The Stylist editorial team has released their curated list of must-have outerwear for the winter 2026 season. The report highlights a mix of high-street finds and luxury-inspired silhouettes, focusing on specific textures and structural details like funnel necks and oversized collars.
The blue gingham rain jacket's rise to 'It girl' status
Gingham patterns are emerging as a key component of the "It girl" uniform, often paired with slouchy denim and ballet flats to create an expensive-looking aesthetic. According to the Stylist report, a blue gingham coat featuring an adjustable hood and zip-up collar has become a standout item for those navigating rainy weather on streets like Fleet Street. This trend suggests a move toward making functional rainwear feel more intentional and stylized rather than purely utilitarian.
Chasing the green leather trench seen on Saoirse Ronan
A major style inspiration for the season comes from a sighting at The Old Vic, where actress Saoirse Ronan was seen wearing a striking green leather trench coat. This look, which balances an edgy silhouette with versatile styling, has prompted a search for more accessible versions. as reported by Stylist, a brown leather option from Topshop, featuring a high neck and cinched waist, serves as a more affordable way to capture this specific aesthetic for the festive season.
Why funnel necks and Whistles trenches are dominating the season
The funnel neck silhouette is positioned as a defining look for winter 2026, with many fashion enthusiasts adopting the style for its sleek profile. The Stylist report highlights a trench from Whistles as a key item, noted for its chic brown shade and ability to pair with cobalt blue or grey knits. This shift suggests a move away from older, well-worn staples, such as the Ganni trench, in favor of more structured,modern necklines that offer a polished finish.
The oversized flight jackets from Balenciaga and Isabel Marant
Luxury runways at Balenciaga, Isabel Marant, and Gabriela Hearst have introduced a wave of oversized flight jackets characterized by plush, fluffy collars. These "aviator" styles offer a utilitarian, boyish shape that provides a sharp contrast when thrown over feminine pieces like ditsy-print dresses. While brands like Victoria Beckham and Sessùn are also leaning into the sleek funnel-neck silhouette, the heavy, textured aviator remains a high-interest item on many winter wishlists.
Can the 'scruffy-chic' aviator look translate to everyday wear?
While the report provides a clear roadmap of trending silhouettes, it remains to be seen how these high-concept runway styles will function in daily life. It is currently unclear how the "scruffy-chic" aviator trend from Balenciaga will translate to the average wardrobe without feeling like a costume.. Additionally, the report does not specify if the popularity of gingham is a fleeting micro-trend or a seasonal shift that will persist into the following year.
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