You Asked Our Style Editor For The Must-Have Pieces For Spring/Summer

Welcome back to Ask An Editor – our monthly series where we hand the reins over to you to quiz The Handbook team via Instagram Stories. Here, our Contributing Style & Interiors Editor, Ashling McCloy, took on your most burning style queries hitting our DMs, from must-have fashion to SS26 trends. Below, she reveals her answers to the one topic you all wanted to know about…

The question

What should we all have in our spring-summer ’26 wardrobe?

Our Style Editor’s answer

This is something I get asked on a regular basis. No surprise, really. Most of us love to feel of-the-moment and chic in a relatively effortless way. It’s for that very reason that, every season, I often recommend the classics and perhaps a trend that feels more cool than try-hard, rather than investing in multiple micro-trends. So, as we (finally!) welcome in the warmer weather, these are the SS26 fashion pieces that will totally keep your wardrobe fresh.

1. A trench coat

If you haven’t already got a trench coat, get shopping now. The selections out there are impeccable. We’re talking major cool girl vibes in oversized cuts and expensive shades of beige, camel and caramel. If you’re looking for designer iterations, The Frankie Shop, Burberry and Frame have lust-worthy offerings. Meanwhile, the high street does not disappoint. Look to the likes of & Other Stories, Zara, Cos and Topshop. Honestly, the trench will be the piece you’ll treasure forever.

2. A silk scarf

This small accessory is dominating my socials. Yes, another timeless piece, but undeniably having its moment in the spotlight. Worn as a headscarf, tied around the neck, draped across the hips, or simply to elevate handbags, the silk scarf is the affordable, multi-use piece I’m adding to my wardrobe pronto. I’ve already clocked the latest designs from super-stylish Belle & Bunty. Gorgeous.

3. Fashion flip flops

Comfy, but make it chic. As soon as the sun comes out, so do the Havaianas, but what do you reach for if you’re after something more polished? Fashion flip flops, obviously. Content creators across the globe are currently stepping out in all their stylish versions. While they may call for an emergency pedicure, I believe these are the most versatile shoes of the season.

4. A simple tee

Without question, the classic t-shirt is one of my fashion non-negotiables. Not only does it make for the perfect layering piece, but if the quality hits, then it is the ultimate in minilamist styling. I genuinely think a t-shirt can be so underrated, especially when it can look both relaxed and achingly cool. For me, it is the unexpected powerhouse in my wardrobe, which is why I treat myself to crisp new ones each season.

5. Anything polka dot

I told you I had to include at least one mega trend. There has been a polka dot explosion on socials. It is unprecedented, making it one of the most talked-about SS26 trends. But guess what, I’m obsessed. This print can look both cutesy and feminine, as well as edgy and catwalk-inspired. I have seen the style set embrace dotty dresses, but also spotted trackies and jeans. I’ve placed my order for the Mango ones – love them!

6. Wide-leg jeans

Last but not least, there’s always a debate about which jeans are trending. I’ve been all about the barrel jeans, of late – my mother hates them. This season, I have found myself lured back to the simplicity of a wide-leg baggy jean. Again, a recurring theme with my SS26 fashion, but it’s that blend of comfort and style I just can’t resist. Plus, they look great with a trench coat, a tee, and a pair of fashion flip flops. Perfect fashion maths, right there.

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.