At first glance, the following pieces look like the kind of timeless staples that belong in every wardrobe — that perfect little white dress, the classic leather jacket, the go-to black clutch. But take a second look, and you’ll discover fresh, contemporary details that give each one a modern makeover.

This season’s new classics put a spin on the iconic styles you know and love, with unexpected collars, exaggerated proportions, and eye-catching embellishments. The vibe is minimalist and monochrome in a palette of crisp creams, rich blacks, and neutral animal prints; but look closer and you’ll find clever twists that make each piece distinctly of the moment.

A classic black stiletto heel morphs into an unexpectedly quirky clutch bag. Unassuming ballet flats get an on-trend update as delicate, sheer mesh replaces leather. An oversized leather bomber jacket exaggerates the proportions for a cosy, cocoon-like silhouette. Even a dainty leopard print handbag takes an avant-garde turn, shrunken down to micro dimensions that make a major style statement.

From peculiar hybrids to exaggerated shapes and shrunken accessories, these 10 pieces prove that, with the right modern tweaks, the classics have never looked so new.

Courtesy of Magda Butrym

Balenciaga Shoe Knife Clutch

No discussion of era-defining accessories would be complete without Balenciaga's Shoe Knife clutch, a surrealist objet d'art that takes the idea of sculptural evening bags to its ultimate conclusion. Equal parts provocative and wildly impractical, it's a covetable collectible that epitomises fashion as wearable art.

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Totême Off-The-Shoulder Top

A minimalist masterpiece, this cotton knit top epitomises Totême's pared-back Scandi-cool aesthetic. The elegant off-shoulder silhouette feels utterly fresh — an elevated essential for building effortlessly chic looks.

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Bea Bongiasca Oval Vine Ring

Bea Bongiasca's delicate vine ring wraps whimsically around the finger like a piece of jewelled nature. Sustainably crafted from recycled 9k gold, it brings an organic, sculptural charm to any jewellery stack.

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REMAIN BIRGER CHRISTENSEN V-Shaped Leather Jacket

The sleek leather jacket gets a modern refresh with this V-shaped style from REMAIN Birger Christensen. The plunging neckline and slightly cropped shape give it a contemporary edge over classic biker styles.

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MAGDA BUTRYM Mesh Ballerina Flats

Magda Butrym's sheer mesh ballerinas blend romantic femininity with an utterly current vibe. They make the perfect partner to the brand's signature slinky dresses for an insouciant, leg-lengthening look.

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LOEWE Paula's Ibiza Sunglasses

Quintessential summer energy radiates from these eclectic square shades, which epitomise LOEWE's laid-back Spanish luxe style.

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Valentino Couture Minidress

Modern minimalism meets red carpet glamour in this pristine white Valentino Couture mini. Crafted from a mix of virgin wool and silk, it's a breathtakingly simple yet showstopping creation.

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By Malene Birger Noval Bag

The sleek curved lines and clever origami-inspired shape of By Malene Birger's Noval bag make it an unconventional yet ultra-chic everyday carryall you'll want to be seen with everywhere.

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Khaite 'the Medium Julius' Belt

Every wardrobe needs this cult-favourite accessory from Khaite. Crafted from supple jet black leather, the fluid drape and gleaming oversized buckle give it a '70s vintage vibe.

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Jacquemus Les Sculptures Le Chiquito Bag

Scaled down to miniature proportions, this tiny top-handle tote from Jacquemus is one of fashion's most adorable cult objects — a delightfully shrunken sculptural accent piece.

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By Morgane Speed