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STYLING

4 WAYS TO ADD WHIMSY TO YOUR WARDROBE

By Ayis Stephen-Diver, 27 June 2026

The revival of ‘whimsy’ in social media’s collective vocabulary feels like a long time coming. After years of following the algorithm and looking to A-listers for outfit ideas, 2026 has pivoted away from perfection and into personalisation. As we step more into our personal style, not following trends is now the ultimate trend.
Woman wearing faux-fur jacket | ASOS Style Feed

Picture: Getty

But what does whimsy mean in today's landscape? To me, it means something playful, fantastical – almost nostalgic. It’s the adjective I’d attach to the wardrobe of my Year 9 art teacher. And while 14-year-old me’s brows were raised as she twirled around the classroom in a tomato-red maxi skirt and skinny scarf slung around her neck, 20-something me appreciates that unapologetic display of personal style. The world of whimsical style might feel leagues away from your comfort zone, but we're here to break it down for you. Here are four ways to add some whimsy to your wardrobe this summer.

#1: BAG CHARMS ARE YOUR BEST FRIEND

Brown bag with charms

Picture: Getty

Collage of ASOS bag charms

The easiest way to embrace whimsy is through accessories. Even something as small as a bag charm can add so much personality to a look. Perhaps there’s a childhood character you’re particularly partial to (I never left my Hello Kitty phase), or you want something statement. You can even create your own bag charm out of necklaces, ribbons or personal keepsakes. Simply clip it onto the strap or a buckle and enjoy some amped-up arm candy.

 

GET THE LOOK:
01: Stradivarius Hello kitty charm key ring in blue, £15.99
02: ASOS DESIGN tomato gingham bow bag charm in multi, £8
03: Stradivarius Rabbit charm in pale pink, £15.99
04: ASOS DESIGN fish & faux shell bag charm in gold, £12

#2: DON'T BE SHY, GO ALL OUT ON JEWELLERY

Hands with gold jewellery

Picture: Getty

Collage of ASOS jewellery

My favourite part of dressing up is putting on jewellery. More is more in my opinion. And it's one of the easiest ways to show your style, because your taste in jewellery is so personal. This summer, max your whimsy with standout pieces and combos that clink, clank and demand attention. Think stone pendants, sculpted flower earrings, lace chokers or bangle stacks that engulf your forearm. 

 

GET THE LOOK:
01: Reclaimed Vintage turquoise bead short necklace, £12.99
02: Public Desire Lace choker with embellished detail in ivory, £9.99
03: ASOS DESIGN drop earrings with 3D floral design in bright pink, £14
04: Reclaimed Vintage bangle 3 pack with stone detail, £21.99
05: Cernucci Pink multi gemstone motif bracelet - gold, £74.99

#3: DRESS UP YOUR HAIR

Woman wearing a head scarf

Picture: Getty

Collage of ASOS hair accessories

To me, whimsical hair means experimenting with boho braids, beachy waves, a half-up-half-down or messy bun – the imperfectness reminds me of the Winx Club fairies. If you're more of a slick-back bun kind of person, hair accessories can instantly bring some magic into the mix. A French pin can serve as an alternative to the claw clip, and a satin scarf gives holiday feels. Layer on a few flower hair clips for your summer RSVPs, too.

 

GET THE LOOK:
01: Stradivarius Set of 2 mirror headbands in gold, £12.99
02: ALDO ladolcevita print scarf, £25
03: Bershka Flower clip pack in yellow, £12.99
04: Accessorize metal star fish french hair pin in gold, £10
05: DesignB London triple flower hair claw in turquoise, £8

#4: YES, YOU CAN COLOUR CLASH

Women wearing pink and purple outfits

Picture: Getty

Collage of ASOS clothes

Pictures: ASOS

If you weren’t privy to the list of things that could land you in sartorial jail back in the 2010s, colour clashing was the biggest. Pairing pinks and purples or yellows and oranges was essentially a criminal offence – but the tables have turned. Styling bright red tights against a pink mini dress is now a runway-approved combo. A cobalt-blue blazer over a green skirt? Even better. And if you want an even more controversial but whimsical win, try out pattern clashing. Nothing gives whimsy more than polka dot and tartan.

 

GET THE LOOK:
01: Motel Belena mini dress in hotpink, £38
02: Topshop lace midi skirt with taupe insert in lime, £45
03: Calzedonia 30 den total comfort soft touch tights in dark red, £10.99
04: Stradivarius Asymmetric blazer in royal blue, £39.99

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