Fashion’s continuing love affair with colour and print is in full bloom for SS26 …
From contemporary brands like Essentiel Antwerp, a customer favourite according to Head of Fashion Buying at Brown Thomas Arnotts Tracey Despard, splashing primary shades across jackets, blouses and lightweight summer knits to Damson Madder playing with polka dots and Danish favourite Ganni going wild with animal print, this year’s mood is joyful with a renewed focus on individuality.
As seen on Arnotts’ floral lined catwalk, artisanal texture is big for spring and summer, with embellishments such as fringing and beading elevating staple buys into a distinctive transeasonal wardrobe. It’s the season of the luxe jacket – the do-it-all variety that makes your entire look. Arnotts buyers note a leather tan coat from Max & Co, Marella’s chocolate suede trench coat and a khaki cropped trench from Weekend Max Mara.
Polo Ralph Lauren.
A refined, preppy aesthetic sets the tone for the season, remixing collegiate references and athletic nods effortlessly. Striped rugby pullovers, shirt dresses or blazers from Gant and Polo Ralph Lauren feel new thanks to a considered styling approach that references SS26 runways. At Boss, an of-the-moment white skirt-suit with frilled detailing is a smart workwear solution for day to night.
Róisín Linnane.
Occasionwear is a defining moment as always, with an emphasis on striking investment pieces. Look out for Australian label Elliatt’s sequin floral gown, while Irish designer Róisín Linnane’s playful pieces dial up the drama with dramatic shapes sure to turn heads. For men, Remus Uomo’s beige two-piece is the ideal summer suit for wedding guest dressing.
THE GLOSS Contributing Editor Sarah Macken in conversation with Tracey.
A selection of new brands up the ante this year. London label Vìvere brings its easy take on summer dressing to womenswear. Think: cotton polished separates and midi-length dresses in a palette of soft creams, yellow and ea rthy browns that go with everything. Tracey says, “I love a brand with a point of view and Vìvere has a beautiful one. The label takes something as simple as a striped shirt, adding prettiness with a scallop motif or an intricate detail on the sleeve.”
Malina.
Danish stalwart Malina is an if-you-know-you-know favour
Buzzy brand Adanola brings a blend of lifestyle and athleisure with oversized tees, sculpting leggings and lightweight hoodies. The iconic Ted Baker makes a triumphant return with its strongest collection yet across womenswear.
Profuomo.
In menswear, Australian label Deus Ex Machina presents urban-inspired T-shirts, straight-leg trousers and shirting. The launch of RLX Ralph Lauren is a sophisticated offering of performance-driven classic pieces that have style kudos both on and off the golf course. Profuomo is a new label that hinges on tailored chinos, shirts and knitted polos that work for the office, but can be remixed for off-duty dressing.
Ganni.
As for accessories, spring’s hero handbags merge clean lines with wearable appeal. Coach follows the success of its Brooklyn bag with The New York tote, an enduring shoulder bag in black and maple colour-ways. New to Arnotts, Mulberry‘s classic styles – Bayswater and Alexa – are available alongside the new Boston bag with its distinctive top handles. Never one to be forgotten, Joanne McNally’s Anxious Preoccupied brings its sell-out XL carry-alls back for spring.
A 90-minute styling session with the expert personal shopping team at Arnotts is the perfect way to acquaint yourself with the new season. Bookings are available here.
