Despite the fact that New York City is still suffering from the occasional chilly weather, warmth will be here to stay eventually, so I’m using fully in spring shopping mode. I’ve been saying for months that 2026’s trends are especially exciting so far, and as an NYC-based fashion editor, I’ve noticed the street style inspo reaching a fever pitch lately.
In terms of lightweight outwear, the trench coat you know and love has gotten a modern makeover with leather finishes and cropped silhouettes. Wardrobe basics are now trimmed with dainty lace and loafers are sleeker than ever. Plus, though last year’s obsession with polka dots hasn’t completely died down, eye-catching horizontal stripes are threatening to dethrone spots as the pattern du jour.
If all of this sounds as inspiring to you as it is to me, keep scrolling to shop these NYC cool-girl trends from just $13 at Amazon, and brace for the best-dressed spring of your life.
Updated Trench Coats
The trench coat has been a spring outerwear staple for decades, and while the classic style will always be chic, updated versions featuring unique details have begun to emerge. For instance, cropped trench coats are one of this spring’s biggest jacket trends. The more versatile length pairs well not just with jeans, but also with mini skirts and over dresses. You can also opt for a trench with a patterned lining, or eschew khaki altogether with an edgy leather option.
Lace Accents
Delicate, lace-accented pieces have already earned a spot as one of 2026’s defining trends, and you can expect to see them even more as the weather warms up this summer. Think: Airy, romantic camisoles with scalloped trim and lingerie-inspired mini skirts styled with preppy knitwear. Shopping on a budget? Available in 17 colors, the Anrabess Lace Trim Cami costs just $15.
Minimalist Leather Loafers
Chalk it up to the Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy effect, but refined minimalism is definitely having a moment. Timeless pieces that confer a sense of effortlessness are in for spring, so you can expect to see chunky, embellished loafers replaced with sleeker styles. For a penny loafer silhouette, snag this Cole Haan pair on sale, or try a shopper-loved style with more than 2,000 five-star ratings. I also found these budget-friendly slip-ons that cost just $24.
Stripes
Last spring was all about polka dots, and though the flirty print is still very much in vogue, stripes are on the rise. From nautical-influenced navy to bold, playful colors, there’s something for everyone. I’m eyeing this oversized tee from one of my favorite cool-girl brands, Lioness, and this two-piece lounge set is a must for my spring travel plans.