Fashion Trends 2026
- Alexis Vega
- 21 hours ago
- 4 min read
By Alexis Vega
It's that time of year again, out with the old and in with the new. The best is yet to come, and feel free to insert your own cheesy New Year's quote here. But seriously, it’s 2026, get ready for some new fashion adventures! And before we take that fresh breath of fashion trends in for 2026, let's also take some time to appreciate and reflect on some of the trends from 2025 we all had fun with. Whether it was your favorite pair of cowboy boots, wide-leg jeans, or even the coquette bows in your hair, don't pack it all away yet.
These are the key pieces that bring this year’s daring trends into focus. In a moment shaped by uncertainty and exhausted neutrals, maximalism is surging back—proof that fashion is once again craving joy, excess, and personality.
Cloud Dancer
Otherwise known as Pantone's color of the year for 2026. Rebirth, newness, and fresh starts are all themes for the start of the year. And completely feels on par when you read how Pantone describes 'Cloud Dancer' as: "billowy ethereal white that feels gentle, airy, and elegant." Though white may not always seem bold, it promotes relaxation, encourages creativity, offers a sense of spaciousness, and has always signified a fresh start and peace.
Think of a blank canvas, dress it up, and add textures and layers. White is not meant to be a hard color to work with, and usually, it looks great on everyone. As someone whose go-to is the little black dress, I have definitely been converted to white, at least for the first half of the year.
Fur Unfiltered
If you haven't already seen fur for this winter, get ready to see it everywhere in 2026. We're not talking the classic cold-weather fur coat of yesteryear. The 2026 fur trend is certainly one for the books.
Fur has always been a statement known for its luxury and used as a lining for function. But if you put on a fur coat, you mean business. This year, we're seeing fur in a much more fun and exciting light than ever before. Fur has transcended into hats, boots, and even as full-on bikinis during summer music festivals.
So keep a lookout because even if you don't, it's tough to miss the girl with the oversized fluffy fur hat walking down the street. Or her friend with the matching boots. Regardless of how it's done, fur is back, and so is the fun confidence you get while wearing it.
Not Just An Afterthought
This year’s shift toward comfort has elevated socks from afterthought to full-blown fashion moment. Frilly socks with lace and bows came in hot during the coquette trend last season, and we've seen Alessandro Michele's Gucci put out statement socks in past seasons, but this year is different.
It's almost reminiscent of the 80's leg warmers and layered high socks we thought we were done with decades ago. Colorful socks paired with heels dominate this year’s fashion runways.
This even trickled down to athleisure, with Lululemon pulling chunky, thick socks over leggings in all their ads. Socks are even seen worn with ballet slippers and flats for a sportier, feminine look. However, if you wanna try the trend, go sock shopping asap.
Head Scarves
Sticking to the theme of enjoying 2026, you'll plan some much-needed vacations. Hello, Palm Springs is calling your name. One accessory that's always been a staple for poolside lounging, island hopping, and boat riding has been headscarves, which have now moved into the main trend spaces.
Now, I'm not saying you only wore headscarves at the beach before, but you see them everywhere. Big thanks to Dua Lipa, on perpetual vacation, who has been photographed in a different designer headscarf in cities around the world. Bandanas tucked and tied around long and short hair have been popping up all over Palm Springs. It could be the heat, or even the need for control, while sitting in a top-down convertible driving down the strip. But head scarves are back in a big way, not just for function. This cute accent can liven up an otherwise casual fit.
Hot Pants
The masses have never worn hot pants, and quite frankly, I completely understand why. But the amount of hot pants on the runway and in music was bound to make their way to the more fashion-forward consumer. But the most shocking part of this trend is seeing it done by athletics.
Adidas, one of the world's leading sportswear brands, has taken a liking to hot pants and is bringing them to the masses. We've seen Hot Pants sets not meant for working out done in thick woven knits, and they are gorgeous. Paired with colorful tights or chunky socks (like the trend we mentioned earlier), this is an easy, breezy, eye-catching outfit.
However, we may not be used to seeing such short shorts generally here in the States. Hot Pants are ubiquitous in fashion-forward countries like France and all around Europe. Let's face it, Palm Springs is no stranger to revealing clothing. And we here are very fashion-forward. Hot Pants during our summers are b downright practical.
Express Yourself In 2026
Now, whether it be fur hats, fun socks, or anything in between, 2026 is looking like expression through clothing and fashion is the way to go. There's no shortage of trendy accessories this year, so make it fun! Add your own twists; maximalism accepts pattern mixing and color play and encourages you to think outside the box.
In a world with so much turmoil, you have to try find joy in anything you can. Create your own pleasures and believe that anything is possible. With the start of the new year, we get twelve new chapters and three hundred and sixty-five new chances.
About the Author
Alexis is a fashion-forward, Coachella Valley native with 10+ years of experience in the fashion industry. A proud FIDM alum, she’s done it all—model dresser, stylist, designer—while living the LA dream. Now a mom and creator of LuvRugs, her own tufting brand, she’s living her best life in Palm Springs, CA. Fashion, motherhood, and creative hustle—she’s got it all.
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