The fashion industry is a constant conveyor belt of ever-changing trends. Now that 2026 is here, a new year often signals a wardrobe revamp - and there are definitely short-lived trends you should be leaving behind.
As a fashion editor who has been writing about style for over 15 years, I always advise investing in a timeless wardrobe full of capsule pieces, but it's still great to explore the fun landscape of fashion and take on new trends that are both up-to-date and fabulous. Here's what you should be investing in this year, and the styles to swap these key pieces for.
© Getty Images
© Getty ImagesSwap baggy jeans for smart cigarette pants
The voluminous era is over (when it comes to trousers, anyway.) "Cigarette pants are having a moment because fashion has officially pivoted away from slouchy, low-effort dressing and back toward something sharper, sexier and more international," fashion stylist Georgie Gray tells Best Quality Designer Handbag . "After years of oversized denim and baggy silhouettes, there's a craving for polish again, the kind of effortless elegance you get when a look is cut close to the body," she says.
"Cigarette pants give you that clean, tailored line that instantly elevates even the simplest outfit, whether it’s worn with a white tee, a knit, or a statement coat. They feel Parisian, a little retro, and quietly confident, exactly the mood shift we're seeing right now. What makes them really exciting is how versatile they are; wear them with a sleek boot tucked in for modern edge, a classic court shoe for something more refined, or even a cool flat trainer for that off-duty, model on the go energy," the talented expert explains.
This year, jewellery is meant to be seen
Ditch dainty jewellery for statement pieces
Simple jewellery is always a staple, from gold rope-style bracelets to timeless studs. However, many designers have been exploring bolder realms of accessorising on the catwalk of late. It's now much trendier to wear visually beautiful pieces that pack a powerful punch - from Art Deco style earrings like these silver frames from Soru to tasselled pendants and vintage-style earrings that look as though they belong in your grandmother's jewellery box.
© Getty ImagesBigger is better when it comes to bags in 2026
Leave the micro bag at home - big arm candy to go
The mighty micro bag may have been at the forefront of our minds since it arrived on the fashion hit list in 2019, but fast forward to 2026, and it's all about the 'workhorse' tote, a large bag that can carry just about anything from a laptop to a change of clothes. I would opt for sleek finishes; structured over slouchy is best.
Cobalt blue is the shade to be seen in
Depart from neutrals and go blue
Cloud Dancer white may be the shade of 2026 as decided by Pantone, but cobalt blue, a bright, "cerulean blue" (as iconically highlighted by Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada), is the shade that you're going to start seeing everywhere.
Seen on the spring/summer 2026 runway from Giorgio Armani to Lanvin, the vibrant hue is a great way to add a pop of colour to your wardrobe; from a simple separate, such as a knit or blouse, to a full-on colour block number, like this Pretty Lavish satin dress.
© Edward BerthelotLets get loud - pick clothes that make a statement
Leave behind subtle finishes and embrace 'loud luxury' details
2025 was the year of 'quiet luxury' - embracing all that is classic and timeless, in durable fabrics and shades that can be worn in the future. This year is the dawn of a new era - maximalism.
Statement finishing touches like eye-catching buttons are a gentle nod to the trend
Think loud, dominant colours, puff-ball hemlines, chunky jewels, and unique textures from metallic foil to leather. Choosing items that are designed to be seen is key here, but if that sends you into turmoil, a little black dress like this Monsoon number, which features a peplum and statement buttons, is a definite nod to the trend without being overpowering.
