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If 2025 fashion had its own version of Spotify Wrapped, the highlights would be unmistakable. Fringe, lace, suede, and satin would lead the texture charts, while zebra, bandana, and fair isle would top the print rankings. Warm yellows, soft browns, pastels, and plenty of burgundy would round out the color palette. And as I look ahead to 2026 fashion trends, I keep coming back to how 2025 shaped my own style: more intention and less impulse, loafers on repeat, and yes, overdoing it on overalls.
We all know the fashion world lives in the future. The 2026 fashion trends were mapped out months ago, and designers already know what will fill our carts by next fall. But before we get too far ahead, this is the moment to study up on next year’s fashion forecast and prepare our closets with care.
Most trends can be re-created with basics, secondhand finds, and a bit of creativity.
Key Trends to Invest In
Trends come and go, so nothing here requires a brand-new purchase unless it feels aligned with your personal style. Most trends can be re-created with basics, secondhand finds, and a bit of creativity. When I set out to style each of these looks, I was surprised that I already had the perfect pieces in my wardrobe—all it took was some unexpected pairing and layering.
If you are planning to invest in 2026 style trends, let it be something that still feels relevant 3-5 years from now, and choose quality that holds up just as long.
2026 Fashion Trend Predictions
Non-Belt Belts
You heard it here first. This will be the accessory moment of the 2026 fashion trends: everything tied, wrapped, or draped around the waist that isn’t a traditional belt. Think of scarves knotted at the hip, rope belts, leather corset silhouettes, and delicate chains. They add instant personality and transform the simplest outfit—a Canadian tuxedo becomes more intentional and styled with this one small switch. It’s an easy trend to embrace because it only requires a single accessory that works with nearly everything else in your closet.
Turn Up the Volume
2026 fashion trends are leaning into shape. Balloon jeans, sculptural sleeves, and voluminous dresses are making a statement, and while they can feel bold, the payoff is worth it. Volume, when thoughtfully placed, becomes incredibly flattering. Both bell-shaped skirts and balloon pants naturally sculpt a cinched waist, and bowed sleeves offer the same flattering focus—subtly drawing the eye inward for a beautifully defined silhouette. I’d never think to style bowed jeans with bowed sleeves, but I loved how this look slimmed my figure in all the right places.
Edgy-Preppy
Rugby shirts made a comeback in 2025, and the preppy resurgence continues in 2026 with a new attitude. Classic stripes and collars stay in rotation, but when paired with black sunglasses or structured accessories, the look becomes sharper. (Think city-girl-preppy.) Loafers and socks remain a core styling move, and because this trend resurfaces every few seasons, it’s a safe and timeless place to invest. This White & Warren sweater has been a key piece of my 2025 wardrobe, and I trust that it’ll continue to stand the test of time.
Primary Colors
As a color lover, 2026 feels like my time to shine. The deep browns and reds of 2025 are giving way to a palette that’s brighter and more expressive. Primary colors—and their secondary sisters—are taking center stage. Expect vivid blues, earthy yellows, fresh kelly greens, and true reds. Bonus points for layering them all together as I did with these navy and red sweaters. For minimalists, this trend can still fit seamlessly through accessories or small layering pieces paired with tried-and-true neutrals.
Outerwear Is In
Living in California and Texas, outerwear has never been the focal point of my wardrobe. But 2026 is shifting that. Jackets won’t just provide warmth for an outfit—they’ll define it. Military silhouettes, cape coats, and funnel-neck styles are leading the charge. These pieces offer longevity and make excellent alternatives to statement tops; pair one strong jacket with your everyday base layers, and you instantly have a new look. I purchased this fringe cape, and it’s already proven to be a staple—warm, on-trend, but still a neutral.
Which of the 2026 fashion trends are you most excited to style?
