Women in Milan and Paris demonstrated that these six items will consistently enhance your appearance.
During fashion month, we previewed the major trends anticipated for spring 2026, along with insights into how street style is evolving and the essential items of the season. Milan and Paris consistently showcase a blend of refined aesthetics and cutting-edge designs, and this season was no different. Attendees at the S/S 26 shows set the stage for future styles and highlighted key methods to achieve a polished and sophisticated look. Notable items included sleek column skirts and half-zip knits, complemented by classic accessories like leather ballerina flats and wayfarer sunglasses. The year 2025 has been characterized by elegance, and there were plenty of examples of this during fashion month. Below are the standout street style looks from Milan and Paris that embraced refined fashion, along with key pieces to incorporate into your wardrobe.
1. Column Skirts
Style Notes: Following the 'office siren' trend observed earlier this year, column skirts are currently in high demand. Sleek, polished, and versatile, this longer, more form-fitting style was prevalent throughout spring/summer 2026 fashion month, both on the runways and in street scenes. To keep it modern, pair with relaxed knits and easy kitten heels in neutral tones for a chic, effortless look.
Shop the Staple:
- THE FRANKIE SHOP Alrose Pencil Woven Midi Skirt
2. Half-Zip Knitwear
Style Notes: The standout outerwear trend from last season was the funnel-neck jacket, and now fashion enthusiasts are mirroring this sleek style in their knitwear. The half-zip sweater represents a softer take on the funnel shape, allowing for versatility in styling—wear it fully zipped or halfway for a collared effect.
Shop the Staple:
- Polo Ralph Lauren Cable Knit Cotton Quarter Zip Jumper (the black option pairs well with everything).
- H&M Rib-Knit Zip-Top Jumper (this cream shade will brighten your winter wardrobe).
- Reiss Interlock Half-Zip Drawcord Sweatshirt (I would style mine just like this).
3. Dark Denim
Style Notes: As winter approaches, I tend to swap my light-wash jeans for deeper indigo and black shades, a trend that fashion enthusiasts show can exude elegance. These darker washes not only lend themselves to more formal occasions but resemble tailored black trousers, making them suitable for office wear as well.
Shop the Staple:
- AGOLDE Luna Pieced High-Waist Tapered Jeans (Agolde's denim never disappoints).
- KHAITE Bonnie Straight-Leg Jeans (a worthwhile investment to have for many years).
- ZARA Trf Extra Wide-Leg High-Waist Jeans.
4. Cardigan
Style Notes: To make your cardigans feel contemporary for 2026, take inspiration from stylish individuals and wear them as tops with trousers, skirts, or jeans. Choose neutral shades that appear sophisticated and will remain timeless in your closet.
Shop the Staple:
- Boden Eva Cashmere Crew Cardigan (this color is incredibly versatile).
- &DAUGHTER Ada Wool Cardigan (absolutely love this entire ensemble).
- Whistles Wool Mix Crew Cardigan (I nearly mistook this for a designer piece).
5. Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Ballet flats are a perennial trend, seamlessly transitioning from day to night. Their neat appearance and comfort make them a versatile choice that can soften more edgy styles.
Shop the Staple:
- COS Leather Ballerina Flats (they will match everything in your wardrobe).
- Le Monde Béryl Luna Slipper / Rouge Leather (chocolate suede? Yes, please!).
6. Sleek Sunglasses
Style Notes: There’s no outfit that can't be enhanced by a stylish pair of sunglasses. They offer an 'off-duty' model aesthetic and represent a wise investment that remains useful regardless of the season.
Shop the Staple:
- CELINE EYEWEAR Triomphe Oversized Round-Frame Acetate Sunglasses.
- Prada Eyewear Collection Sunglasses (metal-frame styles are currently trending).
- Gucci Butterfly Frame Sunglasses (the logo is highly recognizable).
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