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If 2025 fashion had its own version of Spotify Wrapped, the highlights would be obvious. Fringe, lace, suede, and satin would lead the texture charts, while zebra, bandana, and island correct would top the print rankings. Warm yellows, soft browns, pastels, and lots of burgundy would round out the color palette. And as I look ahead to the fashion trends of 2026, I keep coming back to how 2025 shaped my style: more purpose and less pressure, loafers on repeat, and yes, overdoing it on overalls.
We all know that the world of fashion lives in the future. The fashion trends of 2026 were drawn months ago, and designers already know what will fill our carts next fall. But before we go too far, this is the time to read about the fashion forecast for the coming year and prepare our wardrobes carefully.
Many trends can be recreated with basic materials, secondhand finds, and some creativity.
Key Trends to Invest In
Trends come and go, so nothing here requires a new purchase unless it resonates with your personal style. Many trends can be recreated with basic materials, secondhand finds, and some creativity. When I started styling each of these looks, I was surprised that I already had the perfect pieces in my wardrobe—all it took was some unexpected pairings and layering.
If you’re planning to invest in the style trends of 2026, let it be something that still feels relevant 3-5 years from now, and choose quality that lasts.
Fashion Predictions for 2026
Belts That Are Not Belts
Heard it here first. This will be the season of fashion trends in 2026: everything is tied, wrapped, or pulled to the waist that is not a traditional belt. Think scarves tied around the waist, rope belts, leather corset silhouettes, and delicate chains. They add instant personality and transform an otherwise simple outfit—a Canadian tuxedo becomes more deliberate and stylish with this one small switch. It’s an easy option to adopt because it only requires one accessory that works with almost everything else in your closet.
Turn up the volume
Fashion trends for 2026 depend on the situation. Balloon jeans, sculpted sleeves, and bold dresses make a statement, and even though they feel bold, the payoff is worth it. Volume, when placed thoughtfully, becomes incredibly flattering. Both bell-shaped skirts and balloon pants naturally create a cinched waist, and flared sleeves offer the same flattering focus—subtly drawing the eye inward for a well-defined silhouette. I’ve never thought of doing flared jeans with flared sleeves, but I loved how this look slimmed my body in all the right places.
Egy-Preppy
Rugby t-shirts are back in 2025, and the preppy resurgence continues in 2026 with a new attitude. Classic lines and columns are always on trend, but when paired with dark sunglasses or structured accessories, the look becomes sharper. (Think city-girl-preppy.) Loafers and socks are always a style move, and because this trend appears every few seasons, it’s a safe and timeless investment. This white and Warren sweater has become an essential piece of my 2025 wardrobe, and I hope it stays around for a long time.
Primary Colors
As a color lover, 2026 feels like my time to bloom. The deep browns and reds of 2025 give way to a bright and vibrant palette. Primary colors—and their secondary sisters—are dominant. Expect light blue, earth yellow, fresh kelly green, and true red. Bonus points for putting them together like I did with these navy and red sweaters. For the little ones, this trend can still fit in seamlessly by using accessories or small layering pieces paired with tried and true neutrals.
Outerwear is in
Living in California and Texas, outerwear has never been the focus of my wardrobe. But 2026 changes that. Jackets don’t just add warmth to an outfit—they define it. Military silhouettes, cape coats, and funnel-neck styles lead the way. These pieces offer longevity and make great alternatives to statement tops; pair one sturdy jacket with your everyday base layers, and you instantly have a new look. I bought this fringe cape, and it’s already proven to be a staple—warm, trendy, but still neutral.
What 2026 fashion trends are you most excited to style?