The fashion landscape is undergoing a significant transformation as we step into 2026. The dominant styles of the previous year, characterised by ultra-sleek minimalism and micro-accessories, are making way for a new wave of design, texture, and attitude. This year's shift is less about a complete wardrobe overhaul and more about a thoughtful refinement, blending reinvention with the revival of retro staples.
The New Colour Palette and Romantic Revival
A major shift is happening in colour trends. Pantone's Colour of the Year for 2026 is Cloud Dancer, a move that signals a farewell to pastels in favour of soft, delicate, and fresh whites. This controversial hue is set to influence everything from elegant evening wear to contemporary daywear. Retailers are already embracing the trend; for instance, H&M offers an open-back tie-detail dress for £54.99 that uses a slight fabric sheen to elevate the design, while M&S presents a more casual approach with high-waisted smart wide-leg jeans for £45.
Alongside this ethereal colour trend, a literary-inspired aesthetic is rising. According to Pinterest data, searches for 'the poet aesthetic' have surged by 175%, giving birth to the Poetcore trend. This style offers an elevated take on preppy fashion, featuring chunky turtlenecks, vintage-inspired blazers, and messenger bags. Key pieces include River Island's white ruffle tie-neck blouse (£46) and Joules' Ada Brown Check relaxed trousers (£55), which together create a soft, romantic, and heritage-inspired look.
Maximalism Returns with a Bold Statement
In a decisive turn away from quiet luxury, 2026 welcomes the return of power dressing and maximalism. The Loud Luxury trend draws direct inspiration from the 1980s, bringing back exaggerated shoulders, power suits, and high-collar jackets in deep tones and bold prints. Pinterest confirms this resurgence, reporting a staggering 225% increase in searches for '80s luxury'.
Fashion retailers are capitalising on this bold direction. Topshop's tonic 80s double-breasted oversized suit blazer (£80) epitomises the look with its boxy shoulders, while ASOS offers a more accessible entry point with a satin shoulder pad t-shirt (£35). The trend celebrates a new combination of textures and fabrics, leaving the subdued palette of 2025 firmly in the past.
Subtle Prints and Statement Jewellery
Animal prints are also being reimagined with a softer, more refined touch. The trend of Subtle Wilding moves away from loud roars towards whispers, incorporating fawn-like prints, butterfly-wing motifs, and fox-toned outfits that nod to woodland folklore. The key is swapping traditional browns for majestic indigo purples, burnt oranges, and forest greens, as seen in Next's green animal print satin midi skirt (£35).
Complementing these bold fashion statements is a move towards dramatic accessories. Supersized sparklers are replacing dainty jewellery, with grand gemstones and statement pieces taking centre stage. Designers like Yaa Yaa London are leading the charge with items such as the berry duo crystal adjustable gold ring (£45), and Oliver Bonas offers show-stopping pieces like the Cardan gold tone butterfly statement pendant necklace (£32).
As we navigate the new year, the message for fashion enthusiasts is clear: embrace a blend of romanticism, bold retro statements, and refined natural aesthetics. By integrating these key trends—Cloud Dancer hues, Poetcore romance, Loud Luxury power, Subtle Wilding prints, and dramatic jewellery—you can subtly update your wardrobe to align with the defining styles of 2026.
