Among the many trends vying for attention this season, there's one look the style set has unanimously agreed upon: sportswear is in. From anoraks and cargo pants to preppier turns like striped rugby tops and flippy tennis skorts, the spring/summer 2026 designer runways made a compelling case for sportswear as a summer staple.
That said, pulling it off requires more than donning your gym gear and calling it fashion – unless you’re actually going to work out or simply need to nip to the corner shop on your lunch break. With a more considered feel than previous iterations, the key to nailing the SS26 sportswear trend is all in the styling.
On the runway, sporty staples were contrasted with elegant tailoring to redefine ‘off-duty’ style. Sophisticated midi skirts proved the perfect pairing for weather-proof windbreakers at Tory Burch. Elsewhere at Miu Miu and Simone Rocha, the nods were more subtle, seen in the championing of retro trainers and hybrid sneakerinas.
It’s not just high-fashion houses calling the shots. NEXT has spotlighted the trend as a key mood for summer with its latest collection delivering wearable takes on the athleisure look. The result? Low-effort, trend-led outfits that strike the perfect balance between casual and polished, with just the right amount of off-duty athlete energy.
Game-Changing Layers
With an undeniably sporty edge, SS26’s funnel-neck jackets reimagine the classic utility style beyond its technical origins. Think breathable cottons and textured linens alongside elevated takes in more luxe fabrications of supple leather and suede.
Windbreaker Winners
For a fail-safe way to tap into the trend, you can’t go wrong with a windbreaker. Consider this the sportswear trend’s MVP, and Next’s iterations prove function and fashion can go hand in hand. Featuring playful polka-dot prints, trending mood-boosting hues and feminine, frilled details, it’s a lightweight layer you'll find yourself reaching for come rain or shine.
Trainer Talk
Dip your toe into the trend – literally – and level up your footwear game. This season, slimline silhouettes reign supreme, giving a retro feel to trainers, while sneakerinas offer a softer look that’s just as wearable. Prefer something even more subtle? A simple lace swap for contrasting colourways or playful charms will add sporty flair and give you a little extra pep in your step.
Rugby Shirt Revival
Rugby tops have officially moved beyond the pitch (and the pub) to earn cult status in every fashion girlie’s style arsenal. Whether long-sleeved or short, shirt's with bold stripes in any colour of the rainbow are the preferred choice. Lean into the preppy feel, or pair with your go-to denim.
Track Star Trousers
Unlike other facets of the sportswear trend, there’s not one set style of trouser you should be wearing. Instead, look for designs that balance relaxed and refined with contrasting elements – slouchy silhouettes sharpened with cargo pockets, or tailored cuts with side stripes for a sporty edge.
Preppy Player Knits
Striking the balance between functional activewear and elevated everyday style, collared knitwear is an easy entry point into the trend. With its preppy undertones and polished finish, it delivers a look that feels both considered and effortlessly wearable.
Shop the full collection now at Next.co.uk
Alexandria Dale is the Digital Fashion Writer at Cosmopolitan UK. Covering everything from the celebrity style moments worth knowing about to the latest fashion news, there’s nothing she loves more than finding a high street dupe of a must-have designer item. As well as discovering new brands, she’s passionate about sustainable fashion and establishing the trends that are actually worth investing in. Having worked in fashion journalism for six years, she has experience at both digital and print publications including Glamour and Ok!
