As the warm weather approaches us, our wool jumpers, multiple layers, and big coats come off – folded, hung, and boxed away until winter rolls around again. We say goodbye to the fluffy socks that we have so desperately clung onto, and bring forth the open toe shoes, tank tops, shorts, skirts, and sunglasses, ready for the sunshine’s return.
In recent years, the media and fashion industry has pushed for ‘up-cycled’ – otherwise known as ‘second hand clothing.’ Global apps such as ‘Vinted’ and ‘Depop’ have allowed us to pursue this, with consumers able to buy pieces at a cheaper and sustainably rewarding price!
The majority of people have jumped on the bandwagon with this, with rates in consumer patterns of marketplace purchases rocketing sky high. As of 2026, Vinted has accumulated a whopping ‘17 million UK users,’ says businessgreen.com – demonstrating this large demand, and an understanding of the importance of sustainable fashion.
Here is everything that you need to know about fashion ‘dos’ for future barbecues, pub garden drinks, holidays, and city visits this spring and summer season that are available on sustainable apps, for what I like to call – a retro, ravishing, and recyclable look!
Texture Tastic!
This season, fashion is embracing texture with high street pieces tapping into fringed looks and feathers. While these fabrics have cycled ‘in’ and ‘out’ for over a century, they are making a comeback with an elevated, sophisticated approach.
Historically seen in the 1920’s ‘flapper style’ and the 1970’s ‘hippie influence,’ textures have recently returned to runway shows with Bottega Ventra’s iridescent jackets and skirts, and the oversized fringing at Alaïa – reminding us that fashion is an art form and that it should be celebrated!
On Tiktok, textures are trending with influencer’s up-cycling clothes that they have found thrifting. This individuality brings a fresh uniqueness to the old becoming new, whilst keeping those original fabrics that make designs so special.
00’s Throwbacks
Previously confronting the comeback of low-rise jeans that no one saw coming, this season the ‘low’ is appearing in a range of bottom half clothing – specifically, skirts. That’s right! The midi-skirt is back for 2026, and is ready to be paired with pumps, open toes, and heels for the warmer days, while knee high boots may be an option for cloudier weather.
In the office, a belt can be added for a more sophisticated and serious look, but to lose the formality as office hours are over, you could alternatively go for a two level tiered midi and lose the belt for a more fun and flirtatious vibe.
Inspirational looks can be seen in characters Monica, Rachel, and Phoebe from ‘Friends,’ while more recent stars riding the low look include Bella Hadid and Emily Ratajkowski, often pairing the 2000’s staple with breezy tops and heavy boots for a chic, nostalgic look.
Brilliant Brights!
Soft pastels in spring aren’t exactly surprising, and so in 2026, big and bright colours are popping into our wardrobes, adding senses of unpredictability, excitement, and playfulness into fashion.
Vibrant lime greens, tomato reds, and purples are predicted to be paired with buttery yellows, blush pinks and ‘cloud dancer,’ more recently named as Pantone’s colour of this year.
These colours are promoting a natural glow, bringing a fresh and optimistic feel into this season.
Straight-leg Indigo
With the previous return of flared jeans, this year is moving towards a more ‘straight-leg’ style, with denim washes appearing much more blue than usual.
The shade indigo is a deep, rich, blue hue with purple undertones, and has been creeping into fashion as a timeless, versatile and elevated wardrobe staple! The colour is known to fade over time, giving each jean a unique and personalised patina.
The straight-leg jean has experienced several peaks in popularity, most notably in the 1950’s as a symbol of youth rebellion, while appearing more casually in the 70’s and 80’s, and as a grunge go-to, in the 90’s.
In recent wardrobes of celebrities such as Kendall Jenner and Rhianna, this enduring silhouette presents a polished and comfortable look, often signifying ‘quiet luxury.’
Trench Coats
The trench coat is simply never not trending. In late 2024, their popularity brought the cropped trench – perfect for everyday wear, whilst longer styles brought a smarter look.
This spring, their presence in shops will remain, enduring more versatile and lightweight styles ranging from classic beiges to more modern soft suedes in popular fits of oversized silhouettes – a supreme choice for a casual, practical, and stylish approach.
Subtle Satin and Lace
You may be someone that believes that lace belongs on your granny’s tablecloths. However, it is headed for a renaissance in 2026, ready to team with denim for a softer, more boho look, or worn with tougher pieces such as trench coats and leather to balance cool with elegance.
Satin is also reappearing in 2026, shifting looks towards a ‘liquid’ look that prioritises fluid movement with a sleek, luxurious shine. Expect to see a rise in modern slip dresses, midi skirts, and blouses!
Floral Prints
I know, it isn’t groundbreaking that florals will appear in spring wardrobes this coming season. But would it really be right if they didn’t come out to play?
Worn as a sign of the warmer, brighter and happier days ahead (we hope), looking at recent runways, there will be no shortage of flower power this year!
From mini dresses, maxi skirts, and retro swimwear, expect florals that are bolder, brighter, and unapologetically colourful.
Spring is Smart
The ‘analogue’ trend has been all over social media this year, with Gen Z and Millennial’s engaging in slow-burning activities such as journalling, photography, and crafts. It seems that fashion is taking a turn towards looks that also resemble this, with clothing such as colourful cardigans and smart shirts for a more uniform feel.
As for accessories, mini scarves are making a comeback, along with capes and oversized bags, leaning into that romanticised writer aesthetic that we all love!
It is key to note that these are just trends that have been observed through fashion patterns over time. It is important that you wear what you like, and what feels right for you specifically – these pieces might just be helpful along the way when finding your own personal style.