I’ve made a New Year’s resolution for 2026 to be my best-dressed year yet, and being two months in, I’m getting ahead and mentally preparing what I’ll be wearing, whether it be to the office, out with friends, or a solo trip into the city centre. Now, I’m aware that this is a very bold goal. I think we can all agree that looking our best when we just want to feel comfortable can be a challenge, especially at the beginning of the year when the temperature really drops. But never fear, as I’ve already worked out a solution.
After hours of scrolling on my Instagram feed, I realised that there are a few outfit formulas that are easy to copy and elegant, and most importantly, prioritise comfort and style equally. The thing they all have in common? Utilising elevated basics with a mix of timeless staples. Think a sophisticated scarf coat paired with classic blue jeans and boots, or swapping out your usual tailored trousers for a cord iteration. 2026 is all about looking refined with minimal effort required.
So if you, too, are in need of elegant outfit inspiration, keep scrolling to discover seven cosy—yet effortlessly chic—outfits to copy in 2026.
7 Elegant Outfit Ideas to Copy in 2026
1. Scarf Jacket + Blue Jeans + Pointed Boots
Style Notes: I’m just a little bit obsessed with scarf coats and jackets at the moment. Equal parts fuss-free and practical, this elegant outerwear style feels fresh for 2026, but will also work hard in your wardrobe for many years to come. Simply add a pair of classic wide-leg jeans and pointed boots to finish off the look.
Shop the Look:
COS
Double-Faced Wool Scarf Short Jacket
There’s something so chic about a scarf coat.
CITIZENS OF HUMANITY
Annina Mid-Rise Staight-Leg Jeans
I can confirm the good things said about Citizens of Humanity denim.
Mint Velvet
Amy Black Leather Ankle Boots
I love this pared-back Western style.
DeMellier
The Midi Hudson
2. Argyle Knit + Pencil Skirt + Loafers
Style Notes: There was a time when argyle knits were considered dated; however, this year firmly secured their place as a cold-weather staple in every fashionable wardrobe. The key to making it look ‘2026’? Take a cue from Chloe (pictured above) and pair it with sophisticated staples such as a pencil skirt, chunky socks, and loafers.
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An argyle knit is a piece I reach for time and time again.
Reformation
Fig Preserve Skirt
As the weather gets warmer, wear this with a tucked in t-shirt.
M&S
3 Pack Supersoft Ribbed Crew Socks
These are a bestseller for very good reason.
3. Ecru Long Coat + Funnel-Neck Knit + White Jeans
Style Notes: I’ve already mentioned my love for white winter outfits, and I can’t wait to try one out in 2026. To make them feel less daunting and more wearable, I’ll be following TikTok’s ‘2×2’ outfit formula and adding some black into the mix.
Shop the Look:
MAX MARA
Delfino Double-Breasted Belted Cotton-Blend Twill Trench Coat
Max Mara are known for their premium outerwear.
RICK OWENS
Wool Turtleneck Top
Funnel-neck knits will never go out of style, and a sleeveless iteration is perfect for spring.
H&M
Slim Evening Trousers Ecru
A good white trouser will last you for years to come.
STAUD
Wally Suede Ankle Boots
The perfect everyday heel height.
4. Polo Sweatshirt + Midi Skirt + Heels
Style Notes: Polo jumpers add a more relaxed energy to an outfit that feels cool and effortless. To make it feel less casual, a pleated midi skirt and high heels will dress it up for any occasion, from the office to dinner with friends.
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Massimo Dutti
Wool Knit Polo Sweater
Massimo Dutti’s knitwear feels so luxe.
H&M
Fine-Knit Midi Skirt – Dark Grey Marl
Don’t be afraid to mix the tones of your greys for a contrasting feel.
SOEUR
Winona Logo-Embossed Leather Shoulder Bag
I love the quirky shape of this bag for something a bit different.
5. Wool Coat + Check Shirt + Camel Jeans
Style Notes: It doesn’t get more timeless than a classic black wool coat, but to make it feel fresh for the new year, pair it with a button-up shirt in a trending checked print and camel-wash jeans.
Shop the Look:
ZARA
Long Wool Coat With High Neck
This looks much more expensive than the high-street.
CITIZENS OF HUMANITY
Kota Checked Cotton-Flannel Shirt
Checked shirts are so on trend right now.
SLVRLAKE
Tess Worker Paneled Cotton-Canvas Barrel-Leg Pants
I love the styling of this whole look.
Whistles
Black Manny Slim Loafer
A timeless, classic style.
6. Bomber Jacket + Midi Dress + Slingbacks
Style Notes: The cold weather often has us reaching for trousers or jeans, but a knit dress is an easy, yet just as practical, throw-on style on those days when you don’t know what to wear, and perfect for the transitional weather into spring.
Shop the Look:
New Look
Brown Faux Suede Bubblehem Bomber Jacket
I have this and get so much wear out of it, it looks like a designer piece.
Reformation
Rosalyn Knit Dress
So easy to dress up or down.
Chocolate suede will always get a yes from me.
Miu Miu
Utilitaire Nappa Leather Shopping Bag
Miu Miu get it right every time with their bags.
7. Leather Jacket + Corduroy Trousers + Leather Accessories
Style Notes: If you’re bored with your classic jeans, corduroys are one of the hardest-working trouser types you can have in your wardrobe. These ninties-esque trousers can be worn with everything that denim can, but feel just that little bit more elevated.
Shop the Look:
ASOS DESIGN
Real Leather Oversized Biker in Black
I love the oversized silhouette.
DÉHANCHE
Cotton T-Shirt – White
COS
Corduroy Wide-Leg Trousers
Brown give a softer finish to black and can be worn with so many colours.
AEYDE
Zoe Leather Point-Toe Ankle Boots
Aeyde is one of my favourite shoe brands for minimalist styles.
