Societal movements, pop culture and social media—and consumers’ efforts to unplug from it—are shaping fashion in 2026, according to Trendalytics.
In a webinar last week Kendall Becker, the trend intelligence firm’s fashion and beauty director, shared how these factors are laying the groundwork for five macro trends that will influence men’s and women’s fashion and beauty.
Here’s a closer look at the trends’ origins and the must-have items they will spawn.
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Gone Analog
Consumers are increasingly stepping offline to reset their nervous systems, Becker said. From taking breaks from social media to keeping notifications on “do not disturb,” digital detoxing is pushing people to be more present. Business owners are feeling the strain as well, worn down by the constant pressure to maintain an online presence. Whether artists or independent designers, Becker said she is hearing more and more that people feel exhausted by the demand to produce their work and act as content machines.
She pointed to the viral trend of reposting photos from 2016—a year many look back on fondly—as a reflection of this broader analog mindset.
Taking cues from last year’s fisherman-inspired aesthetic, Becker sees this being translated to fashion through heritage prints, funnel neck outerwear and striped tops with preppy, old money vibes. Styling is a mixed bag, bringing together items like utility trousers, vintage handbags, romantic florals and lace trim. Olive green is replacing last year’s burgundy, and other key colors are chocolate and rich navy.
Self Expressed
Anti-trend movements and main character energy inspire Self Expressed, a theme that thrives on expressive boldness and originality. “This is not maximalism for the sake of it. It’s very intentional,” Becker said.
Canary yellow, purple and cobalt blue provide a cool, bright and punchy color palette for pieces like circle skirts and statement outerwear. Deer, zebra and tiger prints are a must, as well as oversized accessories like pendant necklaces.
Becker said the trend reflects the “anything goes” mood she saw on the Spring/Summer 2026 runway, where each city presented a different vibe.
Optimized
Optimized is the year’s futuristic story. Inspired global sporting events like the upcoming World Cup, coupled with dystopian undertones and tech gadgets like Aura rings and smart glasses, the theme reflects consumers wish to invest in products that help optimize their personal needs. It is also a result of how consumers are returning to “on-the-go” lifestyles since most have returned to their office jobs.
Distressed knits, hybrid sneakers and other luxury athleisure pieces are key, as well as utilitarian details and an icy palette of powder blue and charcoal. Salomon and Arc’teryx are some of the performance-driven brands Becker said are benefiting from this macro trend.
Alternative Answer
Alternative Answer is a darker evolution of the bohemian and witchy undertones that was seen in 2025.
“There’s an abundance of scary news, no matter what your stance is. Everyone feels unhappy, so it’s about looking for change elsewhere,” Becker said. Etsy witches, vision boards and talisman jewelry are some of the ways consumers are seeking refuge from another wise depressed outlook. They’re also splurging on items for a hit of dopamine.
Asymmetrical skirts, lace trim, embroidered velvet and balloon sleeves captures the mood, as well as Rama Duwaji, artist and the new First Lady of New York City. In terms of style, Becker described the 28-year-old as a new generation’s Jackie O. With her dark makeup and minimal fashion, she said Duwaji has a “little witchy vibe” in a “really cool way.”
Made You Feel
Consumers are increasingly getting off dating apps to join community groups and clubs for IRL experiences. “In America, we’re missing that third space and community, so people are getting creative to try to bring that into their lives,” Becker said.
Made You Feel captures this shift for more personal fashion. While bag charms, Labubus and tees and hats from local coffee shops gained popularity in 2025, Becker sees more artistry coming back into how consumers express their interests and individuality.
Varsity patches, slogan tees and painted are the main items, as well prints that can be tailored to a specific city or interest like wallpaper florals and toile.
