Each season brings its own set of fashion heroes: distinctive colour palettes, fabrics tailored to the weather and silhouettes that reflect the cultural mood of the moment. This summer in particular, fun prints are coming to the forefront – and they’re doing so in a way that honours the past while nodding to the future. In layman's terms, expect to wear classic seasonal prints… but with a twist. This is a direction being championed by British brands unveiling their SS26 collections.
Leading that movement is Cath Kidston, with the high street favourite’s latest range being both a stroll down memory lane and a leap into the vibrant future of British heritage. The new spring/summer collection perfectly balances the brand's iconic archive with a bold, contemporary shift in design. It’s home to a variety of products – dresses, skirts, polo shirts, jumpers, swimwear and bags – all taking on fun (and, of course, floral) prints for the upcoming warm weather.
At its core, I’d describe the collection as a lesson in refined whimsy. Staying true to the hand-painted artistry that defines its British origins, it feels as though Cath Kidston has used the collection to curate a more trend-conscious identity that feels like somewhat of a sartorial reset for the brand, without losing sight of its heritage. In particular, I love how the fun prints and floaty silhouettes come together in a way that is as expressive as it is wearable.
There’s also a sense of joyful escapism in the range. It is dopamine dressing with a British sensibility, where playful colour and texture elevate everyday style. Now available at Next, the range marks an exciting new chapter for Cath Kidston… and our summer wardrobes.
Ahead, my favourite pieces from Cath Kidston’s SS26 range…
Editor's note
Knitted vests make up a vast majority of my summer wardrobe – and yes, I do need this one added to my collection. The whimsical design features an asymmetrical, split-pattern of pink-and-cream argyle and stripes, embellished with romantic red heart and bow embroidery, and finished with a scalloped hem. I’m in love!
Editor's note
This dress is the only mini I need for summer. I adore how the dense, ditsy floral pattern in hues of cream, pink and orange is set on a deep navy background. Plus, the silhouette reminds me of Sixties mod fashion – clean, streamlined and fun. See what I mean about this collection honouring the past while nodding to the future?
Editor's note
I’m not ashamed to admit that I’m a pyjama fiend; there’s nothing I love wearing more. So, this set is top of my list of summer must-haves. The icy blue satin with the deep red contrast trim is so chic that I wouldn’t feel embarrassed popping to the shops wearing it.
Editor's note
I can’t wait to wear this swimsuit poolside. It combines a classic nautical pattern with Cath Kidston’s signature botanical illustrations. Better yet, the pale blue and white stripes create an elongation effect thanks to their vertical placement.
Editor's note
Peplum tops are making a comeback this summer, and Cath Kidston's island print further elevates the femininity of this silhouette; it’s whimsical and cool at the same time, which is exactly what my summer 2026 plans demand. Better yet, it comes as a co-ord with matching trousers.
Editor's note
In my books, summer isn’t complete without a staycation. I’ll be taking this raspberry garden-themed holdall away on mine. It’s spacious, durable and fun – what more could you want?
Editor's note
To me, this dress is nostalgia epitomised. Strawberries are a quintessential symbol of British summertime and Seventies kitsch, and thus they make this frock feel like a vintage find. What's more, the tie-shoulder straps and tiered midsection lean into the trending Cottagecore aesthetic in a way that's flattering for every body shape.
Editor's note
I adore the ruffle collar and sleeves on this waistcoat. Tailoring is set to be big once again this summer, and adding the little ruffle gives the aesthetic a feminine edge. I’ll be styling it with a pink skirt for dressier days, or jeans for a more balanced vibe.
Editor's note
Blush hues were big business on the SS26 catwalks – and this skirt combines them perfectly. The pleat creates structure, whilst the fun floral print is a modern take on the spring staple, with vertical swirls and tonal panelling added for good measure. I’ll style it with the aforementioned waistcoat, or a plain white Tee.
Editor's note
Cottagecore lovers, this is the summer dress for you. Cath Kidston’s new Hackney Rose print features intricate, toile-de-Jouy style floral illustrations. On this dress, the pattern takes on various shades of blue on a white background. I’d pair it with silver shoes for dressier occasions, or cream trainers for casual days.
Editor's note
Cornflower blue is the colour of the moment... At least it is in my wardrobe. I love everything about this polo: the puff-sleeves, the sparkling jewel-encrusted buttons and the white lace heart appliqué on the chest. It feels vintage, but still very on-trend.
Editor's note
Polka dots are everywhere on the streets right now, so why not bring them poolside? I adore the monochrome vibe of this swimsuit, with the shoulder and thigh bows adding a girly edge to the moody colourway. I'll be pairing with black flip flops and a sarong.
