2026 in’s (imo)
I know I haven’t technically graced this website section since May 2025, but in 2026, it feels like a comeback is needed. In 2026, things are changing not only in terms of lifestyle adjustments, but with a whole realm of new beginnings. There was a lot that 2025 had us reflect on. The Year of the Snake has only a month left of its effects until the big, strong Year of the Horse is fully upon us. And truthfully, I cannot wait. So cheers to a new year characterized by strength and the unique chance to move forward in immeasurable ways. In a year of true greatness, I thought it was only fitting to write my first blog in over eight months. Thus, here are the trends in fashion I predict will make waves in 2026.
Fringe everything
I know you all have been seeing a rise in fringe, I can’t be the only one! Fringe was deemed an outcast of the fashion community for some time now, seen as somewhat “costume-y,” but I am here to say it’s made its rightful comeback! I recently busted out my mom’s old H&M black fringe hobo bag, and let me tell you, the compliments I have received speak for themselves. You know a bag is good when the bouncer at your local bar praises your accessory choices. I think in 2026, we are going to see a resurgence of a sort of early-2000s Chloé or Blumarine vibe.
the Bandage Dress
It’s a true crime that I was born after the peak of the bandage dress obsession and couldn’t experience it firsthand. However, a little birdie (known as the Internet) has inferred that these form-fitting dresses are hot once again. The bandage dress is credited to the French fashion designer Hervé L. Leroux, also known as Hervé Léger (WWD). Leroux actually started out studying sculpture and art history in school, but later dropped out to pursue a career in hairstyling (WWD). Having then worked along icons like Lagerfeld and von Fürstenberg, Leroux started his own fashion house, creating the iconic bandage dress in 1993 as part of their ready-to-wear line (WWD). Since then, dozens of notable names have graced this work of art on runways and red carpets. In a year all about boldness, this dress certainly fits that category.
overzised Sunnies
If you’re noticing a common theme so far, there’s a reason for that. The last time the Year of the Horse came about was 2002. And with that, all the fashion crazes that made the 2000s what they were are back. Coincidence? I have no idea, but the amount of larger-than-life shades I’ve seen out and about lately has confirmed that the mini sunglasses are respectfully making their way out again. The big names that once gave these shades life are once again pumping out newer versions from Tom Ford to Bottega Veneta.
Natural Fibers
Alright, this one is less of a visual trend than it is a societal reset. As a total material snob,I am beyond excited that more affordable and genuinely cool organic cotton or recycled materials brands are popping up each and every day. My eyes have especially been on brands like Kotn, MATE the Label, and Organic Basics. Sustainability is so so attractive, wouldn’t you say so?!
Silk and Lace
Continuing with the materials theme, the amount of silk and lace that has been perpetuated on my Pinterest feed is inspiring. Whether it’s a silk top tucked into a pair of blue jeans or a lacy dress with a pair of leather boots, these looks are gracing nearly all my forms of social media lately. The aesthetic can best be described in the likes of stealing your grandma’s doily and wearing it. However dainty silk and lace may seem, there are definitely ways to give it some edge depending on how it’s styled. Pair it with some leather or dark eye makeup, the world is your oyster! These delicate fabrics may seem daunting to start incorporating, but they can ultimately transcend the barrier between a pretty cool and a “let me save that to my Pinterest board” kind of outfit.
neck scarves
How can something so simple be a trend, you might ask? Maybe I’m playing into the Year of the Horse too much, but I strongly believe that bandanas will be a huge part of 2026 fashion. We’ve already seen these transition from summer to winter in terms of tie placement. The multifaceted ways in which one can tie a scarf will always amaze me. The most recent takes on this trend have revolved around head scarves, and more recently, scarf belts. These little pieces of fabric were a massive part of 2025, but I am predicting that bandanas will be the shining star of this upcoming year. With that, I look forward to seeing what this year of fashion may bring, and if any of my predictions ring true.
