Headbands  

A big comeback is forecasted for headbands this year. Though they started to go out of style in the past few years, they weren’t gone for long as we are starting to see a resurgence of the trend. Some popular styles include the classic flat fabric strip, statement headbands (oversized or bold designs), and even the unexpected comeback of “zig zag headbands,” a style that was very popular in the 90s. Gen Z has been the main culprit of this trend which might be an effect of trendsetter celebrities such as Bella Hadid, Madilyn Cline, and Sydney Sweeney, who have all been seen sporting a headband recently while out. Headbands are becoming central to fashion, transitioning from a simple accessory to an essential that elevates any look.

Ballet flats

It’s finally time to ditch the painful and impractical high heels and switch them for a more comfortable and trendy option; ballet flats. They offer a classy and elegant look , while still being able to be worn casually or dressed up. You will be seeing many modern upgrades to them such as richer colors, square toes, and even new hybrid styles like sneaker-flats, nicknamed sneakerinas. These are exactly what they sound like, as it combines the padded rubber outsole of a sneaker with the elegant, satin vamp of a ballerina flat. With the fashion shift towards comfort and softness in 2026, these are sure to be a popular shoe choice for the new year. 

Colorful jewelry  

Color is taking center stage in 2026. The colorful jewelry trend focuses on bold, vibrant gemstones. Expect vivid pops of color with emeralds, sapphires, pink diamonds, and citrines incorporated in everyday style and looks. While the goal for these pieces seems to be to make a statement, and while that still is certainly true, it will also be very common to see subtle bits of color featured on jewelry. Some popular stores that specialize and sell great pieces for this trend are Kendra Scott and Bauble Bar.

Patterns and prints

Be ready to elevate your outfits this year with eye-catching and exciting patterns. Patterns are a great way to create a statement look by adding visual interest, depth, and personality. Some examples that we will most likely be seeing a lot of this year are polka dots, animal print, stripes, checks and plaid, and florals. Bold silhouettes with geometric patterns are already taking over the runways and 2026 spring/summer designers collections. Designers are bringing back bold colors, geometric prints, and textures like fringe and ruffles in an attempt to escape from the minimalistic look and create more fun individualistic looks.

Capri blue

Last year’s chocolate brown and butter yellow is this year’s Capri blue. This vibrant, deep sky blue gets its name from the colorful waters of the Blue Grotto in Capri, Italy. The color blends cyan and azure with hints of turquoise and cobalt. It is a refreshing blue shade that has an aura of optimism, joy, and relaxation. Be on the lookout as it becomes a trending color for spring/summer this year. 

Mock neck sweatshirts 

This trendy neckline which became more popular in 2025 and was originally driven by the brand Parke, founded by influencer Chelsea Parke, which specializes in their iconic mock neck sweatshirts that feature the brand name “Parke” across the front. These sweatshirts became highly sought after, especially among Gen Z. Many brands took note of the success of these sweatshirts with the public and have recently decided to join in on the trend. Big companies such Aerie, Free People, Abercrombie and Finch, Old Navy, and more have debuted their new mock neck sweatshirt styles for 2026. They are the perfect “in between” sweatshirt style because they offer casual comfort while also still looking polished and more put-together. 

Dark wash denim 

Denim is becoming more elevated and elegant in 2026. The rise of dark-wash denim has been endorsed by many big celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Kendall Jenner, and Bella Hadid who have been seen frequently wearing this style as of recently. Dark wash jeans will begin to become more popular than lighter washes because of their superior versatility. Dark wash creates a sleeker, more polished look that is able to transition seamlessly between different settings, while lighter washes are traditionally more just for casual events. Dark wash jeans will be the perfect addition to your 2026 wardrobe offering a foundational piece as fashion shifts towards a more sophisticated and refined look. 

Cardigans 

A simple staple which will be much more than that in fashion this year are cardigans. Cardigans are the perfect addition to an outfit. Whether the added layer is for warmth or fashion purposes it adds texture, dimension, and sometimes a pop of color. This domain that was once defined by a grandma’s closet and school uniforms has been redefined by Gen Z to keep up with the times. Currently the trendy way to wear a cardigan is having just one button fastened at the top creating an A-line or framed look which makes for a chic silhouette. 

Coach 

After some years of being hidden in the shadows by its competitors, Coach is having a major comeback in 2026. It seemed like just overnight Coach products were the new trendy accessory. Within a few weeks of trending on social media many products were selling out.  They were some of the most popular Christmas gifts for teenagers in 2025. This brand’s rediscovered popularity is due to its successful reinvention that blends its heritage of quality leather with modern, trendy designs. Another reason it is appealing to Gen Z and beyond is because of its more reasonable price point making it “accessible luxury”.

Lace 

Subtle feminine touches will be a recurring theme in fashion this year. One of the most popular being the use of lace details on clothes and accessories. Lace trim on tops, skirts, jackets, sweaters, and even shoes blends romantic textures with practical styles to level up everyday looks. Lace has the ability to be styled in a multitude of different ways to cater to your personal style. Whether you’re going for bohemian style, sophisticated and chic, or edgy and modern, lace a great texture to add. Some of the most popular ways you will see lace styled this year are on bomber jacket collars, used to layer in everyday style, and hemlines on silk tops and skirts.