8 styling ideas straight from the 2026 runways
Across spring collections, designers leaned into clever layering, subtle subversion, and inventive takes on wardrobe staples we already own. From silk scarves and bralettes to flipped cardigans and undone tailoring, each look is a clever reminder to play with how we layer, style, and mix what’s already in our closets.
Here are eight styling ideas that will make your closet feel new again, without buying a single thing.
1. The new plunge
At Prada’s Spring/summer runway, bralettes peeked out beneath deep V-cut silhouettes, subtly nodding to a 2015-era aesthetic. This time, the look felt intentional rather than provocative—less about shock value and more about balance.
Styling tip: Keep the bralette simple and tonal to maintain elegance rather than contrast.
2. The upside-down cardigan
Elsewhere, familiar knitwear was flipped—literally. Maria McManus showed a black cardigan worn upside down and draped like a cape, transforming a practical staple into something sculptural. It was a reminder that sometimes the most directional styling move is simply refusing to wear things the “right” way.
Styling tip: Opt for fine-gauge knits so the shape drapes rather than collapses.
3. Short over long
Layering continued with cropped sweaters and tops styled over long undershirts, as seen at Jil Sander. The contrast in proportions—short over long, fitted over fluid—created an understated tension that felt clean, modern, and quietly intellectual.
Styling tip: Stick to a tight color palette to keep layered proportions intentional, not bulky.
4. Back to bare essentials
Minimal tanks and camisoles also had their moment, particularly at Tove and Fforme. Stripped down and clean, these pieces anchored more elaborate looks, proving that simplicity can make just as strong a statement as embellishment.
Styling tip: Look for substantial fabrics—such as ribbed cotton, lace, or silk blends—to elevate the basic look.
5. The blazer, reframed
Then came the blazer revival—again, but better. Instead of wearing it traditionally, designers like Khaite encouraged flipping up the collar, creating a sharp, funnel-neck effect. It’s a cost-free styling trick that instantly modernizes a classic blazer.
Styling tip: This works best with structured blazers that hold their shape.
6. Perfectly undone tailoring
Menswear suiting softened up through imperfection. Shirts left unbuttoned, ties hanging loose—this “undone” approach made tailoring feel relaxed and lived-in, signaling a move away from rigid formality toward something more laid-back.
Styling tip: Balance looseness with sharp trousers or polished shoes to maintain a refined look.
7. The scarf-cinched silhouette
The waist wasn’t forgotten. Scarves replaced belts in a wrap-waist moment that felt both practical and poetic. Chanel sealed the deal with pops of color tied over monochrome ensembles.
Styling tip: Use silk or satin scarves for a fluid look; bulkier fabrics can distort proportions.
8. Volume meets ease
Finally, volume returned in a big way. Oversized plain shirts paired with textured, voluminous skirts—seen at Chanel’s Spring runway—created dramatic contrast without excess. The look was effortless but commanding.
Styling tip: Keep the top crisp and minimal to let the skirt carry the drama.
You don’t always need to buy new clothes to make a statement—with a bit of styling know-how, even the staples in your wardrobe can feel runway-ready.
