Fall for "Trends" 2026

Welcome to fall! We just got a taste of it, so I wanted to get my Fall Trends edition out to you. I'm always excited to pull down my boxes for the upcoming season and see what I have. Sometimes it feels like brand new clothes, and I look forward to wearing them again. And then, of course, there are pieces I want to freshen up, a trend I want to try, or something totally new and interesting to incorporate into my wardrobe.

This isn't about spending a lot of money or disposable clothing; it's about feeling fresh and excited to start a new season. As I mentioned in my Spring Trends edit, trends move in cycles, so what was in last year will probably still be very much in this year. Some items have longer cycles and stick around a while; others fall off sooner.

As I reviewed my Spring edit, I found so many trends that are still current in each category (like pant shapes or skirt lengths), and so many of those trends continue into fall; just in heavier fabrications. I even looked back at my Fall 2025 Part 1 and Part 2 editions and found that many of those trends are still going strong. What does that tell you, other than confirming the cycle I mentioned? Don't be scared of the word "trends". Many of these items, fabrics, and colors will be around for a while and simply make you look current and updated, far from a fashion victim.

So where do I begin? How about with some overall themes: bold, confident, and voluminous? Some of which tie into and overlap with the maximalist trend.

Other themes that stand out: lingerie looks, romantic/feminine, western, sporty, academic, military, utility, country, equestrian, and après-ski. And as always, we're seeing the infusion of different decades: the '70s, '80s, '90s, and beyond.

FABRICS
We're seeing a lot more texture this season. Along with crushed fabrics, key fabrications include velvets, jacquards, brocades, tweeds, and bouclés. Transparent fabrics, often layered, and satins (many for that lingerie look, and also showing up in accessories like shoes and sneakers). Then there are the shiny foils and metallics; great for holidays, and also translated into everyday wear, like coated and metallic denim. Lace and sequins work well for daytime too; lace is used both as an all-over fabrication and as trim. And of course, we can't forget leather and furs (real and faux), which always add a rich, luxurious feel to the season.

COLORS
Color continues to be key, since we're not generally used to seeing such bold, bright, and vivacious hues at this time of year. Again, I'd point you back to my Spring Trends edit. The main difference now is that these colors come in richer, heavier fabrications for the season. Spring's highlight was cobalt, which continues, and the big callout for fall is grape. Turquoise, grass green, poppy red, marigold, and winter white are all noteworthy, along with pastels, which can make a bold impact in their own subtle way. Brown was a big trend and still is . The good news is that even when it's not called out as a top trending color, it's always a great neutral. It's a "trend" that's really worth investing in as it will never go out of style.

STYLIST TIP: If you're a bit shy around color, I recommend dipping your toe in with a scarf or an under-layer piece to brighten up a dark or neutral outfit.

PRINTS
We're continuing with the prints referenced for spring. Animal prints are always great for this season, including leopard, tiger, zebra, and snake. Florals go from lighter colorations to darker, moodier vibes

And how could we forget plaid? Yes, your plaid button-down will never go out of style. If you're not a classic plaid fan, make it more maximalist with bold colors, a statement coat, a bag, or an asymmetrical hem skirt (add lace for a bonus edge).

Click the image to view all the styles - Ps they are shoppable.

 COATS & JACKETS
These are key essentials for the season, and so many proportions continue (again reference back to my past 3 trend reports). Highlights include the funnel neck, capes, and cocoon shapes. Statement coats go maximalist, like the plaids and brocades mentioned above. And in jackets, there is a totally new trim trend: frog or knot closures.

SWEATERS
There are so many options to choose from, fitted to oversized. A classic solid cashmere is timeless; mix it with an updated bottom silhouette or fabrication. Wear a Fair Isle for the après-ski theme; a stripe, tipped, argyle, or plaid style for the preppy academic look; or a unique yarn, knit, or trimmed style for that crafty vibe.

TOPS
Boatnecks are a classic that's also trending. Bra and corseted tops for the daring and sexy. The peplum continues in tops, jackets, and sweaters. Bohemian and romantic styles include smocking, lace, and ruffles.

BOTTOMS
This one's really the wearer's choice. There are so many options, you're bound to find your perfect fit and style. Enjoy the versatility here, and reference my Spring Trends edit for the full list. I'll add cargo, carpenter, and utility details to that list as well. Stirrup pants are making an appearance, and I plan to keep wearing my culottes with knee-high boots for colder weather.

I talked a lot last time about rises, and the mid-rise has made a return. I'm happy to see more and more options and that people are becoming more open to them.

A reminder: don't go by the brand's description, since I find many of them inaccurate. There are no firm cutoff numbers, but here's what I like to work with:

• High-rise: 11" inseam and above

• Mid-rise: 9–10¾"

• Low-rise: below 9"

SHOES
Shoes also have some great continuations, pointy and square toes alike. Mary Janes continue. And if you weren't on board for the sneakerina (sneaker-and-ballet-flat combo) or the sneaker–Mary Jane combo, maybe you've seen them around enough now to give one a try as a cute alternative to a sneaker. And speaking of sneakers, low-profile sneakers are still going strong, especially in the elevated suedes we saw last year.

Boots come in every style, from bootie to knee-high to over-the-knee. Some are fitted, and some have that slouchy look.

Loafers and flats continue as well. Why not try one in woven leather or a rich fabrication or pattern?

BAGS
Bags also carry over some styles we've referenced in the past, like hobo and east/west (those short, wide horizontal styles). There's a lot of crossover with shoes here too, with woven, croc-embossed, or richly patterned fabrications. Belted bags continue for a more classic look, and studded bags add some edge to your outfit. The newest trend we're seeing in bags is a worn-in, distressed look.

OTHER CALLOUTS
Waists are highlighted with belts, peplums , fit-and-flare dresses, or nipped-in-waist jackets. Additional waist accents like scarves, sashes, and cummerbunds are also in the mix. Try a studded belt for an 80’s punk accent. Drop waists and low-slung bottoms are noteworthy too.

Fringe and the whole western theme continue; add cowboy boots to your list.

Skirts over pants are showing up a lot, as are skirted activewear bottoms.

Patterned tights add a stylish accent. Colored tights are trending too; though wearer beware, if not done right, this can be clownish instead of stylish.

Embellishment in general is noteworthy. We naturally see more sparkle for the holiday season, but it can be worn other times of the year, including daytime.

Stylist Tip: If you're not truly maximalist but want to dip a toe in: try a maximalist accessory, like a brooch or a fun belt, bag, or shoe.

I usually start with this line that I coined, but this time I'll leave you with it instead: “Trends are suggestions, not mandates.” So go have fun in your fall wardrobe! If this all feels like too much, please reach out, as I am here to help.

Click the image to view all the styles - Ps they are shoppable.