If there’s one city I consistently look to for realistic, wearable fashion inspiration, it’s London. Londoners have a knack for making outfits feel directional without being impractical—they dress for the weather, but they hint at what's to come. And in January, that approach feels especially relevant.
Because we might still be in the depths of winter, but mentally, I'm in spring. And while most of us are craving lighter layers, fresh silhouettes, and outfits that feel like a reset, the reality is that temperatures still demand coats, boots, and clever layering. This in-between mindset is where London style really shines. Instead of jumping ahead too fast, the city’s fashion crowd eases into the new season with outfit formulas that feel polished, adaptable, and long-lasting.
For 2026, London fashion trends are leaning on looks that balance structure with ease: elevated basics, thoughtful proportions, and pieces that work just as well now as they will in early spring. Below, I've selected five outfit formulas I'll be borrowing from the London girls this year, each striking that sweet spot between seasonal reality and a spring-ready mindset.
5 Outfit Formulas Londoners Are Relying On From Now Until Spring 2026:
1. Shirt + Scarf + Long Coat
Style Notes: This is London layering at its finest, refined for 2026. A crisp shirt anchors the look, while the scarf—worn long and loose rather than tightly wrapped—adds softness. The long coat is perfect those in-between days when it’s technically lighter out, but you’re still relying on layers. Finish with flat shoes or loafers to keep it grounded and London-chique.
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A coat you'd bring out year after year.
For the days when it's deceptively chilly.
These would go with so many tops, from day to night.
All the London girls love The Row.
2. Leggings + Faux Fur Jacket + Riding Boots
Style Notes: This looks is proof that comfort-first dressing isn’t going anywhere in 2026. London girls are elevating everyday leggings with statement outerwear—here, a plush faux fur jacket that instantly makes the look feel styled rather than lazy. I love the slightly heritage edge that the riding boots bring, too.
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There's something so elegant about brown faux-fur.
A true wardrobe hero.
I, for one, am so pleased that riding boots are here to stay.
I do believe this is the perfect bag to complete the look.
3. Cropped Trench + Capri Trousers + Slingback Heels
Style Notes: Capri trousers are officially back in the conversation for 2026, and London is embracing them in a very specific way: styled cleanly, with sharp tailoring and minimal fuss. With a cropped trench and slingback heels, this is a transitional outfit formula that feels perfectly placed for the first hints of spring.
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The perfect spring jacket.
For all your base layer needs.
The quality of Aligne pieces are always second to none.
Comfortable enough for shopping trips in the city.
4. Black Jeans + Vest Top + Heeled Sandals + Leather Blazer
Style Notes: This is the London answer to effortless dressing. Black jeans and a simple vest are one of the most reliable combinations you can find, but it’s the leather blazer that gives the look its edge—structured, cool, and endlessly reusable. Heeled sandals lighten things up, hinting at spring without fully committing to it.
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The beauty of a plain white vest is that it can be styled with literally anything.
The cropped length hints at the warmer days we're all dreaming of.
Stunning.
These will go with everything in your wardrobe, trust me.
5. Leather Bomber + Straight-Leg Jeans + Heeled Boots
Style Notes: A leather bomber feels like a key outerwear player for 2026, especially when styled with clean, straight-leg denim. This formula leans into London’s love of understated toughness—nothing overly styled, but everything considered. Heeled boots add a subtle feminine edge.
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All the cool girls in London have a jacket like this.
My favourite jeans are from Other Stories.
I love a heeled ankle boot.