As 2025 comes to a close, I’ve been thinking about how I want to update my personal style in the new year. I tend to think of my style as refined yet relaxed, so one of the easiest and most impactful way to elevate my wardrobe is to swap out some of my standard basics for more directional alternatives. That’s not to say I’ll be getting rid of my classic pieces, just that I’ll be adding a few updated items to help my wardrobe feel more current.
After reviewing images from my favorite runway shows and my Instagram saved folder, I’ve landed on 5 styles that feel particularly poignant for the year ahead—think of these as your wardrobe staples, with a 2026 twist.
From the sweater silhouette the fashion world can’t get enough of to the return of the pencil skirt, these are the elevated basics I’ll be adding to my rotation in the new year.
High-Neck Blazer
In 2026 I’m swapping out my basic blazer for a chic high-neck style. Think of this as the funnel neck’s more sophisticated cousin—while the exaggerated funnel neck silhouette is still going strong, this parred back version feels a bit more refined. This elegant neckline adds both polish and a thoughtful element to a look.
ZARA
Fitted Blazer Zw Collection
Reformation
Morning Doug Jacket
Leau
Cairo Hourglass Belted Coat
Reformation
Morning Doug Jacket
V-Neck Sweater
And just like that, what was once old is new again—V-neck sweaters have been bubbling back into the closets of the fashion crowd, and this silhouette is poised to be even bigger in the new year. I plan on styling mine layered over a T-shirt or turtleneck as shown above for extra style points.
Reformation
Jadey Cashmere Oversized V-Neck Sweater
ZARA
Soft Knit V-Neck Sweater
SRG
Doris Cashmere V-Neck Sweater
ZARA
Soft Knit V-Neck Sweater
MANGO
V-Neck Wool Sweater
Pencil Skirt
After seasons of micro-minis and voluminous maxis I’m loving pencil skirts for 2026—specifically pencil skirts that hit right at the knee, á la the recent Saint Laurent runway show. I’ll be pairing mine with sweaters, button downs, and fitted turtlenecks inspired by the above.
SAINT LAURENT
Leather Skirt
MAX MARA
Wool-Blend Midi Skirt
ZARA
Knit Pencil Midi Skirt
Gray Trousers
Black trousers will always be in my rotation, but for 2026 I’m adding a charcoal grey pair to the mix. They’re just as versatile as black trousers, but the cool grey tone makes an outfit feel instantly more fresh. I’m specifically eyeing the Almada Label pair pictured above, but there are a ton of chic options on the market right now.
Almada Label
Penny Soft Trousers
MANGO
Mid-Rise Flare Pants
Vince
Italian Jaspe Pintuck High-Waist Wide-Leg Pant
Gerard Darel
Cyrielle Pants
Short-Sleeve Knit
The above Pia Mance outfit altered something in my brain and I haven’t stopped thinking about it since. The short-sleeve detail provides a cool update to a traditional winter staple, and I plan on adding one to my rotation ASAP. I also think it’s the perfect in-between if you live in L.A. like myself where it’s often too hot for a heavy knit but you still want a cozy vibe.
MANGO
Short-Sleeved Lurex Sweater
ZARA
Short Sleeve Soft Knit Jumper
Reformation
Maude Cashmere Cardigan
W. Cashmere
Tansy Short Sleeve Pullover