An evolution of fall’s modern prep trend, the spring 2026 runways swapped country codes for literary references, grounding the collections with intellectual flair. Pencil skirts replaced trousers, structured blazers substituted barn jackets, and cardigans, not vests, were layered over crisp button-downs. It’s the pillars of ladylike dressing styled with just enough of a twist to feel right for now.
Designers across the board leaned into the look—Tory Burch, Miu Miu, Prada, and Bottega Veneta each offered their own interpretation of the bookish aesthetic. Oversized sunglasses, loosened neckties, unexpected pops of color, and sleeves casually pushed up signaled an effortless attitude over perfection—studious, but never stuffy. Elements of the look have also moved from the runway onto the red carpet: FKA Twigs recently appeared on the 2026 Grammy’s red carpet carrying a single anthurium alongside a book representative of her new album.
How to Get the Literary Chic Look
The trend’s momentum feels particularly apt: Beyond regular sightings of A-listers and their reading materials, a new generation of celebrity bookworms and their clubs occupies a lively corner of the internet, turning reading, and select stories, into a shared cultural moment.
With Vogue Book Club celebrating the upcoming premier of Wuthering Heights, the timing couldn’t feel more right to lean in. After all, it’s chic to be well read—and even chicer to dress the part. Below, discover five ways to embrace the trend.
To the Premiere!
Tickets secured for Vogue’s Wuthering Heights screener? Staud’s combination dress delivers an easy, one-and-done solution for. Pair it with one of Olympia Le Tan’s iconic book-shaped clutches—extra points if you check out with the Emily Brontë edition.
Late Nights at the Library
For evenings spent deep in the pages of Dorothy Parker’s Complete Poems with a cup of coffee in hand, lean into an effortless uniform. You can’t go wrong with rinse-wash denim, a cozy cardigan, blue light glasses, and a classic pair of loafers.
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Ladylike Accents
Anchored around easy separates, let your accessories do the heavy lifting. Add a touch of polish with Khaite’s sculptural top handle bag and a silk printed scarf from Gucci—timeless pieces that instantly elevate the look.
Sundays on the Sofa
Is there anything better than curling up on the couch with a new novel? The answer’s open for debate—however, just because you’re staying in doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. Look to Khaite’s rollback sweater paired with crisp white jeans from Frame for an at-home ensemble that feels relaxed yet considered.
Taking Notes
Indulge in the academia fantasy with a look borrowed from prep school days. Style The Frankie Shop’s button-down and tie combination shirt with Alex Mill’s khaki pants, and sharp boots from Toteme. For notes, doodles, and anything in-between, keep Moleskine’s classic red notebook close by.
