Most Wanted: Modern Prairie

Prairie-inspired dressing is the street-style trend defining summer ’26 and one set to define the new season, too. Its key pieces – romantic, floaty dresses and tops, brown statement bags and cowboy boots – are chic investments to wear now and style well into fall/winter.

“Cool-girl prairie has become my go-to summer style. I love how effortless and understated it is, balancing femininity with a carefree, whimsical edge,” says NET-A-PORTER buying manager Rachel Nimmo. “Square-neck blouses, classic denim washes and cutesy ballet flats play well into this trend, too. I love to finish this type of look with a printed scarf that I can style in multiple ways: around the neck, over my head or even around the waist if I want to feel particularly on-trend.”

For inspiration, look no further than the street-style set, who always get the balance just right with prairiecore outfits that are equal parts romantic and effortlessly cool. Take Kaia Gerber, for instance, who channeled a modern-day Jane Birkin in a delicate lace camisole and jeans while out in LA recently, proving just how easy it is to replicate in city settings. Slip on Dôen’s crochet-trimmed ‘Aphra’ top with your favorite denim and Maison Margiela’s ‘Tabi’ flats, adding a cashmere knit or a suede jacket once the seasons begin to change. Finally, swap your summer basket for something a touch more sculptural, like Saint Laurent’s ‘Mombasa’ bag in smooth brown leather, and finish with oval-frame sunglasses.

For dressier events, look to brands like Saint Laurent for vintage-inspired styles you can wear throughout summer and beyond. Ticking every box, the Parisian house’s one-shoulder mini is made from white cotton poplin with ruffled guipure lace trims and fluted sleeves. Wear it to parties with Chloé’s studded platform heels for a true ’70s take or cowboy boots if your plans are a little more low-key – Our Legacy’s ‘Consultant’ pair have snake-effect toe caps that’ll add edge to even the prettiest outfits. As for accessories, what’s prairie without a little fringing? Invest in Khaite’s ‘Lotus’ tote in camel suede now and wear it for seasons to come.

Browse more in this week’s New In.