These Are the Biggest Dress Trends of 2026

For someone who was once a self-proclaimed “not a dress person,” I’ve quickly released the title. And that’s mainly thanks to the number of dress trends over the last few years that have been simply too good to resist. From 2024’s sleek knits to the lace-adorned dresses from 2025, it took little convincing to add these to my wardrobe. I’m not surprised to say that 2026 will be no different.

For 2026’s dress trends, there’s been a movement toward unique shapes and fabric arrangements, whether that’s swooping drapes, impeccable ruffles or a built-in cape. But as much as there’s ample fabric, there are trends embracing the opposite. Silk minidresses are bringing a romantic spin to our wardrobes, as are the more casual (but modernised) T-shirt dresses. We’re also waltzing into the blue, whether you’re as obsessed with cobalt and ultramarine as I am, or prefer dark navy or light sky-coloured hues—they’re all here. So, let’s not delay it any longer. These are the dress trends you’ll certainly want as part of your own wardrobe this coming year and that might just tempt you to store away your jeans (you never know!).

Style Notes: If you add more material to a dress, it’ll undoubtedly feature some kind of statement. Just think: Bold sleeves, trains, ruffles and pleats all require this to exist, and in the case of 2026, it’s coming to fruition through cape dresses. From back capes to shoulder-draped versions, they’re everywhere. Although it makes a statement, it gives your outfit a minimalist spin as there is no need for a cardigan or jacket over top. The fluid fabric is extremely elegant, and I love how much movement capes bring.

Style Notes: I was once a big proponent of T-shirt dresses, but that changed as my style changed. They often feel casual and tough to style. However, my mind has been changed once more with the advent of these new, modernised T-shirt dresses, one of which really caught my eye on Chanel‘s runway. The tee portion is elongated and often met with ruffles at the bottom, making it a much more creative way to wear this look. Although T-shirts aren’t the first thing I think of when it comes to sophisticated garments, this dress trend proves otherwise.

Style Notes: Come the season of minidresses, you can expect to find many options rendered in silk and satin materials. Just look to Victoria Beckham and Givenchy, two fashion houses out of multiple that embraced this look for 2026. There isn’t just one style either. You’ll find more structured dresses with stiffer skirts as well as fluid and slinky silk minidresses.