As winter 2026 settles in with its biting chill, fashionistas and casual dressers alike are finding new ways to balance comfort, warmth, and individuality. The early months of the year have always marked a shift in the style cycle, but this season, that transition feels especially pronounced. According to The State News, this winter’s trends are all about cozy practicality—think matching sweat sets and plush outerwear—while still letting personal flair shine through.
Matching sets, in particular, are dominating sidewalks and campuses across the country. These coordinated top-and-bottom ensembles, which first gained traction in spring 2025, have evolved for colder weather. Now, sweat sets are everywhere, with brands like Artizia, Lululemon, Comfrt, and Aerie leading the charge. Nearly every clothing label has jumped on board, offering their own take on this snug, stylish staple. The look is simple but effective: monochrome colors or subtle patterns take precedence over loud logos, allowing wearers to look put-together with minimal effort.
Color trends this winter are a blend of tradition and novelty. The usual suspects—emerald green, maroon, gold, baby blue, and silver—remain at the peak of popularity. However, as The State News reports, new shades like mauve purple and baby pink, carried over from late 2025, are making a noticeable impact. Patterns are also having a moment: polka dots and cheetah print continue to adorn everything from nails to headbands, but stripes are staging a major comeback. A lighter, almost whimsical deer print is quietly emerging, mainly on sweatshirts and sweatpants.
If you’re getting a sense of déjà vu, you’re not alone. Much of this season’s inspiration comes from the past, with a special nod to the iconic television show Sex and the City. Carrie Bradshaw’s signature looks—fabulous fur coats, sparkly tops, and delicate lace—are back in full force. These pieces offer a touch of elegance and nostalgia, providing warmth for a night out or a chic dinner with friends. Leather jackets, especially oversized ones, are also still going strong, rarely falling out of the winter fashion cycle.
Outerwear, of course, is a winter essential. Chunky knit scarves, often striped or plaid, are everywhere, typically paired with classic puffer coats. It’s a look that’s as functional as it is fashionable, perfect for braving those frosty mornings. Fabrics like silk, lace, and velvet are another hallmark of the season, especially in tops adorned with pearls, gems, and a healthy dose of glitter. The focus this year is on asymmetrical hemlines and the boat tee style, which have taken over both comfort and evening wear. Off-the-shoulder tees and sweatshirts are particularly popular, offering a relaxed yet stylish vibe.
But winter 2026 isn’t just about cozy classics. According to ELLE, the runways and city streets alike are buzzing with romantic details and bold new directions. Chanel’s 2026 couture show confirmed that lace and silk aren’t going anywhere—they’ll continue to dominate all year long, bringing a softer side to the fashion world. Meanwhile, the athletic and sporty aesthetic is evolving. The “tenniscore” look, once defined by crisp whites, is now infused with vibrant hues straight out of the 1980s. Think bold blues, reds, yellows, and even chartreuse in modern, playful combinations.
Color blocking is the name of the game for those craving a pop of vibrancy. Fashion editors at ELLE predict that juicy color pairings will reign supreme throughout 2026, offering a lively contrast to the season’s usual neutrals. And for texture lovers, fringe is taking center stage. This playful detail adds movement and drama to any outfit—perfect for those who aren’t afraid to stand out and have a little fun with their wardrobe.
Speaking of the 1980s, this decade’s influence is unmistakable in today’s trends. As The Tallahassee notes in a recent review of 80s beauty, that era was all about bold self-expression. Bright, intense eyeshadow—hot pinks, electric blues—defined the makeup scene, while big, voluminous hair made a statement all its own. Perms were everywhere, providing tight, bouncy curls, and hairspray was used with abandon to create stiff, unmovable styles. Eyebrows were thick and natural, a look made famous by icons like Brooke Shields and Madonna.
While some of these beauty trends have faded (most of us are happy to leave daily clouds of hairspray in the past), others are making a comeback in subtler, more wearable forms. The 80s’ love of color and texture is reflected in today’s fashion: bold eyeshadow has evolved into vibrant color blocking, and big hair has given way to statement accessories and playful details like fringe. The spirit of fun and experimentation remains, even as the execution becomes a bit more refined.
Back in the present, accessories are playing a crucial role in defining the season’s look. According to The State News, the Coach Tabby Bag is the must-have purse, propelled to fame by its appearance on the hit show The Summer I Turned Pretty in August 2025. Shoulder bags, often adorned with quirky bag charms, allow wearers to inject a bit of personality into their ensembles. When it comes to shoes, ballet flats—especially those with mesh fabric and gold hardware—are the season’s breakout trend. In snowier regions like Michigan, the UGGS Tasman platform boot remains the go-to for both warmth and style.
Silhouettes are also shifting. The high-rise trend of the early 2020s is giving way to a resurgence of low-rise pants and skirts, a throwback to the late 90s. Skinny jeans, once considered passé, are expected to make a triumphant return later in the year. It’s a reminder that fashion is always cyclical, with old favorites finding new life in each generation.
As February unfolds and the days slowly lengthen, the fashion world is already looking ahead to spring. Soon, heavy layers and dark hues will give way to lighter fabrics and brighter colors. But for now, winter 2026 is a testament to the enduring appeal of comfort, creativity, and a dash of nostalgia. Whether you’re bundling up in a matching sweat set, channeling Carrie Bradshaw in a fur coat, or experimenting with bold color blocks and fringe, there’s no shortage of ways to make this season your own.
Fashion, after all, is about more than keeping warm—it’s a way to express who you are, even when the world outside is frozen solid.