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If the spring collections have one message for us, it’s that fashion is fun again. The designer debuts has allowed for an explosion of creativity. I’ve adored Louise Trotter’s fiberglass tops at Bottega Veneta, Matthew Blazy’s voluminous skirts at Chanel, and Jonathan Anderson’s structured dresses at Dior. But, they’re not exactly built for desk lunches or rush-hour subway rides. Which begs the question: How do you translate runway fantasy into real life, without losing the sense of play and joy that makes getting dressed so exciting in the first place?
Vogue’s Favorite Wardrobe Essentials
The answer, it turns out, lies in the essentials. Brands like Toteme, Prada, The Row, and Róhe have subtly set the tone for 2026, proving that modern dressing is less about chasing a singular trend and more about individual styling—with clever twists on the classics you already know and love.
Brands focused on the small details—those nuances you might have overlooked before—that have an outsize impact. Róhe toyed with the classic button-down, giving it a double collar for an intriguing visual spin; The Row took on the challenge on a styling the black legging for everyday by turning into a kind of stocking, paired back to tailored outerwear. Color, too, played a strong role: Resort and spring collections offered unexpected yet wearable shades, like poppy red and shades of blue. Prada’s sky blue shirting or Toteme’s crimson trench brighten up pared-back silhouette, yet slip seamlessly into your existing wardrobe.
The modern wardrobe for 2026 isn’t about spectacle, it’s about intention. The art of taking familiar silhouettes and styling them in ways that feel personal, considered, and unexpected. Below, shop the pieces that will breath new life into your closet.
The Trench Coat
A pop of red has been one of our favorite styling tricks—why not try it on for size as emboldened outerwear? Toteme’s vibrant crimson trench enlivens your look, proving that bold color and classic tailoring aren’t just compatible but could actually be a match made in heaven. For 2026, consider red less of a statement and more of a neutral with personality.
The Legging
Sleek, streamlined, and endlessly versatile, the black legging makes a compelling case at The Row. When styled with structured layers, it upgrades the silhouette from weekend errands to a pant alternative you want to wear to work.
The Blazer
A blank slate for styling, the blazer appeals to uniform dressers with newfound verve, however, those with a rebellious streak will be keen to break with tradition. Keep the shirt, ditch the pants. Sub a V-neck sweater for a sheer, whisper-thin knit, and wear the jacket open, nonchalantly buttoned, or wrapped around the waist.
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The Sweater
In 2026, sweaters step wear multiple hats—draped, tucked, or over shirting. Take this as an opportunity to step outside of your comfort zone and choose one in an unexpected shade to add depth, softness, and even contrast to your everyday looks.
The Collared Shirt
As the tone of dressing becomes more experimental, now’s the time to think beyond the classic white button-down. Let a stripe, pop of color, or print peek out from beneath a cozy knit at the sleeve or collar, or even layer it with shirting of complementary tones to experiment with color.
The Dark-Wash Jean Denim
Rinse-wash denim takes center stage for 2026, serving as the perfect canvas for statement outerwear and accessories. Think a collarless leather jacket or bold zebra print bag from Khaite—bringing contrast and edge to a classic foundation.
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