Not High-Waisted Jeans: This Is the Chic Way to Style a Cropped Jacket in 2026

By Swedan MargenMay 12, 2026

Long coats certainly have a place during the spring and summer. Now that it's mid-May, however, our focus at Who What Wear is shifting to lightweight jackets. We're looking to styles that can be intentionally layered over a warm-weather outfit rather than appearing like a mere afterthought. Hip-length leather bomber jackets, barn jackets, and technical styles are currently high on our radar, but we're also giving attention to cropped silhouettes. Surprisingly, cropped jackets are proving to be a highly coveted silhouette in 2026. When styled correctly—think low-rise trousers instead of high-waisted ones—they can look current, not dated. Margot Robbie's recent ensemble serves as a perfect example.

Spotted at the opening night of 1536 in London, Robbie wore a sophisticated low-rise-trouser outfit. Specifically, she sported a black-and-gold cropped military-style jacket, a black tank top, and low-rise patch-pocket pants. Completing the elegant look, Robbie and likely her stylist, Andrew Mukamal, opted for a black leather clutch and matching pointed-toe pumps.

Margot Robbie wears a black and hold military jacket, low-rise black trousers, black pumps, and a black clutch.

Cropped jackets may not be the first style that comes to mind when a fashion person thinks of chic outerwear trends for spring and summer 2026, but if you have a favorite style in your closet or love the look and have been eyeing one online, follow Robbie's lead. Swapping your high-waisted jeans or trousers for a low-rise pair is a small but significant change that makes a cropped jacket look fresh and feel very 2026.