Headed for Winter Sun? 7 Outfit Formulas to Recreate in 2026
This year, I decided to spend part of my winter in snowy Munich, and sadly, I thoroughly regretted it. As much as I love a good snow day, I was practically green with envy after spotting what seemed like most of my social-media feed in gloriously warm sun-soaked destinations. From St Barths to Barbados to Cape Town, the chicest people had swapped the Balearics for the Tropics, filling my grid with reams of enviable winter-sun outfit inspiration.
There’s nothing like seeing an array of floaty cotton dresses, vibrant colourways and kaleidoscopic patterns when you’re in the depths of winter to make you dream of sun-soaked days in your favourite summer outfits. From on-trend Pucci capris perfect for balmy date nights on the coast to voluminous lace bloomers inspired by Chemena Kamali’s Chloé, I’ve seen countless styles on every scroll that have inspired me.
If you’re lucky enough to be seeing some sun this winter and are unsure where to start, don’t fret. Having toiled on IG for hours (you’re welcome), I’ve found and saved seven timeless winter-sun outfits that will fit any destination you might be jetting off to this January. Scroll to discover them.
7 Outfits to Re-Create in Winter Sun
1. Maxi Dress + Raffia Clutch
Style Notes: Whilst you can’t go wrong with straightforward staples, on some days and for some occasions, dressing a little fancier is in order. Personally, I find the easiest way to look more put-together is a one-and-done sweeping maxi, which looks great with any summer-friendly accessories, like a raffia clutch and statement jewellery. Not only will you look like a walking masterpiece, but this outfit formula (as it’s comprised of only three pieces) will allow you to make the most of the precious space in your suitcase.
Shop the Look:
Sir the Label
Martina Cotton
You’ll pull out this maxi dress year after year.
Reiss
Raffia-Effect Ruched Clutch Bag
The removable chain shoulder strap is a nice touch.
THOMAS SABO
Gold-Plated Bangle
If you’re looking for an elegant bangle that’s built to last, look no further than this chic Thomas Sabo iteration.
Pilgrim
Sparkle Bracelet Gold-Plated
Pilgrim makes some of my favourite jewellery to date.
Polène
Eroz Drop Earrings
Polène’s is best known for its bags, but the jewellery is some of the most luxurious around.
2. Lace Blouse + Lace Trousers
Style Notes: Getting dressed for casual drinks can be pretty easy, but if you’re after a look which will transition from day to night with ease, why not try boho-coded bloomers with a broderie anglaise top? Intrinsically lightweight, with the right footwear, this luxurious lace-drenched look will take you from strolling the streets to aperitivo with ease.
Shop the Look:
With a ’70s-glam bohemia feel, this lace top is bang on trend this season.
Free People
Forever Young Bloomer Pants
These bloomers have been all over my feed since last summer.
PUMA
Speedcat Satin Ballet Sneakers
Haven’t you heard? Everyone is swapping their trainers for stylish sneakerinas this year!
LE SPECS
Outta Love Oval-Frame Sunglasses
Year after year, Le Specs reigns supreme as a fashion person’s favourite sunnies brand.
DeMellier
The Small Hudson
As much as I love Alessandra Garcia’s eclectic bag (pictured above), I’ll be switching it out for a practical DeMellier Hudson instead.
3. Halter-Neck Top + Capri Leggings
Style Notes: Pucci outfits have become Gen Z’s latest luxury fixation ever since last year’s viral “Euro summer” trend. As such, the brand’s kaleidoscopic patterns have become highly sought-after statement pieces for fashion enthusiasts. Styling this print with capri leggings (another huge trend from last year that’s carried over to 2026), Elsa Hosk channels the ‘90s by pairing hers with a halterneck and peep-toe heels. Divine.
Shop the Look:
You’ll get so much wear from this simple black halterneck.
Pucci
Vivara-Print Cotton Trousers
These would look so chic offset with a black blazer and ballet flats.
A classic capsule-wardrobe shoe.
YSSO
Hercules Gold-Plated Cord Necklace
Cord necklaces will be back in a big way this summer.
Balenciaga
Le City Bag Small
Whilst my budget hasn’t stretched to Elsa Hosk’s Birkin just yet, I’ll be infusing some dopamine into my look with this on-trend Balenciaga Le City instead.
4. Swimwear + Cover-Up
Style Notes: Swimwear on a sunny vacay is about as essential as your plane ticket and accommodation (and SPF); however, I often find a sarong is the harder-working staple. Whether tied as a halter top, slung around the waist as a skirt or looped as a headscarf, it’s a piece you’ll pull out again and again on a tropical vacay. Whilst a matching three-piece will always look chic, if you keep your bikini neutral, vibrant hues and bold patterns will feel innately more fun.
Shop the Look:
HUNZA G
Gina Swarovski Crystal-Embellished Original Crinkle Bikini
You can never go wrong with a simple white bikini, and this one adds a little sparkle.
LA DOUBLEJ
Printed Cotton
You’ll get so much wear out of this sarong; it’ll pair with myriad colours.
HEAVEN MAYHEM
Mini Knot Yellow Gold-Plated Metal Earrings
These Heaven Mayhem hoops are a cult favourite for a reason!
Jimmy Fairly
The Cinnamon
Trust me: shades of green are set to sweep the market come summer.
Havaianas
Logo Metallic Flip
5. Asymmetric Top + Skirt
(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)
Style Notes: With sweeping symmetrical hemlines trending, a winter-sun outfit is the best excuse to embrace the trend. These breezy cuts will keep you cool and create a laid-back yet polished look without too much heavy lifting. Finish with a simple thong sandal and ceramic bangles for an outfit fit for al fresco sunset dinners or boozy beach club lunches.
Shop the Look:
Faithfull the Brand
Aurora Striped One-Shoulder Blouse
No one does casual elevation quite as well as Aussie labels.
ALEXANDER MCQUEEN
Alex Midi Skirt
The pleats! The asymmetric finish! This skirt has jumped to the top of my wish list.
Saint Laurent
Thong Sandals
The knot detail makes all the difference.
What’s better than one bangle? Three!
ALAÏA
Le Teckel Medium Textured-Leather Shoulder Bag
Crafted from artfully aged textured leather, the sleek proportions offer a surprising amount of space for everyday essentials or holiday necessities.
6. Skirt + T-Shirt + Jumper
Style Notes: In climates where the days are hot and the nights have a chilly breeze, an easily layerable outfit will become your best asset. Lightweight and breathable, it’s a fail-safe rotation on holiday (and on summer evenings in the UK). When the sun goes down, and an extra layer is a must, a light jumper tied around your shoulders will be your saviour.
Shop the Look:
This elevated lace maxi skirt is so pretty.
Christopher Esber
Jo Thong Sandals
We saw the return of playful jelly sandals last year, and I predict they’ll be right back for summer 2026.
COS
Cashmere Crew-Neck Jumper
COS’ plush cashmere range never ceases to impress.
Gucci
Jackie 1961 Medium Bag
This sophisticated Gucci bag needs no introduction.
7. Shorts + Top
Style Notes: You’re of course already aware of the classic “jeans and a nice top” combo, but for carefree hot days, simply switch your jeans for shorts. Whether you go for denim cut-offs, linen Bermudas or silky sports shorts, this simple outfit formula always works.
Shop the Look:
Missoni
Dégradé Sequin-Embellished Crochet-Knit Tank
If I won the lottery, there would be signs!
From elevated jeans to classic shorts, Agolde’s denim range comes second to none.
KHAITE
Olivia Raffia Shoulder Bag
Named the Kos, these sunglasses are perfect for sun-soaked days on the Greek island.
