A Chic 10 Piece London Capsule Wardrobe That'll See You to Spring 2026
Building the ultimate capsule wardrobe is no small feat, especially in London. With its sub-zero winters and (at times) scorching summers, it’s hard to find pieces that can be worn throughout the year. Because if we’re honest, if you’re like me with a chronic need for sleep, sorting through an ungodly amount of clothes to create a ‘look’ feels a touch redundant. Which is why, ahead of the New Year, I’m editing my clothes and accessories into a pared-back collection, set to last me for the next 9 months. However, I must say, as I filter through my clothes and shoes, creating a functional edit that tailors to these two extremes whilst capturing the very heart of what it means to be a 'city-girl' in London isn’t for the faint of heart.
London dressing, to me, feels far more dynamic than other major cities. With an individualistic undercurrent, Londoner's balance an innate nonchalance with classic pieces, a spirited undoneness with an edgy sophistication which means each piece of my new wardrobe needs to fit the memo.
Naturally, the question of what the vibe will be next year has been on my mind for a while. At Who What Wear UK, as it’s our job to live and breathe trends, there's a whole range of aesthetics we predict will take precedence in your wardrobe in the coming months. From the softly structured Neoplan-era jackets to folky medieval maiden style maxis that have Chappel Roan’s name all over them, to Victoriana footwear with a witchy twist, for us, spring/summer 2026 is shaping up to be the year of maximalism and truly anything goes.
However, whilst one or two of these pieces can launch your capsule into the 2026 mood, it’s those simple staples—those that we often may consider mundane—that are the hidden gems of our wardrobe, and ultimately, the pieces that let the trend items shine. Now, am I saying you should throw everything away and start from scratch? Never! However, if your tried and true tailored trousers have seen better days (much like my own), this list is a great place to start.
A London-approved Capsule Wardrobe, Ready to See You Through to Spring
1. Tapered Trousers
Style Notes: Whilst tailored trousers never date due to their innate timelessness, tapered trousers (and ultra-wide tailoring) have garnered more traction lately. Designers, including Carolina Herrera and Stella McCartney, focus on ultra-wide-leg iterations at their autumn/winter 2025 runway shows. This shape perfectly offsets the more laid-back, "cool-girl" nature of 2026 dressing. In spring, I’m planning on wearing mine as Monikh Dale (pictured above) has with a layered tee and suede bag to match.
Shop Tapered Trousers:
ZARA
Zw Collection Pleated Wide-Leg Trousers
These have been all over my feed as of late.
COS
Pleated Barrel-Leg Wool Trousers
In a dusty olive shade, this barrel-legged shape would pair nicely with loafers and a cosy cashmere knit.
TOTEME
Pleated Flannel Wide-Leg Pants
With a mid-rise waist, this flannel Toteme pair feels perfect for when the weather warms.
2. Pleated Maxi Skirts
Style Notes: With nostalgic styles having a moment, the latest of a long list is that of the pleated maxi skirt. Having shed its ‘2010s zest, where Proenza Schouler and Timo Weiland made the elegant '50s silhouette cool again, there’s been little noise on the pleated skirt front until now.
With the rise of loose tailoring and in tandem with a newfound affliction for heritage plaid, pleated skirts have suddenly started trending again. An offshoot from Miu Miu’s preppy re-birth, longer maxis balance sophistication with edge to create looks which feel effortlessly undone. From brushed mohair striped jumpers to waisted knits, it's impossible for this elegant silhouette not to look chic in 2026.
