I May Not Reside in Capri, but My Style Suggests Otherwise—The Catwalks Forecast a Dolce Vita Summer for 2026.
Although I am crafting this on a dreary, spring day in West London, I'm entirely fixated on a summer spent in the Mediterranean. No, I haven't secured a vacation just yet, but every indication suggests that this year is shaping up to be all about a Riviera summer. Allow me to paint the picture: azure seas, salty breezes, cobblestone lanes, and café terraces—all quintessential elements along the stunning coast between southeastern France and northwestern Italy. Not only is this setting visually captivating, but it’s also inspiring a rising fashion trend.
Drawing inspiration from the leisurely, romantic lifestyle of the 1950s and 1960s, both designers and street-style icons are embracing the allure of a Riviera summer. Envision prints, vibrant colors, tailored silhouettes, swimsuits, and sarongs replacing string bikinis—and, dare I say, kitten heels taking precedence over flip-flops. In essence, if it looks fitting for a ride on a Vespa or lounging on a yacht accompanied by cat-eye sunglasses, it matches the desired vibe perfectly. Take the spring/summer 2026 runways, for instance. At Jacquemus, models sported their hair styled back with headscarves, teaming leggings with ankle-tied footwear, while Pucci featured white shirts with flipped collars tucked into pencil skirts, showcasing their iconic vibrant prints from head to toe and complemented by matching mini bags. Following last summer’s relaxed trend of pajama pants and boyfriend shirts, 2026 is reigniting the art of sophisticated dressing with flair.
**Riviera Summer on the Runway**
Models displayed cotton headscarves and a fresh color palette on the Jacquemus S/S 26 runway.
At Chloé, Chemena Kamali combined lively retro florals with sleek leggings and white footwear for the spring/summer collection.
Pucci's S/S 26 show was set against a Sicilian backdrop, ideal for highlighting a traditionally feminine collection of crisp shirts, midi skirts, and fluid silk fabrics. While the look has slightly transformed since kaftans and turbans reigned supreme, amplifying the kitschy aspect enhances the trend's appeal. Bold accessories and exaggerated shapes are essential for achieving this aesthetic, and only eight essential items are needed to refresh your wardrobe from basic to Riviera-ready.
**How to Shop the Trend**
1. **Silk Scarves**
**Style Notes:** The recent revival of silk scarves in popular culture is hard to miss. Previously deemed "outdated" and "old-fashioned," they are now viewed as a nostalgic nod to classic elegance, styled in various ways, from wrapping around bag handles to classic neckerchiefs. A trend garners strength when it appeals to multiple generations, and once I observed Gen Z purchasing vintage scarves to tie around baseball caps, I was convinced—silk scarves are here to stay for at least another year.
**Shop Silk Scarves:**
- **Prada** - Pittoresque Paris Printed Silk Foulard: A luxurious addition to any outfit.
- **TOAST** - Abstract Still Life Silk Bandana: A lovely understated color palette.
- **ALÉMAIS** - Toucan Tango Printed Silk-Twill Scarf: This makes me yearn for a holiday.
2. **Capri Trousers**
**Style Notes:** Favored by Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn, fitted, 3/4-length trousers are reclaiming their status as a chic warm-weather choice that pairs beautifully with sandals and ballet flats. Last summer saw an uptick in black cropped trousers in the UK, but this year, it's time to embrace lively prints that flourish under the sun.
**Shop Capri Trousers:**
- **Abercrombie & Fitch** - High Rise Capri Pant: Captures the whole look perfectly.
- **Toteme** - Jersey Capri Pants: A softer alternative to black.
- **Reformation** - Jill Cropped Knit Pant: Looks great with white heels.
- **MANGO** - Capri Knit Trousers: Black capris have become an essential in wardrobes.
3. **Stripes**
**Style Notes:** Stripes are emblematic of vacation vibes, from chunky, candy-striped sun loungers to pinstripe linen trousers and tablecloths. Easier to style than flamboyant florals, stripes always exude effortless elegance and can be chicly combined with other prints. If your summer fantasies involve boating on Lake Como or dining seaside, nautical stripes are ideal for light cotton and linen garments.
**Shop Stripes:**
- **LORETTA CAPONI** - Fiocchini Bow-Embellished Striped Broderie Anglaise-Trimmed Linen Mini Dress: Adorable on its own or over capris.
- **COS** - Boat-Neck Gathered Midi Dress: A very easy everyday option.
- **FAITHFULL** - Yolina Strapless Belted Striped Linen Maxi Dress: Just add sandals
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I May Not Reside in Capri, but My Style Suggests Otherwise—The Catwalks Forecast a Dolce Vita Summer for 2026.
Although we are currently in spring, I'm eagerly anticipating a summer that exudes serious chicness, drawing inspiration from Europe's most fashionable.
