As the world rings in 2026, the fashion industry stands poised on the brink of a vibrant new era, blending nostalgia with innovation in ways that are both surprising and exhilarating. According to Glamour and Who What Wear, this year’s trends are a dynamic fusion of throwbacks to iconic historical styles and bold, forward-thinking designs, promising to reshape wardrobes and redefine what it means to dress with flair and confidence.
One of the most talked-about influences this season is the Jazz Age, a period immortalized by the likes of Coco Chanel and the glitz of The Great Gatsby. On the Spring/Summer 2026 runways, designers drew inspiration from the revolutionary drop-waist silhouettes and the spirit of the Roaring Twenties. Brands such as Erdem, Matthieu Blazy for Chanel, and Tory Burch paid homage to the era, each offering their own spin on Jazz-era glamour. Erdem’s looks, for instance, seemed as if they were plucked straight from a 1920s soirée, while Matthieu Blazy presented more modern interpretations, allowing today’s fashion lovers to embrace the Jazz spirit in their everyday attire. Glamour notes, “This revival saw brands like Erdem, Matthieu Blazy for Chanel and Tory Burch, send their interpretation of the trend down the runway.”
But it’s not just the Jazz Age making waves. The rise of architectural silhouettes and exaggerated proportions has been another defining feature of 2026’s fashion landscape. Balloon pants—trousers so voluminous they verge on theatrical—have transitioned from avant-garde runways to local stores. These pants, reminiscent of harem styles but with a sophisticated edge, offer both comfort and a fresh look. As Glamour describes, “Balloon pants became evident last year and we’ve seen a variety of them already in our local stores. These pants when styled correctly not only offer comfort but a fresh look for the new season.” The publication suggests pairing them with a crisp t-shirt and blazer for the office or a crop top and heels for an evening out, underscoring their versatility.
Supporting this trend toward the dramatic, designers like Courregès’s Nicolas Di Felice, Gucci’s Demna, and Melitta Baumeister have turned to unconventional materials, using wire to craft garments with striking, sculptural shapes. These creations blur the line between fashion and wearable art, challenging conventional notions of what constitutes everyday clothing. As Glamour puts it, “Fashion is considered wearable art and these designers are embracing this statement.” While not always practical, these wired structures are a testament to the industry’s willingness to push boundaries and embrace creativity without compromise.
Of course, fashion is as much about the cyclical return of beloved classics as it is about daring experimentation. Who What Wear identifies seven key trends making a comeback in 2026, many of which will tug at the heartstrings of millennials and Gen Z alike. Leading the charge are low-rise bootleg jeans, a staple of early 2000s style that’s been given new life. As the publication notes, “It’s low-rise bootleg jeans from the early noughties that feel the freshest denim cut to make a comeback.” The resurgence of this denim cut, inspired in part by celebrities such as Kendrick Lamar, signals a broader return to Y2K and Indie Sleaze nostalgia, with everything from acid-wash finishes to dark indigo hues making an appearance.
Another standout is the Napoleon jacket, a military-inspired piece that began its resurgence in late 2025 and has since gained mainstream traction. Spotted on the runways of Alexander McQueen and Ann Demeulemeester, as well as in high-street stores like Mango and Urban Outfitters, the Napoleon jacket is a must-have for anyone looking to channel a bit of 2010s Indie Sleaze or add a dash of drama to their ensemble.
Basics are also back in a big way, particularly the V-neck jumper. Once overshadowed by the popularity of crew-neck styles, the V-neck is reclaiming its place as a wardrobe essential. As Who What Wear explains, “V-necks had fallen out of favour for quite some time, with people preferring the neatness of a crew-neck style, but at some point last year, they began their return.” Whether layered over shirts or worn alone, the V-neck jumper’s understated chic is winning over fashion editors and influencers alike.
Bohemian styles are enjoying a renaissance as well, albeit with a twist. The new bohemia is softer, more romantic, and tinged with what Who What Wear dubs ‘piratecore’ influences. Think sheer balloon pants, ruffled blouses, and bandanas as headscarves—a far cry from the bolder, more literal boho trends of the past. Designers like Talia Byre, ERD, and Johnathan Anderson’s Dior are bringing these elements to the fore, blending early 2000s nostalgia with Victorian and 18th-century pirate references.
Headwear is not to be overlooked either. The baker boy hat, a Y2K favorite, is making a spirited return, fueled in part by pop culture touchstones like Keira Knightley’s memorable look in Love Actually. According to Who What Wear, “It’s back, and I think will be the Gen Z hat of choice for spring this year.” Whether in classic black or bold prints, the baker boy is set to become the go-to accessory for those seeking a playful yet stylish finishing touch.
Layering is also getting a creative update with the dresses-over-trousers trend. Once considered a quirky styling hack, this look is now being embraced by Gen Z influencers and designers alike, allowing for year-round versatility and endless combinations. From sheer lace dresses over jeans to tartan slips paired with tailored pants, this trend is all about mixing textures and silhouettes for a fresh, modern appeal.
Finally, 2026 is bidding adieu to minimalism in favor of ‘80s maximalism. Pinterest’s trend forecast and the SS26 runways have declared that more is indeed more this year. Shoulder pads, power suits, and tartan are back in full force, as seen in the collections of Saint Laurent and others. Who What Wear observes, “This is true maximalism with the theme ‘more is more.’” It’s a call to embrace bold colors, oversized shapes, and statement-making ensembles that demand attention.
With such a diverse array of trends—spanning the Jazz Age to Y2K, bohemian romance to ‘80s bravado—2026 promises to be a year where personal expression reigns supreme and the only real rule is to have fun with fashion. Whether you’re dusting off vintage favorites or experimenting with sculptural new silhouettes, the runways have set the stage for a season of creativity, confidence, and unabashed self-expression.