7 Fashion Trends That Will Define Fall 2026 (Plus One We’re Ready to Retire)

Leopards and tigers and snakes, oh my! These and many more animal prints (zebra, cow, giraffe) will continue to top all others, included summer’s beloved polka dots. Because of their natural inspirations, these animal prints can easily be thought of as neutrals when figuring out how to incorporate them into an outfit. Whether you want to go full Fran Drescher or prefer a subtler approach, prepare to add at least one animal print piece to your wardrobe...and to get lots of compliments on it.

Fall layering usually brings to mind chunky sweaters, heavy coats and thick pieces you’ll regret wearing the second you step indoors. Not this year. Soft layering takes a lighter approach, with fluid pieces worn together to create an outfit that's cozy without all the bulk. Try a lightweight apron draped over your skirt, a thin knit under a relaxed blazer or silky skirt with an oversize sweater.

Apparently, subtlety is taking the season off. Accessories are getting comically large, and I’m not mad about it. We’re talking big hats, oversize brooches pinned to jackets and sweaters, and large rings that veer into Ring Pop territory. To try the look, just wear your usual jeans and sweater, add one absurdly large accessory and strut your stuff. Now, I’m not suggesting you leave the house in a giant hat, enormous brooch and statement necklace–unless you’re prepared to be…discussed.

If there’s one piece I expect to see everywhere this fall, it’s the suede jacket. The material is inherently autumnal, but this season it’s showing up in Western-inspired toppers, cropped bombers, oversize shirt jackets and zip-ups in shades of chocolate, camel and tan. Throw it over jeans and a T-shirt, pair it with a skirt or use it to add texture to a monochromatic look.

If your fall outfit feels like it’s missing pizzazz, the answer may be texture. I’ve never been particularly interested in wearing five trends at once, so I appreciate that this one requires very little from me. Instead of piling on prints or bold colors, the idea is to mix materials. This fall, that means fuzzy knits with sleek leather, suede against denim and chunky, frilly sweaters paired with sculptural cuffs, flowy skirts and loafers. I’ll be starting with two contrasting textures and calling it a day.

Pleated skirts are back in the rotation, and I’m particularly into the longer, swishier versions I’ve been seeing everywhere. The girls in New York are pairing them with chunky knits, oversize jackets and unexpected footwear. Personally, I’d reach for loafers when I want to lean classic, but sneakers or boots make the trend feel a little cooler (and more practical for everyday). I also love that pleated skirts make you look a touch younger. Or maybe that’s just what I’m telling myself?

Yes, sheer clothing is sticking around for fall, and no, you do not need to walk around in your underwear to participate. The trend is becoming much more wearable thanks to clever layering. A sheer blouse can peek out from underneath a blazer, a transparent skirt can be layered over a slip and a gauzy dress can work over pants or another dress. I especially love sheer pieces mixed with heavier fall fabrics like wool, leather and suede. Consider it a very easy way to show a little skin…without freezing.

I’m not saying you need to throw away every skinny bracelet you own, but perhaps give them a little vacation. This season, wristwear is getting substantially chunkier, with thick resin bangles, sculptural cuffs and paperclip-link bracelets taking center stage. I particularly like the look of one or two substantial pieces rather than an entire stack jingling up my arm.