Tatler’s definitive guide to being chic in 2026 – from only flying with hand luggage to drinking Coke Zero with dinner and the elegant way to lose weight
From using landlines over mobile phones to having a Coke Zero at dinner and only using hand luggage when you travel, Tatler has published its ultimate guide to what is and isn’t chic in 2026.
The magazine, which is beloved of Britain’s upper classes and wealthy society doyennes, suggests those who get their clothes dry-cleaned or indulge in a ‘glossy manicure’ will also be viewed favourably in the New Year.
Surprisingly, a ‘French exit’ – when you leave a party without saying goodbye and thank you to the host – won’t be frowned upon in 2026, neither will enjoying free trials, according to the publication.
Tatler’s ultimate chic list also suggested tennis, but definitely not padel, will become the height of sophistication once again next year.
The sport already has the royal seal of approval, with the Princess of Wales and her eldest children Prince George and Princess Charlotte sharing a passion for the game.
For those that love to travel, the society bible recommended using hand luggage only, and suggested that the good ol’ Victoria Line in London was a particularly chic mode of transportation.
When it came to modern advances in technology and medicine, Tatler suggested old-fashioned methods of losing weight, namely without weight loss jabs, would be looked upon more favourably, while using AI would be disapproved of.
So whether you are a blue-blooded beauty, a charming aristocrat, or simply an aspiring social climber, read on and make a note of what’s in – and what’s out – next year…
From using landlines over mobile phones to having a Coke Zero at dinner and only using hand luggage when you travel, Tatler has published its ultimate guide to what is and isn’t chic in 2026 (stock photo)
While landlines are chic, the publication suggested that if you do have to use a mobile phone, you’ll make a fashionable statement if you start singing off all your text messages – perhaps with a ‘yours faithfully’ or ‘kind regards’.
Elsewhere, drinking Coke Zero with dinner, or dining on ‘very expensive’ Chinese food, as well as eating by yourself at a restaurant in a hotel without relying on your phone are all equally chic.
For the wealthier readers, there were also tips such as never posting a photograph from a private jet and going on holiday abroad for the entirety of February, or travelling to New York and not letting anyone know that you’re there.
Ten of the chicest things to do in 2026, according to Tatler:
1. French exits
2. Free trials
3. Coke Zero at dinner
4. Losing weight without the Pen
5. Tennis (not padel)
6. Dry-cleaning
7. Hand luggage only
8. Never using AI
9. The Victoria Line
10. Signing off a text message
Tatler’s February issue is on sale 8 January
