6 2026 Fashion Trends You Won't Be Able To Avoid

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

After years of microtrend overload, 2026 fashion trends are shifting toward slower, more intentional fashion. More than ever, the focus is on cultivating personal style based on a wardrobe of enduring, high-quality pieces. "While price will always matter, we're seeing a meaningful shift away from disposable fast fashion and toward wardrobes that feel powerful, lasting, and emotionally connected," stylist Joseph Katz, the creator behind the YouTube channel "The Katz Walk," tells Women exclusively. There are major '80s and '90s influences, which combine for a sort of luxe minimalism.

"Individualized luxury will define the year," Katz explained. "It's less about chasing trends and more about building a wardrobe that communicates confidence, identity, and longevity." Expect to see lots of classic shapes, colors, and textures, with luxurious details for added personality. "Shoppers are adopting an investment mindset — buying fewer pieces, choosing higher-quality items, and prioritizing longevity and resale value," said Katz. Expect "quiet luxury" to continue to shape style trends, driving demand for elite craftsmanship, rich textures, and timeless styles.

With an emphasis on subtle fashion, jewelry becomes a key way to add personality to your look. While '80s fashion is often associated with Lycra and flashy colors, current fashion is borrowing different aesthetics from that era: sumptuous materials and oversized shapes. That revival extends to the statement jewelry of the '80s, which was never afraid to go big. "When I think of '80s — jewels, sleek, shiny, sexy, yellow gold," jeweler Jill Hiller told The Zoe Report. "They're timeless, and that's why they're fresh now."

"Jewelry will step into the spotlight as the new power suit," said stylist Joseph Katz. "Bold cuffs, sculptural earrings, and statement chains will be used to express presence and confidence — even with the simplest outfits." Quickly add a lot of personality to an otherwise neutral outfit with a retro button earring, like the Mierfyni Pearl Stud, or a memorable cuff, like the AYWFCBF Bangle Bracelet.

Nineties minimalism is also making a comeback, which means it's a great time to break out one of the decade's best staples: the slip dress. "It is an easy, subtle dress that can be worn casually or for a more dressy event," said stylist Joseph Katz, who recommends the Bias Cut Slip Dress from Everlane or a Satin Slip Dress from Vince. A relaxed fit adds visual interest and movement, and captures a certain '90s insouciance. Rama Duwaji, the First Lady of New York, who has stunning style, has been among the fashion-forward public figures to revive this lingerie-inspired look.

These simple dresses make a great minimalist statement when worn alone, leaving the focus on the subtle shape. The pared-back structure also makes them great for layering underneath an oversized top or with a sweater tied around the waist — or even over a pair of trousers. Since they have such a slippery, shimmering feel, take the opportunity to play with contrasting textures, like a thick knit or leather jacket. "Lingerie pieces hit that sweet spot," stylist Olivia Leblanc told CBC. "They feel effortless and nonchalant — like you didn't try too hard — yet they still deliver sensuality and presence. It's comfort with attitude."

Animal prints offer a perfect balance between neutral and statement. Leopard print is a perennial classic, of course, but more distinctive patterns are also trending, like tiger, zebra, cow, snake, and the soft fawn spots of "Bambi" print. Some women are even rocking Dalmatian print. These fun designs work well everywhere in your wardrobe. "Jump in and embrace the trend with jackets, tops, and dresses," suggests stylist Joseph Katz, who recommends a Leopard Midi Dress from Mango.

Animal print can be loud, but it still works well amid the fashion industry's larger focus on minimalism. "I treat it as a neutral with personality," fashion publicist Chandi Modha told The Nod Mag. "Minimalism is about editing, not erasing character. One well-selected animal-print piece in an otherwise clean look feels modern, confident, and very chic." In fact, classic pieces made up in loud prints like leopard, which evokes sexiness and power, have their own contrasting vibes that immediately elevate a look.

Comfort is king in 2026. That means a strong emphasis on flowing, relaxed shapes crafted in decadent textures: pieces that balance polish with coziness. In particular, capes make a great replacement for outdated sweater trends because they offer a way to add layers of warmth without restricting movement. They pair beautifully with other flowing pieces, too. "The pull-over cape is an elegant topper that instantly gives you a great, polished look," says stylist Joseph Katz. "This is going to be a big trend with wide-leg trousers and a polo top."

Just by the nature of their quirky shape, capes are fun statement pieces, even when they stick to classic materials and colors. "Layered over knits or tailored pieces, capes and ponchos bring an air of 'undone sophistication' that can instantly elevate a look," design director Elise Kelner told The Zoe Report. "They can make even the simplest outfits feel intentional and thoughtfully curated." Not quite ready to commit fully to the bohemian charms of the cape? Katz suggests the Murmur Shawl, which can be worn like a wrap or a poncho.

Polka dots are another neutral feeling pattern that is seeing a resurgence in 2026. "We will be seeing some great polka dots coming back in trend, whether it is paired polka dot looks or simple polka dot separates," says stylist Joseph Katz, who recommends the Naira Dress from Reformation. This retro pattern allows you to inject plenty of fun into your look while staying in line with the elegant aesthetic that's trending. You can even mix polka dot patterns of contrasting visual weight for a playful statement moment, or combine the polka dot and slip dress trends into one with the PRETTYGARDEN Polka Dot Cowl Neck Bodycon.

In other words, don't feel restricted to a vintage-looking, '50s version of this classic print. It's definitely possible to lean into the polka dot renaissance without looking too twee. In part, that's because these spots are getting a creative update. "We're seeing polka dots worn in more bold, directional ways — oversized dots on sheer layers, mixing dot scales in one outfit, or clashing them with unexpected prints," fashion founders Sami Lorking-Tanner and Evangeline Titilas told The Zoe Report. "It's fun to see how people are getting creative and making the print feel completely their own."

The Millennial uniform is officially in style again — with a twist. "The skinny pant is back," says stylist Joseph Katz. "We will see them paired with a great blouse or with a classic black on black or brown on brown look." But this new generation of skinny pants, like the High Rise '90 Slim Straight Jeans from Gap or Ciara Trousers from Sezane that Katz suggests, has gotten a modern update. Whether made from denim, leather, or heavier materials like twill, these pant styles have a slightly straighter leg, rather than hugging snugly around the ankle. That makes for a more sophisticated, '90s supermodel look. Think more slim-fit — or stovepipe — than skin-tight.

After months of relaxed, wide-leg pants reigning supreme, this is a swing back toward more body-hugging silhouettes. "I think people are craving a more sleek, tailored silhouette again, and the numbers show that the skinny is officially back," fashion director Sarah Faisal Ahmed told The Zoe Report. Wear them over a pair of ankle boots, tuck them into tall boots, or simply pair them with ballet flats and go. The beauty of this style is they pair easily with all kinds of footwear.