Is it just me, or is everyone and their mother wearing poplin drawstring pants right now? I’m not surprised, though, given that we’re in the trenches of summer, craving lightweight, versatile, elevated-yet-comfortable items. With this demand, designers are churning out myriad styles; however, none are as classic or as coveted by stylish celebrities as Leset’s Kyoto Pants.
From Kaia Gerber to Jennifer Lawrence and Katie Holmes, the chicest A-listers whose style balances being trend-forward with timelessness own these pants. These fashion icons are often spotted pairing Leset’s effortlessly chic design with everything from open-weave sweaters and ballet flats to simple tees and elevated flip-flops for trips to the farmers market or the airport.
The Kyoto style features a baggy-leg silhouette that hits at the ankle, with topstitched utility panels at the front, an adjustable waistband, and patch pockets at the back. They come in seven classic hues, such as dark brown and white, and 11 seasonal shades, such as coral and cobalt blue. I tried on the Kyoto pants once and immediately knew why they were a best seller and understood how no other brand could replicate them. It’s hard to explain, but they’re in their own category. That said, other brands are trying to re-create them in their own ways—think the wait-listed J.Crew Luna Pants and Gap’s Poplin Easy Double-Knee Barrel Pants.
The Gap version is what I want to talk about today because it’s a recent addition to the market, meaning not everyone knows about it yet. These pants are identical to the Kyoto pants in terms of appearance. They too feature an elasticized waist, side welt pockets, back patch pockets, and exposed utilitarian-inspired stitching at the front. In terms of colors, they don’t come in as many shades as the Kyoto, but it seems like Gap is slowly adding more to its range because this week, it just dropped white and navy on top of the original brown, tan, and red options. The best part about the pants, especially for someone like me who’s 5’1″, is that they come in a range of fits from regular to tall and petite.
One Gap shopper shared on the brand’s site, “I love these pants. The fabric is not stiff but lightweight. They are roomy without looking baggy.” Another noted, “They’re flattering and made from a great fabric.” If that doesn’t convince you, I don’t know what will. Without further ado, keep scrolling to shop Gap’s Poplin Easy Double-Knee Barrel Pants. If they’re anything like J.Crew’s Leset-like pants, they’ll be sold out in less than a week. You know what to do.
Ask anyone about the biggest nail trends of 2026, and I guarantee they will all mention chrome manicures. Ever since Hailey Bieber (and her nail artist, Zola Ganzorigt) introduced “glazed doughnut” nails back in 2022, chrome finishes have been everywhere, and I totally get it. This trend takes a relatively simple, neutral manicure to the next level with its iridescent finish, and it looks especially good in summer when your nails sparkle in the sunshine. No longer just a trend, chrome nails are here to stay for the foreseeable future.
However, that hasn’t stopped people from taking the look one step further. In fact, I’ve spotted top nail artists creating chrome pedicures this season, and it’s safe to say I’m a little bit obsessed.
I’m a neutral pedicure lover through and through, and can often be seen sporting a milky white or sheer pink colour on my toes. However, after seeing multiple chrome pedicures on my Instagram feed, I’ve fallen in love with the pearlescent effect, and I’m already planning to recreate the look for my next holiday. Below, I’ve rounded up some of my favourite chrome pedis, along with lots of polishes to help get the look at home. You are welcome…
Stocking your beer cooler is a bit like keeping your toolbox or your wardrobe thoughtfully updated. Summer heatwaves demand both an adjusted sartorial outlook and a new take on your go-to beers as you hit your nearest beach, lake, or backyard BBQ. While there’s always a place for hop-forward styles like IPAs, summer is all about light lagers and pilsners when it comes to the American microbrews to savor now.
Sierra Nevada SummerFest 2026
(SIerra Nevada)
As clean and refreshing as a breezy day by the water, this lager delivers just a hint of lemon in an easily drinkable package. For days when even Sierra Nevada’s famed Pale Ale might prove a bit too malty, consider this an utterly crisp alternative from a foundational California brewery. $17.99/12-pack
Bell’s Flyover Light Lager
(Bell’s)
Beer from Bell’s is as synonymous with summers on the lake in its home state of Michigan as anything else. And while Bell’s Oberon reigns supreme as a stellar seasonal sipper, don’t sleep on Flyover Light Lager. It delivers a more flavorful tilt than other ultra-light beers, all the while calling to mind sunsets on Lake Michigan.$19.99/15-pack
Wicked Weed Freak of Nature
(Wicked Weed)
In the same way you might need to keep a lightweight flannel shirt on hand for cooler-than-expected bonfire nights, it’s a sensible move to have a delicious IPA on hand for hops-happy beer lovers. Wicked Weed is a proper modern Asheville, North Carolina institution, and a quartet of hops make this double IPA positively memorable. $13.49/6-pack
Threes Brewing Echo of Nothing with Lime
(Threes Brewing)
What is it about the acidic punch of lime that unlocks a new level of flavor in a lager? And while there are mass-market breweries aplenty that hang their hat on the Mexican lager, Brooklyn’s Threes Brewing delivers a thoughtful and still-crushable alternative. $15.99/4-pack
Lagunitas x Iron Maiden Trooper West Coast IPA 2026
(Lagunitas Brewing)
If any group was capable of turning up the volume in hops form as well as onstage, it’d be metal legends Iron Maiden. And in keeping with the Lagunitas tradition of crafting uncompromising California IPAs, the duo teamed up on a true-to-form update of the iconic Lagunitas profile just in time to toast five decades of the British rockers. $11.99/6-pack
Garage Beer Lime Beer Summer 2026
(Garage Beer)
The keep-it-simple formula of the brewery now backed by the Kelce brothers, media darlings and NFL champions alike, is again victorious with a small-batch lime beer that’s as drinkable as one might hope to find. For backyard BBQs and days on the water, this Columbus, Ohio brew is a nearly picture-perfect summer beer. $16.99/12-pack
Small Beer Lager
(Small Beer)
There’s no debating the joys of a richly crafted IPA, but the next-day hangover just might persuade you to reach for something lighter in the future. Just as Benicio Del Toro would have it, “a few small beers” are well within your reach this season, as this Colorado-brewed light lager clocks in at an ultra-low 2.5 percent ABV.
New Belgium Fat Tire 35th Anniversary Edition – Summer 2026
(New Belgium)
Colorado’s New Belgium Brewing is throwing it back three-plus decades with a limited-edition retooling of its Fat Tire Ale, one of the beers that first put the craft movement on the map. The effect of the classic recipe and the OG can design is retro-tinged and comforting, a fine sight to see in your cooler this holiday weekend and beyond. $11.99/6-pack
Allagash Seconds to Summer 2026
(Allagash Brewing)
Maine’s Allagash White remains nearly undefeated across the summer months, with its blend of coriander and delicate spice, while Allagash Seconds to Summer could be viewed as a lighter, smooth and crisp counterpart that pairs perfectly with grilled meats and ocean breezes. $23.99/12-pack
In a toast to the legendary beer’s frequent appearance in the 1970s classic Jaws, the Rhode Island brewery brings back the same famed can design, one that just so happens to hold its remarkably refreshing lager.
Rockstar Games isn’t done with GTAV just yet. Even though GTA VI pre-orders are now live and the November 19 release date for the upcoming entry is essentially set in stone, Rockstar has announced a (presumably) final addition for the GTA Online community this month—the Kortz Center Heist.
(Rockstar Games)
Heists are end-game content in GTA Online. Requiring the outlay of significant resources and a team of operators, heists are multi-stage endeavors that require several set-up missions and end with huge, cinematic climaxes and big money payouts. In short, they’re awesome and theKortz Center Heist, the likely swan song for GTAV’s online, is unlikely to disappoint.
(Rockstar Games)
Having stolen everything from a casino’s vault, a nuclear submarine and all the loot from an island that would make Pablo Escobar jealous, The Kortz Center Heist entices players with a shot at nabbing a prestigious (and high value) art collection, right out from under the city’s nose.
(Rockstar Games)
Players will need one of GTAO’s new mansions to start, adding an art studio wing to the property which will open up the Kortz Center missions. From there, casing the museum, planning the approach and ultimately pulling off a spectacular robbery are the key components of this latest larceny.
(Rockstar Games)
The Kortz Center Heist doesn’t have a precise date other than some time in July but it has been confirmed that the update will also bring some additional changes to GTA Online. Top among them is the chance for returning players to upgrade their PS4 and Xbox One copies of the game to the current generation of PS5 and XSX for free. Similarly, owners of the legacy edition can also move to the enhanced one for free, giving them improved graphics and load times for the online component of the game.
(Rockstar Games)
The Kortz Center Heist is likely to be the final hurrah for GTA Online as we know it and it’s giving gamers a good reason to gather up their crew and return for GTAV’s chapter, just in time for a new adventure to begin in GTA VI. It’s a smart play from Rockstar, making one more big score before getting out of the game.
In 2026, when capri pants and balloon trousers are reigning supreme, it’s easy to forget the trusty staples that have seen you through years of chic outfits. I get it: you want to look on-trend, but that doesn’t mean you have to cast aside your wardrobe mainstays as soon as something new and shiny comes along. I’ll never forget the moment Alessandro Michele made the midi skirt a “thing” again. The then-creative director of Gucci sent a gold sunray-pleated design down the autumn/winter 2015 runway, and my world spun. We’d all been wearing spray-on jeans for the past decade, and suddenly, this unabashed femininity felt bold. It paved the way for the return of skirts, and I, for one, haven’t stopped revelling in the revival.
When noughties trends started creeping back in, I found myself worrying about the connotations of my old midi skirts if I dug them out again. Was it—whisper it—”frumpy” to wear such a thing? Did I need to invest in a low-rise, maybe drop-waisted version, or just forget it altogether? Then I checked myself. Obviously, no one who has witnessed the merry-go-round of trends (after a decade working as a fashion editor) and cares about the planet should ever throw away a decent item of clothing that they enjoy wearing.
The key to bringing your staples up to date? It is all in the styling, and right now, we’re focusing on shoes. From sneakerinas and wedge flip-flops to split-toe flats and high-vamp pumps, here are nine trending shoe styles to wear with your trusty midi skirt this season.
9 Midi-Skirt-and-Shoe Combos You Should Copy Immediately
1. Toe-Post Kitten Heels
(Image credit: @aimeesong)
Style Notes: We have the ’90s to thank for the embellished midi skirt. A microtrend that’s recently resurfaced, it’s typically a pencil cut (anything full would look too much like occasionwear), and sheer to showcase the detailing. To keep things casual, style yours with an easy tank top and this season’s favourite kitten-heel thong sandal à la Aimee Song.
ASOS Design
Havana Toe Thong Kitten Heel Sandals
Branch out from black with this chocolate-hued thong sandal, grounded with a sculpted kitten heel.
ASOS Design
Scattered Embellished Mesh Maxi Skirt in Cream
The embellished skirt is more versatile than you might first think. You can definitely dress this one down with a tank top and the right shoes.
Gucci
Mercato Medium Tote Bag
Monogrammed, leather-trimmed and finished with a polished horsebit fastening, this is our kind of practical tote.
Boden
Ribbed Cotton Vest in White
A tank top has the ability to make just about anything (yes, even a sparkly midi skirt) look low-key.
2. Sneakerinas
(Image credit: tia_dewitt)
Style Notes: Whilst I admit to Googling Lily Allen’s OG Nikes-and-dress combos since West End Girl dropped last year, I’m still not ready to revisit trainers with midi hemlines. If you want a comfy option though, try a sporty sneakerina to ground your daytime skirt.
Mint Velvet
White Cotton Full Midi Skirt
We love a midi skirt in crisp poplin. This one is lined in cotton, too, for breathability.
Vivaia
Square-Toe Hybrid Mesh Mary Janes
Loved by Bella Hadid and Charli XCX, Vivaia is a go-to for comfy but cool sneakerinas to wear on repeat.
LE SPECS
Pilferer Rectangular Ecozen Sunglasses
Le Specs is up there with the best affordable sunglasses brands.
Style Notes: We’re knee-deep in a noughties renaissance, so, naturally, the Y2K mule is back (I’ve been deep-searching Ravel and Faith styles on Vinted recently). If you’re a minimalist at heart, just pick one feature – a cork sole or buckled strap – to tap into the trend, while enthusiasts might even plump for diamanté embellishments or logo hardware. Pernille Teisbaek snapped up the coveted Balenciaga x Scholl design and styled it with a low-rise cargo skirt at Milan Design Week.
Balenciaga X Scholl
Heeled Sandals
Trust Balenciaga to put a futuristic riff on Scholl’s iconic clogs.
This cargo skirt is one of my favourite pieces from Victoria Beckham’s collaboration with GAP.
DeMellier
The Small Hudson | Black Small Grain
Everyone one needs a LBB (a little black bag) in their repertoire.
4. Wedge Flip Flops
(Image credit: @poppyalmond)
Style Notes: Another Y2K favourite that’s crept back in this season is the wedge flip flop, in all of its ugly glory. You can go full Spice Girls with a statement foam platform or lean into the minimalist side of this era with barely-there straps and a low sliver of wedge. Once you invest, you’ll see how transformative the ‘wrong’ shoe can be to an outfit you thought you were long tired of.
Damson Madder
Caspia Midi Skirt – Choc
The cargo skirt is back. Tap into the trend with workwear-inspired fabrics and utilitarian details like drawstrings, bunjee cords and pockets.
Reformation
Amelia Thong Wedge Sandal
Reformation’s shoes are impeccable quality. And by investing in a wedge, you’ll get all the height without the discomfort.
ERDEM
Embroidered Wool-Blend Cardigan
Erdem has the unique knack of making traditionally twee items feel off-kilter, like with the frayed appliqué detailing on this cardigan.
Sister Jane
Tinos Stripe Beaded Bag
Offset a utilitarian look with something unabashedly playful like this rainbow beaded bag.
5. Ballerinas
(Image credit: @evie_mills)
Style Notes: I know what you’re thinking, ‘aren’t ballerinas and midi skirts too girlish to be cool?’. The key to pulling off this combo: go for a flat with edge. A high vamp, a sporty sole, mesh or laser-cut uppers – or, for top marks, the cult split-toe Tabi made famous by Margiela in the ‘90s.
Maison Margiela
Tabi Split-Toe Ballerina Shoes |
There’s a few canonical designer pieces that will never date and Margiela’s iconic Tabis are obviously well worth the investment.
Nobodys Child
Ivory Polka Dot Midi Skirt
Classic but bang on-trend, a bold monochrome polka dot is a failsafe choice this summer.
M&S
Cotton Rich Tricot Zip Up Track Jacket
M&S’ jersey track jacket has been a serious hit this summer (the red is long sold out), so add it to basket while you still can.
Jimmy Fairly X Missoma
Melissa Cat-Eye Sunglasses | Gold Plated/black
Jimmy Fairly just collaborated with cult British jewellery brand Missoma on a glam range of sunnies complete with gold-vermeil accents.
6. Slingbacks and Socks
(Image credit: @hoskelsa)
Style Notes: For those who love the ladylike charm of a full-skirted silhouette and heels, there’s a fresh way to style this duo for spring/summer 2026. Simply add a sheer sock to your slingback shoes and you’re tapping into that magical Miuccia Prada paradigm; a look the first lady of fashion invented back in the ‘90s, where conservative silhouettes are somehow styled into something sporty and futuristic. Don’t ask me why, it just works.
H&M X Stella McCartney
Pointed Slingbacks
These white patent slingbacks are one of the few things left from H&M’s collab with Stella McCartney, so snap them up while you still can.
Glassworks London
Black Sheer Referee Stripe Socks
The easiest way to upgrade your existing footwear collection is with a sporty-but-sultry sheer sock.
MANGO
Flared Cotton Skirt
Mango gives the circle skirt a contemporary feel with pockets, pleating and a low-rise waist.
SKIMS
Sheer Rib Long Sleeve Top | Soot | Xxs
If you love to wear long sleeves even come summer, invest in a few sheer-knit basics and underpin with a tonal bra.
7. Block Heel Pumps
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Style Notes: Staple wardrobe queens will be looking for something a little less directional to wear with their midi skirt, and we can confirm a block heeled pump is a worthy investment. A canonical designer take from Bottega, Gucci and Roger Vivier is always smart, but for a spring/summer 2026 twist look to something with a high vamp like Ami Paris’s take, or Marks & Spencer’s affordable pair below.
M&S
Leather Block Heel Pumps
M&S I applaud you for the impeccable glove shape of this shoe.
STRATHBERRY
Mosaic Leather Top-Handle Bag
There’s a timelessness to a top-handle bag, a ladylike style that can be worn day or night.
Gina Tricot
Structured Fringe Mini Skirt in White Stripe
Fringing is the fun micro-trend taking over this summer.
Jenni Kayne
Float Top
With the rise of ’80s-inspired silhouettes, it was only a matter of time before the batwing sleeve made its comeback.
8. Wedges
(Image credit: @mv.tiangue)
Style Notes: Another ugly shoe coming in strong for spring/summer 2026 is a surprise even to us at WWW: the pump wedge. If you’re really not down with an ‘08 classic you saw women wearing to the office, dip your toe in with a cool mule (look to Le Monde Béryl and Topshop) or opt for a sculptural heel à la Toteme. Extra points for wearing this shoe with the style set’s favourite awkward-length skirt.
TOTEME
55 Crocodile-Effect Leather Wedge Pumps
Trust Toteme to make this divisive shoe trend look so elegant. These croc-effect leather pumps are set on a 2-inch wedge heel and finished with a pointed toe.
Faithfull
Marisol Lace-Trimmed Satin Midi Skirt
A lace-trimmed slip has become a bit of a wardrobe staple recently.
Chanel
Timeless/classique Leather Handbag
Those in-the-know are swapping neutral accessories for brightly coloured handbags like this hot-pink vintage Chanel.
The White Company
Organic Cotton Layering Short-Sleeve T-Shirt
You can always rely on The White Company to nail wardrobe basics.
9. High-vamp Pumps
(Image credit: @annelauremarais)
Style Notes: No fashion bunny could ever forget the moment when then-creative director Phoebe Philo sent a procession of glove shoes down the spring/summer 2015 Céline catwalk. And whether thanks to the 2026 obsession with 2016, or the ballet flat’s stronghold on footwear trends for the past few years, we’re witnessing a renaissance right now. This sportier take on a ladylike silhouette will freshen up even the simplest of outfits, as Anne-Laure Marais proves with this hank top and slip skirt combo.
Souer
Bala Leather Ballet Flats
French brand Souer knows how to put a directional spin on wardrobe staples — check out the high vamp on these simple black ballerinas.
With Nothing Underneath
Clara Skirt: Linen, White
With Nothing Underneath has expanded beyond its USP of shirts and shorts recently and we’re not mad about it. This linen slip skirt is impeccably cut.
Reformation
Jillian Silk Top
Much like most of Ref’s catnip collection, this handkerchief top is brimming with ’90s nostalgia – but the lustrous silk-satin adds a grown-up edge.
Veronica Beard
Marbled Resin Bangleivory
Simple summer outfits look so much better with the addition of statement jewellery. Forget minimalist gold chains and opt for a standout resin cuff instead.
I visited a $26,000-per-night villa in Costa Rica with an on-call yacht, guides for fishing, surfing, and fitness, a full-service spa, and a team of twenty staff members (including a private chef and a mixologist) and it was one of the most personalized and thoughtful luxury travel experiences of my life. No matter what your idea of the perfect tropical vacation is, Villa Avellana will curate it for you. To put it simply, it felt like the private jet version of a five-star resort.
The Art of Seamless Luxury
(Villa Avellana)
I kneeled on the nose of a paddle board as a laid-back long-haired waterman named Rolo paddled me from a 42-foot yacht across the clear waters of Prieta Bay to the beach. I’d spent the past few hours surfing for the first time in years at one of the world’s most famous surf breaks, Witch’s Rock, and my arms were like noodles. Rolo pointed out a ray gliding through the water beneath us as the nose of the board nudged onto the sand and I stepped onto the beach.
I walked the short path to the modern villa; an architectural showplace nestled in the shade of indigenous Guanacaste trees for which this region of Costa Rica is named. After rinsing off the salt water in the outdoor shower, I walked up the steps into the giant indoor/outdoor living space facing the pool with lounge chairs, couches, and fans spinning overhead.
Tatiana, the villa’s mixologist, looked up from the bar and asked if I was ready for a cocktail. I had a rare craving for a Piña Colada, but it takes serious skill to nail that drink with the right balance. As she began cutting a fresh, ripe Costa Rican pineapple, I knew I was in good hands. Moments later, as I settled into the hot tub and looked out over the edge of the infinity pool at the ocean, Tati handed me the best Piña Colada I’ve ever had in my life. Not too sweet, the perfect texture from the first sip to the last, and just strong enough to where I only needed one.
(Stinson Carter)
I had the pool and hot tub all to myself. I watched an iguana lounge on a tree branch as I sipped my drink. The seamless transition from surfing at a world-class break to sitting in the hot tub with a perfect cocktail was something I had never experienced. Even at luxury resorts, there’s usually a staff handoff after an excursion, a check to sign at the bar, then a lounge chair to claim by the pool. But at Villa Avellana, all those moments vanish.
The service at the Villa Avellana is always a step ahead of you. At dinner, the wine you enjoyed the night before is remembered, and something else suggested if the menu calls for it. If you ordered a cortado after lunch, another one will appear the next day at the same moment without you even having to ask. And if you ordered a Piña Colada after your surfing trip, there will be one waiting for you when you get off the boat the next afternoon.
Getting There
(Villa Avellana)
If you pack light and plan it right, from the moment you step off the plane at Liberia airport, you could be stepping out onto the Villa’s private beach in a little over an hour. The airport has a VIP service called V-Pass that makes customs a breeze. V-Pass handlers met me on the tarmac, and I was through customs and headed out to a Villa Avellana Suburban ten minutes later. After a forty-five minute drive, we entered Papagayo: a private, gated peninsula whose cliffs are clustered with modern mansions and several luxury hotels including The Four Seasons, Andaz, The Ritz-Carlton. (St. Regis will soon join the group.) Villa Avellana is a different kind of resort experience, but the presence of these nearby ultra-luxury properties means that gourmet ingredients and the finest wines and spirits are easy to procure around here. The nearby hotels are also nice if you’ re out on one of the villa’s two boats and want to drop in for a meal or a cocktail.
Arrival At The Villa
(Villa Avellana)
When you arrive, you’re offered a chilled coconut with a straw as a welcome drink. There is no formal check-in process. I was met by the charming general manager, a Canadian expat named Thomas, and by the vigilant lead concierge, Sergio. He led me upstairs to a large king suite with a massive balcony looking out over the ocean, a walk-in closet, and a palatial bathroom with an outdoor shower. As I rolled my suitcase into the room I asked about a room key. “We don’t do locks here” said Sergio, with a smile that made me realize I didn’t quite yet understand how different this would be from a typical luxury resort. I would soon find out.
A Typical Day At The Villa
(Villa Avellana)
You wake up to the sounds of nature, and with a push of a button a shade lifts to reveal the bright blue water of Prieta Bay in a floor-to-ceiling window. Downstairs in the kitchen, your breakfast is waiting for you whenever you want it. There’s a buffet with fresh pastries, bacon, and eggs, and there’s also a made-to-order breakfast dish that changes daily. If you’re heading to a yoga class or on a hike and want to keep it light, there’s a smoothie station with every possible kind of milk, protein powder, or specialty add-on you could imagine. I ordered a cappuccino on my first morning there, and one was brought every morning after without me even needing to ask. If you need a couple Tylenol for last night’s wine, you can text Sergio and he’ll bring it to you in minutes.
(Villa Avellana)
After breakfast, Sergio will have already planned your customized morning activity. That might be a fitness class, a private fishing trip, a massage in the spa, or snorkeling with sea turtles. Lunch can be a group experience at the table, or you can dine in any configuration of company you want, nearly anywhere on property. The cuisine of Executive Chef David Moya is insanely good. Every day there is a different menu, and it can range from local fish and Costa Rican classics like avocado rice and plantains, to wood-fired pizza and parrilla barbecue.
In the afternoons, perhaps after a siesta, the adventures continue. Thomas, the GM, took me and my wife and our two kids on a private sunset cruise to “Cathedral,” a hidden place in the trees that only their smaller boat can access. Once inside, he cut the engine so we could listen to the birds echoing on the water. On the boat, there’s always snacks like fresh guacamole and homemade chips, fresh-baked cookies, and a cooler full of local beer and bottled water.
At cocktail hour, Tati usually has some drink du jour made with local ingredients, but she’s happy to improvise with whatever base spirit you prefer, alongside excellent Palomas and spicy margaritas. Tati may be working her magic for a small group, but she could shine behind any cocktail bar in the world. Dinners were served at a long table by the bar or on our final night, on the beach. José, the warm and friendly F&B manager got a sense of what kinds of wine I liked and always had the perfect bottle ready.
Around 9pm, José and Tati would give last call. Whatever you have been enjoying so far, they make sure you’ll have more of it, as late as you want. If you’ve been drinking wine or Champagne, they’ll leave a bottle or two on ice. If you’ve been sipping Glenfiddich 18, Tati will leave out the bottle for you. If the group you’re with wants to party later into the night with the full bar and sommelier on hand, Tati and José can also make that happen.
Nights are magical at Villa Avellana. It feels like your private home. Passing around a chilled bottle of Sancerre, lounging in the couches by the pool, breeze blowing through from the ocean on one side to the woods on the other. You can hear the water lapping against the sand and see the lights on the peninsula reflected in the bay.
Rates & Details
The 33,000-square-foot property has 10 en-suite bedrooms. Rates starting at $26,000 nightly for up to 18 adults and 5 children, with a 5-night minimum stay, plus gratuity and tax.
Final Thoughts
(Villa Avellana)
When it was time for me to leave, I wheeled my suitcase out of the villa’s front door to find the entire staff lining the stairway to say goodbye to me. In a sudden wave of gratitude, I found myself welling up. I spent over a decade working in a luxury hotel, LA’s Chateau Marmont, and I still experience resorts and hotels not just through my eyes but also through the eyes of the staff. But at the Villa Avellana, I couldn’t do that. Because it felt like we experienced something together. And that’s a level of luxury that can’t be measured in stars.
Capris have their ups and downs. Even culottes have their loyal fan base. But this summer 2026 trouser trend has divided even the most stylish of fashion people. Yes, I’m talking about balloon trousers. Accurately named, these billowy trousers resemble the curve of a balloon. The tapered leg cinches at the ankle, anchoring the pant, while the waist and leg deliver an oversized look. Fashion people who aren’t afraid to be extra—literally, these pants are made up of a lot of fabric—are styling these curved-leg trousers with highly specific shoe trends.
Scroll on to see how It girls from L.A. to London to Oslo style the balloon pant trend. Heads up: open-toe sandals are a popular choice, so if you’re thinking about picking up a pair of these controversial pants, I recommend booking a pedicure too.
3 Shoe Trends It Girls Are Styling With Balloon Trousers
Style Notes: Combat the voluminous shape with a sleek and polished shoe choice. The heeled flip-flop is paramount amongst these. With an elevated finish—both figuratively and literally—minimalist shape and simple silhouette, this is a style that offsets the boxy shape whilst still complementing it.
Shop the Trend:
Massimo Dutti
Strappy Lace-Trim Top
Perfect for the boudoir to after-work drinks at your favourite cocktail bar.
Lié Studio
Silver and Quartz Necklace
From Tiffany & Co. to Jennifer Behr, every luxury jewellery brand is banking on the pendant necklace trend.
Reformation
Aven Pant
Billowy perfection.
Alaïa
Le Teckel Small Leather-trimmed Suede Shoulder Bag
This suede of shade is so sumptuous—despite how much effort you’d have to go to to keep it clean.
Toteme
Leather Heeled Flip Flops Black
When it comes to heeled flip-flops, everyone with taste is reaching for this Toteme style.
Style Notes: For something with a bit of visual intrigue, reach for a strappy stiletto. Balloon trousers are quite a straightforward silhouette, with an uncomplicated shape and unfussy design, so contrast this simplicity with a shoe that packs a bit more of a punch.
Shop the Trend:
Reformation
Evie Knit Top
This two-toned bandeau top feels so Calvin Klein circa spring/summer 1997.
M&S
Relaxed Balloon Trousers
M&S always delivers well-crafted and affordable-priced pieces that adhere to the latest trends.
Reformation
Serenity Bare Sandal
Inspired by The Row’s Bare sandals, this Reformation pair is far more accessible.
Strathberry
Mini Tote Croc-Embossed Bottle Green
Scottish luxury accessory brand, Strathberry, delivers some of the most covetable and exceptionally crafted pieces in the entire United Kingdom.
Missoma
Chunky T-Bar Chain Necklace
For a softer jewellery look, try this classic T-Bar shape, which has been brought back into the mainstream after Anne Hathaway wore one in The Devil Wears Prada 2.
Style Notes: Skip the heels altogether and reach for the most in-demand shoe trend this summer: two-toned flip-flops. Most commonly seen in a red-and-black colour palette, this trend can be traced back to last summer, when styles from The Row and Ancient Greek Sandals reigned supreme, which is good news for anyone who has held onto their pair for this season.
Shop the Trend:
FLORE FLORE
Jill Organic Cotton-Jersey Tank
Flore Flore is one of those emerging brands that specialises in exceptional basics that are incredibly fun, flirty and refined.
These have a slight eveningwear feel to them, making them perfect for day-to-night dressing.
Reformation
Medium Vittoria Tote Bag
Suede bags continue to reign supreme.
Ancient Greek Sandals
Saionara Jelly PVC Flip Flops
The flip-flop of the summer, for another year in a row.
Shop More Balloon Trousers
COS
Fluid Cotton Balloon Trousers
Fluid and elegant.
DISSH
Francis Balloon Woven Trousers
Australian brand DISSH knows how to deliver elegant essentials that remind you of coastal living.
The Frankie Shop
Mio Sheer Crêpe Balloon Pants
If Barbara Eden from I Dream of Jeannie shopped at places like Relik Vintage in Portobello Road, these The Frankie Shop trousers are the precise pair she’d wear.
TAG Heuer is revving up one of motorsport’s most recognizable racing liveries with its new Formula 1 Automatic Chronograph x Gulf timepiece. Marking the fourth release in their collaboration, this bold 44mm driver’s watch seeks to translate the raw mechanical energy of the racetrack into a high-end collector’s piece.
The limited-edition watch draws inspiration from the blue and orange Gulf livery made famous at Le Mans and immortalized in the 1971 cult-classic film starring Steve McQueen as Michael Delaney, a Porsche driver competing in the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race in France. The black opalin dial features eye-catching racing stripes cutting vertically across the surface, bordered by a blue lacquered running track. The dial is equipped with skeletonized hands, sharp geometric indexes, and three chronograph counters with vivid orange accents.
(Tag Heuer)
Framing the dial is a fixed tachymeter bezel crafted from forged carbon, giving each piece a completely unique surface pattern. To ensure maximum durability on or off the track, both the 44mm case and the three-row bracelet are constructed entirely from lightweight, sandblasted Grade 2 titanium. Under the hood, the timepiece is powered by a Caliber 16 automatic chronograph movement, which includes a date window at the 3 o’clock position. The sporty design is rounded out by sandblasted black DLC titanium pushers, a screw-down crown tipped with bright orange lacquer, and an officially engraved Gulf logo on the titanium caseback.
Protected by an anti-reflective flat sapphire crystal and offering 200 meters of water resistance, this exclusive watch drop is limited to just 1,000 pieces worldwide and arrives in vibrant Gulf-themed packaging. The TAG Heuer Formula 1 Automatic Chronograph x Gulf launches in the U.S. on July 3, retailing for $6,300.
Palm trees sway overhead, rippling streaks of amber light behind your closed lids. The ocean laps at the shoreline in polite waves, as if taking sips of white sand before withdrawing back into the sea. Lounging on a chaise, you let your sense of scent take over while your eyes rest—separating ocean brine from the nearby flowering bushes and the sweet, earthy scent of tropical banana in the wind. Except when your eyes flutter open, you’re standing right where you were when you spritzed that new banana fragrance from the perfume gondola.
It’s no secret that scent is transportational, but some are downright transformative. Different concoctions are enough to inspire images of the sea or make you feel like royalty, and the latest fragrance trend to dominate the internet—banana gourmands—is no different. From niche fragrance houses to luxury brands, the perfume world is plopping you beneath the Brazilian sun, in a Miami Beach diner booth, or among the Hawaiian shrubbery with the unique sweetness it injects into every medley.
The world of fragrance was one that, prior to the last several years, moved quite slowly in comparison to other beauty categories. In the latter half of the 20th century, perfume houses and designer brands debuted new scents every few years. Today, there are more micro-trend perfume launches and niche fragrance brands than ever before thanks to the ever-changing social media landscape and overconsumption craze. However, if you’re looking to invest in a fruity gourmand fragrance (a trend that’s stuck over the last few years) that still feels unique, banana-spiked scents are worth considering.
Experts such as Linda G. Levy, president of The Fragrance Foundation, agree—banana perfumes have never been timelier or more popular than they are today. “While we have experienced many seasons filled with fruit-forward fragrances, including stone fruits, berries, peaches, melons and more, now is the perfect time for banana to be more present as we shift into summer,” she states. The “sweet yet subtle ingredient,” as Levy puts it, adds a layer of soft complexity to sweet, woodsy, or floral medleys. After sifting through the many new banana fragrances on the market, we found seven power players worth considering on your next shopping spree. Below, our favorites from Nette, Marc Jacobs, Kayali, and more.
Woody, earthy, and of course, a bit sweet, this banana fragrance might be the most sophisticated of the bunch. Brazilian perfumery Granado uses the native banana in all of its glory—the ripeness of the peel, its fresh leaves, and velvety fruit—and marries it with other facets of the outdoors. Think warm sandalwood, snappy cedar, and powdery iris for that upscale, hotel lobby–like scent, splashed with the green warmth of just-ripe bananas.
Dossier
Yellow Daze Eau de Parfum
Key notes: Banana, ylang ylang, rum, sandalwood
This rum-forward fragrance brings your favorite beach cocktail home. Perfect for those who prefer to walk on the sweet side, this budget-friendly perfume makes a statement with its complex base—a mixture of deep sandalwood, rich rum, sweet vanilla, and tropical ylang ylang—when topped off with banana. It screams vacation perfume and endures hot weather thanks to its sandalwood and patchouli base, which anchors the scent for all-day sweetness. Basically, it’s begging for a spot in your suitcase.
Customer review: “The description is perfect for this one. It’s like those banana candies you’d eat as a kid from the quarter machines, but elevated and grown. I absolutely love this scent. It lasts all day at work, and my job is labor-intensive.”
Nette
Mochi Banane Eau de Parfum
Key notes: Blue banana, Hawaiian hibiscus, mochi accord, rice milk
Personally recommended by Levy, this unique scent utilizes blue bananas—native to Hawaii, where Nette founder Carol Han Pyle spent much of her childhood—rice milk, mochi, and toasted sesame, creating a dimensional, “not your mother’s” banana perfume. If the above sounds a bit too edible, you’ll be pleased to know that Hawaiian white hibiscus also plays a role, leveling out the fragrance with a floral twist that adds freshness to this airy, tropical scent. A base of sandalwood, tonka beans, and vanilla deepens things even more, creating an unforgettable, nontraditional scent that smells equal parts fresh, yummy, and elevated.
Customer review: “I’m a huge fan of this scent! It isn’t that banana candy smell that you might think of when you hear banana scented perfume. This is a sophisticated and elevated banana. The rice and mochi notes pair so well with the green banana note. I’m very much into this perfume, and it’s become a true summer staple in my scent wardrobe!”
Marc Jacobs Beauty
Daisy Murakami Green Eau de Parfum
Key notes: Banana, jasmine, vanilla
If floral fragrances are your signature but you still want to explore the new banana trend, try this Daisy concoction from Marc Jacobs Beauty. A special collaboration with Murakami, this playful, fruity fragrance combines the creamy sweetness of banana with velvety vanilla and fresh jasmine—transforming your typical floral scent into something luminous and dimensional. Prepare for endless compliments.
Customer review: “This fruity scent from Marc Jacobs smells divine. I love a good fruity and sweet scent; it has notes of vanilla and banana that are very spunky and perfect for spring or summer. It’ll definitely get you compliments.”
Ellis Brooklyn
Banana Milkshake Hair and Body Fragrance Mist
Key notes: Banana, rum wood, tonka bean
It’s no secret that body mists are having quite a year, and this fine spray from Ellis Brooklyn is the perfect banana scent to spritz in your hair or keep in your beach bag for a post-swim pick-me-up. The featherlight mist blends notes of banana, rum, and tonka bean into one satisfyingly sweet confection, offering a shimmering wash compared to the concentrated aromas of eau de parfums. At just $39, this scent is the perfect pick for anyone who wants to experiment with layering or wearing this scent alone before committing fully to a banana fragrance.
Customer review: “There are so many things I love about this scented spray. It has a delicious, sweet, and fruity scent, yet it is perfectly balanced. This banana milkshake scent smells wonderful, with creamy and vanilla notes. I am completely captivated by it. I receive compliments constantly. It is perfect to keep in your bag at all times.”
We know and love Kayali for the brand’s rich-smelling, sweet scents, which is why it’s no surprise that its banana fragrance—a stunning, unisex array of the tropical fruit, solar jasmine, bright gardenia, and creamy coconut—knocks it out of the park. The seawater glass sets the scene for a scent that beautifully balances sweetness and brightness, while its floral notes add the touch of elegance that separates this perfume from the rest. It really is Maui in a bottle.
Customer review: “One of my favorite scents ever! I’m obsessed. I’ve never smelled something so unique and fresh, and it really does smell like banana mixed with an exotic sweetness. […] I’ve been struggling to find a scent that’s different and sexy. I’m bored of all the big brand scents, so I’m going to stock up on this gem! Please keep making this; it’s just so yummy.”
Juliette Has a Gun
Banana Rush Eau de Parfum
Key notes: Banana, coconut, maple syrup
This one is for the banana lovers who want to go all in. Juliette Has a Gun’s Banana Rush commits to the bit, placing warm banana at the forefront and turning up its addictive qualities with sugary maple syrup, inviting coconut, sensual sandalwood, and bright Frangipani flower. The result is a warm, spicy gourmand that develops into something deeper and more dimensional after drying onto the skin.
Customer review: “This is an exceptional perfume that not only delivers a fragrance, but an experience. So warm, long-lasting, and very addictive to me. Tried in store before a purchase, so not a blind buy, but if you love banana bread with coffee—trust me, it’s a must-have for your collection. It’s unique and maybe not a ‘signature’ scent, but [I] absolutely enjoy having it in my rotation. Please try.”
According to Levy, you can certainly layer banana scents. “To not be overtly sweet and sugary, stay with the ingredients that complement banana but do not overpower [it],” she suggests. “Banana notes can go from sweet to smooth, so try to find a scent that has a hint of banana rather than it being the lead ingredient.” Think Granado Yes, Nós Temos Banana or Nette Mochi Banane. “When there’s a hint of banana, there’s a smoothness to the scent that’s calming and comforting,” she explains. To add depth, layer your banana scent over a woody fragrance, or to lean into the gourmand of it all, try starting with a vanilla scent before adding your banana perfume.
Why Trust Who What Wear
At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.
We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favorites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how, and what we’d truly recommend to our closest friends and family members.
In my youth, my little sister felt like a nuisance. Now, she’s one of my best friends and, admittedly, one of my style icons. We’re both Gen Z, but she has a certain effortless, cool-girl personal style that I love. (Don’t tell her I said that.) In celebration of her recent graduation and new internship, I knew I had to show her how proud I was of all her accomplishments the best way I knew how: I gave her a $250 Nordstrom gift card to buy whatever she wanted.
She’s one of those shoppers who can find anything for a bargain. Since her college days, she’s been a frugal but chic shopper, and that won’t be changing any time soon. Where some see an obstacle, she sees a challenge and accepts it. I asked her to share everything she was thinking of buying in her cart, and I was astounded by all her good finds within the $250 price range. Keep scrolling to shop all her Gen Z–approved fashion items.
