift, as popular as she is, has never been followed for her sense of style. But something is changing—or rather, has changed. The "pop princess" prototype is well and truly back, and as such, so is the fantastical world of "princess" style. Olivia Rodrigo is wearing tiaras, Zara Larsson and Addison Rae adorn themselves in saccharine and neon-pink palettes… girly pop is on the menu, and yes—the cool girls are diving in.

What Are "Princess" Shoes?

We’ve been aware of the princess effect for a while, but it’s becoming more prevalent in shoe trends as we get closer to summer. Giving credit where credit is due, shoe brand Melissa has long reigned as the ugly-pretty plastic footwear label, delivering Y2K-style wedges, mules and heeled flip-flops in unexpected colours and PVC materials season after season. When the label collaborated with Y/Project (designed by Glenn Martins) on a Rococo-inspired collection in 2021, it gave us one of the earlier examples of the princess shoe trend.

Then, at the Chloé spring/summer 2026 show, creative director Chemena Kamali sent models down the catwalk in jelly mules. Close your eyes and imagine Cinderella’s glass slipper, with its rounded toe, light-blue tint and folded bow sitting on top. This is exactly what we got from Chloé. Not a slipper made of glass, of course, or even leather, but soft, transparent TPU. And then there are the Junie sandals, which, despite their "petridish" silhouette and emerald-green-and-fuchsia satin soles (very princess-coded, no?), are completely see-through on top, with a clear PVC thong strap.

PVC dominates this trend material-wise, and is what gives it that nostalgic early-2000s feel. Valentino Garavani’s open-toe Révélé pumps appear completely naked above the toes, and like the Junie sandals, if you squint and tilt your head in the right way, look as though they are made for tiny little doll's feet to slot into. But the princess-shoe trend isn't just about the Y2K-inspired "life in plastic" footwear of Barbie and Polly Pocket. It goes much, much further back. We’ve talked about the return of Rococo fashion in ready-to-wear, with soft florals and coquette-coded corsets, and it’s the same with shoes.

Manolo Blahnik has long led the charge here, with its satin spool heels, frothy bow tops and delightfully gaudy colour palettes. The brand famously designed the shoes for Sofia Coppola’s 2006 film Marie Antoinette, which were recently displayed in the V&A’s exhibition based on the fashion of the 18th-century French queen. No doubt boosted by a collection to celebrate the exhibition last year, the signature Manolo silhouette, although forever timeless, has really garnered momentum lately.

Classic princess-shoe details, be they of pairs worn by 18th-century or 1980s royals, are everywhere right now. Think almond toes, high-vamp silhouettes à la Princess Diana, moiré silk, sculptural heels and bows, bows, bows galore! As well as newer styles by luxury brands such as Lanvin and Roger Vivier (which have long championed this aesthetic), ‘90s Prada and Miu Miu pairs are also in demand on the resale market.

Then there's the cohort of more independent labels filling my Instagram Saved folder with vintage-inspired styles fit for royalty. Merrfer's XXL bow shoes are prime princess, and Anna Sui's collaboration with John Fluevog presents silk mules with lace floral rosettes, which feel hyper-feminine. Cult Berlin-based headwear brand Between Beauty, adored for its whimsical regency-style hats, also creates the occasional silk shoe adornment. Made with vintage pairs in mind, they'll add a sprinkling of princess personality to your existing footwear collection.

So, be it luxury, vintage or just a bit of fun, if you, too, consider yourself a princess, make sure the shoe fits.

Shop the Princess-Shoe Trend

If you looked through the Saved folder of this 26-year-old fashion editor, you’d find a lot of chic outfit inspo. From an abundance of vintage, archival pieces (Chanel's Ladybug heels are my newest fixation) to easy-breezy linen ensembles perfect for the summer heatwave I’m manifesting, my mood board is a style treasure trove. Scrolling through recently, I came to a realisation that almost every single post centres around the outfit of a Gen Z It girl.

Celebrity event wardrobes are full to the brim with enviable fashion finds, and whilst our lives couldn’t be more different (I’m unlikely to headline a tour or host Saturday Night Live any time soon), when you look at their off-duty personal style, it couldn’t feel more… normal. Whether they’re leaning into vintage eras and dusting off prim polka-dot dresses or channelling a WAG in their heyday in an outfit worthy of Victoria Beckham's approval, these fun looks feel perfect for the upcoming warm weather.

I'm in the market for a dash of seasonal outfit inspiration, and the cool girls below were my first port of call. Not only does their style cover every aesthetic we'll see this summer, but their ability to blend the old with the new and the fashion-forward with the pared-back makes them worthy of the It girl title. Having searched through their most recent 'fits, I’ve found eight excellent outfits worth re-creating this summer. Scroll down to discover.

9 Gen Z Outfit Ideas to Re-Create in Summer 2026

1. Hailey Bieber

Style Notes: Whether she’s promoting Rhode or dictating the season's biggest shoe trends, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a celebrity Gen Z adores more than Hailey Bieber. With a personal style that toes the line between pared-back minimalism and fashion-forward It girl, everything from floral appliqué dresses to capris and pointelle tees features in Hailey's summer outfit rotation. And the shoes? Think classic. She's regularly seen in The Row's City flip-flops, with a streamlined shape that makes for the perfect finishing touch.

Shop the Look:

2. Iris Law

Style Notes: As the quintessential London It girl for Gen Z, Iris Law’s summer outfits blend unexpected textures with eclectic prints and kitschy accessories with the coolest hybrid shoes on the market. Her bold looks feel innately "her", whether she's pairing a pinstriped miniskirt with a fitted, hooded top, or layering a pretty broderie mini over a lilac bikini. Her unique brand of worldly whimsy runs through every ensemble.

Shop the Look:

3. Devon Lee Carlson

Style Notes: To Gen Z as Alexa Chung is to millennials, Devon Lee Carlson needs no introduction. After a chance meeting with Miley Cyrus in 2012 catapulted her to fame, you're likely to spot Devon bouncing from star-studded events like Charli XCX’s wedding to sitting FROW at a Gucci show. As such, her summer style is all about playful, kitchy pieces, and the Gen Z style set adores it. Her recent look in Rome (a gingham skirt, peep-toe kitten heels and 3/4-length T-shirt) is so charming and one you're likely to see replicated this summer.

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4. Olivia Rodrigo

Style Notes: After sending the internet into a frenzy by professing her love of babydoll dresses, what Disney-star-turned-pop-sensation Olivia Rodrigo will wear next is the question on every Gen Z’s lips. On the press tour for her latest album, the ex-London resident channelled her innermost '00s WAG in an FC Barcelona top and low-rise True Religion jeans. With the World Cup mere weeks away, it's a look every stylish, fashionable fan at home and away must see before the games begin.

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5. Alex Consani

Style Notes: The British Fashion Awards' 2024 Model of the Year, Alex Consani, knows her way around a chic summer outfit. Her meme-inspiring personality might be seriously extroverted, but style-wise, Consani's summer looks couldn’t be more pared-back. As a lover of structural cuts and fashion-forward detailing, her outfits give serious '90s supermodel energy. But it's her recent balloon trousers, loose shirt and peep-toe heel combination during a Parisian excursion that I’m looking to re-create asap.

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6. Sabrina Carpenter

Style Notes: What do Madonna, Barry Keoghan and vintage dresses have in common? Well, Sabrina Carpenter, of course. After shooting to superstardom over the past couple of years, the ex-Disney star is proving to be one of pop culture’s most compelling recent style icons. Expect drop-waists, minidresses, tall heels and lots of sparkle in her tour wardrobe, but well-deserved downtime in T-shirts, loose jeans and ballet flats.

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7. Billie Eilish

Style Notes: Billie Eilish’s summer style might not be for you; however, we at Who What Wear UK think it's high time we give the singer her flowers for being unapologetically herself. With layered tees and oversized silhouettes becoming Billie's brand signature, this look (pictured above) from her press junket for Billie Eilish – Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour feels decidedly fresh. Be it the divisive lace-detail Prada pumps or the knee-grazing pleated skirt with stockings, it's a look I can already see being re-created by her nonconformist fans.

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8. Kylie Jenner

Style Notes: For the stylish Gen Zer, it's impossible to find a celebrity It girl as influential as Kylie Jenner. The youngest member of the Kardashian-Jenner clan has been making waves since the "King Kylie" era (who else could convince a generation of pre-teens that all you need is a lip kit to look like her). Having now evolved from her skinny-jeans-and-logo-mania days, today, her summer style is all about bodycon separates and a cute colour palette. Looking for a casual 'fit for weekends? Try yellow jeans, a white tank top and Maison Margiela ballet flats that are more fun than trainers.

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9. Manon Bannerman

Style Notes: Since rising to fame in Netflix’s Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE, Manon Bannerman is the new name on everyone's lips. From her surprise appearance PinkPantheress’s set during Coachella Music Festival 2026 (alongside Chase Infiniti and Slayyyter) to fronting campaigns for brands like Versace, Saint Laurent, and Levi's, she's quickly become a celebrity Gen Z It girl to watch. Whilst she does hyper-glam impeccably well, it's the pared-back looks on her Instagram that have our full attention. Blending ‘90s minimalism with a Y2K edge, we’ve been loving the distressed minis and vintage leathers that are the foundation of her best summer looks.

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As one of Who What Wear UK’s resident Gen Z fashion editors, I’m always quick to note when a new shoe trend begins to emerge amongst the fashion set. So far this year, it's been a particularly mixed bag. With so many aesthetics and "cores" floating the social media-fuelled zeitgeist (think 2000s athlesiure or 2016 as the real 2026), the start of the year suggested anything but a trainer takeover. From the return of the thong heel to an influx of heeled ballerinas, the silhouettes spotlighted feel softer, and we thought a dainty approach to footwear was set to prevail this year. Yet a mid-week scroll through the feeds of my favourite fashion people under 29 painted a different story. Trainers aren't dead to Gen Z, and one sneaker brand proves just that: Adidas.

For so long, it was the Samba. Loved for its clean lines and versatility, it arrived as a breath of fresh air in an era dominated by large, chunky silhouettes. Since then, Gen Z has been Adidas-obsessed. From the retro-runner-shaped SL72 (a best-seller that comes celebrity-approved by Bella Hadid and Emily Ratajkowski) to the Campus and the Samba 2.0 (revived thanks to collaborations with musician Bad Bunny and Hermès menswear creative director Grace Wales Bonner), each style has become like gold dust in its own right amongst trainer enthusiasts everywhere.

Fast forward to spring 2026, and a variety of newer Adidas styles are shaping Gen Z's footwear rotation. Be it the sleek yet sporty Tokyo or the under-the-radar Taekwondo, each is buzzing amongst the Gen Z style set ahead of summer. Read on to shop the five Adidas trainers they’re choosing right now.

The Five Adidas Trainers Gen Z Adore Right Now

1. Taekwondo

Style Notes: A shoe rooted in martial arts, the Adidas Taekwondo lives up to every part of its name. Defined by a low-profile, laceless design, these slip-on-and-go trainers have a nostalgic 2000s-street-style essence (which could be why It girls like Iris Law, Jennifer Lawrence and Dakota Johnson adore them). Available in the classic shape and the sneakerina Mai design, we've seen them styled with everything from capri leggings to track pants and loose trousers.

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2. Handball Spezial Loafers

Style Notes: Hybrid trainers are officially a thing, and the Handball Spezial Loafers are Adidas’s latest rendition of the trend. Part loafer, part trainer, they carry all the familiarity of a tried-and-true loafer, but reworked with the cushioned gum sole and signature three-stripe design of the ever-popular Spezial. With an IYKYK feel, whether paired with a maxi skirt or longline denim shorts, these trainers are for polished dressers who want to blend comfort and style.

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3. Superstar II

Style Notes: Having been discarded as "dated" for a while, Adidas Originals Superstar II are back in style once again in 2026. A ‘90s classic on its way back, these trainers' shell toe and serrated stripes make them instantly distinguishable. Whilst they’re not a far cry from the pairs we owned 15 years ago, the energy feels completely renewed. It's another style that's benefited from fashion-name collabs, from Molly Mae-Hague's latte colourway to the muted toes of the Sporty & Rich collab, the Superstar II is so back.

Shop Adidas Originals Superstar II Trainers:

4. Tokyo

Style Notes: The Tokyo is one of Adidas's most in-demand styles. A simple yet quietly cool design, the signature cross-back adds dimension, setting it apart from classic silhouettes. Available in both the classic design and a Mary Jane version with an elasticated strap across the foot, these trainers have an It-girl edge and look particularly good with a two-piece matching set.

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5. Samba

Style Notes: Despite some declaring them "dated", Gen Z is still turning to the OG Samba. With a narrow silhouette and streamlined design free from bells and whistles, the Samba has solidified itself as a footwear staple. They're versatile enough to pair with everything from skirts to leggings and jogging bottoms, and their comfort goes unmatched.

Shop Adidas OG Samba Trainers:

As one of Who What Wear UK’s resident Gen Z editors, it’s my personal mission to keep my finger on the pulse of the ebbs and flows shaping the fashion zeitgeist. Be it monitoring the cultural throwbacks taking over our algorithms (see CBK and the sudden fascination with 2016) or keeping an eye out for the new brands deserving of a permanent spot in our wardrobes, paying attention to fashion is what I do best. A few years ago, any label specialising in ultra-eccentric, colourful and in any way attention-grabbing pieces would probably rank highly as a Gen Z go-to, but in spring 2026, the name currently front and centre may well surprise you: Zara.

A cross-generational high-street hero, Zara has long carried the "hit or miss" reputation many of us probably remember from years gone by. Today, though, its digital (and physical) shelves have become something of a hotspot. A fan of runway trends? Zara’s got you covered. In the market for high-quality transitional staples? It's practically a one-stop shop. Blending the fashionably nostalgic with the trending and the timeless with the personality-driven, Zara continues to hit the nail on the head for the variety of aesthetics and pieces that Gen Z aligns with best. And better yet, there are plenty of affordable buys.

Despite all the great options, sifting through Zara’s seemingly endless new-in section is a big job (even to a seasoned fashion editor), so to take the work off your hands, I've trawled through each section of the site meticulously so you don't have to, and have uncovered the best Zara buys for Gen Z shoppers (and, really, anyone looking to put a fresh spin on the classics). So whether you're looking for on-trend shoes to pair with low-rise jeans or just want to peruse the Zara newness, scroll down to discover my picks.

Shop the Best Gen Z Zara Buys for Spring 2026:

Ask anyone who was born in the late ‘90s and the early ‘00s, and they’ll tell you the difficulty in determining whether they’re a Gen Z or a millennial. But, whether you grew up binging noughties teen dramas like The OC, were in the trenches reblogging American Apparel editorials on Tumblr or felt slightly taken aback by the way 2016 had become so collectively romanticised in 2026, if there’s one thing that both groups can agree on, it’s the desirability of these key spring trends.

The warming weather is always an invitation to refresh your wardrobe, be it through cleaning out the old and bringing in the new, or brightening up your staple pieces through injecting new prints, tones and textures into your trusty arsenal. And despite a few years separating these two demographics, it’s become apparent that strong silhouettes and refined pieces will always garner collective appeal.

That’s at least what I—a 26-year-old fashion writer who certainly falls into that niche 'zillennial' camp who subscribes to both ideologies—gleaned after charting the chicest dressers amongst each age range and the spring trends they’ve already begun demonstrating a proclivity for. A polished coat, new way of wearing denim, elegant colour or well-favoured print should really have no allegiance to the year you were born.

Style, ultimately, cuts through the discourse, though it’s clear that this generational divide is still impacting the way these trends are worn. Pieces like buttoned-up outerwear or tailored shorts might be adored by people on both sides of the spectrum, but they become unrecognisable when worn in different contexts. Curious to know how? From the mid-20s content creators making a case for new spots to the late-30s tastemakers embracing archival designs, scroll on below for the ways Gen Z and millennials are wearing the biggest spring 2026 trends.

How Millenials and Gen-Z are Wearing Spring 2026 Trends

1. Double Denim

A Canadian tuxedo will never go astray, just ask the likes of Rihanna, Julianne Moore and Simone Ashley. However, there’s clear evidence that double denim is toeing the line between trendy and timeless.

Gen-Z

The Gen Z cohort is gravitating towards lighter shades that evoke the lurid and chitzy atmosphere of Y2K. Even better, they’re prone to styling it in the same way noughties tabloid divas like Paris Hilton and Kim Kardashian would—tucked into a pair of boots and cropped to a low-rise fit.

Millenials:

Contrary to this younger and more contemporary take, I’ve observed millennials opt for more tasteful shades like indigo, though the silhouettes are quite similar in the fact that oversized shapes seem to be reigning supreme. Could this spell the end of the skinny jean?

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2. Icy Blue

From Yves Klein to Joni Mitchel and Phoebe Philo, there’s not a chic person around who hasn’t had a brief liaison with the colour blue. Now, for spring, the shade is getting far cooler, despite how anathema that might sound. Indeed, icy blue was one of the runway’s most prevailing colour trends, and the hue is garnering quite the fan base across both factions.

Gen-Z

For Gen Z, however, I’ve noticed ice blue takes more of a starring role in their looks. Often the primary colour featured in these ensembles, they’ll command attention, be it through a monochromatic moment like the one pictured here from Danish stylist and fashion influencer, Emili Sindlev, or an exercise in colour blocking, like Mode Mischief Velina top every in-the-know dresser can’t stop wearing.

Millenials:

For those children of the ‘80s and ‘90s, however, a different approach has been adopted. Rather than drenching themselves in a sea of frosted baby blue, this colour acts as a point of contrast that complements other neutral tones like brown, tan and sand. This conscious act of creating visual tension is a signature of dressers with more life experience, and could be considered a far more cerebral approach to wearing the trend, given how meticulously each layer has been selected..

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3. Nouveau Spots

From the Sloan Rangers of Princess Diana’s day to the TikTok sensation of Alix Earle’s era, polka dot is a print that unites the more sartorially inclined. For spring, this print is being spotted all over, albeit in different formats.

Gen-Z

For Gen Z, the dotty pattern invites a more care-free and flirty attitude, often styled with anything-but-boring-basics like Good Squish scrunchies and Peachy Den denim.

Millenials:

For millennials, however, the circular motif is treated with far more reverence. I think this is because polka dots are somewhat reminiscent of someone’s ‘Sunday best’, so they have a tendency to lean into the primness and preppiness associated with it.

Instead, they strip it back to the bare essentials, allowing the rounded shape to pull focus, especially when paired with more fundamental styling items like a strappy tank top and heeled flip-flop.

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4. Lace Accents

Ladies in lace. A trend that speaks to our current penchant for bohemia, historical references and overtly romantic sensibilities, lace is a chic design element that’s courting fans on both sides.

Gen-Z

However, Gen Z seems to be taking the trend one step further, wearing it in a way that feels slightly overt and theatrical. Particularly, I’ve noted a preference for lace-trimmed dresses that could’ve been found in the costume department for characters like Elizabeth Swann in Pirates of the Caribbean or Satine in Moulin Rouge!

Millenials:

For millennials, there’s less of an impulse to wear lace in a way that feels over-the-top or extravagant. Subtly reigns supreme, as it’s just only a small trim or edge that ever gets displayed, once again speaking to this age group’s instincts for more enduring ways of wearing clothes.

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5. Button-Up Jackets

Jackets and spring aren’t typically two words you’d see next to one another in a sentence. But when it comes to the biggest trends that Gen Z and millennials agree upon, spring jackets seem to be it. I must caveat that although they both have a liking towards collarless, single-breasted and button-up styles, there are still some minor differences.

Gen-Z

Firstly, Gen Z are showing a preference for outerwear options with more flair. Instead of regular buttons and precise tailoring, they’re after versions brimming with personality, whether it be through underrated toggle fixtures or decadent embroidery.

Millenials:

Secondly, millennials seem more aware of their purchasing power, so they are rarely taking a risk on these jackets. Because why would you gamble away on something that could look so passé by 2027, when you could just shop a style that’s decisive and sleek?

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6. Tailored Hot Pants

Who would’ve thought that ‘short shorts’, as they’re sometimes colloquially referred to, would be something that both Gen Z and millennials admire? Whilst this certainly came as a surprise to me, one look at the most prolific Gen Z and millennial women around, and I noticed just how cherished this style was.

From Alexa Chung to Addison Rae, there is hardly a style savant that hasn’t tried their hands—or dare I say legs, in this instance—at this trend.

Gen-Z

For Gen Z, this style is worn far more casually, often seen with a boxy, oversized t-shirt or chunky boot. In this way, the tailored element of the shorts becomes relatively obsolete in keeping with their rejection of corporate norms or super-bourgeois styles.

Millenials:

As for millennials, the micro short is all about leaning into the tailored element. The fact that tailored trousers are seen in formal settings and the fact that they stop just at the top of your thighs, is a tension this age group loves to play with. Pairing it with other office-appropriate pieces of clothing, like blazers and argyle jumpers, is a brilliant way to add an element of sensuality and elegance.

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7. Capri Leggings

Don't let the rise of 2000s activewear trends fool you—capri leggings are a cropped trouser style that will stoke controversy across every age bracket. But whether you love them or hate them, they’re not going anywhere. And as it turns out, it seems that both Gen Z and millennial style savants are wearing them in quite a similar fashion. Indeed, out of all the spring 2026 trends I’ve chronicled here, it’s the capri leggings that appear to be the least disparate.

Gen-Z

Style Notes: Perhaps Gen Z are taking cues from millennials, as for the most part, their outfit choices seem near identical, both opting for heeled flip-flops, slouchy bags, breezy jackets and something to tie around their waists. Where the similarities end is there, with Gen Z opting for slightly less orthodox pieces for this outfit template.

Millenials:

Style Notes: Indeed, Gen-Z are wearing textured windbreakers instead of graceful cropped jackets, flannel prints instead of fine-knit sweaters and archival bags from the 2010s instead of the latest designer bag to covet. (Read: Balenciaga City styles over Alaïa’s Le Teckle.)

Either way, it's clearly a staple that cements both Gen Z and millennial shopping

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Whenever I’m stuck in a rut for outfit ideas, there's one group I always rely on to provide me with a plethora of inspiration. From Iris Law to Ruby Lyn, I have a carefully curated gang of Gen Z influencers and celebrities that I often look to on TikTok and Instagram. Whilst most associate people in their twenties with hyper-trend, eclectic styling, as one of Who What Wear UK’s resident Gen Z fashion editors, I know my generation’s style is more multifaceted than this.

You often see "Millennial vs Gen Z" headlines out there, but having grown tired of the narrative of pitting generations against each other, I’ve decided to make it my mission to prove just how elevated Gen Z outfits can be. Whilst yes, our most stylish dressers on the apps adopt fun nostalgic trends or accessories, the root and formula of these looks are often quite timeless, and can be worn by anyone.

Dipping and diving into iconic trends and silhouettes of years gone by, their outfits are often dripped in nostalgia—but not necessarily specific to one decade or movement. Whether it's the loosely layered pieces from the Indie Sleaze era or the It bags of 2016, each look might have some influences, but that doesn't mean that they can’t be elevated. You may have a classic minimalist style, be someone who dreams of Jennifer Aniston '90s rotation or maybe you’re a Y2K maximalist who looks to more colour, sportswear and embellished details. Either way, there is much to learn from these Gen Z style insiders.

I’ve spotlighted seven outfits worth replicating from my favourite people to follow. Enjoy!

1. Baggy Jeans + Wedge Trainers + Baker-Boy Hat

Style Notes: As mentioned, whilst Gen Z does tend to be trend-focused through execution, many of their key pieces do, in fact, feel quite timeless. Take Marie-Victoire’s look, for example. In a sweeping maxi scarf-coat and loose jeans (a simple pairing loved cross-generationally), she uses the cult-favourite Isabel Marant wedge sneaker and a baker-boy hat to add some edge.

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2. Printed Skirt + Long-Sleeved Top + It Bag

Style Notes: Nostalgic prints and pretty colourways are something the coolest Gen Z’s know all about. They love a statement print (be it leopard, deer or snake), but pattern is where they shine. From the playful polka dots popular last summer to charismatic check prints creeping in right now, it's a fail-safe way to inject some fun energy without looking like you’re trying too hard. On a warmer day, lean into Emili Sindlev’s loose layered tops and sheer fabrics in pastel colourways, and pair with functional yet on-trend sneakerinas. Extra points if you can accessorise with a designer or statement bag in a matching colour.

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3. Straight-Leg Jeans + Leather Jacket + Ankle Boots

Style Notes: Heavily influenced by nostalgic ‘90s fashion, many of the silhouettes from this decade have crept into the capsule wardrobes of the best-dressed Gen Zs. From straight-leg jeans to slim-line leather jackets, cowboy boots to slinky scarves, they’re using the simplest pieces to elevate their looks. Creating a polished yet unfussy outfit, it feels put-together but never boring.

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4. Jeans + Fringed Coat + Fringed Accessories

Style Notes: As I was saying, no two Gen Z outfits are the same. Playing with classic pieces like a sweeping maxi coat and funnel-neck jumper, Olivia Anna-Catharina T (pictured above) creates a modern-day Western-inspired cowboy look with a 2026 twist. By matching her playful fringed accessories to those of her coat and finishing with double-waist cigarette jeans (tucked into her boots in a ‘90s fashion), her look has an overarching softness to it, whilst maintaining an elevated edge.

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5. Pastel Shirt + Skirt + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Gen Z loves heavy layering. From dresses over trousers to multi-layered tank tops and tees, this styling trick is a fail-safe way to bring life into an outfit. Known for her love of all things cute and cool, Iris Law's quintessentially London-coded look blends contrasting pretty pastel shades and kitschy (perhaps clashing) accessories, like her vintage Louis Vuitton bag, to create an outfit which feels spirited yet perfect for spring.

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6. Bermuda Shorts + Cardigan + Air Rift Trainers

Style Notes: When you dissect them, Gen Z outfits really do have a sense of timelessness, albeit with an untraditional approach to styling. Take Claire Most’s Bermuda shorts, pictured above. They're a classic silhouette, but by pairing them with a layered black top and vivid red cardigan, on-trend Nike Rifts and a slouchy shoulder bag, her look feels unique. Swap the trainers for a higher boot, and suddenly it's more winter-appropriate, or throw on a black jumper to make it perfect for minimalists. It's proof that with a simple base, you can pick and choose the elements you splash in.

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7. Sporty Top + Capri Pants + "Ugly" Shoes

Style Notes: If mixing the timeless with the eclectic is your thing, Mira Al-Momani’s look might be perfect for you. Capri pants or leggings are such a Gen Z staple—there’s something so ‘00s about the cut that feels just a little cooler than denim or longer leggings. If you want to elevate your top half from a simple T-shirt, look to sportier pieces, like vintage activewear or something like this tee with the New York Yankees motif. And to make it more playful, go for a pair of "ugly” or divisive shoes, like Vibram Fivefingers, which even I'm too afraid to try.

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Gen Z Says is a bimonthly column chronicling the latest trends in the fashion-and-beauty space through the lens of Who What Wear's own Gen Z editors. Expect a download on the upcoming class of tastemakers, emerging designers, and shopping and style choices straight from the generation setting the trends.

There are years in fashion when the landscape doesn’t just evolve—it tilts. This year has been one of them. In an era defined by creative-director musical chairs, an overabundance of fast fashion, and micro-aesthetics that morph faster than we can track, the industry has felt both restless and on the verge of something new, which is why, when it came time to assemble the 2025 Gen Z Best Dressed List, I turned to the people who understand this shifting terrain most intuitively: Who What Wear’s Gen Z editors. After all, who better to decode the year’s most era-defining looks than the cohort that can spot an archival John Galliano slip on a TikTok thumbnail at 0.2 seconds?

What emerged from our Slack messages and email threads was a portrait of a new generation of style stars rewriting the red carpet in real time. These are the actors, pop girls, and fashion darlings fearlessly mixing vintage with rising designers, or stepping into the ateliers of Chanel, Miu Miu, and other legacy maisons. They’re working with young, razor-sharp stylists who treat every appearance like a conversation—sometimes a love letter, sometimes a rebellion, but always as a means to make a statement and get attention.

There’s an electricity to Hollywood right now, a feeling that the fashion story is shifting scene by scene, outfit by outfit. It’s fresh, it’s unpredictable, and, frankly, it’s the most fun I’ve had covering red carpet style in years. If 2025 were the year Gen Z took over, 2026 is shaping up to be the year they set the entire rule book on fire—beautifully, unapologetically, and in extremely good shoes.

11 Gen Z Celebrities Re-defining Fashion in 2025

1. Lola Tung

Lola Tung shopping in New York City, December 2025

Lola Tung may have captivated us as Isabel “Belly” Conklin in The Summer I Turned Pretty, but its her carefree polish of screen which has skyrocketed her to the top of my best dressed list. Swinging between Y2K boho and unadulterated elegance with ease, her adventurous styling and keen eye for archival fashion has provided us with one of her moodiest, yet, chicest looks of the year. In a Fay toggle fastened jacket, sumptuous brown cargos and Adidas Samba OG in fresh cow print colour way, she seamlessly blends print with polish, classicalism with trend for a look that captures the very essence of the zeitgeist she hails from.

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2. Iris Law

Iris Law at the Fashion Awards, December 2025

Whilst Iris Law's famous father continues to turn heads on the big screen, those dialled into the zeitgeist know she her fashion is just as meteoric. Her quintessentially British look blends lustrous textures with contrasting prints, kitschy accessories with cool shoes, to create bold looks which feel innately Iris. Every look feels like a love letter to her exuberant personality and we can't get enough.

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3. Bella Hadid

Bella Hadid shopping in New York City, January 2025

Bella Hadid is Gen Z's fashion muse, in part thanks to her casual, low-key 'fits that the model has gone mega viral for over the last few years. While Hadid was largely absent for most of 2025 to focus on her health, the moments the star did pop up were well worth it—namely, this early 2025 appearance in SoHo in an all-black look complete with Saint Laurent sunglasses and a leather funnel-neck jacket. I personally like Hadid's style when it's a bit more casual since it feels more authentic to her, so this look ranks among my top five in the year.

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4. Kylie Jenner

Kylie Jenner at the NBA Eastern Conference Finals, May 2025

I love Kylie and Timothée together, sue me! Since they don't often make public appearances together, I'm always locked into their style when they do—namely, during the latter half of the year when the couple was spotted at several New York Knicks games after the team made it to the NBA semi-finals. I'm zoning in on Jenner's outfit here, though. The youngest member of the Kardashian-Jenner empire typically goes all out with her outfits, so to see her lean into a simple sporty windbreaker, wide-leg jeans, and a square watch for this specific look felt incredibly off-brand in the best way. I love how casual her style has become over the last year now that she's been brought out of her shell a bit more by Chalamet. Perhaps we'll get a full-on King Kylie–era style moment in 2026?

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5. Addison Rae

Addison Rae at the MTV Video Music Awards, August 2024

"Okay, okay. I know this look dropped in late 2024 technically, but its legacy carried well into 2025, and I am still thinking about it on a weekly basis. Addison Rae brought drama back to the VMA red carpet that has become overrun by 'quiet luxury' black evening gowns by wearing this tutu-and-bra combination that absolutely stole the show. If you're going to rebrand from a TikTok dancer to the Britney Spears of our generation, this is how you do it right. Inspired by Madonna and instantly bookmarked by half of Gen Z, this look genuinely shifted the lingerie mood. After years of cosy/cute basics dominating the market, we’re finally seeing the return of full-on fantasy. Between the VS Fashion Show comeback and moments like this, lingerie is officially (and delightfully) back." — Sierra Mayhew, fashion editor

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6. Emma Chamberlin

Emma Chamberlain at the Loewe S/S 26 runway show, October 2025

In my humble opinion, the evolution of Emma Chamberlain style is one worth studying. Having shed her 2010s, girl-next-door persona (which made her Youtube channel one of the fastest growing of all time) over the years Chamberlain's style has evolved from quintessential California VSCO into Twiggy with a Gothic twist.

Her innate ability to see past trending fads, opting for shapes which balance timelessness with with self expression is exactly the reason why, all these years later, when she say's something is cool, its cool.

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7. Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi at the Loewe S/S 26 runway show, October 2025

"When it comes to Gen Z style icons, Yara Shahidi's name is always going to make the cut. Her styling is always playful, eclectic, and colorful. Her look at Loewe's spring/summer 2026 show last month still lives in my head rent-free. I don't know how, but it taps into so many 2025 trends without feeling overdone or too trendy. From the mesh flats to the bowling bag to the anorak, it seamlessly merges all of these style personas while still feeling authentic to her typical style. It's the perfect mix of sporty and elegant, which Shahidi does so well. If you see me re-creating this entire outfit soon, please know that Yara Shahidi was the ultimate inspiration." — Aniyah Morinia, branded content editor

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8. Adéla

Adéla at the ACNE Studios S/S 26 Runway Show, October 2025

"Adéla knows she’s a pop star princess in the works. Her punk-but-eminine vibe itches a part of my brain that is a Jenny Humphrey apologist. Sorry. Something we have in common is that we love the no-pants trend, and that is why this ACNE Studios look lives in my head rent-free. She’s just too cool for the world." — Daniela Guevara, assistant social media editor

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9. Doechii

Doechii at Paris Fashion Week, March 2025

"Half of the allure of this Doechii moment comes from the look itself, no doubt. Dripping in gold from her earlobes to her fingertips, hair coiffed to the gods, and a dress so perfectly square between romantic Greco-Roman draping and modern denim corsetry, the rapper was the image of a Schiaparelli statue. But the real reason this outfit is burned into my memory is because of the meaning of this moment.

"Doechii closed out her first PFW with this look after an onslaught of fashion hits that garnered the attention of every news outlet and fan with internet access—causing the need to be carried by bodyguards through the Parisian streets to move through the sea of fans. She stood at the top of the Centre Pompidou in this show stopping number with so many camera flashes on her that you’d think she was Beyoncé, and I realised what a turning point this was in her life, career, and the world of fashion itself. Suddenly, we had a new, unabashedly cool, and authentic It-girl!" — Alyssa Brascia, associate beauty editor

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10. Jenna Ortega

Jenna Ortega on the 2025 Emmy Awards red carpet, September 2025

"I love this Givenchy look that Jenna Ortega wore to the Emmys. The draping of the large jewels paired with the low-waisted skirt felt like such a fresh take on red carpet dressing." — Natalie Thurman, senior podcast producer and editor

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11. Olivia Dean

Olivia Dean performing at the Today show, October 2025

"My daily affirmation? Singing the entirety of Olivia Dean’s The Art of Loving on my way to work. Nominated for the 2026 Grammy Award for Best New Artist, the British singer-songwriter has not only topped charts but also inspired many, myself included, to update their Pinterests and mood boards. Dean’s stylist, Simone Beyene, is responsible for the vintage-inspired silhouettes and chiffon and satin drapings that mimic Dean's verses of self-love, set against a pastel colour palette of pale pinks, butter yellows, and baby blues.

"In October 2025, Dean performed on the Today show in a blushing Chanel tweed set. Hands down, my favourite Olivia Dean look. Something Beyene does exceptionally well is exemplified in how identifiable yet singular Olivia Dean's look is. Like her music, Dean’s genre-bending style is youthful yet classic. Polished yet playful. And the Chanel set is a perfect example of this effect. Dean elegantly wears the retro, boxy silhouette, lined with aqua-coloured beading, Old Hollywood glam, and gold bangles." — Josephine Hadjiloucas, assistant shopping editor

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Building a workwear capsule wardrobe can be as taxing as the job itself, especially if, like me, you’re Gen Z and new to the game.

Looking for those polished, tailored pieces that feel classic and professional whilst remaining true to your personal style is a balance that can be hard to strike. But fear not! I am now a few years into the working world—as a junior fashion editor at Who What Wear UK—no less, so I have both the personal and professional expertise (as well as a team of colleagues who have kindly lent their advice) to guide you through the dos, don’ts, tips and tricks of curating a Gen Z workwear wardrobe.

Let’s set the scene: You’ve secured your first adult job: congrats! All the anxiety-induced stress and ungodly hours of interview prep have finally paid off, and now the long-awaited first day is finally here. From your hair and your nails to your outfit, everything has to be on point; we do mean business, after all. Whether you want to channel office siren, preppy librarian à la Miu Miu or an ever-so slightly more polished version than the "frazzled English woman", one thing’s for sure: a working wardrobe has never been such a trending topic.

But before you start panic buying, I've put together a list of the nine most important pieces for a workwear capsule wardrobe for any Gen Z entering the world of work, complete with answers to all the important questions you might have. Remember, relax: the hardest part (securing the job) is already done.

9 Gen Z Workwear Capsule Wardrobe Staples

1. Timeless Trench Coat

Style Notes: If you’re like Deputy Editor Rebecca Rhys-Evans and have "chronic decision paralysis in the mornings", a trench coat will work wonders for outerwear. Lightweight and breathable, not to mention gloriously practical, this is the perfect jacket to take you from the office to after-work drinks with ease. Now, I know a lot of us love the trendy cropped iterations, but personally, I’d stick with the classic longline silhouette, as it will never go out of style.

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2. Elevated Shirt

Style Notes: Regardless of age, an elevated shirt will work wonders in your workwear capsule wardrobe. Though a timeless piece, not all shirts are built the same. From a classic white shirt to trending frilled styles and cool stripes, there's a button-down to fit every aesthetic. If you’re after a more laid-back option, choose an oversized fit or order a size up.

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3. Fitted Waistcoat

Style Notes: Now, these aren't the waistcoats of yesteryear; slightly beige-looking and a touch dated. Today's styles, which are almost more of a button-down, sleeveless top, are equal parts cool and polished. Seen on everyone from L.A. It girls like Hailey Bieber to a whole host of fashion people; it's the easiest way to look refined. Just throw on a pair of loose-fit trousers and some loafers, and you're good to go.

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4. Cosy Knits

Style Notes: Sure, a cosy cashmere knit is more of an investment, and when I first started working in fashion, I couldn't help but wonder if it was really worth the additional cost. But boy, was I wrong. Versatile and classic, I find the best cashmere jumpers can elevate the simplest of outfits, add a dash of colour to an otherwise subdued winter colour palette and stand the test of time.

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5. Tailored Trousers

Style Notes: It might seem a little boring, but you can never go wrong with a great pair of tailored trousers. If you’re a throw-on-and-go dresser in the mornings like me, they’re a reliable way to look polished without doing much at all. Even the most stylish amongst us have made the mistake of overlooking the practical elevation a tailored pair of trousers holds. Senior shopping editor Marina Avraam admits that until she had "the wonderful realisation that simplicity is the secret ingredient to a great wardrobe," she too overlooked the ease that tailored trousers bring.

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6. Bold Blazer

Style Notes: This isn't your simple black blazer (although owning one is still a good idea); the best work-friendly blazers are chic yet fun, polished yet playful and the perfect final layer to finish a look. From fitted, tailored silhouettes to attention-grabbing bold colours, a blazer is a sure-fire way to make your mark. If oversized, style with a chunky belt or over-the-arm cuff to make it feel a bit more contemporary. Or, do as some of our editors do, and wear yours with a shirt and tie.

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7. Luxe-Looking Loafers

Style Notes: Maybe it's the current preppy mood that's swaying me, but I think loafers are the best office-ready shoes, regardless of your outfit. With classic charm and minimalist versatility, they've become a fan favourite of fashion people over the last few years, both in and out of the office. From the original Gucci Horsebit Loafer to more modern takes on the penny loafer, like Miu Miu's highly coveted pair, loafers work hard with everything from tailored trousers to pleated skirts and favourite baggy jeans.

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8. Staple Bag

Style Notes: I hate to state the obvious, but a high-quality work bag cannot be overlooked as a necessity for a newly employed woman on the go. Here, we need to think practically. Is it big enough to fit a laptop? Your workout clothes? How does it feel on your shoulder? Persheng De Geer, co-founder of luxury bag company ByBanoo, shadows this sentiment. "A good work bag should not compromise between aesthetics and function, meaning it needs to be chic, have a dedicated laptop compartment, a luggage strap for when you’re travelling and multiple pockets to make organisation easy," she says. "Also, it should be comfortable to wear. Look for a wide shoulder strap—your body will thank you later."

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9. Everyday Jewellery

Style Notes: No matter the decade or the trend, an outfit is always perfectly polished with a jewellery stack. Once you start wearing jewellery more effortlessly, it becomes part of your look, elevating the ordinary to the chic. From dainty bracelets to statement earrings, find the pieces that feel the most "you", and wear them daily.

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What Is a Capsule Wardrobe?

A capsule wardrobe is all about those timeless, versatile pieces that you’ll reach for again and again. Easily interchangeable, they’ll play nicely with your favourite items, unlocking countless outfit combinations. Personally, I’m a big advocate for investing in quality over quantity, and so is fellow Gen Z-er Brittany. "I'd definitely start with investing in pricier but higher-quality items that will stand the test of time in my wardrobe," she says. "Over the years, I've spent a lot of money replacing certain items because I prioritised cost over quality."

We're not talking about throwaway trending pieces which fizzle out once the season ends. "A strong foundational capsule wardrobe allows [you] to look good all of the time without much effort," says senior shopping editor Marina Avraam. They’re tried-and-true, cross-generational pieces which will stick with you for years, making your wardrobe work harder—and for longer—than ever before.

Why Is a Workwear Capsule Wardrobe Important?

It may sound obvious, but work is about to become an integral part of your life, and trust me: speed and ease are paramount when getting ready in the morning. The less faff, the better. These staples help you get out the door looking polished and put-together, without questioning your outfit. Whilst your mum's signature pinstripe suit might feel work-appropriate, these days, Gen Z is dressing as chic and cool in the office as we are on the weekend, so don't panic: there's no need to throw everything out and start from scratch.

When curating your workwear capsule, my key takeaway is to focus on comfort, both in terms of how your pieces feel and the confidence they bring. After all, you want to be comfortable enough to show up with the best parts of yourself to impress at work. I distinctly recall scrolling through my socials before my first day, pinpointing workwear looks that would be stylish for the office. And yes, my Chloé Betty rainboots and black midi skirt combo did look chic, but comfy? Not a chance.

After a few years of trial and error, I’ve learnt that fussing over creating the perfect outfit is, in fact, overrated. Our shopping editor, Florrie Alexander, talks from her own experience. "I really overlooked the need for comfort and practicality when I first started working, focusing on the look rather than actually wearing it for a full day of work," she says, urging you to "focus more on your own personal style rather than what everyone else around you is wearing."

What Are the Staples of a Gen Z Workwear Capsule Wardrobe?

These days, at least for most industries, almost anything goes. As Rebecca puts it, "I genuinely think you can wear almost anything to work, so long as it's clean, well-fitted and looks put-together. Gone are the days when trainers, football shirts, vintage items or short skirts were a no-go; in fact, having a sense of style and individuality is a real flex. It shows confidence and comfort with who you are. Just make sure they're not grubby, revealing or too well-worn, and you're good to go."

Mix these more individual items with the rest of your Gen Z workwear capsule wardrobe, and it's easy to create looks that feel intrinsically you whilst being appropriate for the office.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.

We regularly try on pieces ourselves—everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes—and speak to external experts and fashion insiders, staying closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise, and each and every buy we feature has to meet our exceptional taste standards—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

Jeans and flats in autumn is about as groundbreaking as florals in spring. Yet a quick scroll through the IG accounts of some of my favourite Gen Z content creators alerted me to a niche jeans-and-ballet-flats combination I hadn’t noticed before today: grey jeans and ballet flats.

Now, I, a self-proclaimed jeans connoisseur, do have a pair of grey jeans, and I’ve always found them to be the perfect styling sounding board. Their all-but-neutral colouring offers the same chic elevation as traditional blue and black colourways, yet feels far fresher and a touch cooler. In knowing this, I’m questioning why I never thought to pair them with one of my favourite shoe styles, ballet flats, before.

When it comes to grey jeans and ballet flats, the key really lies in the colouring and silhouette of the denim. After a refined polish? Opt for loose fit, darker-wash jeans and simple black ballet flats. Or, if you’re looking to add something different to a day-to-day look, grey jeans and studded ballet flats look so good with a beige waistcoat.

Don't take my word for it, though; the data speaks for itself. With searches for “grey jeans” up +90% and “ballet flats” up +150% on Google, they’re two of the most in-demand buys right now. So, to make your life a little easier, and to keep you ahead of the trends, I’ve rounded up the best grey jeans and ballet flats below.

From trending H&M jeans to the viral COS ballet flats, you’re sure to find a combo that works for you. Scroll to see my edit.

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I have it on good authority: Gen Z are officially over leggings. This probably won’t shock you. After all, the generation has built much of its fashion identity around a love of slouchy, Y2K-inflected silhouettes—most notably, wide-leg jeans and roomy trousers. Against that backdrop, the once-ubiquitous second-skin legging feels like an outlier.

But here’s the thing: leggings have always filled a crucial slot in the wardrobe—a comfort-first, throw-on-and-go option. So, what’s stepping into their place? Journalist and Substack writer Casey Lewis has been tracking the shifts, spotlighting the trouser trends currently owning that sacred space.

So, what are they wearing instead? From dance-inspired swish to deliberately slouchy staples, here are the new go-to’s Gen Z are reaching for.

4 Anti-Leggings Trousers Gen Z Are Buying Instead

1. Loose, Dance-Style Trousers

Style Notes: Once, an entire drawer might have been reserved solely for leggings. Today, it’s being overtaken by swishy, voluminous trousers with a distinctly ’90s dance-class vibe. Equal parts retro and easygoing, the silhouette has fast become a Gen Z staple. Pair them with baby tees and fitted tanks for a nostalgic throwback, or with a sporty jacket for a modern, athletic edge. Either way, they’ve become the uniform of off-duty 2025.

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2. Uncuffed Sweatpants

Style Notes: Say goodbye to cuffed joggers—Gen Z are all about the looser, drapier “uncuffed” trackpant. It’s easy to see why: the relaxed cut is infinitely more comfortable, and they double as a chic stand-in for jeans when running errands. Worn low-slung with a fitted tank or tee, these track pants read effortless and cool—without the annoyance of cuffs creeping up the calves.

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3. Faded Black Jeans

Style Notes: Blue denim still has its place, but black jeans have seen a major surge in popularity this season. The appeal lies in their grungier, undone vibe—perfectly in line with Gen Z’s taste. Rather than a polished, inky black, the preference is for washed, lived-in shades that hover just shy of grey. They bring an edge to even the simplest outfits and slot seamlessly into the “casual but intentional” look dominating right now

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4. Long Shorts

Style Notes: Sorry, Daisy Dukes. Gen Z’s short of choice barely qualifies as a short at all. Hems are dropping lower and longer, blurring the line between shorts and trousers. Think knee-grazing, loose-fitting silhouettes that give outfits a slouchy, androgynous twist. A quick scroll through the Instagram feeds of anyone born post-’96 proves it: the era of the micro-short is over.

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Anyone with family or friends who span the Gen Z and millennial divide will be able to attest to the profound difference in preferences between the two, with styling also coming into play here. While the older camp has a deep penchant for capsule wardrobes and sharp tailoring, the younger cohort has found their style in an era of microtrends and "cores", seeing them embrace playful, bolder looks with more ease than their older peers (something I agree with as a millennial).

Still, despite the differences in taste, there are a few trends that blur the divide. The latest that's caught my eye? The denim top trend.

Blending the millennials's favourite fabrication with Gen Z's love of an interesting top, this dated trend was always destined for multi-generational success. Of course, denim shirts have been in our rotations for years but, in strapless, halter camisole or even bralette form, these trending tops are reminiscent of those seen throughout the '90s and early '00s—a period of time that both generations have a soft spot for.

When styled with typical summer fabrics such as cotton or linen, the rich denim composition lends your outfit a directional edge that can be hard to acquire with summer dressing.

Read on to discover the chicest denim tops to shop now.

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I have to say, I’m something of a connoisseur when it comes to jeans. I own over 25 pairs (the last official count had me closer to 28), and there isn’t a shape, style or design I haven’t tried. A go-to bottom option for most people I know, jeans are timeless, versatile and incredibly hardworking, making them a staple in women's wardrobes across the world. Yet, despite my devotion to denim, there’s actually one style I haven’t yet tried: the drawstring jean.

As with many of my fashion revelations, it all began with an idle Instagram scroll and an image of Margot Robbie. When I spotted the actress wearing a pair at the airport and looking incredibly chic doing so, it got me thinking—why haven’t I tried drawstring jeans yet? Ideal for all times of year, drawstring denim is having a moment right now thanks to its relaxed look and slight edge, which is worlds away from the drawstring trouser styles of the past that often had a frumpy, scruffy-looking feel. Heavily influenced by loungewear, and often spotted slung low on the hips of my Gen Z peers, these jeans share similarities with the ever-popular baggy silhouette thanks to their slouchy shape. But it’s the simple, adjustable tie detail at the waist that really sets them apart, making them, in my opinion, 2026's need-to-know silhouette.

But where did they come from, and why does it suddenly feel like they’re everywhere? Popularised in the late ’90s and early ‘2000s by the streetwear scene, drawstring jeans were quietly adopted by those in hip-hop and skate fashion circles. Still, they remained relatively under the radar—until now. The modern resurgence can be traced back to the last few years, particularly with TikTok trends around 2020, where TikToker’s began tying laces around their baggiest jeans to keep them up. This DIY approach reignited interest in adjustable denim and paved the way for the drawstring style’s return. Fast forward to the spring/summer 2025 runways, and designers like Gabriela Hearst and Rachel Comey are offering slouchy, drawstring iterations that gave the trend legs that Gen Z and millennials alike would wholeheartedly approve of.

Since then, plenty of my favourite brands have hopped on the drawstring jeans train. From Citizens of Humanity's high-waisted barrel-legged iteration to M&S elasticated-waist jogger-esque look, there is a style to fit everyone. And styling? It couldn't be simpler. A roll neck jumper and stove pipe jean would suffice, or jazz it up and pair them with a trench coat and trending trainer. Convinced? Scroll down to see the best pairs of drawstring jeans for summer 2025 and beyond, as chosen by me, a fashion editor.

Shop the Best Drawstring Jeans

1. Under £50

Style Notes: With a pared-back allure, you can easily elevate your drawstring jeans this winter through the addition of a sweeping maxi and plush funnel neck knit. Not only will this pairing keep you toasty but, when finished with an on-trend faux fur stole, creates a look perfect for winters icy chill.

Shop the Best Drawstring Jeans Under £50:

2. Under £100

Style Notes: With a variety of on-trend colours available, its never been easier to create an elevated look. Offset a inky black straight legged pair would look chic with the plethora of patterns trending right now (think leopard, zebra or deer), whilst a cool-toned grey will look balanced amoungst the other neutrals in your winter capsule wardrobe.

Shop the Best Drawstring Jeans Under £100:

3. Under £150

Style Notes: Less tricky to style than other trending shapes, drawstring jeans unique polish makes them perfect year round. From faux fur shoes to heeled boots, theres rarely a combination which doesn't work.

Shop the Best Drawstring Jeans Under £150:

5. Under £500

Style Notes: Whether walking your dog or on a coffee date, the comfort of a drawstring will never go amis. The ideal balance of practicality and style, they even look make a simple trench-cap-and-trainer combo look elevated!

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If there is any clothing item that can bridge the style divide between millennials and Gen Z, it's a lace-trim skirt. At once elegant and romantic, I've seen the trending skirt in the wardrobe rotation of almost every fashion person I know this season.

The latest to jump on board the summer look? None other than Catherine, Princess of Wales. Stepping out for an engagement in Windsor, Middleton selected a swishy pleated skirt in a bright white shade, complete with a lace-trim finish that injected the timeless piece with a distinctly fresh, new-season feel.

Styling her skirt with a neatly fitting jacket in a tonal shade of white, her outfit was imbued with a grown-up energy that made the lacy skirt feel especially smart. Layering pearl jewels, a white wide-brim hat and a small satin clutch into her ensemble, Middleton completed her outfit with tall beige heels in a textured suede finish.

While Middleton took a refined approach to her lace-trim skirt styling, I've spotted multiple influencers approach the trend through a more playful lens. Whether pairing with billowing blouses, oversized tees or chunky knits, this chameleonic piece is shaping up to become a summer 2025 staple.

A breakthrough trend that isn't showing any signs of slowing down, the high street is rife with elegant lace-trim skirts of its own. From H&M to Mango and more, read on to discover my edit of the best lace-trim skirts to shop this season.

SHOP LACE-TRIM SKIRTS:

Part of my job as junior fashion editor here at Who What Wear UK is to test out trending looks and pieces. I take all the fashion inspiration from the runways, my social feeds and the new-in sections of our favourite stores to assess fit, fabric, value and quality, and to see how these trends translate on a body in real life. It takes something truly special to stop me dead in my tracks, but if there’s one trend I can’t get enough of right now, it’s polka dots.

Last week, I was writing about the joys of the polka-dot dress, but this week, a selection of spotty two-piece sets has caught my attention. Whilst out creating content for our social channels, I was blown away by the sheer number of ultra-chic and versatile two-piece polka-dot sets available across the board, from the high street to high-end. Maybe my gaze was already primed for this classic print, but the wave of coordinating polka-dot outfits I spotted across the storefronts of London made one thing clear: I had to bring this trend straight to you.

Summer is historically a season dominated by bright florals and pretty ditsy prints, but in 2025, polka dots are the front-runner for pattern of the moment. Retro yet minimal, stylish celebrities such as Jennifer Lawrence, Laura Harrier and Dua Lipa have embraced the trend from every angle, wearing dots in grid posts on the ‘gram, casually in the city and with sophistication on the red carpet. I knew this trend was worth taking notice of when the queen of performance-driven fashion, Ariana Grande, took to TikTok in a full polka-dot look (yes, it included a cape), lip-syncing to Wicked with influencers and prompting R.E.M Beauty's latest drop.

But it’s not just the A-list connecting the dots; Who What Wear’s SEO writer, Ava Gilchrist, is fully backing the trend, championing polka dots as a “true neutral” in her wardrobe. Reflecting on the print’s evolving identity, she notes that polka dots can “often come across a little bourgeois, which is why I tend to wear them in cuts that are more sensual, to subvert any stiff or conservative connotation they once held.” It’s a sentiment I wholeheartedly share. As she puts it, “They’re inherently quite playful, flirty and ‘feminine’, meaning they can be mixed with tough leather pieces or softened with a pair of jeans with ease.” Her final tip? “A word to the wise: the smaller the spot, the chicer the look.”

Although it may feel as though polka dots have suddenly appeared out of nowhere, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Designers such as Fendi, Moschino and Isabel Marant leaned heavily into the print in their 2025 collections, signalling a wider return to bold, '80s-style statement-making patterns in high fashion. But let’s be clear: polka dots have always been here. What’s different this season is the mainstream embrace.

High-street favourites like Zara, H&M and COS have rolled out a broad selection of dot-centric pieces in their spring/summer lines, making the trend more accessible than ever. Meanwhile, fashion-insider labels such as Susamusa are setting the internet alight; its Meadow Skirt in Beige Polka Dot (£110) became a Google Trends breakout star and sold out within a day when it launched. And it’s not just skirts; searches for polka-dot halter tops are up 200%, showing that this print is more than a fad—it’s the defining pattern of the season.

And this, readers, is exactly why I’m here to tell you that a polka-dot co-ord is a trend worth investing in. It does all the heavy lifting for you. The right set is the definition of stylish convenience—effortless, pulled-together and endlessly versatile. A well-chosen co-ord offers a sophisticated top that pairs seamlessly with everything from denim to tailoring, and matching bottoms that work just as hard in your wardrobe. On my shopping travels, I’ve come across three standout sets that deserve your attention, from Mango, Reformation and Ganni. Trust me: I’ve tried them and they’re worth shouting about.

1. Reformation Dorothea Two Piece Set

Style Notes: I first spotted this two-piece set on influencer Emma Legar, and I immediately thought it just might be the cutest thing I’d ever seen. Fast forward to my visit to the Reformation store, and I’m happy to report it lived up to every expectation. Made from a lightweight, crepe-like fabric, the set is beautifully drapey and loose, making it perfect for warm weather. I tried it on during a (surprisingly) blisteringly hot 27-degree day in London, and I honestly felt like I could’ve happily walked out of the store wearing it.

The top features a built-in bodice structure with small button closures, so it can be worn open for a breezier, more relaxed look, or closed for a touch more modesty. I stayed true to size with a UK 10 for both the top and skirt, and it was the right choice—no bunching or tightness whatsoever. The fit was perfect, and I’m seriously considering biting the bullet and purchasing this set for summer. For a more office-appropriate look, I’d throw on a tailored blazer and pair it with loafers (I know, I work in a creative field). On weekends, I’d dress it down by styling it with trainers and a small east-west bag.

Shop Reformation’s Dorothea Two Piece Set:

2. Mango Polka-Dot Linen Crop Top and Flared Skirt

Style Notes: This set is selling out fast, so if you like what you see, I’d recommend shopping quickly. If you’re someone who prefers a more covered-up look, this is an excellent option. Made from linen, the fabric is incredibly lightweight and breathable, making it another perfect choice as the temperature soars. In-store sizing was a bit limited (though I’ve heard it’s being restocked soon), so I ended up taking a 12 in the top and an 8 in the skirt (I'm a true 10). The skirt was slightly tight around the waist, but my waist measures about 27 inches, so that makes sense.

The top, however, was a bit more oversized than expected from the image. Given this, I would recommend staying true to size if you can find it in stock. Despite a couple of sizing adjustments, the luxury of this set really stood out. The firm, fitted waist and deep pleats in the skirt created that beautiful, flowy silhouette, and the boxy fit of the top (when worn in the right size) would keep the overall effect demure but not twee. I’m 5’10”, so the skirt hit just above my ankles, making it very tall-girl friendly. I’d style this set with a pair of mesh shoes and a wicker bag. If I were heading out for lunch with loved ones, this is definitely what I’d reach for.

Shop Mango’s Polka-Dot Linen Crop Top and Flared Skirt:

3. Ganni Polka-Dot Satin Blouse and Long Skirt

Style Notes: I can’t say I’ve ever considered myself a Ganni girl—my personal style leans more understated than the cult brand’s usual bold, eclectic offerings—but this two-piece set really had me reconsidering. Crafted from a thick silk fabric, it was surprisingly breathable in the 27-degree heat, lightweight yet structured and held its shape beautifully. It’s definitely more of a show stopping ensemble, and whilst perhaps not the easiest to style as separates (for me, anyway), but worn together? Exquisite.

The top features a striking silver zip that runs from neck to hem, whilst the skirt sits at the mid-waist with a back zip and two external coin-purse-style pockets placed on the hips—details that feel both playful and architectural. I stayed true to size in a 10, though I would recommend sizing down if you're between sizes. The skirt had quite a bit of give, which I didn’t mind, but the top felt noticeably oversized, and with its internal padding to hold structure, I did feel a bit restricted by the excess fabric. That said, this set is special. It’s one of those rare pieces that feels worthy of a wedding-guest moment (pending the bride’s approval, of course). I can already picture somewhere like Ibiza, worn for a daytime ceremony, followed by the matching minidress for a chic outfit change come evening.

Shop Ganni's Polka-Dot Satin Blouse and Long Skirt:

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Welcome to the Gen Z Mood, where I—Who What Wear UK's 26-year-old social media editor—keep you updated with my mood of the month and the most exciting things I’ve spotted on the scroll. I'm always looking for new and thrifty ways to shop trends, and I'm taking you with me.

As a professional doomscroller, it didn’t take long for the rumours of a certain cult brand’s high-street return to bubble up on my Instagram feed a few weeks ago. In a post that now boasts over 4 million views, Topshop teased a comeback that pulled directly on the nostalgia-ruled heartstrings of Millennials and Zillennials who grew up with the brand, promising Topshop will soon ‘return’ to the brand we once knew.

Maybe it’s the well-coveted Brit pop revival, or our Y2K-leaning shopping habits, but something in the waters (and the overwhelmingly enthusiastic comments section) tells me Topshop loyalists are ready to commit to whatever the brand has in store next. But just like the eager users in the comments section, I want to know what 'next' looks like. And, can it live up to the Topshop of old? The brand that managed to create a culture with their clothes and effortlessly encapsulate the youth of their customers.

A few of my favourites from Topshop's new 'Ranch Water' collection: soft suede, classic denim and this pretty green silk slip skirt.

Topshop, like a lot of '90s babies, had my heart as a teenager. It became the backdrop for whatever I defined as 'style' back then. I spent hours in their changing rooms and would save up money to purchase items from their premium Unique range—a term I still search on Vinted now. That era represented a brand you could rely on, effortlessly striking the balance between trends and personal style.

These are the reasons Topshop love runs deep, despite its murky downfall (which, if you’re interested, I’d recommend watching Trouble at Topshop on iPlayer). Whether you find yourself reminiscing on days spent in their iconic Oxford Street store, their sought-after celebrity and designer collabs (Kate Moss, Christopher Kane and JW Anderson, to name just a few) or simply can’t shake off the impact your Joni jeans had on you growing up, being a 'Topshop girl' in a previous life feels like the glue sticking together a keen audience of shoppers in 2025. And, clothes aside, it sets the bar high for what the brand can represent in its new 'era'.

The queen of cool, Kate Moss, wearing a denim look for a Topshop launch in 2007.

A fact the new team at Topshop are well aware of. Last year, Danish fashion group Heartland acquired 75% of Topshop and Topman, marking a new chapter for both brands and move away from ASOS, operating as a standalone site from August (while continuing to be available on the retailer site). This investment has brought with it a slew of employees, fresh creative direction and new collections, launching with the new range entitled Ranch Water.

With a London-based scavenger hunt kicking off their relaunch this summer, a "We Missed You Too" interactive art installation by London-based artist Russ Jones's taking over Soho and a solo website on the cards for autumn. The brand’s new Director of Marketing, Moses Rashid confirmed that the old will inspire the new, telling us at the launch of the latest collection, “Hearing from fans of Topshop will be key to moving into the new era.”

So, with the scene potentially set for a 'Topshop Summer' I took the first opportunity I got to try out the new product in person (something we’ve all missed since the brand moved online). Armed with a criteria of all the things I once loved Topshop for and healing my inner child as I went... Keep scrolling for my edit of the revitalised Topshop pieces that have me most excited for what’s to come.

Premium Details

I had too much fun styling this jacket, it feels like the perfect piece for summer evenings.

Unique Styles

Lace slips are everywhere this season and I love how many ways you can style this zesty green one.

Good Denim

I was so happy to let skinny jeans go and make way for wide leg, slouchy jeans.

Reliable Basics

If 2025 has taught me anything about fashion, it’s that no trend ever truly disappears—it just waits for its moment to return.

And if you thought the more divisive styles of the 2000s were gone for good, think again. Reviving yesteryear trends with unshakable enthusiasm, Gen Z has made it their mission to resurrect the very silhouettes that millennials had been trying to forget. From large studded belts to peplum jackets, they’ve already given a second life to some of the era’s most memorable styles. So really, it was only a matter of time before the skirt trousers trend got caught up in the chaos.

A hybrid of two wardrobe staples, this bold look mimics the effect of a skirt layered over trousers, creating a dynamic silhouette. The design softens the structure of classic tailoring, adding volume, texture, and movement to an otherwise simple outfit. While it may have first gained traction in the early 2000s—when daring, experimental layering was at its peak—the 2025 iteration feels fresh and surprisingly wearable.

Landing at exactly the right moment, the skirt trouser's revival comes as a welcome shake-up amid the dominance of straight-leg and wide-leg styles, which have reigned supreme for what feels like an eternity. Offering an alternative to the minimalist cuts we’ve grown accustomed to, this silhouette taps into the current appetite for bold, statement-making fashion—one that embraces individuality and challenges traditional proportions.

While Gen Z can definitely take some credit for bringing this Y2K trend back to life, the influence of the skirt trouser was felt on the spring/summer 2025 runways, too, with a myriad of brands—from Bottega to Boss—serving up sleek ierations of their own.

Of course, the beauty of this trend is its accessibility. You don’t need to rush out and buy a brand-new piece to partake—simply layer a sleek mini or flowing wrap skirt over your go-to tailored trousers, and you’ve nailed the look with zero investment. But for those who prefer a seamless, pre-styled option, designers and high-street brands alike have already started delivering their own takes on the trend.

Curious to give it a go? Scroll on to shop our edit of the best skirt trousers to buy now.

SHOP SKIRT-TROUSERS:

Over the past few years, flares have transitioned from a ‘dated’ fashion relic to a chic and contemporary style staple. Kick-flare jeans, flared leggings and tailored black versions crop up constantly in the trendiest corners of Instagram and TikTok, proving the endless versatility of this rediscovered classic.

But if you're not used to wearing flared trousers, they can be difficult to style the first time around. Especially where footwear is concerned. The wide silhouette of flares can make choosing the right shoes a challenge; you're working with a different proportions, and the wrong choice could throw off the balance of your outfit. Luckily, though, some of our favourite influencers have mastered styling this 2025 essential, so we looked to them for guidance on which shoes to wear with flared trousers.

From laid-back, sporty options to dressy shoe pairings perfect for night outs, discover our favourite shoe-and-flared-trouser formulas for the season ahead.

See the Best Shoes to Wear With Flares:

1. Platforms

Style Notes: The proportions of a thick, platform sole work in perfect harmony with a flared leg—they rocked this look in the ’70s for a reason. Choose a Mary Jane style for extra trend points or stick to a chunky heeled boot.

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2. Loafers

Style Notes: Loafers are the chicest choice if you're wearing your flares day-to-day. They're comfortable, practical, and they lend a sophisticated air to every look.

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3. Pointed-Toe Shoes

Style Notes: If you're going out-out and seeking shoes that will elevate your flares, a pointed-toe kitten heel is the clear winner. You can also wear this combination during the day with a flat iteration.

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4. Chunky Boots

Style Notes: When in doubt, add a chunky boot. This option works especially well with a slouchy jumper on top to balance things out.

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5. Trainers

Style Notes: Admittedly, there are few trouser styles a pair of trainers won't work with, but this pairing is perfect for a low-key weekend when you've got little on your to-do list and want a low-effort look to match.

Shop the look:

Gen Z is probably best known for their ‘chronically online’ rep–TikTok mad and always scrolling. And as a fashion-obsessed social media editor, I can’t exactly argue with any of that. I will make a case, however, that this gives us a bit of a shopping superpower when it comes to curating a personal style.

Whether it’s being on top of the latest trend, buzzy collab or off-the-wall aesthetic (remember #GardenGirl?) I can guarantee my saved folder will have an insight into the cool things internet and fashion people love, plus how you can shop them in the most mindful ways.

From figuring out the perfect Vinted search term to diving deep into ‘90s fashion archives, I'll rarely make a purchase without some research involved—something I feel like most Gen Zs can relate to.

My Gen Z mood for the month? Finding the perfect black wool coat this winter. It has been no small feat because my perfect black wool coat needs to tick multiple boxes to be exactly right. While on the hunt I had a few references in mind. It needed to give the same aloof vibe as the oversized wool coats worn by the Olsen twins (cigarette in hand on the streets of NYC) with a structured shoulder circa Kate McCallister's fabulous tan coat in Home Alone, or even Walter Hobbs double-breasted number in Elf. It also needed to be long—only a maxi coat would do.

Christmas movie references aside, I don’t have a The Row-friendly budget and I knew I wanted a ‘90s-feeling silhouette so I began to scan the second-hand offerings on Ebay and Vinted. Brands that came to mind were; Jaeger, Hobbs and M&S. I was checking ‘Oversized ‘90s Black Coat’ and ‘Jaeger Black Coat', ‘’90s Black Wool Coat’ ‘Men’s Black Wool Coat’ regularly and found some very nearly perfect pieces.

Despite my committed searching, I didn’t find my winter coat online (although I’ve linked a few of my favourite finds below!). But instead, in a cosmic twist of fashion fate, I stumbled across my perfect winter coat in a second-hand shop in Paris. She’s pre-loved, a men's fit, and not quite black but instead a charcoal grey I’ve found goes with my entire winter wardrobe. She also didn’t have the £3,650 price tag of my original inspiration from The Row but instead, came in at 45 euros. It took time to locate the style that felt worth purchasing, and I’m happy to say my research and patience paid off.

I’ve already seen celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Zoë Kravitz and Alexa Chung opting for this ‘90s oversized coat trend this winter and the references speak for themselves. I can’t wait to style my timeless piece with a woolly scarf and gloves for cold winter days, or throw it effortlessly over a LBD and pair of 15 denier tights for party season.

To shop my pre-loved picks and the best styles that match my moodboard, keep scrolling.

Shop the Best '90s-Inspired Maxi Coats I've Found:

Gen Z and millennials get pitted against each other a lot, but I—someone who falls into the former camp—think that trope is a little tired.

When it comes to fashion, we might approach things a little differently, but what I find more interesting is how many trends and looks crossover between the generations. Boho is definitely one of them.

The boho aesthetic is rooted in free-spirited style. Its signatures include romantic details such as flouncing and ruffles, often found in blouse or dress form, worn with more structured items, such as corduroy trousers or leather separates. Basically, look at any outfit worn by Sienna Miller circa 2004 and you’ll get the idea. And that’s just it; boho fashion was so prevalent in the early ‘00s that it largely became synonymous with millennials. However, when it made a huge comeback last year, it didn’t take long for a whole new generation—my generation—to see the appeal.

At the start of 2024, you could practically smell the boho comeback on the horizon. What was harder to predict, however, was how it would completely reshape the fashion landscape. The modern boho revival was solidified at Chemena Kamali’s debut at Chloé for autumn/winter 2024. That said, I distinctly recall the delicate lace maxi dresses, buckled boots and artfully tied headscarves that came streaming down Dior’s Cruise 2021 runway, planting the seed early that boho was on its way back.

Since then, we’ve seen countless boho-inspired brands embrace the look, from Dôen to Free People and Gimuguas, making it more widespread than ever before. So, how is this playing out where boho outfits are concerned?

Today, we're seeing boho blend with other trends to create something more unique and personal to the wearer. Think denim on denim spliced with waterfalls of lace, maximalist tiered hems adding volume to minimalist staples and period drama-esque loose bloomers adding a floaty feel to a poplin tee.

To inspire your own boho outfits, I’ve assembled an edit of the chicest ways fashion people are incorporating the aesthetic into their looks now. Scroll on to see them.

5 Boho Outfit Ideas to Try Now

1. Lace Detail + Jeans + Trainers

Style Notes: The easiest way to channel boho is through lace detailing. With an ethereal vibe, the lingerie-inspired fabric soared in popularity this summer, spotted on everyone, including Alexa Chung and Sienna Miller. Choose a suitably lacy blouse or top and just add jeans and suede accessories.

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2. Shearling Coat + Lace Dress + Slouchy Boots

Style Notes: My favourite thing about autumn is a one-and-done coat, and this year, I'll be nailing the boho vibe with a shearling number. Less polished than glossy faux furs, look for something with a shaggy trim to give that nonchalant feel that goes hand in hand with the aesthetic. Finish with a slouchy suede boot, and you're ready to breeze into your day.

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3. Tiered Dress + Belt + Necklace

Style Notes: A big part of updating boho for 2025 lies in your accessory choices. Thankfully, we've come a long way since the feathered earrings and knee-high gladiator sandals that were prolific the first time around. Instead, look for sleek options you can wear over pretty dresses. Suede belts, chains and charm jewellery are chic starting points.

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