16 French Women Told Me the 2026 Trends They'll Be Trying (and Skipping)

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The best 2026 trends and outdated fashion trends, according to the French are shown in a collage of runway images
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight; @_sarahndiaye_.; @delfinarodriguezn; @_oliviaanani; @minahabchi;  @lucyalston_; @thevisuelofgrace)

One of the most challenging parts of the start of the new year is staying committed to your resolutions, especially when you've decided to be more intentional about curating your closet and cart. Even some of the more scrupulous shoppers can find themselves swept up in the excitement of a new year or season, and all their previous aspirations to avoid buying into almost every runway trend fall, well, short. It's nothing to be ashamed of, though, as the French saying goes: "c'est la vie," or, simply put, "such is life." We've all had our moments when we might need a little help discerning which trends are truly worthwhile investments—thankfully, we can always turn to others for inspiration. One reliable source everyone turns to when they're unsure which trends will be stylish in the coming months? Obviously, the French fashion set.

Call it a cliché if you want, but there's something about how this particular culture approaches style that always has an unexplainable “je ne sais quoi,” or a little magic. It's no wonder then that many of us (myself included) turn to the streets of Paris in search of sartorial inspiration. Admittedly, the sheer number of places one can find "un coup de cœur”—a.k.a. things that spark creativity or love—in this part of the world can be quite overwhelming for those of us who struggle with the concept of a capsule wardrobe. Luckily, that’s where the experts, or in this case, the locals, come in handy, as few others are as dialed into what’s happening in fashion as those who identify as French. Ahead, you’ll hear from 16 French women about what fashion trends they’ll be skipping and what spring trends they’ll be adopting into their wardrobes this year. If you’ve been struggling to figure out what 2026 trends are worth your time, consider this a great place to start.

Adopting: High-Vamp Heels

Politely Passing: Statement Colors

The best 2026 trends and outdated fashion trends, according to the French are shown in a collage of runway images. In the middle, there's a photo of Loïcka Grâce wearing a black beret and trench coat cape. It's surrounded by close photos of from the runway showing the high-vamp heel trend worn by models in the spring 2026 collections of Chanel, Stella McCartney and Toteme

(Image credit: @thevisuelofgrace; Launchmetrics Spotlight; PICTURED: Chanel S/S 26; Stella McCartney S/S 26; Toteme S/S 26)

WHO: Loïcka Grâce, Stylist

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be adopting in 2026? Why?

One trend I’ll definitely be adopting this year is high-vamp heels. I already spotted them in a Phoebe Philo model, and I love how they feel both sharp and timeless. The higher vamp gives the shoe a strong architectural line; it’s elegant but slightly severe, very modern, and super chic.

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be skipping in 2026? Why?

I’ll be skipping out on the current obsession with statement colors, especially “royal purple.” It’s a beautiful shade in theory, but in real life, it’s not an easy color to wear. Most people don’t actually wear bold colors on a daily basis, and pieces like that tend to stay untouched in the wardrobe after the trend fades. I’d rather invest in neutral pieces that mix easily, last longer stylistically, and won’t end up sleeping in my closet. For me, longevity and wearability matter more than chasing a color moment.​

Are there any trends you expect will be big in 2026 in general? If so, why?

Honestly, I don’t think any singular trend will truly matter this year. For me, the point isn’t to chase every new trend after each runway show. Trends come and go too fast to build anything meaningful on them. What matters more is using fashion as a source of inspiration, not as a rulebook, taking elements from shows and reinterpreting them in your own way. It won’t be about “what’s in” but about how you wear it in 2026: personal style, individuality, and choosing what actually makes sense for your life and your wardrobe.

Adopting: Prep-Inspired

Politely Passing: Overly-Revealing

The best 2026 trends and outdated fashion trends, according to the French are shown in a collage of runway images. In the middle, there's a photo of Olivia Anani wearing a gray bomber jacket over a striped polo shirt with tan shorts. It's surrounded by close-up photos from the runway showing the prep trend worn by models in the spring 2026 collections of Lacoste, Miu Miu, Prada, and Tory Burch

(Image credit: @_oliviaanani; Launchmetrics Spotlight; PICTURED: Lacoste S/S 26; Miu Miu S/S 26; Prada S/S 26; Tory Burch S/S 26)

WHO: Olivia Anani, Content Creator

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be adopting in 2026? Why?

The trends I’ll be adopting this year from Who What Wear’s trend guide are Gone Bourgeois, A+Prep, and Advanced Layering. I am a big fan of Hailey Bieber’s and Kendall Jenner’s style, so this mix of modern bourgeois elegance, contemporary preppy aesthetics, and clean sophistication truly resonates with me. Advanced layering is a strong style signature for me, especially in spring and autumn, as it allows me to play with volumes, textures, and materials while maintaining a structured, elegant look.

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be skipping in 2026? Why?

The trend I will completely ignore this season is the “sexually explicit" trend that was spotted in spring runway shows. I am not a fan of the sheer materials used or the overall revealing aesthetic, and it does not reflect my personal style or my vision of fashion at all.

Are there any trends you expect will be big in 2026 in general? If so, why?

Yes, the advanced layering trend will remain essential in my opinion. It is a timeless approach to fashion that transcends seasons and years, allowing for endless creativity while remaining elegant and functional. Layering also allows outfits to adapt to different climates, seasons, and personal styles, making it a lasting foundation of the modern wardrobe.

Adopting: Ripped Jeans

Politely Passing: Slim Jeans

The best 2026 trends and outdated fashion trends, according to the French are shown in a collage of runway images. In the middle, there's a photo of Mina Habchi wearing black sunglasses, a brown fun coat, and black trousers. It's surrounded by close-up photos from the runway showing the ripped denim trend worn by models in the spring 2026 collections of Brandon Maxwell, Maison Margiela, Area, and Simkhai

(Image credit: @minahabchi; Launchmetrics Spotlight; PICTURED: Brandon Maxwell S/S 26; MM6 Maison Margiela S/S 26; Simkhai S/S 26; Area S/S26)

WHO: Mina Habchi, Content Creator Founder of Niood Data

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be adopting in 2026? Why?

Ripped jeans are definitely a staple I’ll be leaning into this year. They strike the perfect balance between effortless and cool, especially when styled with more elevated pieces like a tweed jacket, a structured blazer, or a refined top, paired with a nice pair of heels. We’ve already seen this contrast play out on recent runways, and I love how it brings an undone edge to otherwise polished looks.

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be skipping in 2026? Why?

Slim jeans are a trend I’ll be happily leaving behind. They feel restrictive and dated compared to the more relaxed, expressive silhouettes we’re seeing now. With fashion shifting toward comfort and individuality, slim jeans just don’t align with how I want to dress anymore.

Are there any trends you expect will be big in 2026 in general? If so, why?

Chokers and tie-dye seem poised for a comeback, signaling a clear nod to 2016 nostalgia. While they’re already popping up again on runways and in street style, I personally won’t be embracing them. Some revivals are best admired from afar, and these feel more like fleeting throwbacks than long-term staples.

Adopting: Deco Fringe

Politely Passing: Saturated Colors

The best 2026 trends and outdated fashion trends, according to the French are shown in a collage of runway images. In the middle, there's a close photo of Delfina Rodriguez sitting wearing a fur stole with a Celine bag. It's surrounded by close-up photos from the runway showing the fringe trend worn by models in the spring 2026 collections of Ferragamo, Attico, Alaia, and Chanel

(Image credit: @delfinarodriguezn; Launchmetrics Spotlight; PICTURED: Ferragamo S/S 26; The Attico S/S 26; Alaïa S/S 26; Chanel S/S 26)

WHO: Delfina Rodriguez, Stylist

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be adopting in 2026? Why?

One trend I’ll be adopting this year is definitely fringe. I’m really drawn to Art Deco and bohemian elements; fringe brings a bit of both of those themes, which is exactly how I like to dress. I’ve also seen a lot of fringe on the runways, and find myself constantly inspired by Prada, Alaïa, Ann Demeulemeester, Chanel, and Ferragamo’s takes on the trend.

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be skipping in 2026? Why?

I’ve been seeing a lot of bold colors and color-clashing combinations. They’re beautiful when styled well, but personally, I struggle with wearing a lot of color, so that’s one trend I’ll be skipping this year.

Are there any trends you expect will be big in 2026 in general? If so, why?

I think we’ll see a return of ’80s power dressing—less literal, more reinterpreted. Fashion often responds to instability with strong silhouettes, but this time it feels less about hierarchy and more about individuality and self-expression, styled in a more personal, softer way, like what we’ve been seeing from Saint Laurent and Prada.

Adopting: Statement Hats

Politely Passing: Polka Dot Prints

The best 2026 trends and outdated fashion trends, according to the French are shown in a collage of runway images. In the middle, there's a photo of Sarah Ndiaye wearing a brown fur hat, a trench coat adorned with fur, black leggings, and snakeskin ankle boots. It's surrounded by close-up photos from the runway showing the statement hat trend worn by models in the spring 2026 collections of Ralph Lauren, Jacquemus, Saint Laurent, and Torisheju

(Image credit: @_sarahndiaye_.; Launchmetrics Spotlight; PICTURED: Ralph Lauren S/S 26; Jacquemus S/S 26; Saint Laurent S/S 26; Torisheju S/S 26)

WHO: Sarah Ndiaye, Content Creator

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be adopting in 2026? Why?

One fashion trend I’ll definitely be adopting this year is wearing hats: backwards caps, berets, baker boy hats, really any headgear. They add personality and attitude to an outfit while staying effortless. I love how they can instantly elevate a simple look, making it feel more styled and confident.

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be skipping in 2026? Why?

I really liked the polka dot trend, but I think it’s starting to feel too overdone. We’ve seen it everywhere, and it doesn’t feel as fresh anymore. There are so many other prints to explore, and I’d rather move on to something new and more exciting!

Are there any trends you expect will be big in 2026 in general? If so, why?

I really hope zebra print becomes a big trend in 2026. Leopard print has been dominating for years, and zebra feels like a chic and refined alternative. It’s bold but elegant, and it could bring a new energy to animal prints.

Adopting: Modern Bourgeois Styling

Politely Passing: Color Clashing

The best 2026 trends and outdated fashion trends, according to the French are shown in a collage of runway images. In the middle, there's a photo of Lucy Alston wearing a black blazer over a black crewneck styled with jeans and black boots. It's surrounded by close-up photos from the runway showing the bourgeois styling trend worn by models in the spring 2026 collections of Celine, Bottega Veneta, and Kallmeyer

(Image credit: @lucyalston_; Launchmetrics Spotlight; PICTURED: Celine Resort S/S 26; Celine S/S 26; Bottega Veneta S/S 26; Kallmeyer S/S26)

WHO: Lucy Alston, Stylist and Content Creator

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be adopting in 2026? Why?

Not really a trend, probably more of an ongoing movement, but I'll continue advocating shopping your existing wardrobe and rewearing much-loved pieces styled in different, relevant ways for the season. If I'm championing any trend, it has to be the bourgeois, ‘old money’ styling spotted in Celine’s S/S 26 show—the use of color and preppy layers really speaks to me! Additionally, beyond styling more timeless pieces in a trend-forward way, I find accessories (like bags and shoes) such a great way to update one’s wardrobe. I currently have my eye on Phoebe Philo’s Ballerinas, which I feel will be a new take on the ballerina for spring, as it’s a cross between a ballerina and a jazz shoe.

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be skipping in 2026? Why?

Saturated colors and color clashing! I do love using color as a point of interest in my outfits, but this one isn't for me and the way I like to present myself.

Are there any trends you expect will be big in 2026 in general? If so, why?

I think the Celine show will have and is having a huge influence; it's nonchalant yet chic. There's real versatility—clever layering, the use of heirloom-looking accessories like the classic silk scarf, mixed with new designs that will fit seamlessly into your existing wardrobe. I think this is key, and it's far from boring. In a climate of quiet luxury (which I still really love), it's a refreshing shift but not scary.

Adopting: Experimental Maximalism

Politely Passing: Overdone Minimalism

The best 2026 trends and outdated fashion trends, according to the French are shown in a collage of runway images. In the middle, there's a photo of Salome Mory wearing a gray fur coat and jeans. It's surrounded by close-up photos from the runway showing the maximalist trend worn by models in the spring 2026 collection of Chanel

(Image credit: @salome.mory; Launchmetrics Spotlight; PICTURED: Chanel S/S 26)

WHO: Salomé Mory, Art Director and Model

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be adopting in 2026? Why?

The idea that there isn’t one ideal style or aesthetic, something I really felt in Wholesale Replica Bag Chanel shows. I want to reconnect with what makes me unique and allow myself more freedom to experiment, rather than following trends too rigidly.

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be skipping in 2026? Why?

Overdone minimalism. I love simplicity and strong basics, but when taken too far, it can erase personality and playfulness.

Are there any trends you expect will be big in 2026 in general? If so, why?

This winter, I’ve been obsessed with my loafers from The Row, which are definitely here to stay in my wardrobe. Next season, I’m looking forward to wearing transparent mesh pieces. I’m also drawn to subtle touches of maximalism through accessories, and I feel it’s time for me to invest in a colored bag.

Adopting: Creative Layering

Politely Passing: Mini Handbags

The best 2026 trends and outdated fashion trends, according to the French are shown in a collage of runway images. In the middle, there's a photo of Ellie Delphine wearing a brown blazer over a baby blue doll dress that's layered on top of a gray sweater, button-down, and blue jeans. It's surrounded by close-up photos from the runway showing the layering trend worn by models in the spring 2026 collections of Prada, Miu Miu, Versace, and Lii

(Image credit: @slipintostyle; Launchmetrics Spotlight; PICTURED: Prada S/S 26; Miu Miu S/S 26; Versace S/S 26; LII S/S 26)

WHO: Ellie Delphine, Content Creator

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be adopting in 2026? Why?

I’ll be adopting the advanced layers trend we saw at this year's spring runway shows. Even though they might keep you a bit too warm for my liking, they do make an outfit very interesting to look at and more intentional, as there is method to the chaos. It also forces you to use items you already have in your closet and to be creative. It is the kind of trend that I view as a challenge, and that makes fashion exciting again.

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be skipping in 2026? Why?

Mini handbags! I will always love them because they are simply too cute, but this year I will keep them for occasions only (e.g., weddings, fancy dinners, girls’ night). These days, I’m into big bags that can fit a pair of shoes, my makeup pouch, a small water bottle, and even a retractable tripod on days when I'm shooting content on the go. It needs to be as practical as it is pretty.

Are there any trends you expect will be big in 2026 in general? If so, why?

As we’re leaving quiet luxury behind, color is slowly making its way back into our closets. I expect classic outfits paired with bold pops of color to be a big trend this year. Think a white button-down shirt with blue jeans and a big yellow handbag, or a full black outfit with a bright blue knit thrown over the shoulders.

Adopting: Modern Prep

Politely Passing: Sheer Dressing

The best 2026 trends and outdated fashion trends, according to the French are shown in a collage of runway images. In the middle, there's a photo of Lena Farl wearing a gray suit. It's surrounded by close-up photos from the runway showing the bourgeois styling trend worn by models in the spring 2026 collections of Tory Burch, Celine, Boss, and Kallmeyer

(Image credit: @lenafarl; Launchmetrics Spotlight; PICTURED: Tory Burch S/S 26; Celine Resort 26; Boss S/S 26; Kallmeyer S/S 26)

WHO: Léna Farl, Content Creator

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be adopting in 2026? Why?

I’ll be fully embracing the bourgeois, modern preppy aesthetic this year. I'm all for timeless, investment-driven pieces like satin scarves, tailored trenches, and colorful accessories that feel collectible. Love that fashion returns to quality and polished look, yet relaxed!

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be skipping in 2026? Why?

I’ll probably be skipping overly sexy, sheer-heavy dressing. I love the ’90s Tom Ford inspired revival we’ve been seeing. While I absolutely admire it on the runway and on others, it doesn’t align with how I want to feel in my clothes day to day. I’m currently more drawn to structure and subtle sensuality rather than overt exposure.

Are there any trends you expect will be big in 2026 in general? If so, why?

I expect we’ll see a return to more color and optimistic silhouettes this year. There’s a growing appetite for joy and expressiveness in fashion, which reminds me of the color-blocking era around 2016, when dressing felt playful. After years of neutral minimalism, I think designers and consumers alike are ready for a more uplifting visual language.

Adopting: SS26 Color Pairing

Politely Passing: Copying Every Trend

The best 2026 trends and outdated fashion trends, according to the French are shown in a collage of runway images. In the middle, there's a photo of Alizee Cailliau wearing a resin necklace and beige cardigan. It's surrounded by close-up photos from the runway showing the color-combo trend worn by models in the spring 2026 collections of Bottega Veneta, Chanel, Tory Burch and Kallmeyer

(Image credit: @alizeecailliau; Launchmetrics Spotlight; PICTURED: Chanel S/S 26; Bottega Veneta S/S 26; Tory Burch S/S 26; Kallmeyer S/S 26)

WHO: Alizée Cailliau, Fashion Lifestyle Content Creator

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be adopting in 2026? Why?

I often find inspiration when visiting an exhibition, noticing colors in nature, or simply wandering around a city—a personal discovery or ‘coup de cœur’ can spark an idea to twist a trend in a way that feels authentic to my style. I’m gravitating toward expressive styling techniques, such as mixed-color combos, to add depth and movement to everyday looks. I believe a lot of these upcoming color pairings—e.g., ballet pink and red, espresso and cerulean, sage and butter—feel fresh while still creating a strong, engaging look with a fashion touch.

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be skipping in 2026? Why?

I don’t really skip trends as I don’t follow them blindly. I prefer pieces that resonate with my personal style; my approach is to combine clean lines, thoughtful details, and effortless styling rather than following trends I’m not drawn to wearing. I love shopping for staples from French brands Balzac and Sézane, which are known for their casual yet chic pieces. I look for refined pieces from Vanessa Bruno, and for vintage-inspired items, I turn to Rouje's playful designs.

Are there any trends you expect will be big in 2026 in general? If so, why?

I think single-strap bags will remain popular this year, whether in the form of structured bucket bags or sleek tote bags. I also think two-tone shoes will be a big trend, as they offer a subtle yet graphic way to elevate an outfit. Lastly, woven textures inspired by technical footwear are also expected to become more prominent, bringing a practical, cool, and stylish note to everyday outfits.

Adopting: Ample Layers

Politely Passing: Saturated Colors

The best 2026 trends and outdated fashion trends, according to the French are shown in a collage of runway images. In the middle, there's a photo of Violette Tannenbaum wearing a black sweatshirt with a black pleated skirt and sneakers. It's surrounded by close-up photos from the runway showing the layering trend worn by models in the spring 2026 collections of LII, Loewe, and Miu Miu

(Image credit: @violettetannenbaum; Launchmetrics Spotlight; PICTURED: Miu Miu S/S 26; LII S/S 26; Loewe S/S 26; LII S/S26)

WHO: Violette Tannenbaum, Content Creator and Barista

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be adopting in 2026? Why?

Layering is the trend I'll keep embracing this year. It's been part of my style for years because it's the easiest way to elevate a look and make it feel unique. I love how it lets you play with silhouettes, textures, and contrasts—fashion becomes a creative playground! My favorite combo is oversized pants with a vintage doily or a thrifted curtain wrapped around my waist. I love turning unexpected pieces into styling elements, and find myself inspired to recreate a lot of the looks from LII’s spring-summer 2026 show.

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be skipping in 2026? Why?

One trend I'll probably skip this year is bold colors. I've always struggled to wear them; I am much more into neutral tones. Bright colors feel a bit intimidating to me. At most, I'll wear them in socks! I find colorful outfits beautiful on others, and sometimes they even make me want to try, but I always come back to beige, black, brown, and soft neutrals.

Are there any trends you expect will be big in 2026 in general? If so, why?

I'm expecting ballerinas with heels to be big in 2026. I wasn't a fan for years, but after trying Margiela's Tabi Ballerinas, I fell in love. This year, I adore classic ballerinas or block-heeled styles; my favorite is the Camille by Repetto. They're incredibly versatile, from wide-leg jeans to capris or even sporty shorts.

Adopting: Art Deco Style

Politely Passing: Loud Prints

The best 2026 trends and outdated fashion trends, according to the French are shown in a collage of runway images. In the middle, there's a photo of Huda Durrani wearing a brown fur coat, black bag, and brown sunglasses. It's surrounded by close-up photos from the runway showing the bourgeois trend worn by models in the spring 2026 collections of Saint Laurent, Celine, and Rowen Rose

(Image credit: @ahalcyongirl; Launchmetrics Spotlight; PICTURED: Saint Laurent S/S 26; Rowen Rose S/S 26; Celine S/S 26; Saint Laurent S/S 26)

WHO: Huda Durrani, Actress and Creative

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be adopting in 2026? Why?

I really resonate with the feminine, bourgeois style we've been seeing on the runways of Celine, Saint Laurent, and Chloé. I love the bows, subtle prints, and voluminous, draped fabrics that hint at Edwardian and Art Deco influences. I’d like to contrast this trend by styling it with touches of leather to create a subtle edge this year.

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be skipping in 2026? Why?

One trend that doesn't align with me is saturated color palettes and prints. They're a little too loud, and I struggle to imagine how I'll incorporate them into my wardrobe and style them. I really wish I could, but they just don't feel me. Dressing is supposed to feel effortless and easy; I don't want to be standing in front of my wardrobe, fretting over what goes with what. That's not to say I will avoid color completely; I love to wear pops of pink, red, and yellow, and I would just style them simply with a black midi skirt or jeans.

Are there any trends you expect will be big in 2026 in general? If so, why?

Lady-like bags. Just like we've seen feminine bourgeois silhouettes on the runway, I hope to see more ladylike bags. I love them so much, I feel so put together and sophisticated when carrying one. They're practical too, with just enough space for daily essentials, so they transition effortlessly from day to night, which is essential for me.

Adopting: Elevated Draping

Politely Passing: Dramatic Silhouettes

The best 2026 trends and outdated fashion trends, according to the French are shown in a collage of runway images. In the middle, there's a photo of Adenorah wearing a white draped blouse with a white pencil skirt, black pointed pumps, and a clutch bag. It's surrounded by close-up photos from the runway showing the matching draping worn by models in the spring 2026 collections of Michael Kors, Chloe, Balmain and Jacquemus

(Image credit: @annelauremais; Launchmetrics Spotlight; PICTURED: Michael Kors S/S 26; Chloé S/S 26; Balmain S/S 26; Jacquemus S/S 26)

WHO: Anne-Laure Mais, Creative Director of Musier

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be adopting in 2026? Why?

I’ve been loving all the draping that’s dominated recent collections. I feel it is very elegant and timeless. It elevates your outfit while remaining very comfortable for everyday life!

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be skipping in 2026? Why?

I’ll definitely skip the more dramatic silhouettes, such as oversized skirts. it’s beautiful, but not for me. For example, the finale at Chanel’s spring 2026 show was amazing, but I don’t see myself wearing it in real life.

Are there any trends you expect will be big in 2026 in general? If so, why?

I expect colors will be big this coming year. I’m excited to wear storm blue because it’s easy to style and far more interesting than other neutral colors. It also works well when paired with red or gray.

Adopting: Softer Color Combos

Politely Passing: Bright and Bold Colors

The best 2026 trends and outdated fashion trends, according to the French are shown in a collage of runway images. In the middle, there's a photo of Anoushka Nmak wearing a brown fur coat. It's surrounded by close-up photos from the runway showing the color-blocking trend worn by models in the spring 2026 collections of Ami, Versace, Dior, and Bottega Veneta

(Image credit: @anoushka.nmk; Launchmetrics Spotlight; PICTURED: Ami S/S 26; Versace S/S 26; Dior S/S 26; Bottega Veneta S/S 26)

WHO: Anoushka Nmak, Content Creator

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be adopting in 2026? Why?

It’s not a trend for me, but I love wearing faux-fur coats, scarves, and hats—nothing is more timeless. In general, I’m more interested in investing in timeless pieces to curate a solid wardrobe this year. That being said, if I had to choose one trend, I love the idea of embracing color combos. Specifically, baby blue and sage with a touch of butter yellow and sycamore.

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be skipping in 2026? Why?

I think I will skip some of the more flashy color trends this year—sorry barbie pink, neon green, or orange! I struggle with styling those colors. I will also skip buying skinny jeans that are too tight on the body! I prefer to wear straight-leg jeans, which are indispensable.

Are there any trends you expect will be big in 2026 in general? If so, why?

I’d say there will be a comeback of the 80’s glamourati, Grace-jones inspired aesthetic, as we saw at Saint Laurent’s runway show. I can see ‘90s minimalism remaining popular, as shown in runway shows like Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren. I think many people will turn to series characters like Rachel from Friends, Buffy from Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Prue Halliwell from Charmed, or the real-life fashion icon Carolyn Bessette as inspiration to tap into this trend.

Adopting: Plaid Prints

Politely Passing: Polka Dot Prints

The best 2026 trends and outdated fashion trends, according to the French are shown in a collage of runway images. In the middle, there's a photo of Rose Doll wearing a gray pinstripe three-piece suit with white sneakers. It's surrounded by close-up photos from the runway showing the plaid print trend worn by models in the spring 2026 collections of Brandon Maxwell, Nº21, Burberry, and MSGM

(Image credit: @rosedooll; Launchmetrics Spotlight; PICTURED: Nº21 S/S 26; Brandon Maxwell S/S 26; Burberry S/S 26; MSGM S/S 26)

WHO: Rose Doll, Content Creator

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be adopting in 2026? Why?

I really want to wear more patterns and colors this year. I’ve loved all the tartan pieces we’ve seen in recent collections, including Burberry and Brandon Maxwell. I’m also excited to embrace colorful bags and shoes this year; I especially love colorful wedge heels.

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be skipping in 2026? Why?

I’d like us to leave polka dots in 2025! I love this pattern, but I feel like we’ve seen it a lot over the past few years, to the point that it's kind of lost its spark. It needs a few years off the runways and our feeds.

Are there any trends you expect will be big in 2026 in general? If so, why?

I think this year we’ll all want to move closer to what’s practical and comfortable for us, rather than trends. I believe we’ll see more people dressing in ways we genuinely love, making us feel confident by embracing big bags, oversized sunglasses, color mixing, statement collars, pleated boots, and even playing with textures.

Adopting: Matching Sets

Politely Passing: Excessive Layering

The best 2026 trends and outdated fashion trends, according to the French are shown in a collage of runway images. In the middle, there's a photo of Andrea Mun wearing a beige button-down shirt tucked into matching pleated trousers with a black bag and brown belt. It's surrounded by close-up photos from the runway showing the matching set trend worn by models in the spring 2026 collections of Chanel, Carven, and Jacquemus

(Image credit: @andi_mun; Launchmetrics Spotlight; PICTURED: Chanel S/S 26; Jacquemus S/S 26; Chanel S/S 26; Carven S/S 26)

WHO: Andréa Mun, Content Creator

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be adopting in 2026? Why?

I really hope matching sets will come back in style. I love them. Between 2013 and 2017, I wore them all the time. Some people might say it’s the easy choice, but I find them very elegant, like a suit with trousers, or even a matching skirt set. It can look a bit formal, but I think it’s beautiful.

What’s one fashion trend that you’ll be skipping in 2026? Why?

Advanced layering. I didn’t adopt last year, and I won’t in 2026 either, because it doesn’t match my style. I like simple but effective outfits. For me, getting dressed shouldn’t be complicated. I like things to stay easy and natural. Sometimes I don’t even wear accessories; I feel like my confidence and my outfit are enough.

Are there any trends you expect will be big in 2026 in general? If so, why?

Sometimes I feel that we try too hard to be unique, pushing eccentric looks to stand out. There’s nothing wrong with being original. I hope that this year, people wear what makes them feel good. When everyone follows the same trends, we all end up looking the same.

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Jasmine Fox-Suliaman
Jasmine Fox-Suliaman
Freelance Fashion Editor

Jasmine Fox-Suliaman is a freelance writer and editor living in New York City. What began as a pastime (blogging on Tumblr) transformed into a lifelong passion for unveiling the connection between fashion and culture on the internet and in real life. Over the last decade, she's melded her extensive edit and social background to various on-staff positions at Who What Wear, MyDomaine, and Byrdie. More recently, she’s become a freelance contributor to other publications including Vogue, Editorialist, and The Cut. Off the clock, you can find her clutching her cell phone as she's constantly scrolling through TikTok and The RealReal, in search of the next cool thing.