KEY WOMEN’S TRENDS TO KNOW
THE SPRING EDIT:
Expressive maximalism, voluminous trousers, modern layering and more…
After several seasons of pared-back palettes and silhouettes, the SS26 runways signalled a refreshing change in tone. This spring, fashion is leaning into personality again - think less about restraint and more about self-expression. It’s a season for standing out, having fun with your wardrobe and letting your outfit tell a story. The mood for spring 2026 is playful and personality driven. Embrace expressive styling in all its forms: layer unexpected shapes, experiment with bold prints and let voluminous silhouettes take centre stage.
Spring 2026 invites you to play with your style, push boundaries and allow your outfits to reflect your mood. From expressive maximalism to voluminous trousers, modern layering to sheer detailing, designers like Chloé, Miu Miu, Acne Studios and more are leading the charge with pieces that feel fresh, fun and expressive.
Consider this your spring 2026 trends roadmap.
EXPRESSIVE MAXIMALISM
This season is all about turning up the volume. Spring welcomes a shift in mood, one that moves away from the subtle codes of quiet luxury and steps into the world of expressive maximalism. The idea is simple: more really is more. Designers are leaning into boldness in every sense, embracing exaggerated proportions, richly textured fabrics and eye-catching embellishments. It’s a trend that encourages individuality, creativity and a sense of play when it comes to dressing. On the SS26 runways, silhouettes became more dramatic. Voluminous skirts brought movement, while sculptural shapes and vibrant prints brought a little extra flair.
The beauty of maximalist fashion is that there are no strict rules. For those drawn to bold shape, lean into pieces that embrace volume. The Agave Dress from Jacquemus is a perfect example, featuring a striking fluid tulle skirt that moves gracefully with you. If statement detailing is more your style, the crystal-embellished mini skirt from Prada offers the perfect way to introduce sparkle to your spring wardrobe, while Gucci’s vibrant Floral Silk Trousers bring colour and print into the mix for a standout look.
VOLUMINOUS TROUSERS
While trousers are a year-round wardrobe staple, certain silhouettes naturally step into the spotlight when spring arrives. This season, the focus shifts towards the voluminous kind. SS26 is moving away from ultra-slim fits and instead embracing trousers with shape and movement. Think barrel-leg cuts that curve through the leg, wide-leg silhouettes that flow with every step, and soft tailoring that drapes rather than clings. There’s a quiet drama in the way these silhouettes play with proportions, making even simple pieces feel considered and fashion-forward.
If you’re someone who believes the baggier the better, then Acne Studios’ Trompe-l’œil Jeans are for you. Designed with a wide, intentionally relaxed leg, and loose fit, they’re the ideal companion for a laid-back feel. For those who prefer a bit more structure, Weekend Max Mara delivers trousers with a straight-leg silhouette and subtle front creases that create shape and definition. If you’re drawn to something a little more playful, Chloé’s offerings are a dream. Featuring a flared silhouette and a high-rise waistline, they elongate the leg while adding movement to every step.
MODERN LAYERING
Rather than reinventing your wardrobe every season, spring 2026 encourages a more thoughtful approach to dressing. It’s time to revisit pieces you already own and explore fresh ways to style them. Enter modern layering, one of the season’s most covetable trends. Designers are reimagining how everyday staples can work together in unexpected ways. The secret lies in building a team of essentials and mastering a few layering tricks that elevate your look. Layering goes beyond its traditional role of keeping you warm. Instead, it’s about creating visual interest, contrast and personality within an outfit. Think crisp shirts layered beneath dresses, oversized tailoring worn over lightweight knitwear or t-shirts layered over long-sleeve tops for an off-duty look. It’s these small styling choices that add depth and dimension to your outfit.
If you’re after a preppy vibe, layer Vivienne Westwood’s Toulouse Frill Shirt underneath Miu Miu’s Pleated Mini Dress. This combination not only adds structure and dimension, but it also brings a playful edge. For something slightly simpler, layer Acne Studios’ Edra Graphic T-Shirt over their Logo Tee. Doubling up on tees creates a relaxed, street-inspired aesthetic, emulating a laid-back energy that feels both modern and easy to wear.
STATEMENT SKIRTS
On both the runways and the streets, one piece recently emerged a clear standout for the season: the statement skirt. For SS26, skirts are stepping firmly into the spotlight. This season’s styles are anything but subtle. Think full silhouettes, asymmetric hems, dramatic proportions and playful textures that instantly draw the eye. They’re all about movement and impact, bringing a sense of energy to your look with minimal effort.
If you’re after a piece that naturally becomes the focal point of your look, look to Burberry’s midi skirt. Woven with a seasonal expression of the iconic Burberry Check and finished with delicate eyelash fringing, it brings texture and heritage detailing in one piece. Simply pair it with a relaxed tee or a crisp shirt to let the skirt take centre stage. For those wanting to lean into the season’s love of bold styling, Prada offers a vibrant floral midi skirt that feels perfectly in tune with spring’s expressive mood. Style it with the matching top for a head-to-toe floral moment, embracing the maximalist spirit that’s defining SS26. However you choose to wear it, the statement skirt is the piece that does all the talking for you.
SHEER & LACE DETAILING
If you’re after a softer, more romantic aesthetic this spring, then sheer and lace detailing is a trend worth exploring. Rather than being overly revealing, sheer fabrics and intricate lace are being used to introduce subtle texture and intrigue to dressing, striking a beautiful balance between sensuality and refined styling. Across the runways, airy layers of chiffon, tulle and lace appeared in everything from floaty dresses to sheer blouses and softly structured skirts. These delicate fabrics bring movement and dimension to an outfit, creating an effect that is elegant and statement-making.
If you’re looking to embrace the trend, Chloé’s lace blouse is the perfect starting point. Light, feminine and detailed, it can be styled in multiple ways. Layer it over a lace bralette for a lingerie-inspired look or opt for a camisole underneath for more coverage while still letting the intricate texture shine through. If you want to fully lean in, Fendi offers a dress that combines both sheer and lace detailing. Designed with delicate floral lace, sheer panels and tone-on-tone texture, it’s a piece that feels romantic yet striking, ticking two of the season’s key trends in one look.
So, whether you’re drawn to statement pieces or subtle styling updates, the key take away is simple: have fun with it. Mix proportions, experiment with layering and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.