With a new year comes new fashion trends. And while it’s always important to stay true to your own personal style and avoid fleeting fads, it’s only natural to be curious about which trends are set to define the year ahead. The runway has long been an indicator of what’s to come in the fashion cycle, but looking to those working within the industry can offer an even clearer picture of what we’ll soon be seeing everywhere.
With that in mind, here are the five top fashion trends for 2026, according to the experts…
Preppy
The preppy fashion aesthetic is set to reign supreme for another year. Characterised by polo shirts, penny loafers, crew necks, and blazers, this is one trend that makes you wish you attended an Ivy League school (or perhaps starred in Gossip Girl). Thankfully, we can all pretend that we did as the runways and stores and brimming with preppy inspiration. Maggie Gillette Sowislo, fashion and lifestyle expert, says, “One of the reasons that preppy may have a strong appeal right now is nostalgia. When the world feels like an uncertain place, looking toward what are seen as simpler times (youth) and where there was a clear structure (school) is very appealing.”
Timeless Designs
One of the biggest surprises in this list may well be the shift away from fast fashion towards slower, more conscientious purchases – an anti-trend if you will. “People are done with fast fashion. They no longer want cheap, unsustainable, and frankly unethical items in their closet,” says Judy Taylor, CEO of Madison Avenue Couture. This means buying less and investing in pieces that will give you longevity with both quality and function. Well-made fabrics that won’t unravel after a few wears and designs that will have you reaching for them over and over again (think jeans in classic cuts, crisp button-down shirts, and high-quality knitwear).
Lindsay Nicholas, founder of her namesake label, agrees, “In 2026, we’ll see a continued shift toward intentional wardrobes — fewer purchases, higher standards, and a stronger expectation that every piece earns its place. Consumers are moving away from trend-chasing and toward clothing that feels timeless, versatile, and emotionally valuable.”
Shopping Vintage
On the back of the timeless trend comes the rise in shopping for vintage and repurposed designs. “In 2026, we can expect a continued trend in vintage and second-hand handbags, with a return in large quantities of past shapes in a major way. People crave bags that exude an iconic and familiar look, not a bag that will date in six months,” says Judy Taylor, CEO of Madison Avenue Couture. Luxury bags are expensive, and if you’re going to spend a small fortune on an accessory, it makes sense to invest in one that has already stood the test of time and is still loved so many years after its initial release.
Many designers are already leaning into this by re-releasing or updating older designs. “Brands are embracing their own history. Chloé’s Spring Summer 2026 line has been hailed as a ‘look at its past while progressing into the future,’” says Judy. Dior is another brand that has given its classics a revamp with Jonathan Anderson’s debut collection featuring new variations of the iconic Lady Dior bag.
Low Rise Waist
The barrel leg may have had a moment last year (and long may that continue), but this year it has major competition as the must-have style with the rise in popularity of the low-rise waist. While this noughties trend is not for everyone, there is no denying it has officially made its comeback. “We started seeing a proliferation of super low-rise or ‘bumbster’ pants on the runways in post-pandemic, and they’ve made their way to stores. Now it seems you can’t scroll Instagram without seeing another celeb or influencer wearing this polarizing trend,” says Maggie Gillette Sowislo.
Celebs like Kylie Jenner, Rihanna, and Bella Hadid have all made the style a wardrobe staple – the trick is to find a silhouette that works for you. Baggy fits are a safe option if you’re easing into the trend, but the classic bootcut is what really leans into the nostalgia.
Bold Colours
Leaning into the maximalism trend that has dominated in recent months, we are going to see a bolder colour palette this year, including, but not limited to, bright red, chartreuse green, lilac, and fuchsia, which were particularly popular with designers on the spring/summer 2026 runways. The good news is this trend is a lot more wearable than you might think, explains Seneca Berniard Connor, founder of The Bag Icon. “These energetic colors are easy to add to any existing wardrobe and can be mixed with neutrals, like navy, charcoal, and cream. For the minimalist, a handbag in a bold primary color can feel fresh, vibrant, and on trend.”