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Below, I've rounded up eight chic Gap basics to wear in 2026. From the best white T-shirts to must-have slip skirts, Gap offers everything for a cool-girl starter wardrobe. Keep scrolling to find '90s-esque straight-leg jeans, kakhi trench coats (a staple with the French style set), a chic roll-neck sweater that would look good with a pair of jeans or a long skirt, and much, much more. Plus, I threw in some fabulous Gap new arrivals at the end.

Shop 8 Chic Gap Basics to Wear in 2026

1. Classic White T-shirt

2. Knee-Length Slip Skirt

3. Trench Coat

4. Straight-Leg Jean

5. Roll-Neck Sweater

6. Vegan Leather Jacket

7. Relaxed Wide-Leg Pants

8. White Button-Down

Shop the Best Gap New Arrivals

Ask any of my fellow editors or close friends, and they'll all agree that I can be picky with denim. It's a huge part of my wardrobe, relied upon at least five days a week when building my elegant outfits. Finding the perfect pair of jeans can feel as big a task as hunting down the latest It buy, but with time and expertise on my side, I make a concerted effort to hunt out the very best pairs, and make adding a great pair of jeans to your wardrobe that much easier. And the Cynthia jeans have just joined my all-time favourites list.

I don't think I'm alone in my trials and tribulations with denim shopping. Many of us have settled for almost perfect pairs: a great cut but not the best fit, a good fit but not the best denim quality. Often, that means our wardrobes have a selection of similar styles that each separately cover all the great denim bases, but this pair brings them all together.

The Cynthia jeans are a classic straight leg cut, an enduring shape in any capsule wardrobe, and one we're seeing stylish people lean more on for 2026 (just look to the rise of the stovepipe jean). Flowing straight from the top of the leg to the hem, this enduring cut is one you'll rely on time and time again, and has an innately polished appeal. Fit is incredibly important with jeans. Whether we're pairing them with a flowing top or tucking in a satin camisole, we want the jeans to hug in all the right places, and this pair certainly does. I tried on my regular size, and they fit just right.

Normally, I like a little stretch with my denim, but this rigid pair surprised me with its comfort and lightweight denim. The style is made from 57% Regeneratively Grown Cotton and 43% TENCEL Lyocell, and is made from Good Earth Cotton, which is the first climate-positive farm in Australia. This pair also comes in three lengths: short, standard and long, to suit various heights. I'm 5'2" for reference, and found the standard style a good length for me, but I also got my hands on the short version for reference below.

Shop the Reformation Cynthia High Rise Straight Jeans

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What Are the Valentino Rockstuds?

First introduced as part of Valentino’s autumn/winter 2010 runway collection by then-co-creative directors Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli, the Rockstud heels and flats are defined by slender straps and neat rows of square metal studs that trace across the shoes, whilst the corresponding bags feature studing along the border. Capturing the 2010’s indie sleaze mood while also nodding to the growing boho influence that was beginning to take hold, their launch was followed by instant commercial success.

Almost immediately, Valentino's Rockstuds filtered into the wardrobes of the street style crowd, editors and celebrities, becoming one of the most recognisable accessories of the early 2010s. Their appeal was easy to understand: the stud detailing lent a subtle toughness that offset their femininity. Few shoes managed to feel quite so of-the-moment—or quite so omnipresent. Worn by a variety of celebrities, from Alexa Chung to Jennifer Lopez, they quickly became the go-to 'going out' heel of choice.

Model wears Valentino Rockstud heels on the Valentino autumn/winter 2010 runway.

Why Are Valentino Rockstuds Making a Comeback?

Of course, when a trend reaches peak saturation, backlash is inevitable. By the late 2010s and early 2020s, Rockstuds had slipped from favour, weighed down by overexposure and changing tastes. As minimalism, quiet luxury and logo aversion took centre stage, the high-impact studded heel all but disappeared from the style set’s rotation. But fashion has a long memory, and an even longer appetite for nostalgia (hello again, 2016). As we’ve seen time and again, the trends that fall hardest often return with the most force. Which brings us to 2025.

All was ticking along quietly until The Devil Wears Prada 2 trailer dropped. Striding through the halls of Runway Magazine was the iconic shoes and those shoes alone—immediately reigniting the conversation. What's more, with the strong nostalgia in style that has seeking influence from Y2K, we're preparing for an era of wearing high heels in even every day situations to return.

Miranda Priestly walks down the halls of Runway Magazine wearing Valentino Rockstud heels in The Devil Wears Prada 2 trailer.

Dakota Johnson wears Valentino Rockstud heels to the Valentino autumn/winter 2026 runway show.

Are Valentino Rockstuds Still in Fashion?

While there’s no denying these shoes spent years out of favour, the signs of their return are hard to ignore. Fashion has spent the past few seasons enthusiastically resurrecting silhouettes once considered passé, and Rockstuds align well with what’s coming next. Between the toe-baring shape, stud detailing and T-bar straps, they already tick off several key trends forecast for 2026.

Anticipating their revival, Valentino introduced Rockstud designs into their Pre-Fall 2026 collection, leaning into fashion's penchant for a nostalgic shoe. Meanwhile, the death of Valentino Garavani earlier this month makes the synonymous shoe feel relevant all over again.

Valentino's Rockstud heels are a defining part of the brand's pre-fall 2026 collection.

For those drawn to the originals, the resale market is the obvious starting point. Platforms like Hardley Ever Worn It and Vestiaire Collective are rich hunting grounds for early-2010s Rockstud sandals and pumps, whilst Valentino Garavani’s current collections offer updated interpretations of the classic design. These newer versions feel sleeker and more refined, but still honour the studded DNA that made the originals so iconic. Whether you’re investing in an archival pair or opting for a modern update, Rockstuds feel poised to reclaim their place in the spotlight.

Alexa Chung wears Valentino Rockstud flats in 2010.

So, are Valentino Rockstuds officially back? In a season shaped by nostalgia, legacy and reassessment, it certainly looks that way. Read on to discover the Valentino Rockstud shoes and bags to shop right now.

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That said, even my coolest friends; the ones whose outfits always look effortlessly right, aren’t dressing exclusively in vintage. More often than not, there’s a Zara piece quietly anchoring the look. Not the obvious, trend-led items, but the elevated staples that blend seamlessly into a well-crafted wardrobe and hold their own alongside worn-in denim, and perfectly broken-in leather. Whether it's a great bomber jacket, the perfect pair of Zara jeans or a great knit there are countless of gems waiting to be found.

Below, I’ve rounded up the Zara pieces currently sitting in the baskets of my London friends; understated, expensive-looking staples that tap into that cool aesthetic, without trying too hard. Keep scrolling to shop.

Shop Cool London Zara Finds

So what has landed on the short list of key buys for 2026? Ahead, I’m breaking down the most-wanted pieces to invest in, including everything from the unexpected sweater that is already selling out to the designer accessories everyone wants in their closet. See the best new-season shopping ahead.

The Row’s shoe collection is in a league of its own, prioritizing high-quality materials and clean, streamlined silhouettes highly favored by Hollywood's elite. One look at Hailey Bieber's street style, and you'll spot the brand's iconic Hudson Suede Mules to the dainty Leather Ballet Flats. BFF Kendall Jenner is just as obsessed, reaching for The Row's Stella Flats, while Elizabeth Olsen is equally sold on the chunky Zippered Boots—and honestly, same. Better yet, these aren't one-off style moments; The Row has a firm grip on the celebrity closet, cultivating a slew of devoted brand loyalists.

Fueled by A-lister hype and impressively good construction, the shoes often sell out as soon as they drop. Fortunately, many of today's most popular brands take inspiration from the label, providing an accessible way to experience the allure of enduring, sophisticated style.

While nothing can hold a candle to the original, the shoes that capture the The Row vibe below certainly earn you some fashion cred—and prove you're in-the-know when it comes to chic footwear.

Stella Flats

The Stella Leather Slippers are the cool girl of flats, boasting a minimalist design that exudes luxury. With soft Italian leather and a flexible sole, it's no wonder why It girls like Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner flock to the silhoutte.

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Canal Loafers

Loafers are already low-maintenance, but the Canal Loafers take effortless to a whole new level. Raised stitching on the vamp adds a striking touch, while the flat sole makes a strong case for skipping chunkier styles.

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Ballet Flats

Soft nappa leather and a top elastic strap turn this wardrobe staple into a coveted indulgence that everyone turns to look at. Put simply, quiet luxury never spoke so loud.

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Hudson Slides

Whether lounging at home or grabbing a quick coffee, the Hudson Slides keep you effortlessly stylish. A soft rounded toe and understated design prove you can be chic even while staying comfortable.

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Stella Booties

Strip down a boot to the bare necessities, and you get the Stella Bootie. Supple leather, a flat sole, and almond toe complement your favorite denim to your dressiest maxi skirt.

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Soft Loafers

Elegant and refined, the Soft Loafers feature intricate pleated detailing. The subtle texture adds visual interest, elevating the entire look.

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Nobilis Riding Boots

Classic and timeless, the Nobilis Riding Boots offer a clean silhouette with polished edges. The flat, low heel ensures wearability, while the versatile design pairs well with jeans, trousers, and even dresses.

Of all the captivating pointy slingbacks that Anthony Vaccarello designed to strut down the Saint Laurent AW25 runway, locking in a shoe trend that has trickled down to the streets since, the Jeanne stood out a mile. Considered an evolution of the refined Lee style, the shoe features a metal cap embossed with the famed Cassandre monogram at the end of each elongated glossy black square toe. Note the ultra-skinny heel, in stark contrast to the objectively more comfortable wedge, which is growing in popularity. And, of course, the sleek supportive strap that curves around the heel from the square-cut vamp makes this timeless style feel distinctively modern.

Every time I scroll on social media these days, I see at least one influencer or fashion insider wearing them (or some kind of dupe). From Grece Ghanem in Paris to Laura Jade Stone who splits her time between Australia and Europe, it’s been a while since one specific heel style has captured hearts and wallets so definitively.

Slipping on the Saint Laurent Jeanne slingback pumps to add a spring to your step is a no-brainer, as the uninterrupted allure endures and the extreme elegance is cross-generational. These investment heels rise to 9cm and 11cm for those seeking added height in a way that’s still walkable for them, while the metallic toes can amplify jewellery and make-up in similar tones beautifully.

Over sheer tights, these Jeanne slingbacks feel decidedly ’80s, the final touch when power dressing in a strong-shouldered suit or sharp pencil skirt, although the shoe shape first came into view on the feet of ’40s pin-ups. That flirty frisson evolved into full-blown sex appeal when Sharon Stone as Catherine Tramell in Basic Instinct (1994) and other cinematic bombshells rocked them on the big screen. The closed toe does indeed hide the front of a stellar pedicure but the soft and smooth back of a bare heel can always be showcased.

Pictures don’t fully do the exquisite craftspersonship of the Saint Laurent Jeanne slingback pumps justice, and as the pendulum swings back towards more explicit logomania again, these sophisticated heels are an understated first step. Demure with a twist at the front, and sexy behind with recognisable proportions, I’ve most commonly observed how dramatically these versatile slingbacks can elevate blue jeans, and they’re available with shimmering gold or silver toe caps.

Scroll down to shop both colourways, plus our edit of the best Saint Laurent slingback heels.

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Are you ready to save some cash on a range of stunning designer markdowns from Nordstrom? In the curation ahead, you can expect a range of hugely discounted accessories like Celine sunglasses, Lanvin flats, a Mansur Gavriel bag, and more. Keep scrolling to uncover the best designer pieces on sale at Nordstrom today.

While I live by quality over quantity, I still shop on a budget. Shopping on a budget doesn't mean you can't find high-quality pieces for an affordable price. Trust me. Finding expensive-looking items for less is my favorite pastime. Brands such as Zara, Nordstrom, and Mango are reliable options for clothing that will make you feel elevated without breaking the bank.

If you're on the hunt for a new-year refresh in your wardrobe, keep scrolling to shop my fashion wish list for 2026.

If dressing rich is your thing, then you've come to the right place today. I've spent some time combing through three of my favorite stylish and affordable(ish) retailers—Zara, Aritzia, and Reformation—to bring you some seriously chic shopping picks that make you look like you travel first class. These are excellent pieces if you're looking to update your wardrobe for 2026, many of which lean into this season's biggest trends. Keep scrolling to see the pieces that are sure to pique your interest.

Zara

Reformation

Aritzia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The 9 Best Long-Sleeved Tops for Women

Best Crew Neck Long-Sleeved Top

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

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

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Best Boat-Neck Long-Sleeved Top

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

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

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

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Best Ribbed Long-Sleeved Top

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

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

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Best V-Neck Long-Sleeved Top

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

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

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Best Turtleneck Long-Sleeved Top

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

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

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Best Button-Up Long-Sleeved Top

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

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

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Best Three-Quarter Length Long-Sleeved Top

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

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Best Going-Out Long-Sleeved Top

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

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

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Best Sheer Long-Sleeved Top

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

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

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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.

Choosing the right shoes is imperative, as they're capable of making or breaking your entire look. With denim, the stakes are even higher, since the wrong footwear can disrupt proportions (think chunky sneakers with cigarette jeans—it just doesn't work). That said, if done correctly, shoes anchor the look and flatter the silhouette.

Zara gets it, offering a surplus of slim, chunky, and sleek designs that complement this year's favorite bottoms. To keep things simple, I'm breaking it all down by category, spilling the denim outfit shoe ideas that have stolen my attention.

Ahead, shop the best Zara shoes to wear with jeans—loafers, heels, and boots included.

Stovepipe

Shop Shoes to Wear With Stovepipe Jeans

Cigarette

Shop Shoes to Wear With Cigarette Jeans

Bootcut

Shop Shoes to Wear With Bootcut Jeans

PS: I included the outfit ideas at the top of the story since they have similar styles, so make sure to use the looks as inspiration on how to wear your favorites.

Shop Chic Arezzo Shoes at Nordstrom

If your personal style is centred around themes of elegance and polish, then you may be surprised to know that the high street has an array of expensive-looking buys ready to be found. Unearthing them through the mass of new-in buys requires a certain amount of time and patience. I’ve hunted through a series of fresh buys, focusing solely on the pieces that have a particular refined feel. It can be found in the cut of a neckline, the drape of a trouser, or the finer pleating on a versatile skirt. These little details are the ones that have serious luxury appeal, even when the price tag is much more affordable.

To lean into the mood of elegance this year, I’ve handpicked a selection of outerwear from the staple coat to see you through the consistently cool days, to lighter jackets that just require a little layering to see you into spring. Of course, hero buys like tailored trousers and striking jeans find themselves within this curated edit, along with a mix of cosy knits and refined tops. One simple edition can breathe new life into longstanding looks, or a selection of pieces can be mixed and matched for a renewed capsule wardrobe with serious designer appeal. Nine pieces in particular have made their way onto my wish list, but I couldn’t help but find a few more standout buys that won’t be around when February arrives.

Shop the Most Elegant Buys At Zara and H&M Right Now

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Relatively new to the scene, the Stockholm-based brand has built a loyal following for its premium, quiet luxury mid-range accessories. First came the shoes—namely ballet flats and loafers—which rose to cult status thanks to their understated polish and day-to-day wearability. From there, it was only a matter of time before Flattered expanded into handbags, applying that same inimitable Scandi sensibility: buttery-soft leather, subtle branding, and a design approach that feels modern but never trend-chasing.

The bag I keep seeing seep into my feed? The Lydia Tote. The appeal is immediate, but not in an attention-grabbing way. It's clean, structured, and elevated, with the sort of minimal detailing that quietly signals good taste, and has that rare ability to feel both fashion-person approved and genuinely practical, which, frankly, is a hard balance to strike.

What makes it stand out is its simplicity. The silhouette is sleek and streamlined, the leather looks plush and expensive, and the lack of overt logos means it works with everything, from tailored trousers, jeans and a blazer, knitwear, even a slip dress and boots. In other words: it’s exactly the kind of bag that slips into your wardrobe and instantly makes your outfits look more pulled together, without you having to think too hard.

Consider this your sign: if you’ve been looking for a tote that feels 2026, not 2016, the Lydia Tote is one to watch.

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The runways, celebrity looks, street style scene, and outfits on my social media feeds are already indicating how sneaker trends are beginning to shift this year. Some are purely fashion pieces, often styled for low-key weekend looks. Some are worn almost exclusively for workout purposes, including the technical running sneakers that are taking over. Others take a hybrid approach, fusing fashion and function. Ahead, see the key sneaker trends to know for 2025.

Air Sneakers

It’s still early days in 2026, but we already know a major shoe trend that will dominate this year: air sneakers. The shoes are defined by their light-as-air design with a slim silhouette and barely there soles. While sneaker trends don’t always emanate from the runways, we saw a strong presence of them on the spring/summer 2026 runways at brands including Celine, Prada, Dries Van Noten, and Fendi.

Gone Retro

Sneakers with throwback silhouettes and designs are a fixture of the fashion set yet again. Whether it's reissues of decades-old styles or new-in shoes inspired by the original designs, we'll be seeing even more retro sneakers in 2026.

Sleek and White

On the runways, designers including Celine and Polo Ralph Lauren leaned into sleek, white sneakers. They made a strong case for the clean and simple designs—an essential shoe to add into rotation in the year ahead.

Punchy Colors

Sneakers in high-impact colors were abundant on the recent runways in the collections of brands including Dries Van Noten and Lacoste. Expect to see vibrant shades, including cobalt, Kelly green, and canary yellow.

Soft Suede

Another carryover from previous seasons? Sneakers finished in soft suede. The material feels elevated and intentional, ushering sneakers into a more grown-up domain.

However, it is possible to take a step back and take stock of the classics, choosing to only invest in items which will serve you better in the long run. As someone who takes pride in curating a tightly edited capsule wardrobe, I find myself in this camp. Don't get me wrong, I still love checking out the latest in runway and street style trends, and I do like to dip my toe into some which I feel will modernise my looks authentically and slip into my closet with a natural ease. For 2026, pieces which feel decidedly anti-trend are where it's at for me, and I am doubling down on this sentiment this coming season.

From do-it-all coats to timeless knitwear, sleek tailoring, shirting and elegant jeans, I've formulated a chic and succinct wish list of 5 items I know will still be stylish in 2026 and beyond. Read on for my style file on the anti-trend pieces to know now, and where to get your hands on them.

The 5 Anti-Trend Items I Am Backing In 2026:

1. Waisted Blazers

Style Notes: Add a tailored touch to your look, for day or night, with a blazer that features a nipped-in silhouette. A waisted blazer is such a wardrobe workhorse and can be paired with simple black trousers, corduroys or even jeans to give an elegant, grown-up and sophisticated air to your look. Add loafers or kitten-heeled sling-backs plus a smart, leather shoulder bag to take the executive realness up a notch.

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2. V-Neck Knitwear

Style Notes: Arguably, this knitwear still is "trending" right now, but for good reason, and I predict it will stay popular for classic dressers for seasons to come. The V-neck jumper taps into the penchant for vintage-feel pieces and smart staples. The crew neck sweater will always reign supreme, but there's just something about a V-neck that just feels a little fresher for 2026. Whether you drape it over a white-t-shirt is up to you, but just know it will partner with classic jeans or tailored trousers expertly.

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4. Car Coats

Style Notes: As we move away from the grip of winter into the delightfully bright days of spring, I predict a step change in our choice of outerwear. Some classic dressers will remain faithful to the humble trench coat, but I forecast a new swathe of minimalists reaching for car coats. Paired back in design, but still long in length and with a sharp, pointed collar, the car coat drapes over office looks and weekend attire just so fluidly, and has a great swish factor. Whether you pick a felted wool or a coated cotton iteration, either will add an air of elegance to your outerwear arsenal.

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5. Checked Shirts

Style Notes: I've seen an uptick of favourability in this item in fashion's innermost circles, and stylish influencers are finding new and exciting ways to wear it for 2026. The item in question is the checked shirt, and this year it's coming to the fore in blurred plaids, heritage-feel tartans and gingham-esque patterns. Less country bumpkin, and more off-duty model, the checked shirt is not only being worn on the body, of course, but around waists, layered with knitwear, and even tied across the shoulders, adding a softly textured detail to an otherwise simple look. Take cues from Monikh, who wears her checked shirt with similar cool blue-toned items and biscuit-hued car coat. Simple, but effective.

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5. Wide-Leg Jeans

Style Notes: Jeans trends are seemingly changing by the minute these days, with cuts such as stove-pipe, barrel-leg, cigarette, flared and baggy coming in and out of fashion dizzyingly quick. One trend which I know is due to stick around, not only now but for the foreseeable future, is the wide-leg jean. Proving to be super comfortable, easy to wear and apt for your off-duty ensembles, the wide-leg jean is an undisputed modern icon, particularly when in a classic shade of soft denim blue. Team yours with a simple white T-shirt, boat shoes and an Oxford shirt, just like Abisola Omole here, which is the ultimate spring look, if you ask me.

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At COS, the $45 Clean Cut T-Shirt doesn't reinvent the wheel, but I could see this becoming a reliable go-to if you're looking for a plain T-shirt. The Cropped-Sleeve Merino Wool Polo Shirt also stood out because I can't resist a slightly preppy polo. I love all of the merino wool pieces COS carries, including the Tailored Merino Wool-Blend Mini Dress. When I scrolled past the Chenille Mock-Neck Vest, I was reminded of the enduring power of a sleeveless mock-neck. I'm such a fan of these. Another favorite is the Curved A-Line Midi Skirt.

Over at Zara, I spotted Amelia Grey modeling the Short Polka Dot Tie Dress and the Short Batwing Sleeve Combination Dress. A few other standouts included the if-I-wore-orange Fine Knit Wool Jumper and the Asymmetric Midi Dress. Below, shop all of the finds that caught my eye.

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They hit that sweet spot between tailored and relaxed, giving the idea of skinnies without the commitment and discomfort. My fellow editors and I have been talking about them nonstop throughout the past few weeks, and now that my order has come in, I'm ready to actually style them. Bags, sweaters, and belts aside—the real magic, though, is in the shoes. With the right footwear, these jeans can swing polished, cool, or quietly elevated, which is exactly how I like my outfits to function. Below, find the five pairs of shoes I'd style with my cigarette jeans.

Kitten Heels

Kitten heels are my go-to when I want cigarette jeans to feel refined but not overly precious. They add just enough lift to balance the slim silhouette while still feeling walkable and unfussy.

Ballet Flats

This is the most effortless pairing, one I wear on repeat. Ballet flats keep the look classic and slightly French, especially when the jeans hit right at the ankle.

Wedge Pumps

If you want to look ahead of your time, wedge pumps are an underrated match for cigarette jeans. They give height and structure without tipping the outfit into office-only territory.

Almond-Toe Pumps

Almond-toe pumps soften the overall look while still feeling polished. This pairing works especially well when you want something timeless that doesn't feel trendy for the sake of it.

Pointed-Toe Boots

Pointed-toe boots instantly make any pair of jeans, especially cigarette jeans, feel sharper and more directional. I love how they elongate the leg and make even the simplest outfit feel styled.

Given the adoration of bags like the Sac de Jour and the Le 5 à 7, Saint Laurent has a history of creating luxury bags that hold their own in the greatest collections. The first Jamie bag was unveiled in 2018 under the watchful eye of creative director Anthony Vaccarello, a slouchy shape that perfectly contrasted the more structured offerings of the brand. Over the years, the Jamie collection has grown with updates and reinterpretations of the style, including the Jamie Shopping. It’s the kind of dependable tote that is roomy, elegant and is packed full of Saint Laurent heritage, bringing a luxurious edge to the everyday.

Spotted on a series of stylish people across the globe, the Jamie Shopping bag has just the right amount of ease and craftspersonship to be the perfect everyday companion. The softened leather and relaxed silhouette bring a sense of ease that suits day-to-day moments, from grabbing a quick coffee to strolling around the shops. With heritage at its core, you’ll notice references to Saint Laurent’s legacy, from the bold Cassandre ‘YSL’ hardware to the distinctive Carré Rive Gauche topstitching, and, for the more discerning luxury shopper, the Le Maillon-inspired chain.

If you’re ready to invest in a luxury bag, the Jamie Shopping has ease, form and luxury appeal embedded in every stitch. Whether you’re drawn to the oversized large or the minute mini, the buttery leather and supple form add an effortless ease with a distinct touch of sophistication. Scroll on to shop the Jamie Shopping bag and see more Saint Laurent bags we adore.

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Of course, I already ransacked the sale early this morning, and below I'm bringing you my edit of chic designer sale pieces that are 100% worthy of your wardrobe—and wallet. From elegant bags to sumptuous suede boots and staple jeans, my edit below encompasses styles, silhouettes, and brands that feel of-the-moment and fashion-forward. Keep scrolling to take a look.

Bags

Jeans

Shoes

Tops

Bottoms

Outerwear

Dresses

Accessories

Launched under Creative Director Mary Katrantzou, the new Icons Minaudière Collection embodies both heritage and innovation. In each of the bag designs, Katrantzou reimagined Bulgari’s five timeless symbols, Monete, Serpenti, Tubogas, Divas’ Dream, and Bulgari. “Each minaudière was conceived not simply to hold objects,” Katrantzou shares, “but to hold meaning, blending high craftsmanship with cultural storytelling.” Each of these symbols was linked with campaign stars Isabella Rossellini, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Linda Evangelista, Sumayya Vally, and Kim Ji-won, shot by Ethan James Green under the artistic direction of Ferdinando Verderi. Ahead, see more on Bulgari’s new Icons Minaudière Collection and campaign.

Bulgari Tubogas Minaudière

Bulgari Serpenti Minaudière

Bulgari Divas' Dream Minaudière

Bulgari Minaudière

Bulgari Monete Minaudière

If you're also looking to give your footwear rotation a 2026 update, then you've landed in the perfect place. For boots, you can expect a range of tall boot styles, ankle boots, leather boots, pointed-toe boot options, and much more. For sneakers, on-trend styles from popular brands like Adidas and Puma make an appearance. Lastly, I've uncovered such an impressive array of ballet flats and a handful of loafers worth buying ASAP. Keep scrolling to uncover your new favorite shoe finds.

Shop the Best Nordstrom Boots

Nordstrom has an impressive array of available boot styles with many key pieces currently marked down. For my curation, I focused on popular styles that have a timeless appeal. Think tall and ankle boot lengths in a range of black and brown leather and suede. Prices vary but start a little above $60.

Shop the Best Nordstrom Sneakers

It's no secret that we love a chic sneaker here at WWW. Nordstrom's sneaker options have grown tremendously over the years. Now you can expect to find popular styles like Adidas Sambas, Puma Speedcats, and New Balance 530 on site.

Shop the Best Nordstrom Flat Shoes

If you're like me, then you're more likely to reach for a chic pair of flats over heels every time. Well, I was so surprised at how many amazing flat shoes Nordstrom had to offer. Ballet flats and Mary Jane styles lead the charge here, but you can expect a few stunning loafer finds ahead.