My Favorite Trends for 2026

With trend cycles moving faster than ever, it's no surprise that individuality is on the rise. With that in mind, I wanted to share my own take on 2026 fashion trends and what I'm most excited to see. I recently took a trend forecasting class where I learned how to analyze past, present and future fashion and how it all influences what we wear. Afterward, I was encouraged to do my own research, apply it to my personal style, and keep it in mind when choosing which clothing companies I work with on brand deals.

Last week I attended the MAGIC fashion convention, where I sat in on a few lectures and got a look at new merchandise coming to retail stores later this year. There are so many different angles of fashion heading into the year. Here are the ones that stood out to me most.

Color and bold pairings

For the past few years, minimal aesthetics have dominated everything from fashion to home decor — but now it seems people are ready for color to re-enter the picture. The 2026 palette reads earthy and almost muted, especially with the color of the year being a shade of white. The styling and pairing of colors is what brings garments to life.

Nostalgia is re-entering fashion, which isn't surprising given recent media trends. Film and television have been bringing back nostalgic looks in color and fabric for at least the past year, with 1980s fashion blending into the 2016 Tumblr era. Day to day, that translates into the 2026 palette paired with bright colors you wouldn't usually wear together — a soft, almost boho earthiness combined with a loud, bold silhouette, similar to color blocking. Designers are showing new color on velvet, leather, silk and satin to really make it glisten.

Some of my favorite pairings so far this year: 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's so fun about bold pairings is how unique an outfit becomes — they encourage you to style truly everything in your closet. I usually lean toward one bright color with black or white, but this year I want to step outside my comfort zone.

Mesh and lace

Mesh and lace are close to timeless, especially in spring and summer — but this year we're already seeing both made into long sleeves layered under sweaters and button-ups. It's a simple way to add elegance and feel chic without trying too hard. Both layer easily and work in warmer seasons.

In Southern California, seasons are less defined than in other places, so pieces that work year-round and can be styled simply and realistically are ideal — not only for people here, but for anyone conscious of their purchasing habits and garment waste. I keep seeing a Pinterest photo of a blue sweater with a long-sleeve top peeking out at the hem and sleeves, and I still can't figure out where to buy something like it. I've also loved lace tank tops worn over a colorful bra or bikini. Some brands are making very thin cotton or knit sweaters that almost mimic mesh.

Another reason I think lace is rising is its association with femininity. As women step into male-dominated fields more than ever, they're finding ways of subtle self-expression. On the fall runways, sheer fabrics were paired with big, bulky leather jackets and beading, and fashion influencers are already carrying that into winter.

Florals, roses and femininity

Keeping with femininity, floral prints — roses especially — are expected to be a major trend in the coming months. Roses in chokers, jewelry, lace details and embroidery have been slowly creeping into our wardrobes, giving garments an understated confidence that feels whimsical and romantic yet powerful. Florals aren't just showing up as prints but in draping: ruffles and curves that create the illusion of layered petals, adding movement and a story.

Vintage-looking floral brooches are also making a comeback. They add texture, layers and a pop of color to a garment that was missing something. Personally, I've been pinning brooches to my bag straps like a bag charm, and I'm obsessed.

Tailoring for intentional structure

Intentional tailoring will make the entire outfit this year — soft structure like a belt cinching a baggy dress, or a blazer that follows your shape instead of restricting it. I saw it on the runway this season with a women's power suit cut to enhance the body rather than create a boxy silhouette. The focus is moving away from excess print and detail and toward structure. Oversized pieces will stay a staple for some, but refined, polished outfits are making their way in. When garments are tailored intentionally, small adjustments in fit elevate even the most minimal look.

Polka dots, polka dots, and more polka dots

Polka dots were huge last year — I was a big fan — but I didn't expect them to continue the way they are. They've been in constant rotation since the 1950s. At MAGIC, I saw polka-dot garments at almost every booth: some in classic black and white, many in yellow and brown or light blue and brown, tying into the color trends. The print is moving from garments to accessories and even upholstery, and this wave is all about small, dainty dots. After seeing the pull such a classic print had over buyers at the convention, it's clear they're here to stay.

Additional thoughts

Pinterest is, as always, a great place to watch trends, but it's interesting to look at other people's 2026 perspectives too. Every trend can be adapted to your own closet and style. As I keep incorporating these, I'm looking forward to seeing them on social media, on the runway and out in the real world.