Every year, the trend reports come out and it can feel like fashion is daring us to participate. Some trends are fun. Some are confusing. Some make you wonder if we're all headed back to 2003 against our will.
But the good news is, you do not need to wear everything.
In 2026, there are some beautiful things happening in fashion. Some are bold, some are romantic, some are refreshingly practical. Today I'm breaking them down into:
- Current trends that are everywhere right now
- Ongoing trends that are sticking around
- Emerging trends that are just starting to bubble up
And I'm focusing on what's actually wearable in real life, because trends should make your wardrobe feel fresh, not frantic.
CURRENT TRENDS: Already Everywhere
These are the ones you're seeing in stores, on Instagram, and probably creeping into your favorite brands already.
Brooches
Yes. Brooches. And truly, there is no rulebook here. It could be something you inherited, something you found at a flea market, or something you just picked up at Nordstrom last week. Modern brooches feel sculptural, metallic, sometimes oversized and bold. But classic, sparkly, vintage-inspired pieces are just as relevant. The magic is in how you style them.
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Capes and Cape Tops
There's something so chic about a cape silhouette. It adds drama without being over-the-top. Cape tops and cape-style coats are especially flattering if you don't love fitted sleeves or clingy shapes. They create structure while still feeling fluid.
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Slingbacks
Slingbacks are having a serious moment. They're polished like a pump but more comfortable and more forgiving. I love them with trousers, straight leg jeans, and even dresses. If you're looking for a shoe update that instantly modernizes your wardrobe without sacrificing comfort, this is it.
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Texture, Texture, Texture
2026 is not about flat outfits. We're seeing bouclé, suede, leather trims, chunky knits, and rich fabrics layered together. Instead of adding more color, try adding more texture. A suede shoe with a knit sweater. A leather-trimmed jacket with soft trousers. A bouclé blazer over denim.
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The Elevated Gray Sweatshirt
If you told me ten years ago that I'd be calling a gray sweatshirt a trend, I would have laughed. But here we are. The difference now is how we're styling it. Think: Gray sweatshirt with tailored trousers, under a blazer, add a brooch, finish with slingbacks. It's relaxed but intentional. Comfortable but polished.
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Beaded Necklaces
Beads are back, but they feel elevated in 2026. Think layered beads, chunky single strands, or tonal combinations that feel modern rather than beachy. They pair beautifully with button ups and even a simple grey sweatshirt. It's a playful way to add personality without committing to a major trend.
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Olive Green Pants
Olive is the new neutral. It works like navy but feels fresher. It pairs beautifully with cream, black, denim, and even soft pinks. If you want to branch out from basic black trousers but still feel grounded, olive is a beautiful option.
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ONGOING TRENDS: Still Going Strong
These are not fleeting. If you invest in these, you'll wear them.
Stripes
Stripes are never fully out, but they are particularly strong right now. Breton stripes. Vertical stripe trousers. Even subtle mixed stripe moments. If you want something classic that still feels current, stripes are always a safe bet.
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Rollneck Sweaters
A rollneck feels slightly more refined than a basic crewneck. It offers the refinement of a turtleneck without the choke, so it's incredibly flattering. This is one of those pieces that quietly makes everything look more expensive (aka quiet luxury).
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Mixing Prints
Yes, we are still mixing prints. But this is intentional mixing, not chaotic. Start with one print that feels neutral. Leopard often acts like a neutral. Stripes absolutely do. Then add a second print in a similar color palette. Stripes with florals. Leopard with plaid.
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EMERGING TRENDS: Proceed With Strategy
These are just starting to show up. You don't have to run toward them. But if you like them, there are ways to make them work beautifully.
Triangle Scarves and Ties
This one is my favorite emerging trend and one I'm already incorporating. Triangle scarves are popping up everywhere. Tied loosely at the neck. Draped under a blazer. Wrapped around a handbag. It's a small styling detail that can make a simple outfit feel styled.
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Poet Chic
This is the romantic, slightly dramatic trend of the year. Billowy blouses. Soft ruffles. Tie necks. Flowy silhouettes. It's feminine and airy. The key is balance. Pair a romantic blouse with structured trousers or denim. Keep the rest of your outfit grounded.
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Low Rise Jeans
YES, they're back. NO, you do not have to wear them. If you loved them the first time around, enjoy. If you did not, this is your permission slip to skip it. A happy middle ground is a mid-rise with a slightly relaxed silhouette.
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Ballet Sneaker Flats
These are a hybrid between a ballet flat and a sneaker. They're softer and more feminine than a traditional sneaker but more wearable than a delicate flat. They look great with straight jeans, cropped trousers, and midi skirts.
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How to Approach Trends in 2026
Here's my advice: you do not need all of them. Pick one to three trends that genuinely feel like you. Add them into what you already own. Let them freshen up your wardrobe instead of overhaul it.
Trends should support your style, not replace it.
What trends are you excited about this year?!
Hallie Abrams
The Wardrobe Consultant
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