There's no time like the present to get acquainted with what's set to trend next. The idea of picking up what will become popular in the summer right now might feel a little off, but we can all find solace in looking forward—even if that is just sartorially.
Look to the SS26 collections to find that there are a few key investment pieces you can get ahead on now. These new-season updates won't stop you from wearing your winter wools or slipping into your favourite boots, but will bring about a fresh sense of energy to what you're wearing now.
Whether buying new, taking advantage of winter sales, or scrolling through resale apps, these cult items are the updates your wardrobe needs as the new season approaches.
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A Pussy-Bow Blouse
The pussy-bow blouse will add a feminine flourish to your outfits in 2026. Dior and Saint Laurent both showcased shirts in luxurious fabrics, perfect for tucking into tailored trousers and jeans or layering under a leather jacket. Oversized pussy-bows were particularly popular, so we urge you to go big.
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Melania silk blouse, $1,048, MAX MARA at Mytheresa.
Oversized Gathered Lavallière Blouse, $1,684.57, CHLOÉ at Cettire.
Pussy-bow lace-trimmed polka-dot linen and silk-blend organza blouse, $918, ZIMMERMANN at Net-a-Porter
A Statement Skirt
A statement skirt, be it printed or embellished, can be transformative to more casual-leaning outfits. Take Matthieu Blazy's new vision for Chanel, which featured the most statement of statement-making skirts styled with T-shirts and crisp cotton shirts. Pair with a simple knit or shirt to let the skirt shine, or experiment with prints for a bold, clashing look.
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Velvet Skirt, $1,019, TORY BURCH at Cettire
Asymmetric bow-embellished floral-print cotton midi skirt, $1,310, SHUSHU/TONG at Net-a-Porter.
Ciara sequined mesh midi skirt, $629, STAUD at Net-a-Porter.
A Boxy Tee
A perfectly cut boxy tee, like those seen at Balenciaga and Chanel, may look simple but they can be deceptively powerful. Wear under blazers, with wool trousers, or casually with jeans. Take note from the runways and style yours with the aforementioned statement skirts. Investing in one made from thicker fabric ensures it holds its shape and feels elevated even with the most relaxed outfits.
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Oversized boxy t-shirt, $41.10, COS.
Oversized fit t-shirt, $39.90, H&M.
Washed cotton boxy t-shirt, $14.90, UNIQLO.
A Leather Jacket
The leather jacket is a perennial style staple, and designers like Bottega Veneta, Khaite, and Balenciaga showcased how to do it right for 2026. It instantly adds toughness to dresses, skirts, or tailored trousers, and the right fit can be worn year-round. Slightly oversized or cropped cuts allow layering over knits or T-shirts for versatile styling.
Shelman leather bomber jacket, $7,326, KHAITE at Net-a-Porter.
Leather jacket, $3,487, LEMAIRE at Net-a-Porter.
Belted leather jacket, $12,803, SAINT LAURENT at Net-a-Porter.
This article was first seen on ELLE UK.