Avoiding High-Waisted Jeans: Here's the Stylish Method to Pair a Cropped Jacket for Spring 2026.
Long coats certainly have their place in the spring and summer seasons. However, now that we're in mid-May, the focus here at Who What Wear is transitioning to lighter jackets. We are seeking styles that can be intentionally layered over warm-weather outfits rather than simply feeling like an afterthought. Currently, hip-length leather bombers, barn jackets, and technical designs are catching our attention, alongside cropped silhouettes. Interestingly, cropped jackets have become a sought-after style in 2026. When paired appropriately—consider low-rise pants instead of high-waisted options—they appear modern, not outdated. Margot Robbie's recent look exemplifies this perfectly. Attending the opening night of 1536 in London, Robbie showcased an elegant low-rise-trouser ensemble. She wore a black-and-gold cropped military jacket, a black tank top, and low-rise patch-pocket pants. To complete her chic appearance, Robbie and probably her stylist, Andrew Mukamal, chose a black leather clutch and matching pointed-toe heels.
Cropped jackets might not be the first style that springs to mind when a fashionista thinks of stylish outerwear trends for spring and summer 2026, but if you have a favorite style in your closet or admire the look you’ve seen online, take a cue from Robbie. Replacing your high-waisted jeans or trousers with a low-rise version is a small yet impactful change that gives a cropped jacket a fresh and contemporary feel for 2026. For those hesitant about low-rise trousers due to concerns about exposing midriff, consider a foundational piece like a tee or tank underneath. Layering a structured, polished jacket on top can help draw attention upward and away from the low waistline. Continue scrolling to view Robbie's complete premiere outfit and shop the trendiest low-rise trousers and cropped jackets to recreate her style.
Shop Cropped Jackets and Low-Rise Trousers
ZARA
Cardigan With Buttons
Channel Robbie's style with this military jacket.
Reformation
Vida Low Rise Pant
Every fashionable person I know either owns or aspires to own these pants.
Good American
Luxe Suiting Cropped Jacket
A reliable jacket that will carry you from spring into summer.
MANGO
Contrasting Low-Rise Knitted Pants
The black detailing adds a great touch.
Kookai
Ariel Waistband Pant
These are my most flattering trousers.
Reformation
Vesper Jacket
Pair it with low-rise jeans or trousers.
LESET
Lauren Knit Wide Leg Pants
A wardrobe essential that every fashion editor has in their collection.
DRIES VAN NOTEN
Cropped Double-Breasted Grain de Poudre Jacket
Paloma Wool
Saba Pinstripe Low Waist Straight Leg Pants
I adore pinstripe trousers for their leg-lengthening effect.
Explore More:
Margot Robbie
Other articles
On May 28, a gastronomic dinner "Gastronomic Street Food" will take place at the "Kyoto" restaurant as part of the "Native Routes" project by the RODINA Hotels alliance. That evening, two cities and two chefs will meet in the kitchen: Mikhail Gulyaev, the brand chef of the "Kyoto" restaurant from Irkutsk, and Petr Birkin, the brand chef of "ULYSSES Asia" from Vladivostok. The theme of the dinner is Asian street food: bright, dynamic, rich in flavors, sauces, and marine accents. The chefs will prepare a 7-course menu, in...
Avoiding High-Waisted Jeans: Here's the Stylish Method to Pair a Cropped Jacket for Spring 2026.
Seen in London.
