It's my responsibility to forecast best-sellers—these new designer items are poised to trend in 2026.
If you share the same runway passion as the team at Who What Wear UK, you likely have an in-depth understanding of the spring/summer 2026 collections. Since their debut in September of the previous year, we've seen a resurgence of the Gucci monogram, the arrival of the Bottega rubber clog, and Loewe's Amazonia bag has inspired numerous replicas. However, for those eager to stay ahead of trends, the pre-fall collections present an unexplored opportunity. Not every designer releases a pre-fall collection, and as the term suggests, these smaller collections occupy the time between late summer and the onset of autumn. While they're not quite ready for immediate wear, now is an ideal time to bookmark these transitional essentials for the months ahead. With summer approaching, we're enjoying light cottons and linens, but if you're planning ahead and saving for future purchases, you'll appreciate this insight into some of the standout pieces from the pre-fall 2026 collections. Continue reading to discover items that receive this fashion editor's endorsement. Some are set to go viral, while others are smart investments, but I believe there’s something here for everyone to love.
1. **Chanel Three-Quarter Pullover**
(Image credit: Launchmetrics/Chanel)
**Style Notes:** It’s not often that a pre-fall collection gets so much buzz that the opening look becomes a social media sensation and even sees a recreation for the Met Gala. Such is the impact of Mattheiu Blazy’s latest work at Chanel. This straightforward combination of a three-quarter zip and jeans has sparked conversations and stands out as one of the most memorable moments in Blazy’s career, likely due to its comfort and simplicity. If you're in search of luxurious yet wearable designs, this exemplifies Blazy's take on everyday elegance.
2. **Loewe Layers**
(Image credit: Loewe)
**Style Notes:** Why opt for a single standout piece when you can mix multiple at once? According to creative directors Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, Loewe embraces a "more is more" philosophy for pre-fall, making layered outfits the coolest way to approach color-blocking. Loewe bags are always statement pieces, and the newest versions of the Puzzle and Flamenco bags are specially designed with layering in mind. This detail also extends to jackets and knitwear, making them even more vibrant with fun color combinations. Furthermore, keep an eye on the Scarf bag; we anticipate it will be an instant hit upon release.
3. **Dior Médaillon**
(Image credit: Dior)
**Style Notes:** Presenting a new insignia from Dior: Jonathan Anderson unveils the Médaillon, a recurring design that will be featured on everything from flats to belt buckles. This motif pays homage to the early days of the maison in Paris, and the Médaillon serves as Anderson's instantly identifiable mark. I suspect it will be just as sought-after as his other signature items: the JW Anderson Pierce and the Loewe Puzzle.
4. **Balenciaga Techwear**
(Image credit: Launchmetrics/Balenciaga)
**Style Notes:** Remember the funnel-neck jackets from last year? Next season, Balenciaga is elevating sportswear with a mini collection of technical jackets, leggings, trainers, and caps, complemented by XL and XS City bags and embellished heels. Fear not, fans of Balenciaga: the (in)famous Triple S trainers continue to be available, but also watch for the Jet trainer—a new silhouette likely to attract fashion-forward sneaker enthusiasts.
5. **Gucci Savoy Shoe**
(Image credit: Launchmetrics/Gucci)
**Style Notes:** While Tom Ford's Gucci embraced high glamour, Giannini's era leaned towards modern bohemian, Michele's captured "geek chic," and De Sarno adopted minimalism, Demna's era will be marked by a polished attitude. With glossy leather, body-conscious fits, reptile skin, and fur, next season's Gucci will be lavish indeed, leaving no space for ballet flats and cardigans. A prime example is the Savoy shoe: a striking pointed design available as a pump, flat, and boot. Just as fashion shifts towards practicality, Demna is bringing fierce heels back into focus.
6. **Chloé Paddington**
(Image credit: Chloé)
**Style Notes:** As we eagerly await the arrival of the peplum belt/miniskirt seen in several pre-fall looks, another Chloé accessory earning praise is the iconic Paddington. We were thrilled to see the return of this 2000s classic late last year, and it’s evident that Chloé is riding the nostalgic wave of the Paddington into next season, offering wicker, mini, and chain-bag variations.
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It's my responsibility to forecast best-sellers—these new designer items are poised to trend in 2026.
At Who What Wear UK, we remain ahead of the game, so click to discover our selection of the top designer pieces from this year's pre-fall releases.
