express gazette logo
The Express Gazette
Tuesday, January 13, 2026

What the world's most fashionable women wore to London Fashion Week—and how to recreate the looks

From kilts to sugar-hued shirts, street style in London offers wearable ideas for spring/summer 2026.

Culture & Entertainment 4 months ago
What the world's most fashionable women wore to London Fashion Week—and how to recreate the looks

London Fashion Week’s street style is shaping the mood for spring/summer 2026 as fashion month continues across New York, London, Milan and Paris. After the first wave of shows in New York, attendees descended on London’s streets with a mix of luxury and street-ready pieces, illustrating how the season’s ideas might translate into everyday wardrobes.

Key takeaways from the London streets include kilts, winter-white blazers, trench coats with twists, sugar-hued shirting, nightwear as daywear, baggy jeans and polka dots, all paired with neutral bases and statement accents. The looks reflect a blend of heritage influence and modern ease, with an emphasis on versatility and wearability for daily life.

Kilt styles made a notable return, continuing a trend Dior popularized on its Cruise collection last summer. At London Fashion Week, tartan or checked kilts appeared in mini and midi lengths, though plain, pleated versions offered a more restrained option. The goal is to avoid a schoolgirl mood by pairing kilts with knee-high boots and grown-up knits, thermals, or crisp shirting. Neutrals such as grey, navy and black pair neatly with the winter-wardrobe staples already in many closets, while a rich chocolate brown shade remains highly sought after for a refined twist. The aesthetic reads as sophisticated and chic rather than just festive plaid.

Winter-white blazers reframe autumn neutrals with a crisp, tonal lift. Observers noted chalky tailoring that works with indigo denim, tailored trousers or even a kilt for a cohesive outfit. Look for pieces with a cinched waist, oversized lapels or bold button details to modernize the silhouette. Practical wearers can keep the look polished amid busy commutes and daily chores, pairing the lighter jackets with darker foundations for contrast.

Trench coats with twists drew attention as well, a nod to Burberry’s historic role in outerwear. The heritage labels—along with Mackintosh—continue to influence contemporary outerwear with updated details. For those seeking authenticity on a budget, charity shops and resale sites offer vintage Burberry and related styles, while high-street options mimic clever twists: embellished cuffs, caped designs, khaki greens or burgundy hues, and gold hardware that elevate the classic trench without overhauling a wardrobe.

Sugar-hued shirting provided a soft color lift to workwear basics. Pastel greens, baby blues, icy pinks and lavender hues were styled into simple shirts that can replace a standard white tee or blouse. The trick is to French tuck the shirt to break up a boxy silhouette and emphasize the waist, creating a flattering line under jackets or knits. For practicality, steamer alternatives can smooth creases quickly so a pale top keeps its shape through a day of events.

Nightwear as daywear continued to edge into mainstream retail, with lace-trimmed camisoles and delicate teddies appearing on shop floors. The key to this trend is balance: pair feminine pieces with clean, neutral basics such as denim or leather trousers, or with tailored skirts and blazers to keep the look from veering into pajama territory. Frill-free and fuss-free styling helps maintain a modern and polished appearance.

Baggy jeans dominated the denim conversation, signaling a shift away from skinnies toward looser fits. The preferred silhouette favors low-slung or wide-legged, floor-skimming cuts that offer comfort and movement while visually elongating the legs. High-waisted options continue to be favored by many for their flattering proportions, especially when paired with tucked-in or structured tops.

Polka dots emerged as a versatile alternative to sequins and heavier embellishments. A single dotted piece, styled with neutrals, creates a tonal, coordinated effect suitable for day-to-night wear. The approach is to layer with knitwear or slip into complementary boots and accessories to maintain a cohesive look without competing textures.

As fashion month unfolds, these street-style cues underscore practical ways to refresh a wardrobe using existing pieces. The emphasis remains on wearable silhouettes, updated color palettes and a mix of heritage-inspired details with modern tailoring. With London’s street style serving as a bridge between runways and daily life, shoppers can expect a continued focus on comfort, versatility and refined polish throughout the season.


Sources