One thing I look forward to every day is putting together a cute outfit. With the season soon changing into fall, the inevitable question most people will ask is: “What is trendy in 2026?” Or, “Oh my god, what do I wear?”
With that, let’s discuss some fall 2026 fashion trends I’ve noticed on and off campus (great show by the way).
Trends can be a great way to experiment with fashion or just try something fun. However, it’s important to figure out your own aesthetic or sense of style. Trends work in a cyclical manner, and by the time you buy the newest, trendiest thing, everyone has already moved on and you’ve bought into consumerism.
For example, do you remember the coquette craze a year ago with pink bows on literally everything? Today, I haven’t seen a pink bow in months.
However, nothing is wrong with following trends either! I like the coquette aesthetic as much as the next person. It is beautiful, dainty and flattering – I’m still looking for the perfect silk mini dress to slip under a big graphic tee.
While on the topic of silk, silk and satin are all the rage this season. This was unusual to me to say the least. Silk and satin are associated with lounging on the beach, drink in hand and not a care in the world. These materials are also very popular in spring formalwear, especially for weddings.
However, it seems like they’re here to stay. Silk and satin blouses, dresses and even scarves have been featured on the runway, TikTok and on your favorite in-person fashionistas, which makes sense because they add a luxurious touch to any outfit.
Oddly enough, office-wear has made a comeback as an effortless way to look smart and chic. I would attribute this to the rise of the ‘Office Siren’ aesthetic in 2023 which never quite went away.
This aesthetic is also related to Dark Academia, which returns every fall in time for Dead Poets Society watchparties. Several popular trends bridge both aesthetics: gingham and tartan print, cozy layers (like a turtleneck with a sweatervest), earth tones, loafers and over-sized sweaters.
Furthermore, earth tones, such as brown, tan, yellow and green deserve an honorable mention, and not just because I’m a D1 Earth Tone Wearer. People like earth tones for the same reason people lean towards neutrals. They’re easy to put together, stylish in a timeless way and versatile.
Finally, layering takes fashion to another level as it unlocks the ability to play with color, texture, silhouette and patterns. It’s not a coincidence that most of the outfits saved to my Pinterest board have some layering incorporated. Sheer tights under a short skirt with leg warmers and combat boots is stylish. I love layering.
At the end of the day, whatever your favorite trend is, from past or present, is the correct answer. As long as you like it, that is all that matters; you’re the one wearing the outfit, after all.
