Modern Maximalism is Here: 2026 Fashion Predictions

By Mikaila Rivas '26

While it may be hard to believe, 2025 is coming to a close, but new fashion trends will arise as always. After a year of sleazy low rise jeans; flowy boho-chic tops; polka dots, and suede fringe boots, we are moving forward from a very 2010's inspired year to one with upcoming trends that feature modern takes from the 2000s and the 1980s. From funky accessories to bold colors, 2026 certainly has a vibrant year in store. 

Showy Saturation:

2026 is rumored to be filled with a retro vibrancy of color blocking with various fun

color combinations. Who What Wear, a lifestyle and beauty publication, comments, “Think off-kilter pairings such as orange and pink, red and blue, and purple and green.” The site also writes how as art can be a response to the world, fun fashion tends to come out of times of financial and political instability as a way for humanity to be reminded of the pleasure that comes from bold style choices. The music world has even been influenced by this trend; as Savannah Hudson of the electro-pop music group Between Friends has notably worn vibrant, neon-like outfits during performances. 

Alternative Animal Prints:

The cheetah print of 2024 are rumored to be surpassed by the snakeskin scales of

2026. Fashion experts are anticipating snakeskin boots and pants to be trending as a contrast to the quiet and simple luxury of the past few years. Some even predict that deer or fawn print in the shape of fur jackets and pants may be making an appearance. 

Napoleon Novelty: 

A new pant style will come into play this year called culotte pants, which are wide-

legged and crop around the knee. The pants are a great alternative to wear in the colder months since they showcase a very refined and innovative silhouette, yet also allow the wearer to show off their footwear. Culotte shoe pairings are rather plentiful as they can show off a heeled boot or an elaborately-designed ballet flat. This year, we also saw a small liking towards Napoleonic military jackets that will continue to flourish for their uniqueness and sophisticated style. We will also see the prolongation of tops with ruffles in the front and lace detailings that we have seen before with this winter’s patterned tights.

Avant-Garde Accessories:

What is an outfit without its accessories? Next year, we can look forward to a

comeback of wedges in heels and even sneakers, with the viral Isabel Marant leather Bekett Sneakers trending heavily this year. In the last few months, we have also seen the rise of the classic 2000s Disney newsboy hats, often adorned with sequins, but next year we can see the same with more structured sailor and pillbox hats. Finally, we are stepping out of sleek eyewear and into bigger sunglasses in wider shapes, drawing attention to the eyes. 

Time will only tell if these predictions come to fruition. While these trends may not all happen at the same time, usually some elements will make it mainstream. With the last couple years of sleek and simple looks, the world is ready for modern maximalism. 

All Images Courtesy of Pinterest & Getty Images

Sources: whowhatwear.com and plumager.com/blogs/

Edited by Kavya Chacko '26, Catherine Polatidis '26, & Ms. Brilliant

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