Fashion is shifting from the restraint of quiet luxury toward a more expressive, maximalist mood. AW26 is all about colour, texture, nostalgia and personality, with designers reinterpreting familiar aesthetics in fresher, more unexpected ways. Styling is just as important as the pieces themselves, with layering, contrasting colours and statement accessories taking centre stage.
1. ART DECADANCE
The glamour and elegance of the 1920s are back, with drop waists, T-bar shoes, pearls, fringe, beading and fluid silhouettes bringing a modern take on the Roaring Twenties.
2. WALL STREET SLEAZE
Sharp ’80s and ’90s power dressing returns with pinstripes, structured tailoring, fitted silhouettes and darker tones. Think polished, sexy and unapologetically powerful.
3. SPLIT PERSONALITY
Bold colour combinations are taking over. Unexpected pairings like purple, blue, chartreuse, green and pink create a maximalist look where colour clashes are encouraged rather than avoided.
4. CHECK, PLEASE
Checks and plaid are emerging as one of the season’s key prints. From preppy and equestrian to grunge-inspired, the pattern appears across everything from tailoring to outerwear and accessories.
5. LIFE IN PLASTIC
Glossy PVC, transparent materials and plastic-inspired textures are moving beyond footwear and into ready-to-wear. Raincoats, skirts, bags and shoes bring a futuristic, playful edge to the season.
6. SCHOOL’S OUT
Preppy dressing gets a more relaxed and personal update. Polo shirts, blazers, collegiate stripes, knitwear, loafers and sporty influences are mixed together rather than following traditional school-uniform rules.
7. BOHO REVIVAL
Bohemian style continues its comeback with a darker, moodier twist. Ruffles, lace, flowing silhouettes, leather, rich textures and dramatic maxi lengths create a romantic aesthetic with a slightly gothic edge.
8. REVENANT DRESSING
Outerwear becomes dramatic and protective, with oversized fur, shearling, broad shoulders and enveloping silhouettes. The aesthetic feels rugged, powerful and almost cinematic.
9. SHEER DELIGHTS
Sheer fabrics are staying for autumn, but the focus is on layering rather than simply showing skin. Transparent pieces are paired with heavier textures to create depth, movement and contrast.
10. PICTURE PERFECT
Fashion becomes a canvas for photography and artwork. Face prints, archival imagery, digital graphics and artistic motifs turn clothing into a way to express personality and cultural references.
11. HORSE POWER
Equestrian dressing returns with riding boots, tailored jackets, checks, belts and sporty references. The look combines polished British prep with ’80s tailoring and a modern riding aesthetic.
12. CLOUD DANCER CREAM
After all the colour and maximalism, cream and white offer a moment of calm. Head-to-toe Cloud Dancer creates a clean, sophisticated look while allowing texture, silhouette and styling to make the statement.
