I’m always looking for reasons to refresh my wardrobe, and the start of a new year is one of them. Not only is it a perfect occasion to update your closet, but it’s also a time to try out styles you’ve never tried before—in the spirit of a fresh, new start.
If you’re looking for inspiration, I asked three stylists about the fashion trends they’re most looking forward to in 2026—and how to dress for each trend. Their top styles include preppy looks, romantic vibes, relaxed tailoring, statement necklaces, and bold colors. If any of the trends are up your alley, we’ve got some shopping picks to help get you started. (And don’t forget to accessorize your new look with a trendy handbag!)
Best Stylist-Predicted 2026 Trends
- Go Bold: Banana Republic Merino Crewneck Sweater, $120; bananarepublic.com
- Best Deal: Express Boucle Crewneck Tunic Sweater, $29 (was $78); express.com
- Perfect With a Turtleneck: Maeve Chunky Pop Tab Chain Necklace, $58; anthropologie.com
- For Lovers of Animal Prints: Amazon Essentials V-Neck Sweater, $17; amazon.com
- Preppy Vibes: J.Crew Vintage Jersey Rugby T-Shirt in Stripe, $70; jcrew.com
- Save 50%: Gap Cotton Cable-Knit Cardigan, $40 (was $80); gap.com
- Great Discount: J.Crew Handcut Stone Necklace, from $26 with coupon (was $98); jcrew.com
- Most Versatile: Quince Washable Silk Maxi Skirt, $70 (was $80); quince.com
- For Day and Night: Quince Stretch Crepe Relaxed Double-Breasted Blazer, $80; quince.com
- Relaxed and Chic: Zara Satin Effect Striped Shirt, $33 (was $46); zara.com
Romantic Details
GAP
According to stylist and fashion creator Nena Evans, this is your year to shine if you love romantic details—think delicate lace, pintucks, romantic fabrics, and scallop trims that elevate everyday dressing. “The trend isn’t about frou-frou,” notes Evans. “It’s about incorporating romantic details into pieces you actually live in.” This scallop-trim top blends romantic and casual vibes, and the lace trim on this satin skirt and roll-sleeve tee elevate their more traditional silhouettes.
Bold Colors and Prints
Banana Republic
There will always be a place for quiet luxury, but stylist Donnell Baldwin says 2026 is the year to liven up your wardrobe with bold colors and prints. The nice thing about this trend is that you can stick to the classics—crewnecks, V-necks, cardigans—but just shop them in bolder colors and patterns. No need to entirely leave your comfort zone! Baldwin recommends this bold green merino wool sweater or this leopard-print V-neck sweater. You can also go bold with texture, like a super fuzzy cashmere sweater or this boucle crewneck.
Statement Necklaces
J. Crew
Say goodbye to delicate, refined necklaces and say hello to statement necklaces—and get ready to wear them over clothes rather than on bare skin. Stylist Dawn Del Russo recommends bold pieces, like resin chains, mixed metals, sculptural pendants, and necklaces that “feel more gallery than accessory.” For example, wear this glass and resin statement piece on its own, or this large beaded choker and layering necklace set together. She adds, “Wear it over a collared button-down, with blazers, even over outerwear.”
Soft Tailoring
Quince
For 2026, workwear isn’t all about crisp lines and slim silhouettes. Instead, Evans expects clothes with soft tailoring and less rigidity—so they look polished during the day but transition nicely into the evening. “Relaxed blazers, fluid trousers, and matching sets,” she predicts. “The key is structure without stiffness.” You can try this stretch crepe blazer or these flowy pants. For tops, this striped satin shirt and this drapey crepe top both look soft and effortless.
Preppy Style
J.Crew
Preppy clothes never quite go out of style, but expect to see even more of them in 2026, according to Baldwin. “There has been a resurgence of rugbies and Bengal-striped shirts, etcetera, that will continue to show up in different iterations—classic and simple to loud and bright,” says Baldwin. This striped button-down and this rugby shirt embody preppy vibes, and a classic rollneck sweater is the ultimate timeless staple. If you’re looking for a standout dress, this pleated shirt-dress makes a statement.