Meaning of Fashion: The English term for something “in style” only appears in the 16th century, whereas the French word mode, which means “fashion,” dates back to 1482. There are other terms associated with ideas of appeal and style that come before mode. The idea of cointerie—making oneself more attractive to others by style or artifice in grooming and dress—appears in a poem by Guillaume de Lorris from the 13th century, telling men that “handsome clothes and handsome accessories improve a man a great deal.” Elegance first emerged in the context of aristocratic preferences to enhance beauty and display refinement in the 12th and 13th centuries
In 2026, these 5 fashion trends will be ubiquitous: Brooches, '80s Maximalism, Chocolate Brown, and More:
Fashion trends come and go, but trying out some fashion options that help you in unearthing your personal fashion lies in the attempts you take in an eternity. And remember: we are with you in all these processes and phases. Well, if you have the New Year resolution of improving upon the fashion statement that you make, you are in the right place.
To introduce you and guide you in your journey and provide you with nothing but the very best trends only, we scoured all sorts of expert trend forecasts like Pinterest Predicts, The Real Real resale trends, and winter trends on Depop. We went back to our favorite runway shows, as these shows have always been essential in knowing what is in store for us in those fancy stores in the upcoming year. We looked at street fashion.
Of course, it would be remiss of us to overlook TikTok, which is a big inspiration for aesthetics and trends. Remember, though: Trends are inspo, not rules! You don’t have to join in on all of them – take inspiration from the ones that best fit your personal style.
Fashion Discover the latest fashion trends for the New Year with expert insights from runway shows, street style, TikTok, and trend forecasts. Find inspiration to elevate your personal fashion style—your way.
1. Polka Dots
Among fashion’s ever-timeless and elegant designs is the polka dot design, and polka dots had a huge return last year 2025 and will continue to do so within 2026. Even if they are most typically sported during summer, you can actually include polka dots within your winter wardrobe through slip dresses, sweaters, and even coats and puffs, as seen on some of the most recent fashion shows of Altuzarra’s collection for fall and Jacquemus’ collection for spring-summer. Take a style tip from Olivia Dean and pair your polka dots with a plain sweater for a fashionably cool winter style. When weather permits, you could pair it with a plain t-shirt or tank top.
2. Layered Outfits
Layering is another major trend trickling in for 2026, and it is ideal for winter. This may be layering two or three shirts like in the ’00s, layering a skirt under a dress, or layering additional elements to make it visually interesting. The trick here is more is more. Another trend that is taking over is tying an additional shirt or jacket around your waist.
3. Preppy-Go-Lucky
“Need a different way to rock that checkered skirt?” Indeed you do! “Preppy style has been trending and increasing its popularity throughout 2025, and there’s no sign of slowing down for 2026,” according to Depop. “Celebrity-approved ‘preppy style’ adds a sleek finish that combines traditional cut, crisp layering, and college-driven style for a timeless and youthful effect,” explains Depot. Take a style cue from Miu Miu, Burberry, Kent & Curwen, and Simone Rocha, as well as many more brands on the fashion circuit, and say hello to preppy style. And if you’re thinking of jumping on the bandwagon, here’s where you should begin.
4. Wedge Sneakers
Wedge Sneakers have long been a staple among members of Gen Alpha and Gen Z, as everyone from Blue Ivy and North West to Romy Mars and Tyla have adopted the trend, and we are sure to continue seeing such trends develop within 2026 as well. There are many trends to choose from, and it appears as if Isabel Marant ones are the current 2010s-accepted alternative, as TheRealReal saw a 54% increase in branded searches, as identified.
5. Chocolate Brown
“Chocolate Brown” was decreed the hottest new color by everyone from the New York Times to the ever-fashionable Vogue, and as a friendly annual reminder, winter doesn’t truly end until March. While you may choose to wear an all-monochrome look, sticking to neutrals, and/or an accent scheme featuring cream and navy, you simply cannot go wrong with chocolate brown.
Outbound links included:
Fashion (history) — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_fashion
Mode (French term) — https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/mode#French
Guillaume de Lorris — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guillaume_de_Lorris
Elegance — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elegance
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