A Few 2026 Fashion Trends

With trend cycles evolving more frequently, it is no surprise individuality in trends is on the rise. With this in mind, I wanted to share my own personal take on 2026 fashion trends and what I am most excited to see. I recently took a trend forecast class where I learned how to analyze past, future, and current fashion and how they influence what we wear. After I finished this class, I was encouraged to do my own research and contribute that to my personal style as well as keep that in mind when I get to choose clothing companies that work with me on brand deals. Last week I had the opportunity to attend MAGIC Fashion Convention and was able to sit in on a few lectures and look at some new fun merchandise coming to retail stores later this year. There are so many different aspects and angles of fashion for the next year. Here are some that stood out to me and I am most excited for.

Color and Bold Pairings

Within the past few years, minimalistic aesthetics from fashion to home decor were on the rise, but now it seems that people are ready for color to reenter the picture. The palette for 2026 can be seen as earthy and almost dull, especially with the color of the year being a shade of white. The styling and pairings of colors are what brings garments to life. Nostalgia is reentering fashion spaces, which is not so surprising with media trends in recent months. Media and television have been reimplementing nostalgic looks with color and fabric for at least the past year. 1980s fashion played a big role in this and is blending with the 2016 Tumblr era. These nostalgic elements can be translated to day to day wear with the 2026 color pallet paired with bright colors not typically worn together being styled in a unique way. It combines a soft almost a boho earthyness with a loud and bold silhouette, similar to color blocking. Designers are promoting new color displays on velvet, leather, and silk or satin to really make colors glisten on fabrics. Some of my favorite unique color pairings I have seen so far this year are plum purple and butter yellow, muted brown and teal, coral orange and sage green, orange red and light pink, and baby blue and burgundy. What is so fun about bold color pairings is how unique an outfit can become and how they encourage ways to wear clothing and style truly everything in your closet. I tend to lean more into one bright color styled with black or white, but this year I want to step out of my comfort zone and see what new outfit pairings I can come up with.

Mesh and Lace

Mesh and lace are somewhat timeless, specifically in spring and summer, however this year we can already see both fabrics being made into long sleeves and layered underneath sweaters and button-ups. It is such a simple way to add elegance to an outfit and feel chic without seeming like you are trying so hard. What’s becoming so popular about these two fabrics specifically is how easily they can be layered and worn in warmer seasons. In Southern California, seasons are less defined as they may be in other states. Having fabrics and garments that work year round and can be styled simply but also realistically is ideal for not just others living in this area, but people who are conscious of their purchasing habits and garment waste. I keep seeing this picture on Pinterest of a blue sweater with some sort of long sleeve top peeking out of the bottom and sleeves, however I cannot figure out where to buy something like that. I have also enjoyed seeing lace tank tops worn with a colorful bra or bikini underneath. Some brands are taking a similar approach by making very thin cotton or knit sweaters to almost mimic traditional mesh. Another angle of why I think lace is becoming more popular is due to its association with femininity. Women are stepping into male dominated fields more than ever, causing them to find ways of subtle self expression. On the runway, sheer fabrics were utilized with large bulky leather jackets and beading for the fall season. Fashion influencers have already started implementing this into winter fashion to get ahead of the trend.

Florals, Roses, and Femininity

Keeping with femininity in fashion, floral prints, specifically roses are expected to be a major trend in the coming months. Roses in chokers, jewelry, details in lace, and embroidery have been slowly creeping into all of our wardrobes. These details have given garments an understated confidence that feels whimsical and romantic yet powerful. Florals aren't just seen in patterns, but also draping. Draping of fabric in ruffles and curves gives garments the illusion of the layers of flowers. It creates movement and a story.

Tying in florals and rose elements, vintage looking small floral brooches are making a comeback and really make an outfit stand out with a pop of color. They add texture and layers to a garment that was previously lacking. Personally, I have added broaches to my bag straps similarly to a bag charm and am obsessed with how it looks.

Tailoring for Intentional Structure

Intentional tailoring of garments are so important and will make the entire outfit this year. Soft structure in forms of a belt cinching in the waist of a baggy dress or a blazer that conforms to your shape instead of restricting. I have even seen this on the runway earlier this season with a women’s power suit that fits to enhance body shape instead of creating a more boxy silhouette. It's redirecting excess detail in print or design and moving it towards structure. While oversized garments will continue to be a staple for some, refinement and polished outfits are making their way in. When garments are tailored intentionally, these small adjustments in fit completely elevate even the most minimal look.

Polka Dots, Polka Dots, and More Polka Dots

Last year polka dots were majorly trending, which I was a huge fan of, however I was not expecting to see them continue the way they are. Polka dots are in constant recycling dating back to the 1950s. When I was at MAGIC last week, I saw polka dot print garments at almost every booth. Some were in the classic black in white similarly to last year, but many others had prints in yellow and brown or light blue and brown, incorporating color trends. This print is transitioning to be more universal, moving from garments to accessories, and even upholstery. Something unique about this wave of the polka dot trend is how small and dainty the circles are. After seeing the influence such a classic print had over buyers at the convention, it is clear they are here to stay for the rest of the year.

Additional Thoughts

Pinterest as usual is such a great place to look at trends, however it is always interesting to look into other people's 2026 fashion perspectives. Each trend can be adapted to each person's closet and their individual style. As I continue incorporating these trends, I am looking forward to seeing them more on social media, the runway, and out in the real world.

My Favorite Trends for 2026