We all know that age is just a number, but when it comes to designer-led fashion trends, it can often seem that they’re targeted at a very specific, very narrow demographic. But that is far from the truth for the spring/summer 2026 trends that look set to jump straight from the runway and onto our radar, with many inspired by classic staples and a revival of timeless aesthetics—all given a fresh spin for the year ahead. This is good news for every age, as it means there’s plenty of inspiration for a spring refresh, but also a reminder of the pieces and trends that are worth investing in now, with a guarantee you’ll turn to them for years to come.
(Image credit: @greceghanem)
For 2026, it’s all about the elevated staples. If you’re looking to embrace prints, turn to the nostalgic look of Hollywood glamour with animal print coats and blazers, or the preppy English countryside aesthetic of check prints in a mix of hues. Accessories are also a key element to consider this season, with loafers getting a spring refresh in a myriad of refined textures and colours, and the long glove making a surprise comeback.
No matter your age or aesthetic, there’s a trend for you. Scroll on to see my edit of the chicest 2026 trends for every age:
5 2026 Trends for Every Age:
1. Animal Print
Style Notes: Classics are classics for a reason. They always look good, no matter the year or the year you were born. This is the case for animal print, which is seeing a resurgence of popularity at the moment that is sure to continue into 2026. Leopard or tiger, these wild looks work especially well in the form of a jacket or faux fur coat.
Shop the Trend:
Reformation
Carla Low Waist Skirt
Absolutely obsessed with this set – you could also style the mini skirt with a black turtleneck and knee-high boots for a Sixties-inspired look.
MANGO
Leopard-Print Faux-Fur Coat
Massimo Dutti
Short Wool Blend Animal Print Coat
COS
Pointed Leather Kitten-Heel Pumps
Sophisticated and sexy, these pumps are a subtle way to take on the trend.
GIVENCHY
Voyou Medium Leopard-Print Calf Hair Shoulder Bag
Dip your toe into the world of animal print with this chic bag.
2. Leather Pencil Skirts
Style Notes: The spring/summer 2026 shows were a mix of the dramatic and demure, and on the more conservative side of trends was a leaning towards sophisticated, high society-inspired looks. A staple of the trend? The leather pencil skirt. Keep it sleek with a black or white style, or give it a modern spin by playing with textures and patterns.
Shop the Trend:
& Other Stories
Knee-Length Leather Skirt
So easy to dress up or down.
Veda
Veda Julia Leather Skirt
Whistles
Jamie Leather Midi Skirt
This COS number is deliciously good.
FRAME
Paneled Leather Midi Skirt
Brown leather always looks so luxe.
3. Long Gloves
Style Notes: Yes, really! Gloves are the accessory to own this spring/summer. From opera gloves reimagined in leather to shorter styles in an array of fabrics, spring gloves are the attainable luxury accessory to know this season.
Shop the Trend:
& Other Stories
Long Leather Gloves
This plum pair would elevate any outfit.
M&S
Leather Mid Length Gloves
Dents
Mia Long Leather Gloves
NOUR HAMMOUR
Leather Gloves
Lean into the spring energy with this bright leather pair.
SAINT LAURENT
Leather Gloves
Straight off the runway and onto our wish lists.
4. Check Print
Style Notes: Preppy chic is back in full swing this season, and leading the charge is check print. Go OTT with full check looks, or nod to the trend with a timeless check print coat. With its mix of colours, this print is the ideal option for transitional season wear.
Shop the Trend:
COS
Checked Scarf-Detail Shirt
Reformation
First Light Skirt
Looks right out of The Crown.
M&S
Funnel Neck Long Sleeve Slim Fit Top With Wool
Sitting on the border of grunge and preppy – it’s all down to how you style it.
ZARA
Checked Hooded Puffer Jacket
This would look great with jeans and chunky boots.
DÔEN
Madelaine Checked Organic Cotton-Voile Midi Dress
These brown tones are ideal for the in-between months. Add knee-high boots now and ballet flats in spring.
5. Refined Loafers
Style Notes: As part of the “high society” trend that looks set to be a top hit this season, our eyes are on the footwear, namely, loafers. Practical yet undeniably chic and versatile enough to work in any number of situations, this staple silhouette is getting a springtime upgrade in 2026. The key is to find designs that take things up a notch, whether that’s with a bright colour or refined texture, like croc-effect leather or brushed suede.
Shop the Trend:
COS
Croc-Effect Leather Loafers
Reformation
Francine Ruched Loafer
The ruched detail makes these look so much more expensive.
The colour, the ruching, the heel — I’m sold.
JAMIE HALLER
Penny Calf Hair Loafers
YSL
Le Loafer Supple in Matte Leather
When it comes to investment accessories, you can’t go wrong with a Saint Laurent loafer.