It's Only July, But These Are the Fall 2026 Trends I'm Already Excited to Wear
Our take
The cyclical nature of fashion can feel, at times, like a dizzying carousel of fleeting styles. Yet, articles like "It's Only July, But These Are the Fall 2026 Trends I'm Already Excited to Wear" offer a fascinating glimpse into the industry’s anticipatory rhythm. The premise itself – forecasting trends so far out – is noteworthy. It speaks to a level of planning and influence that extends beyond the immediate seasonal shift, reflecting a desire to shape consumer expectations rather than simply react to them. This anticipation isn’t new, of course; savvy stylists and editors have long looked ahead, but the increasing visibility of these early trend reports suggests a growing consumer interest in curated, well-considered direction, rather than reactive chasing of whatever’s currently dominating social media. Consider, for instance, the enduring appeal of core essentials—a concept explored in [Bras! Socks! Underwear! Shop 36 High-Quality Core Essentials During the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale], demonstrating the value of foundational pieces that transcend fleeting trends. Similarly, recognizing the power of minimalist style – as seen in [I'm a Fashion Editor With Minimalist Style—These 18 New Buys From M&S Are at the Top of My Wish List] – highlights a preference for intentionality over the purely transient.
What’s particularly intriguing about this early forecasting is the implied shift in how trends are adopted. The article’s author acknowledges a preference for timeless pieces, suggesting a more discerning consumer who selectively embraces trends that genuinely resonate with their personal style. This isn't a wholesale adoption of everything new; it's a curated integration. The resurgence of capris, for example, isn’t being presented as a must-have, but rather as a possibility for those whose wardrobes align with the silhouette. The mention of Los Angeles Apparel jelly flats further reinforces this point—a trend that gained traction organically and continues to be embraced for its simplicity and comfort, rather than purely for its novelty. This contrasts sharply with the rapid-fire trend cycles we've witnessed in recent years, driven by social media and the constant pressure to be “on trend.” The longer lead time allows for more considered integration, a chance to assess whether a trend truly aligns with an individual’s aesthetic and lifestyle before committing. And as we've observed with the popularity of elevated shoe trends, as discussed in [Every Chic Person I Know Is Wearing This Elevated Shoe Trend Right Now], the focus is increasingly on quality and timeless appeal within those trends.
The predictive nature of these trend reports also raises questions about the role of influencers and stylists in shaping consumer behavior. Are these early forecasts organically emerging from creative circles, or are they strategically planted by brands seeking to guide the market? The line is increasingly blurred. While authenticity remains a crucial factor for many consumers, the undeniable power of suggestion and curated imagery cannot be ignored. The shift toward slower fashion—a movement emphasizing quality, sustainability, and timelessness—further complicates the landscape. Early trend forecasting, if done thoughtfully, could potentially contribute to this movement by encouraging consumers to be more selective and intentional in their purchases, choosing pieces that will last beyond a single season. The current trend of focusing on foundational pieces suggests a consumer base keen to build a wardrobe that reflects personal style rather than fleeting fads.
Ultimately, the anticipation of Fall 2026 trends, while seemingly distant, signals a broader evolution in the fashion landscape. The emphasis on personal style, curated integration, and the rise of slower fashion all point toward a more discerning and intentional consumer. It’s a shift away from the relentless pursuit of novelty and toward a more considered appreciation of quality, timelessness, and self-expression. The question now is whether this predictive trend forecasting will continue to gain traction, and if so, how it will ultimately reshape the relationship between brands, influencers, and the consumers they serve—and whether the predicted trends of 2026 will truly resonate, or fade into the ever-shifting currents of style.
I've never been one to follow trends, preferring instead to buy pieces that stand the test of time, but in every new season, I inevitably find a few trends that naturally fit into my personal style and end up leaning into them. This spring and summer, some of the trendier items I indulged in were Los Angeles Apparel jelly flats, capris, and oversize sunglasses.
While I know it's only July, I've started looking ahead to fall 2026 and thinking over the runway shows, what I've seen on TikTok, and my own trend predictions. Since I mostly wear skirts and dresses, basque-waist dresses and suit skirts are high up on my fall wish list. Another trend especially aligned with the way I dress is playful tights, which are a small, low-commitment option that doesn't require a big investment.
For shoes, kitten heels and knee-high boots have been staples in my wardrobe for ages, but they'll be especially popular for fall 2026. Then there are the trends outside my typical realm that surprised me with how much I liked them—such as floral appliqués and brooches.
Below, take a look at the fall 2026 trends I'm most excited about and see where to shop each one.
Fall 2026 Trends I Love
Croc-Effect Bags
I very much want a croc-effect bag. Hailey Bieber and Kylie Jenner have both been carrying the same one from Chanel, which is the dream version of it. I also noticed them at a recent Clare V. fall press preview.
Tapestry Designs
The first moment this ornate trend entered my orbit was when Alexa Chung wore a silk taffeta Viktor Gichev coat with fur trim last year. Now, looking back at the fall 2026 shows, this tapestry-style clothing was all over the runway shows—from a Conner Ives dress to a statement car coat that looked more like art.
Playful Tights
The most accessible option on my fall wish list is playful tights. Red has been the It color of previous years, and white started taking off last season. On the fall 2026 runways, white tights with polka dots were at Caro Editions, vibrant blue at Jil Sander, and ribbed cashmere at The Row.
Basque-Waist Dresses
I wear a lot of dresses, so I appreciate when a design choice that makes them feel unique, such as the basque-waist trend, comes along.
Cropped, Flared Pants
Cropped, flared pants will always remind me of High Sport's Kick Pants—one of the most well-known examples of the style in recent years—and we will continue to see more iterations.
Suit Skirts
The defining skirt trend of fall 2026 was a suit skirt, which was seen at Celine, Chanel, Gucci, Hodakova, Lanvin, Marc Jacobs, Proenza Schouler, The Row, and Tom Ford.
Floral Appliqués
The one trend I wouldn't have expected to gravitate toward is floral appliqués, but another Alexa Chung outfit convinced me. When I saw her wear a Dior dress at the Met Gala, I loved it at first sight. Chanel, Dior, Khaite, and Simone Rocha have all included them in their fall designs, and I recently got the Genus Rose Midi Dress by Sleeper as a nod to the trend.
Kitten-Heel Pumps
Seeing how Kendall Jenner has styled her pair of The Row's Liisa Kitten Heeled Pumps sold me. I don't own any high heels and have been committed to kitten-heel sandals for years. I'm usually in knee-high boots when it gets chilly, but it's about time I get a closed-toe version for the fall.
Knee-High Boots
Speaking of knee-high boots, Prada Sport boots have been on my wish list for years, like many people who love fashion, and now, the Stretch Nappa Leather Boots from Miu Miu's F/W 26 collection have stolen my heart. I'd love Carel's under-$400 Starter Leather Boots as well.
Soft Pink
If turquoise was the color trend of summer 2026, fall 2026 is all about soft pink, as seen at Chanel, Conner Ives, Sandy Liang, and Valentino, among others.
Royal Purple
I honestly can't remember the last time I wore purple, but according to my color analysis, I'm a true autumn, and it's actually one of my best shades. That said, purple is trending this fall, and I might finally give it a try.
Faux-Fur Coats
As far as fall and winter trends go, faux-fur coats have been going strong the past few years, and this year is no different.
Dark-Wash Denim
I recently wrote about my jeans-shopping saga, as I've avoided wearing jeans for my entire adult life. I caved and bought Levi's 501 '90s Jeans, and now, I want dark-wash denim.
Brooches
I recently met Clara Hofer-Maire of Turn, and she very kindly gifted me with one of her brand's Lobster Brooches. Before that, I had overlooked the trend in previous seasons, but this one totally shifted my perspective on them. I love how it's embroidered with beads and gemstone embellishments, and it's easy to pin it onto a bag, shirt, or shoe to make an outfit more fun.
T-Strap Shoes
I noticed Parisian influencer Sylvie Mus wearing T-strap shoes in the spring, which is when my interest was piqued. I love the idea of styling them with thicker gray tights.
Funnel-Neck Coats
I missed the bandwagon when funnel-neck wool coats came into style last fall, and I was kicking myself all season long because I get cold so easily, and it's a straightforward solution to keep drafts out. Luckily, Jil Sander's F/W 26 collection reminded me that they're not a fleeting trend. They have longevity.
Argyle
Argyle is another trend from last fall that will be making a comeback. Cher Horowitz in Clueless and vintage Vivienne Westwood are the '90s references that come to mind. I wore my Swedish Stockings Franka Check Tights on repeat last year, and I'm looking forward to breaking them back out again. I'd also love a classic argyle sweater like Kallmeyer's sold-out Nina Crewneck Wool-Blend Sweater.
Fun Slip Dresses
While I love a classic '90s-inspired black slip dress, I've been noticing more fun slip dresses. For a bit of glamour, I envision it worn with a faux-fur coat.
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