I must begin by being honest: I am not about to declare gold a new colour trend. Whether sported as a pair of sizeable hoops or party heels that refuse to submit to background noise, in previous years, anything dipped in gold was considered a flex of status. But—and here's the thing—gold isn’t one note; there's a whole spectrum. On one side, you have the glossy, high-shine version embodied by the likes of Jennifer Lopez, and on the other, you have a softer, slightly tarnished tone. After years of attention-seeking shine, it's the matte gold trend that I’m dissecting now.

Think unapologetically loud, golden looks that captured the hearts of the fashion set and the full attention of the paparazzi back in the noughties, and lest we forget the holy trifecta of 2000s R&B: Beyoncé, Rihanna and Mariah Carey, who cycled through matte-gold ensembles like a uniform of dominance. This particular tone of gold is slightly trashy (in all the best ways); its brash, delicious excessiveness drew the eye and commanded the room, and in 2026, it's loudly making itself known once again.

Whether reimagined as the hottest pick of Fendi’s re-released Baguette or on the autumn/winter 2026 runways of Maison Margiela, Akris and Givenchy, the shade carries a tongue-in-cheek, "Stars Are Blind" energy (you know what I'm talking about). It's nostalgic but not overdone, brimming with the "problem child", pop-culture-crazed essence of the 2000s, all in one statement colour. After a summer filled with vibrant, zesty shades of aqua, red and purple, matte gold's slightly faded-glamour, rock-and-roll feel is exactly what Gen Z’s coolest dressers are looking for.

Whether worked into the silhouette of the season (a sweeping velvet duster) or dialled back into a pair of strappy sandals, the message is the same: matte gold has re-contextualised itself, and in 2026, it might just be one of the hottest colours to wear.

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If there's one thing team Who What Wear loves, it's dissecting new trends. A new fashion season is like an endless Christmas morning, and this year, there's a plethora of fashionable gifts for us all. Yes, we love classic pieces, and believe that investing in timeless staples is the key to a successful wardrobe, but trends are what keep fashion fun. Plus, thanks to the constant rotation of nostalgic style revivals, trends you love now will inevitably come back into fashion some time soon.

Given that February is Fashion Month, and that the shift into spring is finally approaching, calculating the season's top trends is very much front of mind. There's the (very welcome) flat footwear revolution, which sees loafers, ballet flats and Mary Janes at the top of shoe wish lists, as well as the revived interest in effortless elegance, whether that's via relaxed tailoring or double denim—yes, it really can look polished. To help you figure out which new looks you want to embrace this year, I've asked our editors to share which trends have caught their eye, as well as a few picks of the best pieces to execute them.

1. Double Denim

Style Notes: "Maybe it's the Britney and Justin effect from 2001, but recently I can't seem to shake double denim. I'm particularly loving a wide straight leg for my jeans, then an oversized shacket—I actually have two sets from Aligne and Whistles which I've been wearing on repeat and styling them with a bandana around the neck. People often think of denim as being the epitome of casual, but I think when layered together, with a heeled boot instead of a sneaker, it actually feels elevated and effortless." — Rebecca Rhys Evans, Branded Content Editor

2. Mary-Janes

Style Notes: "I'll be honest, I've never really been a flat-shoe kind of person. Yes, I live in sandals come summer, but for the majority of the year you'll find me in a heeled boot, whether that's an ankle or knee-high style. However this year I really wanted to add a flat to my shoe capsule wardrobe, and I was on the hunt for a pair I could wear with mini dresses, skirts and tights, and jeans, too. Enter the Mary Jane! I've always loved French style, so this Parisian-inspired shoe felt like the perfect addition to my arsenal. I opted for a Zara pair, but I also have my eye on a brightly-coloured Vibi Venezia style, too." - Poppy Nash, Managing Editor

3. Pedal Pushers

Style Notes: "I can almost hear the collective groan of every millennial reading this but, capri trousers are officially back. For the newbies, calf-skimming pedal pushers are a particularly controversial trend as they trigger unavoidable memories of childhood, but for those who dont immediately think of butterfly hair clips, platform trainers and halterneck tops when they see a three-quarter trouser, they're actually a very chic spring/summer option. On the days when a heavy, wide-legged trouser or pair of jeans just won't do, pair a capri trouser with an oversized shirt and kitten heel mules, and I promise you, you're guaranteed to get compliments." - Remy Farrell, Fashion Editor

4. Colourful Accents

Style Notes: "As much as I love a neutral palette, the recent grey days have left me craving a bit of colour. And thankfully, the fashion gods have granted my wish. Almost everywhere I look, fashion insiders are accenting their looks with bold, playful shades. In particular, primary shades or red, blue and yellow have caught my eye, and are easy enough to integrate into our capsule wardrobes by way of accessories." - Florrie Alexander, Acting Affiliates Editor

5. Hourglass Blazer

Style Notes: "Having endured a winter spent in too many layers, I'm excited to pare back my spring wardrobe and focus on some key silhouettes this season. Newly inspired by the chic hourglass blazers I've been spotting across Fashion Weeks I'm leaning in on this elevated trend to do all of the hard work for me. Styling so well with jeans, long tailored skirts and wide-leg trousers, hourglass blazers are my new-season trick for enhancing the elegance in any outfit." - Natalie Munro, News Writer

6. Metallic Moments

Style Notes: As for me, I'm determined to liven up my typically black-and-white outfit rotation this spring. I also have a lot of weddings and big birthday celebrations on the horizon, so am looking to invest in pieces that can stretch from day to evening. I think the answer to this sartorial search is: metallics. From Miu Miu to Rabanne, the SS24 runways saw a mix of high-shine designs going down the runway, and whether I want to brave a statement silver outfit or just add a pop with an accessory, there's plenty to choose from.

7. Corporate-core

Style Notes: "Grab your Boss briefcase and your sharp Bottega Veneta shoulder pads—it's time to go to work! Dressing for business was big news on the spring/summer 2024 runway with designers exploring a very particular type of uniform—that of a stylish corporate stockbroker living the high-flying dream in '90s NYC. Specific, yes, but I find the best fashion always is. From structural suiting to button-up shirts, social media too has turned very Working Girl of late, and I'm not mad about it. For me, the trend is encapsulated in the long pencil skirt which we're seeing so much of on the market—wear with slingbacks, a blazer (with nothing underneath) and accessorise with a print out of your recent investment portfolio." - Maxine Eggenberger, Deputy Editpr

No one does date night like George and Amal Clooney—period. Last week, the couple, who've been married since 2014 and spotted together more than usual thanks to George's press tour for his movie About The Boys in the Boat, were seen leaving Polo Bar in New York City after a dinner date at the Manhattan hot spot. And as they always do, the duo appeared the epitome of style and elegance. 

For the occasion, George pulled a George by wearing the same casual jeans-and-chore jacket look that he wore earlier in the day to the NYC premiere of the film, whereas Amal turned things up a few hundred notches, opting for a festive feather minidress, a tuxedo-style blazer embellished with fringe, and the very right-now shoe trend that *everyone* should own: metallic heels. Specifically, she chose a pair of shiny, gold stilettos. 

They might not seem like it, but metallic shoes are surprisingly versatile. Not only can they be styled à la Amal for a night out, but when paired with a minidress and blazer, they can just as easily be dressed down with jeans and a white tee (maybe that same blazer too). No matter what they're styled with, these shoes become the focal point, making them a perfect finishing touch to any outfit. 

Scroll down to see George and Amal's winter date-night looks and shop the shoe trend that just got the latter's official stamp of approval. 

WHO: George and Amal Clooney

Shop the Metallic-Shoe Trend

You may have noticed your Insta feed looking a little sparklier than usual this season. That's because metallics and sequins are one of the biggest trends of the summer (yes, summer!). This season, we're seeing plenty of fresh, cool, and casual takes on the shimmery style, proving that a little sparkle can, in fact, be worn year round.

Shimmery fabrics were all over the spring/summer 2023 runways—with many looks leaning into the mermaidcore aesthetic that is dominating this season. The key is to style your glistening pieces with the right casual pieces to make them perfect for everyday wear. For example, opt for a shimmery sheer dress on top of your bikini for a poolside look that screams summer 2023. For a more subtle take on the trend, accent your outfit with a pair of silver or gold shoes or a sparkly handbag.

Wearing metallics and sequins in your everyday outfits is a great way to show flair and personality, so take a peek below and get inspired by how fashion people are low-key styling their shimmering pieces this summer.

Shimmering Dress Over Bikini

Take the trend to the beach or poolside by wearing a gold sheer dress over your bikini or one-piece. It's an unexpectedly fresh and very 2023 way to wear metallics this season.

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Sparkly Shoes With Denim

One of the easiest ways to integrate a little glitz into your outfit this summer is with a sparkly pair of shoes. Whether you go for rhinestone-embellished flats (Alaïa's ballet flats are a favourite among the fashion set right now) or shiny silver slingbacks, the coolest way to wear them is with denim. A white or blue straight-leg pair is the perfect way to show them off. Keep the rest of your look casual with elevated basics such as a tank and button-down.

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Glistening Miniskirt With Oversize Button-Down

Give a shimmering miniskirt a casual touch by pairing it with a relaxed white button-down or a white tank top. Add easy slides or sleek wedges to finish the look.

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Metallic Handbag With Summer Basics

Another simple and stylish way to add the trend to your outfit is with a shiny metallic handbag—a chic finishing touch to all your summer looks.

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Shimmery Trousers With a Tank Or Tee

For a statement look, opt for an Insta-worthy pair of sequin or metallic pants. Keep the rest of your look casual and style them with a basic T-shirt or tank top and neutral slides. 

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Sequin Top With Denim Skirt or Jean Shorts

Give your sequin top a laid-back look by pairing it with a denim skirt or jean shorts—a fun and fashion-forward look that works for day or night.

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This story originally appeared on Who What Wear U.S. 

Next Up: Suddenly, Fashion Insiders Are Wearing "Capri Sandals" Instead of Other Sandals

It's a well-known fact that the right accessory can make an outfit, so as fashion lovers and avid jewellery wearers, we at Who What Wear consider ourselves experts in all that glitters. It would almost be impossible for us to discuss the latest trends and looks without including jewellery in some way, shape or form, and while there's always room for investment buys—the classic pieces that stand the test of time—we can't help but get excited about the next big thing, aka an accessory trend so good that we sit up and take notice. Judging by the autumn 2022 runways and burgeoning street style trends, one jewellery look, in particular, keeps cropping up.

Silver jewellery has officially made a comeback, and we're happy to say it's here to stay. Where we once might have reached for a gold hoop for everyday wear or stacked gold-toned rings to make a statement, we now see cool, minimalistic silver regaining its popularity as the ultimate style choice. A punk, rock 'n' roll spirit stormed this season's runways, with models wearing plenty of studs, cuffs and chains in heavy-duty metals, often with an ultra-cute twist. (Think leather jackets and drop earrings.)

One brand getting the contemporary, high-low jewellery mix right is THOMAS SABO. From elegant tennis bracelets to unexpected combinations like pearls and chains, the jeweller's latest Rise & Shine collection is a mix of pieces perfect for dressing up, adding edge and elevating anything from an evening gown to a white T-shirt and jeans.

Best of all, you can expect top quality for your money as each piece is elegantly crafted from 925 sterling silver and embellished with hand-cut and hand-set stones. The result is unforgettable, eye-catching pieces that you'll want to wear forever.

So keep scrolling to see our favourite pieces from the new collection, all of which you'll want to add to your jewellery box immediately.

Shop Our Favorites From the Collection

Up Next: The 6 Jewellery Trends That Matter This Autumn

If there's yet another reason for us to love following fashion bloggers, it's that they further confirm the old fashion-girl adage, "A girl can never have too many shoes." If you need proof of this, allow us to direct you to exhibit A: our favourite bloggers' Instagram feeds. Here, we've compiled the abridged version of your Instagram feed: the shoe edition. This means you can avoid another photo of your housemate's lunch and discover your new favourite shoe staple instead. Today is going to be a good day. Keep reading to shop the shoe styles bloggers can't stop posting about.

This style combines two of our favourite trends (oxfords and platforms) into one perfect statement shoe. 

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Related: 7 Fresh Outfit Ideas That Will Kick You Out of Your Summer Rut

Espadrilles have frequently appeared in the spotlight recently, and we can see why: They're cute and they go with all our favourite summer outfits.

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Related: This Is How Fashion Editors Always Find the Best of the Sales

Pointed flats are great for giving a modern edge to an outfit. Serving suggestion: Wear them with your summer dress to give it a new twist.

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Related: Revealed: Everything You Need for Your Summer Wardrobe

Loafer slides look polished and professional while simultaneously offering the comfort of your favourite slippers. Win, win.

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Related: Dress and Loafers: Meet Your New Favourite Summer Office Outfit

These Gucci loafers are a blogger favourite, and they have proven their ability to make a fluid transition from season to season.

Shop Mid-Heel Loafers