My watch began four months ago. Mid-way through the 2025 Fashion Awards red carpet, a slate of A-listers including Emily Ratajkowski and Amelia Gray arrived wearing sleek party dresses I immediately wanted to shop. Unlike other glitzy outfits a few steps away, I learned I actually could copy these exact looks in a few months' time. They weren't wearing out-of-reach, custom couture; they came from the H&M x Stella McCartney collaboration.

All these weeks later, the retailer is back with an update. H&M x Stella McCartney's entire lookbook and 61-piece lineup is available to shop today, May 7. Now, I can actually purchase the one-shoulder mini dresses, fluid trousers, and statement bags hailing from the collection. It's felt like ages to see it all come to life, but I should clarify: My wait is nothing compared to two decades that culminated in this limited-edition H&M collection.

Stella McCartney was H&M's second-ever designer collaborator, back in 2005. In the twenty intervening years, the retailer has gone on to partner with the likes of Magda Butrym (for rosette-topped tanks), Simone Rocha (for pearl-coated headbands and tulle dresses), and Glenn Martens (for freaky, thigh-high boots and trompe-l'œil matching sets). As McCartney's label became more established on the Paris Fashion Week calendar and H&M's reputation for must-buy designer collaborations grew, the idea of a sequel collection seemed even more enticing. (Especially for fashion editors like me, who adored McCartney's experiments with sustainable materials as much as her fresh approach to workwear.)

The two-decade mark struck both brands as a moment to reflect on how much McCartney's label had grown since the first installment. In 2005, her label was only five years old; it was promising, but it wasn't a global powerhouse and leader in eco-conscious design. Now, it has a slate of well-reviewed shows, celebrity fans, and truly signature pieces to its name. (Taylor Swift is one of her biggest supporters.) "I see this collection as a journey through my fashion history," McCartney said in a statement. "It is a true mix of current classics and some of my old favorites that showcase my first forays into fashion and the development of my signatures."

On a first flip through the campaign starring Renee Rapp, Angelina Kendall and Adwoa Aboah, I could see nods to McCartney's namesake brand and her prior tenure as Chloé creative director. There are suits cut in generous proportions and giant, schlep-it-all tote bags; there's a recreation of the "Rock Royalty" T-shirt McCartney created for Liv Tyler's 1999 Met Gala appearance. The Fabella chain, an interlinking hardware detail prominent in most of McCartney's accessories, shows up across jewelry and apparel. All those red dresses from the Fashion Awards are accounted for, too.

Some of the most hype-worthy details are what can't be seen from afar—or even once I style the pieces. According to H&M, the collection places a premium on eco-friendly materials, aligning with McCartney's anti-waste approach to design. (Her collections often include elements like plant-based swaps for feathers and bio-based leather substitutes.) Recycled materials and organic cotton are found in several pieces; when items have a slick coating, it comes from recycled vegetable oil.

"This second partnership feels like a chance to look at how far we've come on sustainability, cruelty-free practices, and conscious designs—and to stay honest about how far we have to go," McCartney said in a previous statement.

The countdown to the year's buzziest collaboration is finally over: H&M x Stella McCartney arrives on shelves and in select stores today, May 7. Now that it's here, I can confirm: My patience was rewarded.

Shop Editor's Picks From the H&M x Stella McCartney Collaboration

New York is benefiting from the first of hopefully many, many 70-degree days this season and I'm running to shop warm weather-ready fashion as a result. H&M's Spring/Summer 2026 collection was an automatic first stop now that we're all craving time in the sunshine.

The drop goes beyond the typical neutral tones and lightweight linen fabrics that can feel omnipresent this time of year. Instead, the classics are revamped with a fashion-minded eye. Silhouettes are voluminous and textured. Fringe is everywhere, as are lace and crochet. It lives in contrasts—fine tailoring next to floatier silhouettes, leather next to a persimmon-hued bubble skirt. Whether you wear them together or with the rest of your wardrobe, the end result exudes a sense of I just threw this together ease. It's the ultimate cool-girl capsule, especially as we head into the new season.

If you're not shopping for new clothes right now, I get it—allow me to point you to H&M's accessories selection instead. I'm on my own jewelry journey after never quite knowing where to shop for pieces that look expensive, but fit within my budget. The new range fits the bill. Nearly every major jewelry trend is accounted here, from cord necklaces to liquid-looking metal bangles. And in the trendy shoe department, there are wedge heels and strappy heels aplenty.

It's a drop complete with everything you need to start fresh for the new year, but also enough to refresh what you already have hanging in your closet. Ahead, I dropped the buzzy new pieces for you to shop.

As a rule, I tend to stay far away from loud, maximalist fashion, especially in the footwear department. It's rare for fashion trends to align with my style ethos, but that's exactly the case with Spring 2026's top shoe trends—they're the perfect fit for minimalists like myself.

Spring's emerging trends may be understated, but they are far from boring. Classic ballet flats have been updated with a high-vamp design, creating an even more polished silhouette. The loafers trending among It girls, meanwhile, have gone backless, which feels on brand for warmer temperatures. Sneakers, too, have been streamlined (literally) into slimmer shapes for the season, and I can't forget the naked heels that have me rethinking my preference for flat shoes.

This season's shoe trends are a match made in heaven for minimalists, which is why they are at the top of my wishlist. Ahead, I'm sharing the pairs that caught my eye at Zara, H&M, and Mango. And because I'm on a budget, nearly all of my favorite spring-ready shoes ring in at $100 and under.

High-Vamp Flats

I've been a loyal fan of ballet flats for years, so it's refreshing to see the shoe evolve with a higher vamp. It girls from Kendall Jenner to Zoë Kravitz have taken on the trend, so naturally, I'm on board, too. I plan to wear the glove-like shoes with straight-leg, baggy denim, but they also pair well with spring-ready dresses and skirts.

Backless Loafers

I throw on a pair of loafers whenever I'm in the mood for polished footwear, which is typically when I'm heading into the office. This season's take on the shoe offers the ease of slip-ons without sacrificing elegance. They pair well with tailored trousers and khaki pants, but I've seen insiders wear them with nearly everything from jeans to maxi skirts. I'm particularly a fan of pairs with a suede finish for rich-looking outfits.

Slim Sneakers

Sneakers have been getting slimmer over the last few seasons, and it seems the silhouette has reached its fever pitch for spring. While pastel and metallic shades are trending among sneakerheads, I'll be reaching for more subdued colors instead. Black, white, and brown sneakers will fit in seamlessly with the rest of my capsule wardrobe, and if I'm feeling the itch for more color, a soft, cool blue is just my speed.

Naked Heels

I prefer my shoes closer to the ground (I live in New York City, after all!). But after seeing the bare-it-all heels on the Spring 2026 runways, I've been swayed to the other, higher side. Constructed of clear PVC, mesh, and other see-through materials, this shoe trend is just what I need to refresh my going-out outfits. It also gives me the excuse to try out new spring pedicure colors.

It's rare that a seasonal trend perfectly aligns with your pre-existing personal taste, but that's exactly what happened with funnel-necked jackets this winter. After years of opting for the slightly sporty silhouette in my own rotation, it suddenly seemed like every brand I follow got the memo, too.

Aware of the fact that I already had several styles hanging in my hall closet, I was tentative about purchasing more so quickly—but now that spring weather is almost here, and the trend has yet to die down, I'm biting the bullet and adding a few to my online shopping cart. My first three stops were naturally Zara, H&M, and Cos.

The former is the label behind many of my current favorite spring jackets, and the latter two have become recent additions to my wardrobe. Either way, each new collection from each retailer is full of options that fit into every stylistic category. Track jackets are there for the sportier fashion fans amongst us, while leather and trench-like options are ideal for those of us who live in areas where temperatures can be chilly in the morning and warmer by midday.

If you want a new spring jacket straight from the wardrobe of someone who has far too many already, keep scrolling. Ahead, I picked 10 from each retailer and curated them into a neat little list for you to peruse, no endless scrolling or hours of searching required.

H&M always has something coming down the pipeline—a designer collaboration, a capsule inspired by a movie or TV show, a riff on whatever's trending any given season. However, H&M Studio, its more premium biannual offering, remains one of its most anticipated and sought-after launches.

Released in limited quantities for spring and fall only, H&M Studio has been around for over a decade. (The first collection came out in 2013.) Still, the brand is increasingly interested in how it can "build it as this signature label," Ann-Sofie Johansson, Head of Womenswear Design at H&M, tells Marie Claire. Part of that meant launching the Essentials capsule last fall, which drops ahead of the full collection and consists of reliable daily staples that can layer in with more special pieces. This allowed them to make the H&M Studio main line "more directional and really tell a story."

Because of its limited-edition nature, H&M Studio "can really push fashion and be more conceptual," Johansson says. It also let the brand to build a narrative around each season.

The brand staged an intimate off-calendar presentation for its Spring 2026 drop on the first day of London Fashion Week at 14 Cavendish, an 18th-century mansion that's been gutted and stripped back to its peeling paint walls. It was a much quieter affair than the 700-guest runway show featuring Lila Moss, Alex Consani, and Paloma Elsesser H&M staged back in September for its autumnal offering. And whereas that collection was all about the contrast between "soft and hard, feminine, masculine," its latest is all about welcoming a little weirdness into your wardrobe.

"We started to talk about eccentricity and what is eccentric today," Johansson explains. "Maybe we need a little bit more of eccentricity, since the world is looking like it is... Eccentric means off-center. So, who's off-center? Somebody that dares to go the wrong way, somebody that's a little bit more rebellious and maybe leads the way."

While, like many major brands, H&M has begun using AI in different aspects of the business, including design, the team wanted to go analog with the process, according to Johansson. The only exception: the graphic floral prints on a T-shirt and scarf.

Also on the mood board were the women ofGrey Gardens and the Kennedys. Though, Johansson notes she wasn't aware of the Ryan Murphy-produced Love Story series centered around JFK, Jr. and Carolyn Bessette until after the collection's completion.

The goal was to reframe how you think about the clothes and see new possibilities in them: "How do you use your pants? Are they just a pair of pants, or can you use them for something else?" That "attitude" informed the design of the pieces, which are littered with details that allow you to change and adjust how they're worn and "make it a little bit weird." See: additional buttons that allow you to make a top look tilted or a looser cut on a coat that gives it more of a "robe-like" feel. (To really bring attention to these touches, H&M set up magnifying glasses throughout the preview, so guests could appreciate them.)

H&M Studio Essentials returns, too, with an emphasis on layers and separates that complement the main line; can be styled multiple ways; and are made using premium materials, such as wool-cashmere blends and Pima cottons. These are "the backbone of your wardrobe," Johansson says.

In general, H&M Studio collections are less trend-focused, more timeless than the rest of the retailer's assortment. (You'll always find tailoring and leather in there, for instance.) They build upon one another, where you can mix and match pieces from different seasons and they can live in your closet for a long, long time. Every season adds something to this wardrobe; for Spring 2026, it's "that weirdness, that wackiness, that twist," according to Johansson.

"This feels more playful, but also a little bit more intellectual," she says. " Maybe it's a tough word to use when it comes to fashion. But you have to look close. You have maybe to think about it one more time... People want a little bit more to chew on sometimes. It should be wearable all the time, it's still H&M, but it [has] the right amount of chewiness. It's not too much and it's not too little. It has a certain soul to it."

Shop the H&M Studio Spring 2026 Collection

Those who know me know I wear a sweater-and-jeans combination on most days of the week. Even though spring is almost here, I have no plans on retiring my go-to outfit formula. Instead, I'll be swapping out my chunky knits for lightweight spring sweaters, and all of my favorites are at Zara and H&M.

My spring outfits are all about layering, so naturally, thinner sweaters I can tie around my waist, throw over a coat, and style over one another are at the top of my shopping list. I took a look, and seemingly both officially got the memo on my dream spring wardrobe. The airy sweaters I'm shopping fall into some of the biggest trends of the season, from trendy colors like cool blue and moss green to semi-sheer styles and polos.

If you're a minimalist like me, sweaters stay a part of your personal style, no matter the season. So before warm weather arrives, it's time to swap your cashmere for the lightweight sweaters (all of which ring in under $100, by the way) below.

New York Fashion Week has come and gone, but I won't shut up about the street style outside the Fall 2026 shows for a long time. There were plenty of triangle scarves over coats, unexpected color combinations, and It Bags to fawn over—my eyes, however, were aimed at the ground at all of the cool shoe trends attendees stepped out in.

After poring over hundreds of outfit snaps, I've developed a bad case of the shoppies. The only cure? Fresh footwear that won't break my budget.

The shoe trends that caught my eye at New York Fashion Week are incredibly wearable and fit seamlessly into my minimalist wardrobe. Punchy sneakers, high-vamp flats, and polished loafers are sitting at the top of my wishlist, but I'm also making room for a few statement pairs (hello, animal-print shoes!).

With a budget of $200 and under, my search naturally led me to Nordstrom, Zara, and H&M. These retailers didn't fail me: I found plenty of chic and affordable styles that fit into the biggest shoe trends of NYFW. Ahead, I'm sharing the ones in my cart, so you, too, can refresh your spring shoe rotation.

Colorful Sneakers

Sneakers are nothing new, but with every fashion week, their popularity seems to reach new heights. That was the case this February, when I spotted not one, not two, but many pairs of sneakers in bright colors like neon yellow, cherry red, and forest green. The next time you're tempted to reach for plain white sneakers, take after the street-style set with a pop of color and see what a difference it makes.

High-Vamp Flats

Ever since Marie Claire Fashion Editor Lauren Tappan spotlighted the high-vamp flat trend in a recent story, I can't stop seeing the minimalist shoes everywhere. A practical choice for running between shows, they were especially prevalent on the feet of NYFW attendees. They work with just about anything in your closet, from jeans and T-shirts to skirts and blazers. What's not to love?

Soft Loafers

Plenty of fashion week attendees prioritized comfortable footwear, which made loafers an especially popular flat shoe. The style has moved on from its clunky, lug-sole look to a more streamlined silhouette—think soft and ruched, the kind your grandpa probably wore. Go with classic black for easy styling, or opt for a suede pair for a richer look.

Animal-Print Boots

The fashion zeitgeist has been getting wilder with its prints, and that's never been more prevalent than the Fall 2026 season in New York. Every day, you could spot an attendee in a leopard-print coat or with a zebra-striped handbag; the trend carried over into footwear, especially boots, in street style.

Pointed-Toe Pumps

Some fashion week attendees took a sharp pivot with their footwear, opting for sky-high heels over flats to complete their look. Pointy pumps were perfect companions to the Glamoratti aesthetic, complementing opulent fur coats, sharp tailoring, and luxurious dresses. The next time your outfit feels drab, a pair of ladylike heels may make all the difference.

Colors are not common in my wardrobe, especially not bright ones. I like to keep my daily looks neutral, with rare exceptions. So, imagine my surprise when I found myself gravitating towards an unexpected (at least, for me) color combination for that transitional period between winter and spring: red with slate gray.

After seeing it on the Spring 2026 runways of brands like Chanel, McQueen, and Proenza Schouler, the pairing has opened up a new range of possibilities in my transitional wardrobe. Like the first flowers in the new season, red breaks up the monotony of my winter outfit rotation, whether it comes in the form of a vibrant spring jacket that lives up an otherwise monochromatic outfit or high-vamp ballet flats peeking out from under the hem of a maxi slip dress or slouchy office-ready trousers.

Ahead, I sifted through the new-in selection from three of my favorite on-trend brands—Zara, H&M, and Cos—to find easy-to-incorporate red and gray options that you can wear now and well into the spring.

I'm currently on my first-ever read-through of Wuthering Heights in preparation for Emerald Fennell's adaptation, which is set to land in theaters on February 13. I didn't need more reasons to get excited for it, but then H&M released a capsule collection worthy of wearing to the movie theater for my first watch with my girlfriends.

The 11-piece ready-to-wear drop, which landed on H&M's website and in select brick-and-mortar locations on February 9, includes everything you need to set the mood, from modern interpretations of the story's most recognizable phrases on monochromatic, slightly oversized T-shirts in shades of soft pale pink and fiery red to floaty, high-necked blouses, empire-waisted mini dresses, and lace-trimmed maxi skirts that evoke dark romanticism.

The drop comes right at the pinnacle of the film's press tour, which has seen Margot Robbie and Charli XCX opt for romantic designer frocks from the likes of Dilara Findikoglu, Erdem, and Chanel. You can match their freak in this new drop from H&M—albeit in a way that's more suited to day-to-day wear.

Keep scrolling to shop the collection before it sells out—an all-but-confirmed fact, given how good it is. Prepare to be "driven mad" by F.O.M.O if you can't grab one before they go. Happy Valentine's Day, indeed.

Shop H&M's 'Wuthering Heights' Collection

One peek into my winter wardrobe and you'll see that I wear a lot of black. Color trends come and go with the seasons, but none have made a lasting impact on my personal style—until winter 2026 came along. After spotting a few rich color recipes on fashion insiders, I've decided to update my colorless closet.

For starters, it's shaping up to be a big season for blue. Shopping editor Julia Marzovilla (a fellow advocate of all-black outfits) has me swapping out my black basics for navy. Meanwhile, fashion editor Lauren Tappan convinced me to try the lighter, cooler blue color trend. The other shades I'm eyeing fit like a charm into my minimalist outfits—think Cloud Dancer white and camel brown.

I'm convinced that adding these winter colors to my wardrobe will elevate it, so I'm heading to Zara and H&M for pieces that won't break my budget. Keep scrolling to shop the under-$100 picks that caught my eye.

Navy Blue

As I mentioned earlier, I love wearing black, so navy blue feels like a natural (and easy) alternative. It's just as dark and moody, but feels fresh for 2026. I plan to wear it as a neutral with all my basics, like sweaters and T-shirts, as well as with bottoms like pencil skirts and trousers. It also pairs beautifully with the other shades I'm eyeing, like powder pink and white.

Powder Pink

Millennial pink, A.k.a the soft baby pink you saw everywhere in 2016, is back and I'm not mad about it. The pale hue offers the perfect pop of color for minimalists who hate loud shades. I love the idea of tying a pale pink sweater around my shoulders or opting for pink sneakers instead of my white pair.

Cool Blue

Another winter color trend I can get behind is cool blue. While other trending shades can feel saturated, this blue is subtle and understated, ideal for minimalists like me. To update my go-to white T-shirt and button-down, I'll be picking up cool blue versions. A dainty triangle scarf—the accessory of winter 2026—also looks fabulous in the hue.

Cloud Dancer

While Cloud Dancer may not seem all that exciting, it is arguably the easiest color to incorporate into your wardrobe. I think of it as a blank canvas—a shade that serves as a polished neutral but can also stand on its own in a monochromatic white outfit. To update my wardrobe, I'm looking for elevated tops I can style with everything in my closet, plus a pair of white jeans for year-round wear.

Camel

While camel brown is nothing new, Resort 2026 collections from brands like Coach, Ferragamo, and Khaite solidified the shade as one to reach for this season. It's a tried-and-true neutral that pairs well with any color under the sun (I especially love it with cherry red). I plan on wearing the color all winter long and into spring with coats, jackets, and easy-to-style bottoms.

When I was in college, I was asked (read: forced) to wear navy during one round of sorority recruitment. I landed on a silky jumpsuit that I wore exactly once, and then swiftly sold online. Looking back a decade later, I should have found more joy in stepping out of my shell, color-wise, and not be so set in my native New York ways. I've been committed to all-black outfits pretty much my whole life. However, that might finally be changing.

Lately, I've found navy making a strong comeback in my winter wardrobe. (Trust me, I'm shocked.) I'm not alone in this journey—2026 is already shaping up to be the year of blue: Fashion Editor Lauren Tappan dubbed cool blue as the neutral of the year, and I've been keeping tabs on cobalt blue as a need-to-know shade since last spring. It leans into the return of preppy fashion, and pairs perfectly with Pantone's previous two colors of the year, Cloud Dancer (a creamy off-white) and Mocha Mousse (a perfected brown). It also works really well with brighter shades like fuchsia and fire-engine red, and is the perfect backdrop for silver accessories.

While I figure out whether navy is the new back in my closet, I rounded up enough finds from Mango, Zara, and H&M to make a strong case.

If I played my cards right the previous 12 months, I don’t necessarily need to start my year with a major closet cleanout. That said, I do make a point to take stock of what’s working, what doesn’t feel like me anymore, and what ended up being more of a microtrend blip than a solid investment. As a fashion editor, I love trying out new looks, but I’ve honed my taste over the years to have a pretty good idea of what’s actually worth the closet space.

For 2026, I ended up tossing a few short-sighted misses, but I’m proud to say a lot of what I loved last year not only still excites me, but will grow to become even more essential. A lot of these trends are still climbing towards their peak, and I’m glad to have some pieces already here at my disposal.

So, what made the cut? In terms of color palette, neutrals that go beyond classic black will be heavily prioritized in the year to come. And don’t worry if you really leaned into butter yellow—for now, you’re totally safe. Matching sets have also proven to be a great investment, as have silk and satin separates that make everyday garb feel fancy in a flash. Plus, I’m betting that two trends that started picking up speed as 2025 wrapped will be everywhere in 2026: track pants styled outside the gym and ridiculously big tote bags. Comfy! Practical! Don’t mind if I do.

Below, a few snaps of what survived my January closet cleanout—plus the trends I’m bringing with me into 2026 (and are worth trying for yourself).

Butter Yellow

While a bevy of new color trends are rolling in for 2026 (remind me to talk more about light blue soon, OK?), I’m happy to report that butter yellow won’t be leaving us anytime soon. In fact, with spring just around the corner, it’s about to be as prevalent as ever.

Alo’s Candlelight colorway might just be the most gorgeous shade of yellow I’ve seen to date. Lately, I’ve been layering this cashmere crewneck with a coordinating cardigan around the shoulders for some monochrome goodness.

Non-Black Neutrals

In 2025, I found myself eager to push beyond the comfort zone that an all-black look too easily provided. A simple switch from basic black to chocolatey browns and charcoal grays did wonders for my everyday wardrobe. Throw in some interesting taupes and olives, and, suddenly, neutrals felt as exciting as the rainbow.

Here, I’m wearing an all-bown look featuring this awesome faux jacket from H&M and these brown Abercrombie jeans that haven’t left my legs since I got them—absolutely zero notes.

Matching Sets

Some of my best investments over the last year or so have been co-ords with major mix-and-match-ability. I love wearing a full set together, but the option to break it up and still like the pieces separately is what really guarantees they’ll stand the test of time in your wardrobe.

This grey jacket and trouser combo from Le Bop (ShopBop’s stellar in-house brand I only recently discovered, BTW) has been on repeat. It also plays into my love for non-black neutrals, of course.

Big Totes

I’ve recently been relying hard on my biggest, slouchiest tote bags. Compared to some previous handbag trends, this one is extremely practical, and the commuter in me absolutely loves it.

Speaking of my commute—I can’t tell you how many people have stopped to ask me about the bag I’m wearing above. It’s the Kite Hobo Maxi from Strathberry, and in addition to fitting a ton, it looks like it should cost at least triple what it actually does. The brand’s quality is exceptional.

Silks and Satins

First, it was the bias-cut satin skirt obsession of the late 2010s. Then, we moved on to the satin pant in the early 2020s. In ‘26, silks and satins are still reigning supreme as the best fabrics to elevate simple silhouettes for nights out and otherwise dressy occasions.

Luckily, I’ve been stocking up for a while, although this lacy cami and matching pant combo in navy are a newer addition from Loft that I can’t get enough of. And as a callback to my matching set praise earlier, let me point out that these look great styled separately as well. The satin pants with a cozy navy sweater up top for daytime? Chef’s kiss.

Track Pants

In 2026, I’m really leaning into an ABJ—“Anything But Jeans”—lifestyle. I mean it when I say my ‘fits hit the hardest when I’m not relying on denim.

My go-to at the moment are trackies, perhaps because I have the Winslow pants from Tibi in its iconic crispy nylon material in multiple colors. They have such a unique, slightly exaggerated silhouette that elevates them from mere track pants to a total fashion moment. Here, I styled them with a faux-layered sweater to show how great they look when you explore styling beyond an activewear approach.

There’s something about a new calendar year that always invites a little reflection, a little introspection, and, if you’re a fashion lover, a little desire for a wardrobe refresh. It’s a perfect time to take stock of your collection and get real about what you’re loving, what you’re regularly wearing, and what might need to be donated (or at least demoted to the back of the closet).

It’s also a great time to shop for wardrobe staples, to make sure your 2026 style vision has a strong foundation to build on.

Style is, at its core, inherently personal, so what’s considered a “staple” isn’t going to be exactly the same for everyone. But, from my years of working in the fashion industry and seeing the ebbs and flows of trends, I know that there are some pieces—like a good pair of straight leg jeans—that pretty much every closet can benefit from having.

If I was looking to add just a few key workhorse items to my closet in 2026, these would be my recommendations.

A long tie-waist coat

This is one of those rare classics that also is trending—aka the best of both worlds when it comes to shopping. You’ll be able to wear this now and look right on trend, but it won’t look dowdy or dated even when it’s no longer dominating your algorithm.

Right now this silhouette is being referred to by a variety of names, from bathrobe coats to longline wraps, but the bottom line is that you want a coat that goes pretty much all the way to the bottom of your hemline. This brown suede twist on the classic trench is a great example of a piece I can wear now (with some warm layers underneath) and pull out again every fall. Depending on your vibe and climate, you might want a thicker material, like wool or faux fur, or lighter, or a lighter fabric, like, satin or sheer structured organza. You can even go for a full-on animal print version—a personal favorite of mine.

I also always love recommending long line jackets because not only are they generally timeless, they’re an outfit-maker: You can throw them over pretty much anything and instantly look more pulled together. It’s the perfect lazy-day hack for these cold midwinter months, when crafting a whole look for only a few hours of daylight doesn't feel like top priority. I did just that, throwing this coat on top of a jeans-and-tee combo, letting the trench and accessories shine. (Not hard with these great Versace tortoise chain detail sunnies and these fantastic shearling-lined clogs.)

High-waisted trousers

If you don’t have a great pair of wide-leg trousers in your wardrobe yet, 2026 is your year to get one. I know it might not feel like the most exciting purchase, but I can personally attest that it can be a real game-changer—and not just for business casual vibes. I personally love playing against type when it comes to trousers, pairing them with boho sweaters, sexy little tops, and sporty layers. For this look, I styled my go-to pair of Reformation trousers with a minimal H&M cropped tee, bright pink Nikes, and my metallic purple Telfar tote.

When shopping for trousers, fit is of utmost importance, so don’t feel weird about needing to try on a few pairs to find the right one. A little fashion insider tip that makes that latter one an easier pill to swallow: Sizes are a lot less standardized than most people assume (there isn’t even an official standard guideline in women’s fashion!), and a lot of it comes down to the measurements of the fit models brands hired. It’s very common to be one size at one brand and a different one at another. Focus on how it looks and feels on your body, not the number on the tag. And if you’re ordering from a new-to-you brand, I always advise going a size up: A slouchy pair of wide leg trousers looks cool, fashion-forward, and purposeful—but a too-tight pair just looks… too tight.

Silky slip dress

This is another one of those wardrobe staples that you might not think you need, but ends up becoming a go-to. A well-made slip dress can stand alone or be layered with ease, and can be styled to fit pretty much any aesthetic, from minimal to boho.

Unconvinced? Just consider it in the context of some of the year’s big trends. Sporty chic? Add a nylon windbreaker, colorful sneakers, and tall ribbed socks. Poetcore? Layer it under a sweater vest and oversized button-down, and finish the look with patterned tights and brogues. The boudoir aesthetic? A lacy bra peeking out underneath will do the trick—as will a pair of lace-trimmed satin pants, for a luxe pajama vibe.

For this look, I paired this lightweight silk slip dress from Quince with an oversized semi-sheer button down from inclusive indie label Pinecone Row. To make it work for chilly January temperatures, I wore a longtime favorite Baacal plaid car coat (similar) on top, and added weather-resistant lug-sole boots. (This pair comes in multiple calf widths, too!) Altogether, this look was cool and comfortable, and not at all precious—silk doesn’t always have to be dainty, after all!

I have a confession to make: I think I hate my jeans. After years of accumulating a rotation of must-have denim, I'm feeling a little bored. My signature jeans-sweater-boots outfit formula can only take me so far. So, in 2026, I'm breaking up with denim and exploring what else the world of "fun pants" has to offer.

Turns out there are a lot of non-denim bottom options I haven't yet explored. Take, for instance, track pants: They're the backbone of my airport outfits, and now I feel confident enough to wear them off the plane, too. It Girls are also proving cargo pants, and capris—two styles that have been relegated to the back of my closet since the early aughts—are worth a second glance this winter.

My closet is about to get way more diverse in 2026. Keep scrolling for all the winter pants options I'm eyeing.

Track Pants

The sporty fashion renaissance has continued with quarter-zips, fleece jackets, track jackets, and now, track pants. They're comfortable, casual, and feel '90s-inspired without going overboard.

Leather Pants

Leather pants are basically denim's cooler older sister. They're a night-out staple, but I believe they can (and should!) be worn in the daytime. You can dress them down with a button-down or a tee, or go full leather-on-leather with a matching moto jacket.

Cargo Pants

Late last year, a late-night scrolling session landed me on a pair of olive green cargo balloon pants. I bought them on impulse, and haven't worn them since—but I've recently come around to the idea of these cargo pants being an essential part of my winter wardrobe. After seeing enough styling inspiration, I pulled them out of my closet for outfit testing. Whether I personally end up including them as a must-have in the future is yet to be determined, but one thing is true: Cargos are cool again.

Skirt Trousers

Hear me out: Start styling your skirts over your pants again. No, it won't end up looking like you're on the red carpet for the Hannah Montana premiere in 2006. If you don't want to mix-and-match your perfect combination, brands like Simonett and Helsa both offer chic sets for one-and-done styling.

Soft Trousers

If, in the not-too-distant future, you find yourself yearning for a pair of pants that look like trousers and feel like sweats, remember to thank me. I bought the Gale Pants from Reformation over the holiday break, and have worn them nearly every day since. My collection is on the verge of tripling.

Capri Pants

I hate being wrong, but I'm big enough to admit I was incorrect about the longevity of last summer's capri pants trend. They've bubbled up onto my newsfeed again courtesy of Bella Hadid's recent street style, and I feel like they'll be everywhere on the streets of Copenhagen Fashion Week. Get ahead of their return and shop one of the options I have my eye on.

I think I may be allergic to wearing color. I blame my New York City upbringing for this—as well as my parents, who wore the chicest all-black outfits when I was growing up. After years of fighting it, I have simply decided to embrace it in my 30s. And thank goodness, because I now get to scroll through my favorite retailers' and brands' websites for hours, pulling together my favorite finds guilt-free. It's a task I take very seriously: My monochromatic shopping list for winter 2026 has taken me weeks to build. But I'm finally ready to share.

Right now, I'm looking to replace pieces I've worn to death (like my favorite Longchamp laptop bag and black jeans from Agolde), as well as sprinkle in newness from Zara, H&M, Nordstrom, and more. Keep scrolling for the all-black fashion picks on the market worth checking out right now, straight from the brain of a shopping editor who has spent pretty much her whole life crafting the perfect all-black wardrobe.

Winter outfits are tough enough to put together, but styling a date-night outfit that feels cold-weather-proof feels nearly impossible—how can you feel your best while you're all bundled up in layer after layer? My solution: chic and cozy sweaters from H&M and Zara.

I'm a firm believer that there's a trendy sweater for every occasion, especially date night. The key is to find the silhouettes, colors, prints, and textures that feel sexy to you. Maybe that means an off-the-shoulder knit that shows off a peek of collarbone. Or maybe it's a semi-sheer sweater you can layer over your favorite lingerie. Whatever "sexy" means to you, there are plenty of affordable options at H&M and Zara to choose from.

Ahead, I've rounded up all of the H&M and Zara sweaters I'd wear on date night (or on girls' night out, for that matter). Each under-$100 find pairs perfectly with jeans and boots for the ultimate winter outfit formula.

I don't know about you, but it has not been easy to get back into the swing of things after the holidays. I've lost all motivation to put together outfits that don't involve sweatpants, which is a problem considering I'm returning to the office in 2026. I need fresh inspiration for winter workwear ASAP, so naturally, I'm turning to Zara and H&M.

Anytime my shopping list involves on-trend pieces that won't break my budget, my first instinct is to peruse the new-in sections at both retailers. They did not lead me astray—after scrolling through Zara and H&M's new collections, I have a newfound appreciation for office dressing, and I'm blaming it on all of the chic jackets, trousers, rich-looking sweaters, and tops I spotted.

To put a pep in your New Year styling step, I've rounded up all of the new under-$100 workwear finds that caught my eye. Whether it's a sweater dress or trending balloon pants, rest assured, the items below will make going back to the office exciting again—all for under $175, too.

I have conflicting feelings about New Year's Eve, mainly around what to wear. On the one hand, I love any reason to dress up and pull out that never-right-for-anything-else piece from the back of my closet. But on the other, I feel a lot of pressure about getting my outfit right, to set the tone for the new year.

Instead of panic-shopping on December 31st, I'm turning to Zara and H&M to build holiday outfits inspired by tried-and-true street-style formulas that are fun and festive, but that also work for all the seconds after the clock strikes midnight. There are sparkles, of course, as well as plenty of rich-looking knits and touches of softer lace and silk that I'll take with me into 2026.

Ahead, shop my favorite covetable New Year's Eve outfits at Zara and H&M. Here's to a 2025 send-off filled with It girl-approved fashion.

All-Over Leather

Most New Year's Eve outfits consist of glitter and sparkles (we'll get there), but my preferred way of dressing involves head-to-toe leather. Layer on a bomber jacket and a micro mini skirt with a pair of sheer tights and burgundy pumps.

Classic Sparkles

See? Sequins are always a hit on New Year's Eve. Pick a glittery maxi dress in a winter-ready color (think: burgundy, olive green, or navy blue), and keep the rest of your accessories simple. A delicate silver cuff adds just enough extra sparkle.

Touches of Sheer

New Year's Eve is the perfect time to show some skin, strategically: Layer up with sheer textures and extra-warm jackets. Keeping the color palette neutral to let the fabrics shine.

Head-to-Toe Black

I'm a New Yorker through and through, so, yes, there had to be an all-black outfit on this list. I'm also a baby about cold temperatures, so I'm layering the warmest knits over a pair of simple trousers. Because it's a holiday night out, though, I'll swap my usual sweater for an off-the-shoulder style, and the bottoms for a skirt-over-pants situation.

Silver and Denim

If you love a casual look but still want to have a little fun, try wearing a bold silver top with a pair of dark-wash jeans. It's an easy combination that feels festive with little effort.

Cool-Girl Lace

You don't need to put away your white jeans for the winter. Make them feel cold-weather-ready with a silk-and-lace tunic and a leather jacket. It's equal parts cool and warm.

Life-Proof Gold

Go for the gold, but keep it real-life-appropriate. This look relies on office staples like a turtleneck and an oversized blazer, but making them feel party-ready with a fun gilded bottom.

Winter Whites

Start 2026 off strong with a white-on-white ensemble. A lacy skirt can be layered over tights for added warmth. (The controversial sneaker heels are optional.)

Cozy Separates

If you're hanging out at home but want to still be festive, swap sweats for a lacy slip skirt. A chunky sweater creates the right amount of contrast, without taking away from the coziness.

If you were to spot me on the street in the winter, I'm wearing a sweater nine out of 10 times. But since I pulled my go-tos out of storage, I've noticed my knitwear collection is looking a little lackluster. So, I'm on the hunt for expensive-looking options that aren't actually expensive—and naturally, my search has led me to H&M and Zara.

My dream collection is full of the kind of elevated sweaters celebrities wear, from nerdy-chic argyle knits to simple turtlenecks. It seems H&M and Zara got the memo: The new-in collections at both brands are well-stocked with every trendy style I've been eyeing, and the prices fit perfectly into my post Black Friday budget.

Ahead, I've rounded up the polished knits from H&M and Zara that give major luxury energy. The best part? They all ring in at $100 and under.

I’m curious to know how my teenage self would feel about the fact that argyle sweaters have become my favorite burgeoning 2026 trend and fashion code for cool.

Growing up on Cape Cod as a quirky kid who dreamed of an eclectic, creative life in New York City, I avoided preppy clothing like the plague. In my mind, any piece that felt like a bourgeois wardrobe basic was dorky and unstylish, a representation of the lifestyle I was so desperate to leave behind. Argyle sweaters fell very squarely into that camp—the clothing equivalent of 18 holes at a gated country club. (After all, its mainstream popularity is in credit to the Duke of Windsor’s golf game.)

Yet here I am now, flirting with the idea of buying Reformation’s argyle cashmere cardigan because I can’t afford Miu Miu’s. Other fashion designers I admire—like Catherine Holstein at Khaite and Michael Rider at Celine—styled diamond-printed knitwear on their Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 runways. (Two looks from Khaite’s show last March still take up a considerable chunk of my mental real estate: baby blue argyle crewnecks styled with leather pants and magnificent fur coats.) These were not like the ones I saw Hyannisport housewives wearing on Labor Day before leaving their Cape summer homes (a few miles away from the modest three-bed my family lives in year-round). These sweaters felt sleek, unconventional, and, dare I say, sexy.

Like any fashion trend worth its salt, argyle sweaters are also flourishing off the runway. During the Spring 2026 season, fashion week guests in Paris, Milan, London, and New York wore diamond-printed knits as punchy, graphic layers under lady jackets, as makeshift belts around their waists, and as scarves over their coats. The clear takeaway to me here is how tastemakers took such a stuffy, prepster staple and injected it into today’s trendiest outfit formulas, making it look cool and contemporary.

As Julia Gall, contributing Style at Large editor and fashion industry veteran, wrote about her favorite sweater outfits: “A forever classic that has elbowed its way back into the fashion zeitgeist, argyle sweaters are feeling really right for right now.”

Moreover, I’m also seeing great argyle sweaters from fashion-girl favorite labels like Alex Mill, Gigi Hadid’s Guest in Residence, and &Daughter, one of Marie Claire’s editor-in-chief Nikki Oggunaike’s favorite knitwear brands. Reliable retailers like J.Crew and H&M are also in on the sweater trend, with slim-fit knit polos and brushed-wool cardigans that lend themselves to preppy-ish winter work outfits.

All this brings me to the main reason why I’m writing this trend report today: Inspired by my change of heart for the prepster staple, I’ve combed the internet to round up the best argyle sweaters that work for a variety of individual stylings, not just in a boarding school uniform. The knits included above and below work in any context and setting—which, for me, might actually be out to drinks at my favorite Brooklyn wine bar and at the next New York Fashion Week.

Shop the Argyle Sweater Trend