I May Not Reside in Capri, but My Style Suggests Otherwise—The Runways Forecast a Dolce Vita Summer for 2026.
Although I'm composing this piece on a grey, spring day in West London, my thoughts are entirely captivated by a Mediterranean summer. No, I haven't yet booked a vacation, but everything indicates that this year is shaping up to be focused on the Riviera summer. Let me paint the picture: turquoise waters, salty breezes, cobbled pathways, and seaside cafés—the charming expanse between southeast France and northwest Italy is not only visually stunning but is also influencing a rising fashion trend.
(Image credit: @_livmadeline) Drawing inspiration from the leisurely European lifestyle of the 1950s and 1960s, designers and style icons are embracing the romance of a Riviera summer. Imagine prints, vibrant colors, sleek silhouettes, swimsuits, and sarongs replacing string bikinis—and I would even suggest kitten heels over flip-flops. In brief, if it appears fitting for a ride on a Vespa or lounging on a yacht with cat-eye sunglasses, it captures the perfect vibe. For instance, look at the spring/summer 2026 runways. At Jacquemus, models showcased headscarves and paired leggings with ankle-tied footwear, while Pucci presented crisp white shirts with upturned collars tucked into pencil skirts, styled with head-to-toe iconic kaleidoscopic prints and coordinated miniature bags. After last summer’s focus on pajama pants and oversized shirts, 2026 is making a return to more sophisticated dressing.
Riviera Summer on the Runway
(Image credit: Launchmetrics/Jacquemus) Models donned cotton headscarves and a fresh, muted color palette on the Jacquemus S/S 26 runway.
(Image credit: Launchmetrics/Chloé) Chemena Kamali featured vibrant vintage floral patterns combined with sleek leggings and white footwear in the Chloé spring/summer collection.
(Image credit: Launchmetrics/Pucci) Pucci's S/S 26 show took place against a Sicilian backdrop, ideal for highlighting a traditionally feminine collection of crisp shirts, midi skirts, and graceful silk. The style has evolved slightly since the days when kaftans and turbans were dominant, but emphasizing the kitschy elements reinforces the trend’s appeal. Standout accessories and exaggerated silhouettes are essential to perfecting this look, and only eight key items are necessary to elevate your wardrobe from understated to Riviera-ready.
How to Shop the Trend
1. Silk Scarves
Style Notes: The recent revival of silk scarves in the public eye cannot be ignored. Once seen as "dated" and "outdated," they are now a nostalgic nod to classic glamour and are styled in various ways, from bag accents to traditional neckerchiefs. A trend with multi-generational appeal gains traction, and as soon as I observed Gen Z purchasing vintage scarves to wrap around baseball caps, I knew—silk scarves are set to stay popular for another year (at the very least).
Shop Silk Scarves:
- Prada: Pittoresque Paris Printed Silk Foulard - A luxurious touch for your outfit.
- TOAST: Abstract Still Life Silk Bandana - This understated color palette is striking.
- ALÉMAIS: Toucan Tango Printed Silk-Twill Scarf - This piece will definitely inspire a desire for vacation.
2. Capri Trousers
(Image credit: @martha.christiann) Style Notes: A summer staple for icons like Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn, fitted, 3/4-length trousers have evolved from the '90s "pedal pusher" to reclaim their status as chic warm-weather attire that beautifully pairs with sandals and ballet flats. Last summer, British fashion enthusiasts embraced black cropped trousers, but this year, it’s time to replace monochrome basics with joyful prints that come alive in the sunshine.
Shop Capri Trousers:
- Abercrombie & Fitch: High Rise Capri Pant - This entire look is perfectly coordinated.
- Toteme: Jersey Capri Pants - Deep cocoa serves as a softer alternative to black.
- Reformation: Jill Cropped Knit Pant - Perfect to wear with white heels.
- MANGO: Capri Knit Trousers - Black capri trousers have become a wardrobe essential.
3. Stripes
(Image credit: @smythsisters) Style Notes: Stripes are emblematic of vacation, whether they appear on chunky, candy-striped loungers or pinstripe trousers. An easier print to style than busy florals, stripes always exude effortless elegance and pair well with other patterns. If your summer fantasies involve cruising Lake Como or enjoying lunch by the sea, nautical stripes are ideal for light cotton and linen that can be easily worn with sandals.
Shop Stripes:
- LORETTA CAPONI: Fiocchini Bow-Embellished Striped Broderie Anglaise-Trimmed Linen Mini Dress - Adorable alone or layered over capris.
- COS: Boat-Neck Gathered Midi Dress - A simple everyday dress.
- FAITHFULL
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I May Not Reside in Capri, but My Style Suggests Otherwise—The Runways Forecast a Dolce Vita Summer for 2026.
Even though it's spring, I'm excited for a truly fashionable summer influenced by Europe's most stylish trends.
