The start of any new season often comes with equal parts stress and excitement, particularly when talking about fashion. Throughout the six months between fashion month, when designers around the world debut their collections for the upcoming season, and the arrival of said collections in stores, anticipation is building. At the same time, trying to decipher what's worth buying and what can simply be appreciated from afar has a tendency to overwhelm anyone who isn't used to editing like we are. As editors, it's our job to make cuts, using our expertise in the fields of trendspotting, quality identification, and retailer sleuthing to ensure that no "duds" slip through the cracks and into your wardrobe for the upcoming season.
That's where the spring 2026 Who What Wear 100 comes in. Ever since the spring/summer 2026 runway collections debuted in Copenhagen, New York, London, Milan, and Paris last September and October, we've been keeping tabs on the trends and standout pieces that they revealed. Simultaneously, we've kept an eye on all the most influential people, from celebrities to stylists, identifying which items they're already favoring for the stint of warmer weather that awaits us once winter's hold finally slips. Now, it's time to reveal our findings. Below, you'll find exactly 100 products that were meticulously chosen out of thousands of options. From the seasonal icons being worn by every It girl you know and follow to the affordable spring buys that look far pricier than they are, there's a little bit of something for every shopper. Plus, find pieces that Who What Wear editors are already wearing on repeat, your new capsule shoe wardrobe, and the high-value deliveries that actually warrant swiping your credit card.
That's enough from us. Your spring 2026 treasure trove awaits.
By ELIZA HUBER & Nikki chwatt
You've never seen the 26-year-old quite like this.
Every season, a handful of exclusive items make it big. There are hundreds of items that garner some buzz, but only a select few make it to the very top of the fashion landscape's collective wishlist. These are those items. In the lead-up to spring 2026, pieces like Reformation's high-vamp Inez pumps, Róhe's leopard-print car coat, and Jonathan Anderson's ornate belt buckles for Dior have all skyrocketed to internet fame, as has J.Crew's royal purple V-neck sweater and Dôen's fringe-hem silk pants. And, of course, we can't talk about season-defining items without spotlighting Chanel's shoe selection from Matthieu Blazy's debut, which caused in-store frenzies at boutiques in Paris, New York, Los Angeles, and more, with shoppers desperate to score pony-hair, teal-accented, or toe-dipped pumps or flats before they all sold out. Clearly, all the designer debuts that happened on the spring/summer 2026 runways had the effect that the heads at every fashion house were hoping they would. That is, to spur shoppers to hand over their credit cards, which they have certainly done, at least for these 10 extremely special items.
Amazona 18O Bag
$45OO
LOEWE
Which pieces are so good they land in the closets of Who What Wear editors? A handful are taking over the wardrobes of our fashion team, from the office to the streets of NYC and L.A. Nearly everyone on the team owns a great tote, and timed perfectly for the takeover of lived-in, Birkin-ified bags, our editors are filling them to the brim with outfit changes for morning workouts and evening events. Top picks from the team include Bottega Veneta's Andiamo bag as well as DeMellier's New York tote. For wallet-friendly finds, brands such as Aritzia, J.Crew, and Staud are winning out. Tennis bracelets and sculptural earrings are also a hit and starting to dominate in the jewelry space. We're seeing the pendulum swing from super-oversize everything to fitted shapes, especially in the pant department—Lafayette 148's cigarette pants and Citizens of Humanity's Zurie jeans take on tapered shapes that are increasingly winning over our editors.
The secret to looking like an in-the-know It girl this spring isn't about drowning yourself in designer logos but wearing pieces that feel expensive even if they aren't. Think sharp tailoring, rich fabrics, clean lines, and a color palette that whispers luxury rather than shouts for attention. This season, there are designer-passing items that will help you nail the top trends, such as a Zara rugby shirt, Source Unknown satin coat, and Verafied eel-leather bag, along with classic, versatile pieces like Reformation's lace-trim silk shorts, COS's vintage-like straight-leg jeans, and Adidas's newest sneakers. Between our selection and other budget-friendly spring finds you come across, you really can't go wrong. Just remember it all depends on how you style them: confidence, a touch of restraint, and a mix of high and low. When you get that right, people won't see price tags—they'll see someone who "gets it."
Photo Credits: @emmmahugh; Launchmetrics Spotlight; Getty Images; @anna__laplaca; @haileybieber; Róhe; @hadleyhgreene; Backgrid; @karlawelchstylist
Photo Credits: @kristenmarienichols; @bobbyschuessler; J.Crew; @elizagracehuber; Vincent Boulevard; @aniyahmorinia; Margaux; @nikki.chwatt; Who What Wear
Photo Credits: @piamance; Who What Wear; @abimarvel; Source Unknown; @nlmarilyn; Open Edit; @elizagracehuber; Adidas; Freja; @salome.mory
Deciding what is and isn't worth buying, especially when the pieces on the store counter in front of you (or digitally inside your shopping cart) are of high (or very high) value, isn't easy, particularly when you can likely only purchase one or two of them a season. It takes a lot of thought and research to make a smart investment; fortunately, we did both for you ahead of spring 2026. On the jewelry side, a piece like Audemars Piguet's Mini Royal Oak, worn frequently by Hailey Bieber, immediately comes to mind, as does Mossighi's take on the tennis necklace, called the Ori. These are items that will always be "in," that you can easily wear daily for the rest of your life before passing them down to the people you love and cherish most. Yesmina's Sirius Ring doesn't come cheap, but it's a guaranteed compliment magnet and a piece that no one you know is likely to have. As for bags, one of Blazy's new Chanel bags is a no-brainer if you can get your hands on one, and the new Bottega Veneta Lauren 1979 clutch will become a fast favorite. Eres's insider-favorite classic bikini, Kendall Jenner's go-to The Row flats, and a tuxedo shirt from Phoebe Philo are a few other smart buys for spring 2026 if you're willing to spend a pretty penny on great quality and timeless appeal.
If you are an avid Who What Wear reader, it goes without saying that our editors are certified experts when it comes to shopping. We spend a lot of time keeping up with the latest drops, trying on items, and studying runway collections. Because we follow the fashion calendar, we're always a step ahead, buying and wearing pieces that will soon become popular before anyone else knows. Want to know what those pieces are? For spring, it's wardrobe essentials that are timeless in design but modern in the details. For example, it's DeMellier's new Stockholm bag, the perfect everyday style, which two editors on the team already own. It strikes the ideal balance between structure and softness, and the rich neutral tones make it feel elevated without trying too hard. We're also loving Vincent Boulevard's Camille Sunglasses, which perfectly capture the oversized, slightly sporty bug-eye sunglasses trend. They don't stay in stock for long, because you can add them to even the simplest outfits, and the entire look shifts into that "cool" and expensive territory. But that's only a sample of what's in our closets for the season ahead.
This spring, forget diamonds—shoes are a girl's best friend. From thong sandals to peep-toe mules and low-profile sneakers, footwear is capturing everyone's attention. The shoes this season are so good, and there are so many that you may wonder where to even begin. To simplify the process, we've rounded up 10 styles that nail the biggest shoe trends for spring 2026. There are Zara's soft derby-inspired flats that help you get the look of the Celine pair that walked the runway, Reformation's nostalgia-inducing ruched satin ballet flats, and Dries Van Noten's Eel Effect sneakers that hit on the leather-sneaker trend. Those are just the highlights. Ahead, discover seven other styles, and if that's not enough, you'll find the It shoes that fashion people are scrambling to get their hands on throughout this guide. (Think Matthieu Blazy's new Chanel slingbacks.)
Photo Credits: @danixmichelle; @haileybieber; Bottega Veneta; Dorsey; Backgrid; @bellathomas; Eres; @mossighi; Phoebe Philo; Toteme
Photo Credits: @themillennialdecorator; @deborabrosa; @nlmarilyn; Manolo Blahnik; @hannamw; Miu Miu; Reformation; @arthurrgrd; Dries Van Noten
Nothing feels better than packing for a warm vacation after an extremely cold winter like the one many of us just endured. There's so much anticipation and excitement, which shows through in the clothes you wear throughout the trip, leaning on serotonin-boosting colors, fabrics, shapes, and patterns, and easy-breezy silhouettes that mimic the feeling of sending your OOO email and signing off for a few days of sun and sand. Sleek bathing suits with a twist are essential, as are loosely knit dresses and separates that can be worn to the beach and to dinner with a few subtle accessories tweaks. Colorful flip-flops like the pairs sold by Ancient Greek Sandals, shell earrings from Ben-Amun, and flouncy drawstring pants like By Malene Birger's Lyria style are key to a well-packed suitcase this spring. Well, those things and a great SPF and an even better book (or two) loaded on your Kindle.
When we're unsure about where an outfit should start, how to elevate it, or when to ground it, wardrobe essentials help connect the dots. They're the pieces we rely on repeatedly, trusted to bring us back to our true style while allowing us to experiment with items that push us outside our comfort zones. For spring, although many core basics remain staples year after year, 2026 introduces subtle yet impactful updates to keep them feeling fresh. You'll see button-down shirts and sweaters updated with understated shades like cornflower blue and true red. Denim continues its move toward sleeker silhouettes, while the key footwear includes the elevated flip-flop. Additionally, the pencil skirt, falling at or just below the knee, becomes a new favorite, often replacing tailored trousers even among the most classic dressers.
Not everyone can have a closet full of standout pieces. Most of us have wardrobes that consist primarily of easy basics that can be mixed and matched in endless combinations. What keeps those somewhat simple items feeling exciting and unique is the accessories we pair with them—the personality pieces that take an outfit from boring to you. Think a quirky hat, a statement belt, or a scarf that you tie in different ways depending on the way you feel from one day to the next. These are the ultimate difference makers, with stars of spring 2026 being Dries Van Noten's artful cummerbund decorated with a colorful sequin mosaic, the 1920s-inspired cat-eye sunglasses by Valentino (under the creative direction of famed maximalist Alessandro Michele), and pastel-colored knee-high silky socks like the ones that debuted at the Miu Miu show. Fashion's supposed to be fun and playful, and these items are nothing if not infused with both.
There's something about that first warm breeze that flips a switch. Invitations start rolling in, calendars fill up, and weekends become packed with celebrations. It sometimes feels overwhelming, but who can complain when half the fun of attending these events is getting dressed for them? Whether your schedule includes a wedding, bridal shower, or gala, this season calls for lighter fabrics, brighter colors, lively patterns, and breathable silhouettes. Fluid dresses with cape-like layers, drop waists, voluminous strapless designs, and cinched details (think Balenciaga's spring 2026 gown Sarah Pidgeon wore to the 2026 Actor Awards) are the chic options. But you’re not limited to dresses—our favorite designers made a case for statement skirts in their spring collections, ranging from sleek column styles to deconstructed asymmetric hems. To really get into party mode, add playful, embellished accessories, like a paillette pouch bag or pumps with crystal-fringe appliqués.
Color is the word on every fashion person's lips this spring. Even committed minimalists are setting aside their typical whites to embrace bolder shades. Rich teal, tangerine, baby blue, royal purple, and chartreuse are the defining hues of 2026, but shades of cherry red, fuchsia, cobalt blue, and canary yellow will be just as prominent. While wearing color can seem intimidating, especially if you live in a place like New York City, where black attire rules year-round, it's surprisingly simple to pull off. The best way to start experimenting is by drawing inspiration from fashion insiders and designer collections. Editors will be especially looking at spring 2026 runway collections from Chanel, Versace, Jil Sander, Tory Burch, and Prada, who showcased the ultimate color guides and interesting color pairings. For example, Chanel paired baby pink with burgundy, Tory Burch combined chocolate brown and cerulean blue, Jil Sander went with cobalt blue and true red, and Versace mixed lavender, candy red, and azure blue. These combinations might initially look wrong, but that is precisely the appeal; similar to the "wrong-shoe theory," their unexpected nature is what makes them appear chic and, somehow, right.
Photo Credits: @deborabrosa; @mimixn; Khaite; Bode; @hannahlewisstylist; Valentino; Zara; @ellymcgaw; Rescha
Photo Credits: @ilanatorbiner; By Malene Birger; J.Crew; @_milliearnold; Zara; @parisgeorgia; Ben-Amun, @hoskelsa; @courtneygrow; @sylviemus_
Photo Credits: Prada; Tory Burch; Getty Images; Reformation; Bernadette; @stretchnfetch; @hannahlovey; @linhniller; @elizagracehuber; Herbert Levine
Photo Credits: @palomija; Prada; Tory Burch; ImaxTree/Launchmetrics; Nanushka; Source Unknown; @lauravidrequin; @mimixn; @nlmarilyn
Photo Credits: Flore Flore; @annabelrosendahl; Balenciaga; @onehandedoverdressed; @tia_dewitt; The Row; @aimeesong; J.Crew; @thevisuelofgrace; @haileybieber
Médaillon Belt
$11OO
DIOR
Lavon Pants
$398
Dôen
Cashmere V-Neck Sweater
$148
J.Crew
Square Scarf
$59O
CELINE
O6
O7
O8
O9
1O
EVERY SPRING 2O26 ITEM TO SHOP THIS SEASON
Cotton V-Neck T-shirt
$19
ZARA
Camille Sunglasses
$3OO
Vincent Boulevard
Sheer Silk Georgette Wrap
$148
Eileen Fisher
Stockholm Bag
$67O
Demellier
Life Jean
$28O
Still Here
Flat Luggage
$21OO
CELINE
Cropped Flight Jacket
$698
J.Crew
Deia Sandals
$325
Margaux
Raphael Shirt
$325
Nili Lotan
Tailored Pleat Skirt
$8OO
TOTEME
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
2O
Stella Flats
$1O5O
The Row
Mouna Triangle Bikini Top $225 Malou Bikini Briefs $225
Eres
Lauren 1979
$48OO
Bottega Veneta
Ori Necklace
$898O
Mossighi
Sirius Ring
$115OO
Yesmina
Organic Cotton Trench Coat
$142O
Toteme
Custom Tux Shirt
$145O
Phoebe Philo
Maxwell Earrings
$330
Dorsey
Small Flap Bag
$51OO
CHANEL
Royal Oak Mini Frosted
$411OO
Audemars Piguet
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
4O
Date Sandals
$590
jude
Patent Leather Flat Shoes
$7O
Mango
Carolyne Calf Hair Slingbacks
$1125
Manolo Blahnik
Buffy Ruched Ballet Flat
$228
Reformation
Eel-Effect Sneakers
$985
Dries Van Noten
Chiara Sandal
$395
Gewls
T-Strap Heels
$248
J.Crew
Plume Satin Sneakers
$995
Miu Miu
Martha Thong Sandal
$148
Schutz
Leather Lace-Up Shoes
$8O
zara
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
5O
Slip Flip Flop
$34
Havaianas
Cotton-Blend V-Neck Sweater
$118
j.crew
Rodeo Bag
$475O
Balenciaga
Harriso Desert Leather Skirt
$995
Simkhai
Taylor Barrel Jeans
$249
DL1961
Pima Tailored Cotton Shirt
$99
COS
Peggy Small Leather Clutch $29OO
the row
5O1 Curve Jeans
$77
levi's
Double-Breasted Trench Coat
$259
& Other Stories
Ivan Tee
$125
Flore Flore
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
6O
Fringe Barrette
$18O
bode
Pleated Scarf
$8O
Source Unknown
Dolly Scarf
$2O9
ReschA
Combination Skullcap
$46
Zara
Jane Flats
$1O8O
Khaite
Corset Belt
$52O
Déhanche
Vivianna Torun Necklace
$21OO
Georg Jensen
Ribbed Silk Knee Socks
$39
cos
Gioto Embellished Cummerbund
$918
Dries Van Noten
Rectangular Acetate Frames
$515
Valentino
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
7O
Scallop-Trim Crochet
Mini Dress
$118
j.crew
Mini Shopper
$1O9
zara
Earrings
$195
Ben-Amun
Lyria Silk Trousers
$75O
By Malene Birger
Juiliette One Piece
$24O
else
Underwired Bikini Top $46
Brazilian Bikini Bottoms $46
Mango
Saionara Jelly PVC Flip Flops
$2O5
Ancient Greek Sandals
Coco Hat
$15O
Lack of Color
Handkerchief Dress
$75O
St. Agni
Fringe Skirt
$55O
Paris Georgia
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
8O
Bow Column Maxi Skirt
$7OO
Bernadette
Isla Silk Crepe de Chine Gown
$75O
sir
Lilibeth Dress
$328
Reformation
Eel Pochette
$259O
Savette
Kiss and Tell Sandals
$915
Herbert Levine
Amello Dress
$38OO
khaite
Riedel Gown
$1995
Greta Constantine
Canvas Pumps With Crystals
$195O
prada
Knotted Viscose Dress
$4595
Tory Burch
Gala Bag
$495
Lizzie Fortunato
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
9O
Reversible Blouson Jacket
$31O
Source Unknown
Pointed Satin Skirt
$244O
Alaïa
Wish Re-Nylon Pouch
$795
prada
Kick Cropped Flared Pants
$96O
High Sport
Pierced Slide
$35O
Tory Burch
Fine Jumper
$5O
zara
Two-Tone Mini Dress
$179O
Jil Sander
Pushlock Pouch
$625
Liffner
Soft Feels Fender T-Shirt
$45
Aritzia
Marinie Top
$295
Nanushka
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
1OO
Inez Pumps
$298
Reformation
Slingbacks
$1575
Chanel
Pony Hair Coat
$319O
O1
O2
O3
O4
O5
O6
O7
O8
O9
1O
Chord Straight-Leg Jeans
$125
COS
Lace Shorts
$6O
Open Edit
Pleated Skirt
$178
J.Crew
Easy Wide Leg Linen Pants
$8O
Caslon
Satin Coat
$240
Source Unknown
Striped Polo Shirt
$6O
zara
Vivi Ring
$18O
Heaven Mayhem
Japan Shoes
$12O
Adidas
Miro Bag
$288
Freja
Scarf With Fringe
$4O
H&M
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
3O
Bernice Cape
$533
Anna October
RóhE
O5
O4
14
24
37
5O
45
Photo Credits: Prada; Tory Burch; Getty Images; Reformation; Bernadette; @stretchnfetch; @hannahlovey; @linhniller; @elizagracehuber; Herbert Levine
Thin Bessette Headband
$21O
Sophie Buhai
Flat Luggage
$21OO
CELINE
Underwired Bikini Top $46
Brazilian Bikini Bottoms $46
MANGO
Amazona 18O Bag
$45OO
LOEWE
Thin Bessette Headband
$21O
SOPHIE BUHAI
