No, You Don’t Have to Buy an Entire New Wardrobe—7 Styling Tips That Will Refresh Your Look for Summer 2026

      Trust me, I understand. It’s incredibly easy to get caught up in online shopping and to fill your virtual cart with exciting new items you adore (but don’t actually need). At Who What Wear UK, although we excel in shopping, we adhere to a 'less is more' principle—we'll always promote shopping smartly rather than tirelessly, and any recommendations we make are truly worthwhile. That being said, I found myself fatigued from endlessly scrolling through the new arrivals this week, opting instead to browse my Instagram feed for inspiration. Determined that there has to be a way to refresh my existing (full) wardrobe, I began to view my clothes in a different light when I saw them styled on someone else.

      Silk scarves? I have a drawer-full, but it wasn’t until I spotted Grece Ghanem wearing hers as a vintage headscarf that I decided to try the look myself. Also, instead of choosing between two outer layers, Tori Van Brugel reminded me that I could wear both, solving my chilly spring mornings problem. If you’ve also stood in front of your wardrobe this week exclaiming, 'I have nothing to wear!', keep scrolling for the 7 summer style hacks I’ve discovered to apply to my own closet. This week, rather than shopping (for a change), I’ll be focusing on styling.

      1. Minidress Over Trousers

      Style Notes: I’m a huge fan of style hacks that suit any weather, and this year, wearing dresses over trousers is the easiest way to be prepared for rain or shine. Mimi’s look is perfectly styled for a date night, but you could easily swap a statement strappy dress for a simple cotton dress with sleeves. Just add some demi heels and a woven bag, and voila! A spring look that effortlessly transitions to summer by simply removing the trousers.

      Shop Dresses and Trousers:

      H&M

      Fringed One-Shoulder Kaftan Dress

      Now this is what I aspire to wear on a summer evening.

      Weekday

      Crinkled Cotton Trousers

      The slightly crinkled texture feels more elevated than jersey.

      ARKET

      Gathered V-Neck Dress

      Isn’t this such a cheerful shade of red?

      OYSHO

      Comfortlux High-Rise Flare Trousers in Light Beige

      These would pair beautifully with black sandals (plus they’re incredibly comfortable).

      M&S

      Satin Lace Insert Mini Skater Dress

      This has quickly become a bestseller.

      COS

      Barrel-Leg Pima Cotton Trousers

      Well-cut, meticulously crafted cotton trousers.

      2. Layering Tees

      Style Notes: Once more, this is a prime example of how effective layering can modernize a look. Marilyn’s ensemble would work as a black tee with black jeans, but the white flash underneath adds a touch of casual cool-girl vibe and breaks up an otherwise solid block of black.

      Shop Layered Tees:

      MANGO

      Two-Tone Contrast T-Shirt

      WARDROBE.NYC

      Layered Cotton-Jersey T-Shirt

      An impressive three-in-one design.

      M&S

      Pure Cotton Double Layer Oversized T-Shirt

      Navygrey

      The LAYERED Tee / Short Sleeve

      3. Accessory Matching

      Style Notes: If you find yourself spending excessive time deliberating over which shoes match your outfit and don’t grab a bag on your way out without considering how it complements your overall look, take note of the 'matchy-matchy' accessory approach. Emily’s combination of a red bag and red sandals provides the needed pop of color to elevate this look to chic new heights, but you can choose any color from your collection to tie your look together.

      Shop Matching Accessories:

      LOEWE

      + Paula's Ibiza Braid Leather-Trimmed Raffia Shoulder Bag

      ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS

      Saionara Leather Flip Flops

      Massimo Dutti

      Medium Braided Nappa Leather Tote Bag

      Massimo Dutti

      Leather Low-Heel Sandals

      Zara

      Flat Leather Sandals

      4. Play With Textures

      Style Notes: Summer isn’t only about linen and cotton, and Anouk’s off-the-shoulder jumper paired with a skirt demonstrates how a fine knit can be airy and breathable in warm weather. Using this knit instead of matching crepe adds dimension and interest to what could be seen as a simple outfit, allowing for textured accessories like a suede bag as well.

      Shop Summer Textures:

      The Frankie Shop

      Iliya Drop Waist Cotton Blend Maxi Dress

      Whistles

      Ivory Crochet Detail Cardigan

      Reformation

      Gale Satin Mid Rise Long Pant

      Whistles

      Neutral Straw Tote Bag With Charm

      5. Super Stack Your Jewellery

      Style Notes: Summer is the ideal season to experiment with your looks, and layering on plenty of jewelry (along with additional hair accessories and a pair of