When Nike teamed up with Kim Kardashian’s SKIMS earlier this year, the partnership was greeted with a mix of curiosity and doubt. Now that the second NikeSKIMS release has arrived in the UK, it is clear the project is moving beyond early hype and settling into its own direction.

Drop 2 builds on the first launch with more certainty. The range now includes 65 pieces, covering training gear, layering items and clothes that work for day-to-day wear. What sets this release apart is how directly it responds to what people need from activewear, something reliable for exercise yet comfortable enough for a normal day.

Kim Kardashian – Instagram

The Matte, Shine and Airy materials return, each updated to feel more focused. Matte keeps its supportive structure but now benefits from additional Nike performance technology. Shine stands out as the bolder choice thanks to strong panel designs that move away from the usual safe tones seen across the market. Airy, with its light knit construction, remains the easiest option to throw on without overthinking.

Kim Kardashian – Instagram

The unexpected addition in this drop is the Woven Nylon collection. The Wrap Coat in particular is attracting early interest because it works far beyond gym settings. It has an easy, relaxed shape that sits well over everything from leggings to casual outfits, making it a practical top layer rather than a piece added simply for impact.

Kim Kardashian – Instagram

The size range is broad, continuing the collaboration’s intention to include as many body types as possible. In a market where full inclusion is still not guaranteed, that commitment matters.

The colours used across the release lean towards deeper neutrals supported by darker reds and stronger contrasting tones, especially within the Shine designs. Instead of chasing short-term fashion moments, the choices feel considered and built for longer use.

Kim Kardashian – Instagram

Across the UK, the first drop sold quickly, and interest in this release suggests a similar pattern. What separates NikeSKIMS from typical celebrity partnerships is its reliance on well-built design rather than publicity alone. The materials hold up, the cuts are thoughtfully shaped and the overall approach feels more like a developing label than a one-off collaboration.

Drop 2 is now available on nike.com, skims.com and selected physical stores. Based on the response to the first release, certain items may move fast.

Balmain is entering a new season under Antonin Tron, the 41-year-old designer behind Parisian label Atlein. Tron takes the reins as Creative Director following Olivier Rousteing’s 14-year leadership, which turned the house into a major force in global luxury fashion.

Rousteing’s celebrity-driven vision leaves a high benchmark, and all eyes are on Tron to see how he will carry the brand forward. Tron comes with an impressive résumé, having sharpened his skills at Louis Vuitton, Givenchy, Balenciaga, and Saint Laurent before launching Atlein in 2016, known for his elegant draping, sculptural silhouettes, and precise manipulation of fabric, Tron blends couture-level craftsmanship with modern sensibilities, he trained at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp, at Atlein, Tron earned praise for designs that were elegant, wearable, and celebrated the female form, with his own label on hold, he is fully focused on leading Balmain into its next chapter, bringing his vision and craft to one of fashion’s most storied houses.

Antonin Tron: Instagram

Tron has openly admired Balmain’s storied history, calling it a brand rooted in “savoir-faire, culture, sensuality, and elegance.” He plans to honor that legacy while injecting his own contemporary perspective, designing pieces that resonate with the modern woman and reflect her identity, style, and confidence. “Having access to Balmain’s ateliers and expert craftspeople is incredible,” Tron said, noting the creative freedom the house affords.

Balmain CEO Matteo Sgarbossa highlighted Tron’s expertise with fabrics and draping, noting that his approach aligns with Pierre Balmain’s original vision: that clothing is “the architecture of movement.”Mayhoola CEO Rachid Mohamed Rachid added that Tron’s thoughtful, craftsmanship-driven philosophy makes him an exciting leader for the brand’s future.

Antonin Tron: Instagram

Antonin Tron will unveil his first Balmain collection at Paris Fashion Week in March 2026 for the Fall/Winter season. Fashion insiders are curious to see how his sculptural, precise designs will blend with Balmain’s tailoring and couture spirit. Early impressions suggest a house ready to honor its past while embracing a forward-thinking, modern identity.

If your denim drawer has become a mix of baggy cuts and worn-out skinnies, it’s time to switch gears. The cigarette jean, a straight, ankle-length cut that bridges tailored and casual, has steadily become a favourite across UK wardrobes. Fashion editors are calling it autumn’s most wearable denim shape, and it’s easy to see why.

Photo: Elleuk

After years of extremes, this cut lands in a welcome middle ground. Structured enough to look intentional yet relaxed enough for daily wear, it’s the type of jean that works well under a great coat or cropped blazer. Street style from London to Milan shows the same shift: clean, cropped denim replacing oversized or ultra-fitted looks.

Photo: Elleuk

Its appeal lies in how easily it fits real life. Team it with a blazer and loafers for work, or a soft knit and trainers on the weekend. The shorter length keeps shoes visible and avoids that awkward bunching at the ankle, while the neat shape makes even simple outfits feel more considered.

Photo: Elleuk

When buying, pay attention to proportion. The hem should sit just above the ankle, mid- or high-rise fits are the easiest to style, and structured denim holds its form better than stretchy versions. Stick to classic washes like indigo or deep blue for wearability. On the high street, labels such as COS, & Other Stories and Zara have nailed the fit for under £50, while brands like Agolde and Citizens of Humanity offer sharper, long-lasting takes.

This is not a trend asking for a wardrobe overhaul. It is understated, practical and sharply defined, a move towards denim that feels grown-up again. If you’re ready for jeans that make any outfit look intentional without overdoing it, this is the pair to start with.