It’s finally light outside past 6 pm, and the sun has come out to kiss our skin. After months of being cocooned in sweaters and scarves, getting dressed is actually fun again.
So if your wardrobe is still stuck in late-winter autopilot, now's the time to plan your seasonal reset. While Katie is always a reliable source of style inspiration, the Spring 2026 runways delivered plenty of fresh ideas, too — from silk scarves tied every which way to understated elegance that evoked Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's sleek style. Shows featured twists on classic trench coats, statement brooches, and balloon-leg trousers that somehow feel both relaxed and refined.
However, we’re after Fashion Week style on a sale-section budget. So we’re distilling the spirit of the runways — from the tailored ease seen at Wales Bonner to the kaleidoscopic color play at Fendi — into approachable finds that won’t make your bank account beg for mercy. Ahead, six standout spring trends, and easy ways to weave them into your wardrobe.
The Best Spring Fashion Trends of 2026
Silk Scarves
Silk scarves had a major moment on the Spring 2026 runways, with designers proving that the classic accessory can do far more than cover a neck. Long favored by style icons like Jackie O., the scarf appeared everywhere this season — from handbag accents to tops (as seen at Celine) and even patchworked into skirts. Take a page from the women who made them famous and style them any which way: Tie one around your head for instant polish, knot it onto a bag, or wear it as a top when the temperatures climb. (Or try a scarf-inspired piece, like the gorgeous one below.)
Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy Inspiration
Long before “quiet luxury” entered the fashion lexicon, Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy had already perfected the look. With the release of Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette on Hulu, fascination with the former Calvin Klein publicist’s wardrobe has surged once again. Known for sidestepping flashy labels in favor of crisp tailoring and streamlined silhouettes, her influence quietly echoed across the spring runways. Tory Burch’s elegant midi skirts, Celine’s cigarette jeans, and Balenciaga’s oversized sunglasses all felt like pieces CBK herself might have reached for.
Bold Colors
Pantone dubbed a soft white the color of the year, but designers clearly had other ideas. Spring runways favored bold, occasionally surprising pairings that brought fresh energy to classic shapes. At Fendi, vivid pinks and greens appeared alongside polished staples like structured handbags and pencil skirts, while Loewe leaned into jewel tones — ruby and emerald in particular. Over at Ulla Johnson, neon lime and coral delivered a bright, confident punch that felt tailor-made for sunnier days. This is the time to go bold and not go home. (We recommend heading out for patio cocktails.)
Updated Trench Coat
Just in time for spring’s inevitable drizzle, the trench coat returned with a few clever upgrades. Giorgio Armani offered cropped leather versions that felt sleek rather than soggy-weather practical, Christopher John Rogers livened up classic full-length styles with jolts of neon striping, and Bottega Veneta introduced strong shoulders for a touch of drama. No matter which one you choose, our coat picks are proof that functional can be very fun, too.
Brooches
As fashion loves to remind us, classics inevitably find their way back into our closets again and again. This season, the brooch has reclaimed its place as the accessory with just enough personality to transform an outfit. Katie is fond of beaded styles pinned to a crisp white button-up, though they work just as well securing a lightweight scarf at the shoulder, a trick Ralph Lauren loves.
Balloon Pants
No, these aren’t the hammer pants of decades past. Think of them instead as barrel jeans’ slightly more stylish cousin. Billowing and sheer versions appeared at Michael Kors, while Brandon Maxwell offered a more tailored leather interpretation that still kept the silhouette intact. Styling is simple: Pair the voluminous pants with a more-fitted top so the proportions feel intentional rather than overwhelming.
Poplin Shirting
One of Katie’s favorite trends this season? The classic poplin shirt. Designers showcased its enduring appeal, from Gucci’s crisp shirt dresses to Wales Bonner’s refined layered takes. Its versatility is part of the charm: Katie pairs hers with boyfriend jeans and loafers for ease, or tucks it into tailored shorts with a blazer for a look that’s effortlessly put-together.
