If You Want To Look More Stylish, This Is The Outfit To Stop Wearing
Every now and then, a certain outfit becomes so popular that it becomes synonymous with a particular era. Notably, if you love a look, you should absolutely keep wearing it – but if you’re searching for a quick way to refresh your wardrobe and make it feel more current, it might be time to retire a few once-ubiquitous combinations. In the early 2010s, the outfit du jour was blue jeans, a denim jacket, and white trainers. More recently, in the early 2020s, it was another ensemble…
The outfit to retire
In the early 2020s, you couldn’t walk around London without spotting countless people sporting the floral or printed maxi dress, teamed with a pair of crisp white trainers. It was a time, ok? It was an undeniably comfortable pairing, and for that we’ll be forever grateful. Fast forward to 2026 and, if you’re looking for something ‘cool’, then this might not be the answer anymore.
Floral/printed maxi dress
White trainers
How to style your maxi instead
We’re long-standing stans of maxi dresses and trainers, separately. While sneakers are easy to pair with other outfits already in your wardrobe, here’s how to still get your use out of your maxis during the summer months.
Try different flats
From ballet flats and strappy sandals to flip flops, there’s a plethora of warm weather shoe options to style with your favourite ‘chuck on and go’ dress. Notably, contrasting pops of colour also help make your shoes a fashion-forward statement.
Add a jacket
Whether it’s a classic trench or an oversized slouchy leather number or blazer, layering an outerwear item over the top of your chosen maxi makes it feel much more casual – it’s also quite practical for unpredictable UK weather.
Style with boots
From cowboy boots to heeled styles, boots are a like-for-like swap for trainers. Lean into Chloé-esque boho fashion with suede or knee-high styles, or go for Scandi girl vibes with contrasting Western numbers.
The products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, The Handbook may make a small commission on some products purchased through affiliate links.
