2025 saw a continuation of the ‘clean girl aesthetic’ and a further descent into the dangerous depths of the 2000s (although thankfully, low-rise jeans didn’t quite reach Hilton status, and Y2K was less whale tail and more rhinestones and beads). So, what’s in our wardrobes this year?

A return to the 2010s

I’m praying that skinny jeans will not return

2026 has been branded ‘the new 2016’ – think ripped skinny jeans, leggings with Adidas superstars, choker necklaces, and bomber jackets. But how much of this will return? We’ve already seen adidas take the stage with their seemingly infinite colourways of Sambas and Spezials, worn by anyone who can get their hands on them – whether that be Harry Styles or Rishi Sunak (the latter of which decidedly stunting their popularity). And leggings, especially for protein-loving gym rats, are an everyday wardrobe staple for many and will undoubtedly remain so throughout the year, swapping out for gym shorts in summer for ‘hot girl walks.’

Personally, I’m praying that skinny jeans will not return, if only because it will remind me far too much of the days of horrendous ‘Musical.ly’ lip syncing. But I do think the Y2K trend is also heading in another direction, and we will see some nods to Tumblr fashion, especially considering the UGG craze that swept the UK last year. Mini denim shorts seem to be making their way back into high street shops, along with ‘grungy’ (in the loosest sense of the word) tops, which could mean that Converse and oversized flannel shirts are just around the corner… no comment.

Concert-inspired wardrobes

Zara Larsson’s current ‘Midnight Sun’ tour sees fans dressing up in as many bright summer colours as possible, wearing floaty mini-skirts with hand-made charm belts and imitating Zara’s (practically neon) eyeshadow and blush, adorned with rhinestones and sequins. I think we’ll see these looks continue this summer, especially considering the recent release of season three of Euphoria and Harry Styles’ upcoming album, which both inspire party and disco-like fashion.

party and disco-like fashion

Clubbing outfits of 2026 will likely mirror what we’ve already seen – sparkly halter and babydoll tops paired with mini-skirts/shorts or jeans and boots – so you can be sure that any 2025 splurges will not go to waste. McQueen’s Fall/Winter show at Paris Fashion Week saw lace tights, pointed boots, and fitted jackets, which will undoubtedly be great options for both concert outfits and the cold weather we just can’t seem to escape this year.

 

Whimsy girl fashion

Amy Glover at Huffpost UK argues that ‘whimsy’ is a strong contender for one of the top words of 2026, and ‘whimsy girl’ fashion has certainly taken the internet by storm. It’s all about being authentic and true to yourself, which does seem a bit ironic considering how the wardrobe appears to be the same: lace cardigans, buttons, hair clips, stacked jewellery, skinny scarves, pea coats, patterned tights under skirts, vintage boots, and bags. But overall, the aesthetic is cute, and I can see (and wholeheartedly support) a departure from basic capsule wardrobes.

mixing textures, patterns, and colours will be all the rage

This year, I think mixing textures, patterns, and colours will be all the rage – polka dots are already everywhere you look, and they don’t show signs of leaving us any time soon, but I think other more abstract patterns will emerge too, such as spirals (especially as being whimsical is all about embracing the natural cycle of life and taking emotions as they come). Say goodbye to minimalism: accessorising and customising your outfits is in.

The sustainability issue

However, as always, new trends increase the risk of unnecessary consumerism. Just because accessories are going to be all the rage this year doesn’t mean you can’t reuse what you have, borrow from friends, or shop in charity shops or vintage stores – in fact, a huge part of the ‘whimsy girl aesthetic’ is that the clothes have been pre-loved, and are different from what big brands are stocking.

recycling old wardrobe items will be all the more encouraged

Time after time, we’ve seen new trends inspire Black Friday-esque hysteria, and high street giants suddenly stock millions of sought-after accessories. Bows, for example, when the coquette aesthetic returned for Lana Del Rey and Madison Beer concerts (which gave me uncomfortable PTSD to the crazed days of Jojo bows). But this year, I think recycling old wardrobe items will be all the more encouraged, especially due to rising prices everywhere. Whether that be cutting up old tops to create a cute off-the-shoulder moment or clipping straps together with your grandma’s vintage brooch. And isn’t it cooler to put your own unique spin on your outfits anyway?

Either way, I’m excited to see what this year in fashion holds, whether it’s whimsical, Tumblr-core, 2016 reborn… or something entirely different!