Wherever I turn, fashion enthusiasts seem to be embracing this "divisive" micro trend for the summer.

Wherever I turn, fashion enthusiasts seem to be embracing this "divisive" micro trend for the summer.

      If you're a dedicated reader of Who What Wear UK, you’re likely aware that the current wave of nostalgia in fashion isn’t exactly new information. We anticipated the return of indie sleaze and have observed the narrative of ‘2026 is the new 2016’ unfold in real time. However, occasionally a trend surprises us—particularly when it draws from a rich mix of subcultures and micro-aesthetics from past eras. The resurgence of the studded spiral trend is a perfect example of this.

      (Image credit: Getty Images)Influenced by the dark romanticism of ‘80s punk and ‘60s biker culture, with a hint of ‘90s acid vibes, the rebellious essence of the spiral trend has transitioned from a niche motif to a widespread movement. Its graphic and slightly mystical character closely resembles the dark fantasy aesthetics associated with Gwen Stefani during that time, while the studs add a tougher touch. But what makes this design stand out in 2026? The combination of various clashing aesthetics creates a striking piece—one that has quickly captured the attention of the Gen Z fashion crowd.

      The first hint that spirals were emerging in the fashion scene came from an unexpected source: the Lithuanian brand Urte Kat. Gaining recognition for their modern look reminiscent of Marc Jacobs at Perry Ellis combined with Alexander McQueen, the brand has swiftly garnered fans among today’s It Girls. Artists like Charli XCX, Doechii, and PinkPantheress have been spotted wearing the brand’s trendy Euro-inspired pieces, but it was their Studded Spiral Trousers that propelled their social influence into the spotlight after going viral on TikTok and Pinterest multiple times.

      Since then, spiral motifs have started appearing in abundance (pardon the pun). Gimaguas's Claude Studs Dress was an immediate success (selling out in seconds), while jewelry brands such as Ottoman Hands and YSSO have embraced the swirl in their latest collections. Unsure how to incorporate spirals into your style? They’re also making an impact in home decor, featuring in products like Sophie Lou Jacobsen’s wavy coasters and L'Objet’s gold-plated cutlery. It appears that this season, spirals are set to become the must-have trend for those in the know. Scroll down to discover and shop the best spiral pieces currently available.

      Shop the Spiral Trend Below:

      Urte Kat

      Studded Spiral Trousers

      Gimaguas

      Claude Studs Dress

      Free People

      Kenzie Studded Halter

      Ysso

      Cote 24kt Gold-Plated Earrings

      Ottoman Hands

      Megara Sterling

      Rockett St George

      Fringe Glass Pendant Light

      Westwing Collection

      Handmade Vase Zaida

      Sklum UK

      Siliema Table Lamp

      L'Objet

      Spirale Cutlery Set

      Sophie Lou Jacobsen

      Spiral Coasters

      Saverio Carolla

      Trechicchere Tray

Wherever I turn, fashion enthusiasts seem to be embracing this "divisive" micro trend for the summer. Wherever I turn, fashion enthusiasts seem to be embracing this "divisive" micro trend for the summer. Wherever I turn, fashion enthusiasts seem to be embracing this "divisive" micro trend for the summer. Wherever I turn, fashion enthusiasts seem to be embracing this "divisive" micro trend for the summer. Wherever I turn, fashion enthusiasts seem to be embracing this "divisive" micro trend for the summer. Wherever I turn, fashion enthusiasts seem to be embracing this "divisive" micro trend for the summer. Wherever I turn, fashion enthusiasts seem to be embracing this "divisive" micro trend for the summer. Wherever I turn, fashion enthusiasts seem to be embracing this "divisive" micro trend for the summer. Wherever I turn, fashion enthusiasts seem to be embracing this "divisive" micro trend for the summer. Wherever I turn, fashion enthusiasts seem to be embracing this "divisive" micro trend for the summer. Wherever I turn, fashion enthusiasts seem to be embracing this "divisive" micro trend for the summer. Wherever I turn, fashion enthusiasts seem to be embracing this "divisive" micro trend for the summer. Wherever I turn, fashion enthusiasts seem to be embracing this "divisive" micro trend for the summer. Wherever I turn, fashion enthusiasts seem to be embracing this "divisive" micro trend for the summer. Wherever I turn, fashion enthusiasts seem to be embracing this "divisive" micro trend for the summer.

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Wherever I turn, fashion enthusiasts seem to be embracing this "divisive" micro trend for the summer.

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